Sexual Assault Prevention Builds a Stronger Corps
A Marine's primary weapon is his or her mind. A unit's greatest asset is trust. Every April, the Marine Corps reinforces this truth by observing Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month (SAAPM), reaffirming our commitment to the dignity, respect, and accountability that forge unbreakable unit cohesion.
Strengthening the Corps begins with action at the local level. Across installations, Marines and their families can engage in prevention by participating in SAAPM events and connecting with their unit’s SARC or SAPR Victim Advocate. These local efforts are the foundation of respect, trust, and readiness across the force.
The Mission: A Force Built on Trust
Sexual assault is a direct attack on our foundation. It corrodes trust, shatters cohesion, and degrades combat readiness. It has no place in our Corps. Prevention is not a single program, briefing, or policy—it is a shared responsibility upheld by Marines, Sailors, civilians, leaders, families, and bystanders alike.
Every Voice Matters. Every Marine Counts. This message reflects a simple but powerful truth: meaningful change occurs when individuals speak up, listen, intervene, and support one another.
Leadership in Action: The Bystander's Duty
SAAPM serves as a reminder that every Marine and Sailor has the right to serve in a safe environment—and the responsibility to help protect that environment. Prevention begins long before an incident occurs through daily leadership, ethical decision-making, and proactive bystander intervention.
Upholding our standards is not optional. Speaking up, intervening, and modeling respect are fundamental duties of every Marine, on and off duty. They are essential to professionalism and preserving combat power by strengthening readiness and trust.
The Total Force: Civilians and Families in the Fight
Civilians are an integral part of the Marine Corps team, contributing to mission success, continuity, and institutional knowledge. SAAPM recognizes that civilian voices matter equally in prevention, reporting, and support. A culture of dignity and respect applies to every workspace, regardless of uniform.
Families also play a critical role in prevention and recovery. Often the first to notice when something is wrong, families provide essential emotional support, encourage survivors, reinforce healthy relationships, and help loved ones access care. Prevention does not stop at the installation gate—it extends into homes, friendships, and communities.
Your Call to Action
While SAAPM is observed each April, the Marine Corps remains committed to year-round prevention, education, and accountability, guided by survivor-centered care and a culture that values respect at every level.
By listening to one another, acting with courage, and standing together, we reinforce a clear message: every voice matters, every Marine counts, and every person deserves dignity, respect, and safety. Together, we can build a force worthy of the trust placed in us.
Strengthening the Corps starts at the local level.
Take an active role in prevention by participating in your installation’s SAAPM events and connecting with your unit’s Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) or SAPR Victim Advocate (VA). These local efforts are where respect becomes action and readiness is built every day.
For additional resources and program information, visit usmc-mccs.org/SAPR.