“It’s never okay! It’s never alright! Raise your voices! Join our fight!”
That chant was shouted by dozens as a group walked down Rodman Avenue on the Rock Island Arsenal on Thursday, October 30th, 2014.
Side by side, civilians and military members are taking a strong stance against domestic violence. It’s an issue that impacts millions of women and men every year as well as thousands in the military.
“We are a military family and when there’s one person experiencing domestic violence in the military, we all should be taking action to show support,” said Chassity Morse, March Organization and a Domestic Violence Advocate for the Arsenal’s Family Advocacy Program.
“It’s a really good program for the military to lead the way and show awareness and prevention.”
Vince George agrees. The Arsenal Employee also joined in the march today.
“Military are leaders of our country and they should be involved and they generally lead a front so I think that’s important, too,” said George.
“All of us have to be involved.”
This is the first year the Arsenal, Army Community Service, and the Family Advocacy Program has held the “Join The Fight” March. It’s taking place in October because October is Domestic Violence Awareness and Prevention Month.
Sergeant Major Melissa Judkins, Commander Sergeant for the U.S. Army Garrison, says that what they’re doing is so important because it’s actually working.
“You would be amazed at how many people step forward who are victims of domestic violence because of things like this.”
Although the month of October is almost over, Sgt. Maj. Judkins says their mission will continue.
“They don’t have to be afraid to be a victim anymore. We are here and we will help.”
For more information on the Arsenal’s Family Advocacy Program, click here.
For more information on the Program’s Victim Advocacy Program, click here.
