SARC creates first SASH program in AF

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class Valerie Hosea
  • 82nd Training Wing Public Affairs
SHEPPARD AIR FORCE BASE, Texas --  A program is now in place that gives Airmen in Training a bigger role in sexual assault prevention and response.

The 82nd Training Wing Sexual Assault Response Coordinator office recently created the Air Force's first student advocate program, Students against Sexual Assault and Harassment. SASH calls for Airmen in Training to volunteer to become SARC representatives for their squadrons which will make it easier for sexual assault victims to come forward.

So far, there are 23 AiT in the SASH program, many of whom have volunteered for different reasons.

Airman Katherine McKenna, 383rd Training Squadron AiT, said she joined because she understands the feeling of comfort that comes with confiding in her peers.

"I know what it feels like to need and want to talk to someone you're comfortable with," she said. "That's what SASH is all about. If someone has questions or needs help, we can refer them to the base agencies and services they need at that time.

"It is a good program that can be great if enough people are involved in it," Airman McKenna said.

Capt. Jaimie Gallego, SARC assistant, said SASH members voluntarily take on the challenge of being an advocate for the Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program.

"SASH members are ambassadors who serve to be a visible tool to market and publicize for the SAPR program, by providing information to educate other AiT students, on the program and other on-base referral agencies," she said. "They also provide feedback to the SARC office on the climate and trends in the AiT environment."

The captain said the program was influenced by the fact that AiTs are typically more comfortable talking to a roommate, classmate or another wingman.

"The purpose SASH is to create a peer-based program for Sheppard AiTs," she said. "So, what better way to get the word out about what our office has to offer? Now these Airmen can communicate wingman-to-wingman knowing they are talking to someone who is knowledgeable."

SASH is actively working to get a decoration to wear in uniform and in civilian clothing, so that victims will know exactly who they can turn to in their time of need.

"We're hoping to get a rope or a pin to wear," said Airman Katherine McKenna, a 383rd Training Squadron student. "That way, victims will know who we are and won't have to go around the squadron asking people, 'who's the SASH?' which would automatically let people know that something happened to that individual."

If interested, SASH initial training is offered every first and third Thursday at 9 a.m., 12:30 p.m. and 4:30 p.m. For more information on SASH, please call 676-7272.