Winchester, Va. – Standing as the cornerstone of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Transatlantic Division’s proactive stance against sexual assault and harassment is the U.S. Army’s Sexual Harassment/Assault Response and Prevention Program. Samantha Orozco, the USACE Transatlantic Division Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, shared valuable insights into the significance of the SHARP Program at the Division headquarters in Winchester, Va., March 25.

As April unfolds, the Transatlantic Division pauses to acknowledge National Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, an annual observance across civilian and military sectors alike. This year’s theme, “Change Through Unity: Empower. Protect. Prevent.”, reverberates profoundly, underscoring the indispensable link between safeguarding personnel and fulfilling mission objectives.

“It’s important to recognize that the military is actively addressing issues of sexual assault and harassment,” Orozco explained, “The SHARP program offers a valuable opportunity not only to respond effectively and support victims, but also to lead prevention efforts and offer education. It’s a chance for us to showcase our commitment to doing what’s right, promoting a culture of respect and safety within our organization.”

As the Transatlantic Division continues its #Army-Values campaign this month, it underscores the alignment of the SAAPM with the Army Values. This initiative reinforces the core values that define the ethos of the Army and serves as guiding principles for Soldiers, Army civilians, and leaders, shaping their behavior, decisions, and actions both on and off duty.

Aligned with this overarching campaign, Orozco emphasized the need for a cultural change encompassing both service members and civilians. Orozco’s insights highlight the crucial connection between the SHARP and the Army Values, emphasizing the importance of integrating these values into every aspect of the division’s operations.

She emphasized the significance of the Army’s prevention model, which underscores that everyone plays a vital role in prevention across all levels within our units, organizations, and communities.

This model operates on multiple tiers, beginning with the individual. Taking personal responsibility to adhere to the Army Values, to take ownership in creating an environment of mutual support and treating all of those around you with dignity and respect. The second level focuses on the unit and organization. Its focus is on command climate and building cohesive teams. Lastly, is the community level which encompasses organizational partnerships, safety and security implementations, and additional support services.

The model emphasizes individual belief in the SHARP Program.

“It all starts with that individual person,” Orozco stated. “That you believe that what we are talking about is important. If we can start there, that is how we can see a cultural shift as a collective and truly start seeing those effects on a larger scale on an installation and even policy level.”

Cultural change is central to the SHARP Program, fostering a climate where Soldiers actively prevent sexual harassment and assault. Orozco emphasized the importance of education and leadership engagement in nurturing this shift, including addressing fears around reporting through training and support.

“There is always going to be a fear for people to come and report,” Orozco acknowledged. “We hope through education and training that we can put some of those fears at bay. At the end of the day, if leadership isn’t going to hold people accountable, I don’t have a chance at getting through to them,” Orozco added, “Since coming to the USACE Transatlantic Division, the command team has been extremely supportive of the SHARP Program, not only committing to the program through their words but through their actions. I look forward to continuing to work with this command team to continue to grow the program.”

“In April, the Division provides numerous training sessions and workshops,” Orozco continued. “These include annual training, workshops on bystander intervention, and various forums tailored to different learning styles to include SHARP Program jeopardy because everyone learns differently. The more ways to learn the more ways to help.

In the battle against sexual harassment and assault, every voice matters, and every action counts.”

There are people and resources available to help victims of sexual assault; you are not alone.

• Sexual Assault Prevention and Response (SAPR) guidance is available online at www.SAPR.mil.

• DoD military and civilian personnel can call the DoD Safe Helpline (877-995-5247).

• The hotline offers assistance 24/7 and can connect you with your Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC)

and base SAPR Victim Advocates, as well as other military and civilian resources.