Army leadership is fully committed to taking care of its people and investing in the health and mission preparedness of Soldiers and Families. Domestic Abuse undermines that commitment.

Therefore, the Army is committed to emphasizing prevention, assuring that victims of domestic abuse are protected through a combination of reporting options and multiple sources of support and intervention, and to holding offenders responsible through treatment and/or administrative action for those who continue to abuse.

When it comes to Domestic Abuse, the entire Army Family should reflect on the Army values of Duty, Honor, Integrity and Personal Courage. The vast majority of the Army Family are neither offenders nor victims, but may be bystanders that witness domestic abuse. The Army Family has the power to change the climate around domestic abuse. When “bystanders” recognize the signs of domestic abuse they should willingly assume responsibility and take action to prevent abuse before it occurs.

“Doing nothing” is the only wrong choice. “The Right Choice” is to do something posi- tive to end ongoing abuse and to prevent abuse from happening in the first place. Each person can lead from the front.

Everyone in the community can make a difference. Abuse exists on a continuum. It may start with ignoring small warning signs, progress to relationship distress and escalate to severe violence. Every positive action helps to change the climate.

·Recognize the signs of Domestic Abuse.

·Acknowledge that interpersonal violence is always wrong.

·Refer to the places where help is available.

·Lead from the front. ·Reach out to help.

·Reach out for help.

·Take advantage of the many Family services and programs.

·Reach out to support victims.

·Hold offenders accountable.

·Do everything you can to create a climate of safety and respect.

The key to effective prevention is a commitment from command and all members of the community to get involved. Share a sense of purpose – watch out for one another and intervene. The Family Advocacy Program on each installation is a good starting place for making the right choice.