In recognition of Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel and Army Gen. Martin Dempsey, Chairman of the Joint Chiefs, on Tuesday issued a video message to DOD personnel reiterating their commitment to preventing sexual assaults in the military. “Sexual assault is one of the worst crimes a person can commit,” said Hagel. “It destroys the bonds of trust and confidence that lie at the very heart of our military. We must keep doing whatever it takes to eradicate it.” Dempsey called on all service members to do their part to eliminate sexual assaults. “Whether on-duty, or off-duty; with friends, in the barracks, or at home; you can make a difference,” said Dempsey. (DOD release.) (See also An Air Force War on Sexual Assaults from the January 2012 issue of Air Force Magazine)
Members of the Air Force Reserve’s 920th Rescue Wing helped save 11 airplane crash survivors off the coast of Florida on May 12. The Reserve Airmen were flying an HC-130J Combat King II and an HH-60W Jolly Green II on a routine training flight when a Coast Guard call diverted…