CAMP FOSTER, Japan - Domestic violence, a concern in both the military and civilian communities, is recognized every October through Domestic Violence Awareness Month.

In 1989, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Commemorative Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress, and similar legislation has passed every year since with the goal of increasing awareness and ultimately decreasing the number of domestic violence incidents.

Domestic violence is a critical issue within the military. It is defined as a pattern of abusive behaviors between one partner against another in an intimate relationship such as marriage or dating. It comes in many forms and can be triggered by any number of issues ranging from lack of communication to post-traumatic stress disorder.

“Domestic violence is a very serious issue, particularly in the armed forces,” said Master Gunnery Sgt. Rafika O. Vann, the equal opportunity adviser with III Marine Expeditionary Force. “With the amount of work we do and the stress we are under … incidents can be a direct result of stress, damage families, and be a top cause of service members losing their careers.”

Many domestic violence cases in the military are a direct effect of military members who have trouble handling the stresses of issues ranging from not communicating with their partner to returning from a deployment.

“Domestic violence issues are often caused by alcohol and post-traumatic stress disorder,” said Master Sgt. William H. Kartune, the staff noncommissioned officer in charge with the Provost Marshal’s Office, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler, Marine Corps Installations Pacific. “By the time military police respond to these incidents, due to individuals failing to recognize the warning signs, they have usually become domestic violence cases.”

One of the main ways to prevent domestic violence before it starts is to see the warning signs. Anyone who feels they may be a victim or an instigator of domestic violence can seek help. It is critical that service members be allowed to find constructive ways to communicate their stress as opposed to lashing out against another person.

“Many people are not aware of what situations can lead to domestic violence,” said Vann. “There are many signs, such as marital stress or lack of communication between two people. Actions to prevent domestic violence must be proactive and aggressive no matter the rank of those involved.”

The Marine Corps has a zero-tolerance policy regarding domestic violence. Assistance for such a situation is available through a uniform victim advocate, the chain of command or PMO.

“One should immediately use their uniform victim advocate and chain of command if they feel they are, or could be, in this situation,” said Vann. “The Marine Corps and Marine Corps Community Services have both initiated classes with counselors on anger management geared towards both victims and instigators.”

Domestic violence is a contributor to ruined lives, destroyed careers and ultimately decreases service members’ mission readiness. The month-long observance raises service members’ awareness of this critical issue and gives them the knowledge and tools for prevention.

“People must reach out for help and education on this topic,” said Vann. “Education is ultimately the key preventative factor.”