Commander's Blog

Each day I feel blessed to be part of an amazing organization that I now consider family. The respect that we show each other, and also those we work with, can serve as a model for everyone throughout our Army. This deference stands as a reflection of our leadership and supervisory staff, as well as our highly professional team members throughout USAMMDA who as a rule treat one another with the greatest dignity. Respecting one another remains one of the keys to happiness and success in the workplace. Unfortunately, however, there are times when this respect is breached and people are hurt.

In light of this, the Army has designated April as Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, which is supported by our Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention (SHARP) program. Emphasizing this somber issue throughout April will help to raise awareness of the Army's efforts to prevent and respond to the threat of such violence, while we stand together and show support to survivors of these serious crimes. The Army initiated the SHARP program to ensure that we help protect all who are victimized by others. As we go about the hundreds of daily tasks in support of our nation, we may overlook the troubles of our military members and their families here at home.

It's important that we create a culture of awareness regarding our family, friends, co-workers and neighbors, to sense if something may be wrong within their lives. Be sensitive to changes in behavior, however slight, as this may be an indication of a more serious issue. We shouldn't hesitate to ask if everything is alright, because any opportunity to help someone in need is a welcome opportunity. Without question, we all must look out for each other at all times.

Last year, I attended the Installation SHARP Summit, and one of the specific topics was focused on protecting children. We must be especially protective of young people, as they may need our help and guidance the most; so look for any signs that they may be in danger. A representative from the Frederick County Child Protective Services office spoke about the signs and symptoms of potential child abuse, and you may speak to someone or learn more information by visiting the FCCPS website at http://www.fcdss.info/cps.htm. If you suspect any issues, you can contact the FCCPS office at (301) 600-2464.

There is no doubt in my mind that our USAMMDA family understands and agrees that sexual harassment, or any other form of discrimination, has absolutely no place in our workforce or our world. But we must also clearly realize that if an issue is suspected, we should not hesitate to call the SHARP Hotline at (240) 674-2802, or the DoD Safe Help Line at (877) 995-5247. Also, please remember that our USAMMDA SHARP Victim Advocates, Ms. Chris Benson and Ms. Jane Cook, are here to help with any questions or concerns you may have regarding this significant issue. There are also SHARP cards with important phone numbers placed throughout the Command at entrances, bathrooms, and break rooms.

It is also important to note that although the Army SHARP program was initially established for Soldiers and their families, a new Army Directive has recently been released that allows SHARP services to DA Civilians for a one-year trial period. If you have questions regarding this, you may contact either Ms. Benson or Ms. Cook.

Unfortunately, harassment and discrimination may be difficult to squelch, but it all comes back to treating others, and ourselves, with the highest level of respect. Whether it is writing an email, telling a joke, or having a conversation with someone, we should always ask ourselves if the subject is something we could share with our own mothers. If not, then we probably shouldn't say it at all. The bottom line is that we should think about what we say BEFORE we say it, and we must stay focused on making sure that we continue to set a proper example for others.

As I mentioned earlier, discrimination can come in various forms, so we must be sensitive to the unique situations of others around us. I recently completed an Army training session regarding transgendered individuals in the workplace, which was very enlightening. Needless to say, this training helped to reinforce my own belief that we must be very welcoming to all of our team members, and that we should celebrate diversity. Historically, one of the great strengths of our nation is our ability to create a huge melting pot of various people from diverse backgrounds, who simply want to live free and peacefully in this great country of ours. This is why I love and serve the United States of America – there truly is no other place that I'd rather live.

Let's continue to look out for one another to keep our USAMMDA family safe and secure.

Hooah!

COL William Geesey