UNCLASSIFIED// ROUTINE R 261925Z MAR 20 MID110000526570U FM SECNAV WASHINGTON DC TO ALNAV INFO SECNAV WASHINGTON DC CNO WASHINGTON DC CMC WASHINGTON DC BT UNCLAS ALNAV 033/20 MSGID/GENADMIN/SECNAV WASHINGTON DC/-/MAR// SUBJ/SEXUAL ASSAULT AWARENESS AND PREVENTION MONTH// RMKS/1. April is Sexual Assault Awareness and Prevention Month, a time for every one of us in the Department of the Navy (DON) to underscore our enduring commitment to promote a culture of dignity and respect, free from sexual assault. During this difficult time as we face the threat of Coronavirus Disease 2019, I am aware of the many challenges to ensuring the health and safety of our Marines, Sailors, and Civilians. Our responsibilities include the prevention of all destructive behaviors, whether at home or at work. This month and every month, we must be proactive in our prevention efforts - making certain we model behaviors across all ranks that reflect our core values of honor, courage, and commitment. The Department of Defenses (DoD) theme is "Protecting Our People Protects Our Mission." Let this month serve as a reminder that we must continuously promote healthy behaviors and their connection to our mission readiness. 2. As outlined in Vector 10, your dedication to a healthy culture is critical to eliminating sexual assault, shaping what right looks like and ensuring those impacted receive optimal support. I am confident that each of you will continue to set the example by holding others accountable at the first signs of harmful behavior. I request each of you to say or do something when you see situations that put our Sailors and Marines at risk for destructive outcomes. Promoting a healthy, inclusive, and respectful culture is key to advancing the readiness of each of our valued team members. 3. During these challenging times where daily operations are impacted, we must continue to care for our Navy and Marine Corps family. All of us must know and do our part to support those Sailors, Marines, and Civilians impacted by this crime. To those who are seeking support, I encourage you to reach out to our many resources. Victim Advocates and Sexual Assault Response Coordinators stand ready to support and provide confidential options. In addition, confidential assistance is available 24/7 from the DoD Safe Helpline at (877) 995-5247 or www.SafeHelpline.org. Civilian employees can receive assistance 24/7 from the DON Civilian Employee Assistance Program at (844) 366-2327. 4. Time and again, we have defeated formidable adversaries. The internal threat of sexual assault is no less serious. Our continued strength as a fighting force relies on the respect we show each other. I know there is no limit to what we can achieve as a Navy and Marine Corps family. 5. Released by the Honorable Thomas B. Modly, Acting Secretary of the Navy.// BT #0001 NNNN UNCLASSIFIED//