Sexual Assault Prevention & Response (SAPR)
Marines and Sailors,
Sexual assault is a statutory offense and is defined as intentional sexual contact, characterized by the use of force, psychical threat of force or abuse of authority, or when the victim does not or cannot consent. This crime will not be tolerated within 3d Marine Division and is completely incompatible with our core values of honor, courage , and commitment, and is an affront to the basic American principles we so bravely defend.
Victims are encouraged to seek assistance from the Unit Victim Advocates (UVA). They will be treated with sensitivity, decency and respect, and will receive appropriate medical, emotional, psychological, and social services. Their safety and privacy is paramount to me and the leaders within the 3d Marine Division.
We will hold offenders accountable for the crime they commit through appropriate legal adjudication and administrative disciplinary actions. The violation of sexual assault goes against the very moral fiber we strive to possess as members of the United States Armed Forces and degrade our combat readiness and ability to fight and win in war.
I charge every Marine and Sailor to help eliminate the occurrence of sexual assault by strengthening a culture of prevention through risk reduction. Additionally, I charge every leader to strengthen our resolve through education and training, response capability, victim support, and prompt and professional reporting procedures. I expect you to pay attention to your Marines and Sailors, know them well, and look out for the welfare of each member of 3d Marine Division.