Marine Corps Base Quantico -- Sexual Assault Prevention: Sexual assault has no place in our ranks. If left unchecked, it will remain a silent enemy walking amongst us – an enemy that inflicts terrible pain on its victim, destroys unit cohesion and leaves a lasting stain on our reputation. Do your part to protect that reputation — earned by the tremendous example and sacrifices of countless Marines past and present.

Sexual assault is a crime that violates our ethos and tarnishes the prestige of the Corps. It is incompatible with our core values of Honor, Courage and Commitment. Eliminating sexual assault requires a dedicated community effort. I challenge each leader and individual to accept this responsibility. Our Marines, Sailors, civilians, and family members deserve nothing less.

Sexual assault is a dishonorable and destructive criminal act and will not be tolerated. The term “sexual assault” is defined as intentional sexual contact, characterized by use of force, threats, intimidation, abuse of authority, or when the victim, does not or cannot consent. Sexual assault includes rape, forcible sodomy (oral or anal sex), and other unwanted sexual contact that is aggravated, abusive, or wrongful (to include unwanted and inappropriate sexual contact), or attempts to commit these acts.

“Consent” means words or overt actions indicating a freely given agreement to the sexual conduct by a competent person. An expression of lack of consent through words or conduct means there is no consent. Lack of verbal, physical resistance or submission resulting from the use of force, threat, placing another person in fear, or abuse of rank or position does not constitute consent. A person asleep, unconscious, passed out or otherwise unaware for any reason to include intoxication cannot consent. A current or previous dating relationship by itself or the manner of dress of the person involved with the accused in the sexual conduct at issue shall not constitute consent.

Our greatest weapon in the battle against sexual assault has been and will continue to be decisive and engaged leadership. Leaders at every level are responsible to create an environment and command climate in which every Marine is treated with dignity and respect.

Sexual Assault Response: Any individual who witnesses or has knowledge of a sexual assault has both a moral and legal obligation to report these incidents to the chain of command and can do so without fear of reprisal. Reported incidents will be fairly and impartially investigated so that they may be appropriately resolved. Any reports of sexual assault will draw an immediate response—the MCINCR-MCBQ leadership will focus on providing access to programs that offer 24/7 support and advocacy to all active duty Marines and Sailors who are victims of sexual assault. Representatives are available 24/7 to serve as your advocate providing emotional support and information on medical, legal and administrative processes. Assistance and additional information are available through the Installation Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC), Uniformed Victim Advocates (UVA), Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Victim Advocates (SAPR VAs), command chaplains, healthcare personnel, and Marine & Family Programs personnel who stand ready to provide an array of support services to victims of sexual assault and to assist each commander in fulfilling Sexual Assault Prevention and Response responsibilities.

If you or someone you know are a victim of sexual assault, please notify your UVA or the Installation SARC. They are your front line to guide you to the appropriate support and care.

J. M. MURRAY
Commander
Marine Corps Installations
National Capital Region
Marine Corps Base Quantico