The issue of sexual assault and harassment within military ranks is a pervasive and troubling reality that tarnishes the integrity of our armed forces. Although this report focuses on the New Hampshire National Guard, it is a problem in our academies and active duty military across all services. The focus of this report is on women, but men are sexually harassed and sexually assaulted, too.
The military has made reforms, but the effects have been minimal. The senior civilians and senior military officials in DOD pat themselves on the back for minimal progress. The most significant change was the creation of the Office of Special Trial Counsel to remove the accused case from the chain of command. Given the changes made there is no way this should have happened in the New Hampshire National Guard.
Having dedicated 36 years to the United States military, rising from the rank of private to general officer, I have witnessed firsthand the critical role of leadership in addressing and preventing these heinous acts. As we confront allegations of sexual assault within the New Hampshire National Guard, it is imperative to reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the dignity and safety of every service member.
The New Hampshire National Guard epitomizes honor, duty, and service. It is a sacred institution that embodies our values as a state and nation. However, we must recognize that even within such a respected organization, the threat of sexual harassment and assault can undermine the very foundation of trust and respect that is essential for effective military operations. One instance of sexual misconduct is one too many. We must ensure that the full force of the Uniform Code of Military Justice (UCMJ) is applied to those who perpetrate these acts, sending a clear message that such behavior is intolerable. Senior leaders and commanders must ensure they create a climate where subordinate commanders and leaders are supported in taking action against sexual predators.
I am committed to fostering an environment where service members feel empowered to come forward with allegations of sexual harassment and assault. The courage it takes to report such incidents cannot be overstated; we must create a safe, confidential, and supportive reporting environment. Victims must know that they will be heard, believed, and treated with respect. We must work diligently to dismantle the barriers that prevent individuals from reporting incidents of misconduct. No one should ever feel isolated or fearful of retaliation when seeking justice.
Leadership within the National Guard has an immense responsibility to prioritize the well-being of those they lead. It is not merely a privilege to serve in a leadership capacity but a profound duty to protect and nurture the individuals entrusted to our care. Leaders must exemplify the values of integrity, accountability, and respect, ensuring their actions reflect a commitment to the safety and dignity of all service members. A culture of leadership that turns a blind eye to issues of sexual harassment and assault undermines the trust necessary for cohesive military operations and camaraderie.
The policies and practices that ensure justice for victims of sexual violence must be enforced. This includes following protocols for reporting and investigating allegations, providing comprehensive training for leaders at all levels, and fostering an environment where accountability is paramount.
Those who perpetrate acts of violence or harassment must face appropriate consequences. We must send a resolute message: such behavior will not be tolerated, and we stand firmly with those who dare to come forward. In addition, any leader or commander at any level who does not take the right action should face significant punishment.
In addition to strict accountability measures, victims of sexual harassment and assault must have access to support systems for victims of sexual violence. Access to counseling services, legal assistance, and peer support networks is essential for helping survivors heal and recover from their experiences. We must ensure that service members and their families know they are not alone in their struggles and that a clear path toward recovery and justice exists. We must create a culture in which service members feel safe seeking help and where they can access the resources necessary to navigate their healing journey. Those service members who are victims should be assessed at 100 percent disability when they become veterans.
The New Hampshire National Guard must be a sanctuary for all service members, where they feel respected, valued, and safe. There is no room for abuse or harassment in an institution representing our collective commitment to service and sacrifice. To foster a culture of safety and accountability, we must take proactive steps to address and eliminate sexual assault and harassment within our ranks.
As a retired general officer, I am committed to championing initiatives that promote awareness and education surrounding sexual violence. The existing training programs must ensure that every member of the National Guard understands the impact of their actions and appreciates the ethical responsibilities of leadership. We will empower service members to be allies, encouraging them to speak out and intervene when they witness inappropriate behavior. Cultivating a mutual respect and accountability culture is vital for preventing future incidents.
Collaboration will also be key in addressing these challenges. This is larger than the National Guard and requires families, community organizations, advocacy groups, and mental health professionals to enhance support for victims. By building a comprehensive network of resources that service members can easily access, we can provide essential support during times of need.
The time for change is now. We must unite as a community—leaders, service members, and citizens—to cultivate an environment where respect and dignity are paramount. By standing against sexual assault and harassment, we honor our service members and uphold the values we cherish as a nation.
As a native of New Hampshire and a retired general officer, I am resolute in my commitment to creating a culture of accountability and support within the New Hampshire National Guard. Together, we can protect our service members, uphold justice, and ensure that our National Guard remains a beacon of honor and respect for future generations.
