Report Assesses Academies’ Sexual Harassment Programs

The three service academies have taken effective steps to prevent sexual harassment, but further action is needed, according to a white paper released Dec. 7 by the Defense Department. The Military Service Academy Assessment report noted that the U.S. Military Academy, The U.S. Naval Academy, and the U.S. Air Force Academy each have effective response plans in place for sexual harassment victims, and that all cadets and midshipmen receive extensive training. Student focus groups told the panel who prepared the report they believe sexual harassment is taken very seriously on the campuses. Sexual assaults occur infrequently the students said; as such, they feel safe. The report urged implementation of measures that would offer victims quick access to legal services, and improved cooperation and training in conjunction with off-base counseling and law-enforcement agencies. The white paper, which examined data from the June 1, 2006-May 31, 2007 academic year, stated that there were 40 reports of sexual assaults at the academies during that time. Of those incidents, 20 cadets and midshipmen chose to take advantage of a new DoD-wide directive that allows such victims to obtain confidential medical and mental health care and avoid involvement with the criminal justice system.