MCBQ implements Violence Prevention Program

"Following the Fort Hood shooting and other violent incidents, the services were directed by the Secretary of Defense to develop violence prevention programs," said Mission Assurance Branch director Pete Russett. After collaboration among numerous units and departments aboard the base, including, not limited to, Security Battalion, Mission Assurance Branch, Headquarters and Service Battalion, the Chief of Staff and G-3, Quantico’s Marine Corps Base Order 5580 - Violence Prevention Program was signed April 12.

The mission of the VPP is to establish "a command culture that recognizes, reports and quickly responds to warning signs and indicators of potential violence." All units of battalion/squadron size or larger will now be required to have a trained Violence Prevention Officer, and there will be a civilian counterpart in the Human Resources Office.

Individuals who are concerned about a colleague’s behavior can visit their unit’s VPO in person or call or e-mail him or her. They can also submit reports through their chain of command or by calling the Provost Marshal’s Office or Eagle Eyes at 703-432-EYES. Additionally, concerned citizens may contact NCIS through their website or by texting "NCIS" to 274637 from a cell phone. Russett said Marine units will use existing Force Preservation Councils to review and respond to reports of potentially violent behavior.

The question likely to be on everyone’s mind is what to report. Russett provided the following advice: "Generally, there can be multiple behaviors of concern, such as interest in extremist ideology, disaffection with the government, distancing oneself from friends and family, financial difficulties, etc." Should individuals start to make statements or engage in actions along those lines or that are out of character for their behavior, colleagues should see that as a cause for concern and make a report. If the questionable behavior indicates an urgent or imminent threat, the best course of action is to call 911.

Once a report is received, a full investigation will be conducted by the VPO or other appropriate governmental agency. Persons who are the subject of reports have the right to representation by and assistance from union representatives and/or legal counsel.