CAMP KINSER, OKINAWA, Japan -- Units within 3rd Marine Logistics Group participated in a run in recognition of sexual assault awareness month on Camp Kinser April 20.
The Stomp Out Sexual Assault Run was coordinated by Lt. Col. Gilbert A. Warner, the sexual assault response coordinator for 3rd MLG, in conjunction with 3rd MLG uniformed victim advocates to boost awareness among Marines and sailors about sexual assault.
Combat Logistics Regiment 35, 3rd MLG Headquarters Company, CLR 3 and CLR 37 were among the units that participated in the run.
“Our goal with this run was to bring the Marines together and explain to them that sexual assault is everyone’s problem, not just those who are involved,” said Warner. “In this brotherhood, we all need to be accountable for each other.”
The run was approximately three miles and began at Roberts Field on Camp Kinser. After the run, Brig. Gen. Craig C. Crenshaw, commanding general of 3rd MLG, III Marine Expeditionary Force, addressed the Marines and sailors about the importance of sexual assault awareness.
“Runs like these build camaraderie between the Marines and carry out a good purpose,” said Lance Cpl. Quincy A. Nelson, an administrative clerk with CLR 37. “As Marines we need to look out for each other as we fight this on-going issue.”
For sexual assault awareness month, Warner has been working with 3rd MLG UVAs to schedule events throughout April for the Marines and sailors of 3rd MLG.
“As UVAs we are here to inform, support and refer,” said Staff Sgt. Clayton J. Sharples, a UVA for Marine Corps Base Camp Butler. “Our goal is to protect and provide resources for victims and spread the word about how to prevent sexual assault.”
During the event, there were several points that focused on the affects of sexual assault, including the responsibility of everyone to do their part, the role alcohol plays in sexual assault, and the importance of an assault being reported, according to Warner.
“As a leader of Marines, I see being the SARC for 3rd MLG as a sacred responsibility,” said Warner. “The bottom line is no one joined the military to be sexually assaulted, and we need to convey the message again and again that this kind of behavior will not be tolerated.”