Women Veterans Speak

Ruth Moore Act HR 671: The bill would allow a statement by a survivor of military sexual trauma to be considered sufficient proof that an assault occurred. The House approved the bill by voice vote Monday night. Cathy Santos contacted the office of Congresswoman Pingree and shared the following comments as being the only victim of sexual assaults to fight the government and win while service with a 15-6 Pentagon Investigation.

I was concerned about the language here that appears to give sexual assault victims way too much power over their authority. These subordinates while serving, in my interpretation will be able to provide a statement - now, in my experience of 22 years, I know that their are a great deal of women who have been denied the opportunity to tell their stories and to get the remedy they deservied; however, I also believe that the national security is being compromised by the command's ability to lead without these restrictions placed on them by advocates in the civilians world.

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How is it possible to lead a command in combat with thiese type who have no real training for war because of the restricitions placed on their leaders.

Sexual assault victims and sexual harassment is a complicated matter and victims die, are murdered in combat. There are no protections for these victims when in combat or other remote environments and the power to use "rape" over their superiors is not to be taken lightly.

Civilians can not protect victims of rape on active duty, it will get worst for them, and no civilian can protect those who are given the power to provide a "statement" that becomes the only evidence required when false accusations are made, and reputations and careers are ruined - this is a poorly worded legislation and the military is not moving forward as a result. I will be following up.