New SAPR Adovcates on board

HULMAN FIELD AIR NATIONAL GUARD BASE, Ind. -- U.S. Air Force Airmen from the 181st Intelligence Wing, 126th Air Refueling Wing and the 180th Fighter Wing, participated in a week long training course for victim advocates at the 181 IW March 14th -18th, 2016.

This initial training consisted of Sexual Assault Prevention and Response program management tools, advocacy skills, and other learning objectives that are necessary for serving as victim advocates for the Wing.

The training also fulfills the first step in achieving the professional credentials that allow the advocates to assist sexual assault survivors within the Wing and State.

The group listened to Capt. Crystal Banse, one of the regional Special Victim's Counsel attorneys, Mrs. Mary Walker, 181 IW director of physiological health, Lt. Col. Wayne Booker, who shared critical skills from his vast counseling background, and Lt. Col. Sean Stephens, who shared from his areas of expertise.

Maj. Corrine Foree, sexual assault response coordinator and Capt. Marco Arredondo, the alternate sexual assault response coordinator, conducted other blocks of training.

The group also listened to a speaker from Terre Haute Regional Hospital, Capt. Lindsay G. Chapman.  Chapman is a traditional guardsman from the 181st Medical Group, and in her civilian job serves as an emergency nurse and sexual assault nurse examiner.

Chapman explained the role of a forensic nurse, medical and forensic exam, the role of the victim advocate during the exam, and health concerns related to the assault.

"We have a talented and compassionate class of Victim Advocates whose expertise and dedication will significantly benefit the Airmen of the wing," said Foree.

"I am proud to serve with them and proud of all they have accomplished during this course."