Comment on DOD-2008-OS-0100-0001

In reading the SARP program designed by the DoD my first question is how do we develop a Sexual Prevention and Response Program that address the issue of trust. Most cases of rape seem not to be reported based on the opinion, right or wrong, that no matter what, the Chain-of Command will be informed, somehow, of the situation. Even when the individual is told in a classroom environment that this is not the cases, the perception remains that it is still going to occur. The only logical response to this would be to set-up a program where a Victims Advocate from outside the Chain-of-Command is used to handle all Rape cases within a specific command. Without this perception of unbiased response and a feeling of security by a victim of a rape case, rapes will continue to go unreported and rapists will be able to walk freely amongst the Armed Forces to conitinue to commit rape as they please. A program of trading contact information between units of Victims Advocates and of SARC training being conducted with units outside of their normal Chain-of-Command will instill confidence that the leaders take this subject seriously and will not penalize victims while protecting friends/rapist.