Understanding Commandant’s Testimony: Top Answers from US Coast Guard
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The Commandant of the Coast Guard recently testified before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations in the U.S. Senate, where he discussed a variety of issues impacting the Coast Guard. One of the key topics was the implementation of 33 directed actions to improve the organization’s accountability and transparency, with almost half already completed. These measures include policies ensuring victims and bystanders of sexual assault are not punished for minor collateral misconduct, mandatory processing of those who commit sexual assault or harassment, and updates to reporting procedures at the Coast Guard Academy.
Coast Guard Commandant Testifies to Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee
The Coast Guard Commandant provided evidence at a hearing before the Homeland Security and Governmental Affairs Committee Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations in the United States Senate on June 11th. This article provides key insights to clarify the Coast Guard’s actions and policies which were discussed at the hearing.
Key Directive Actions from the Commandant
With the directive actions issued by the Commandant in November, the Coast Guard’s leadership is keen on enhancing the service’s working environment. Nearly half of the 33 directed actions after the Accountability and Transparency Review have been completed. Vice Admiral Peter Gautier and Deputy Master Chief Petty Officer of the Coast Guard Jahmal Pereira recently highlighted the completed actions and those still being developed.
The Coast Guard’s Commitment to Victim Support
The Coast Guard remains committed to ensuring every victim receives the necessary and deserved support. The services of their Sexual Assault Response Coordinator (SARC) or Victim Advocate Program Specialist (VAPS) can be accessed by current and former members. Victims can seek care from the VA without necessarily having to report MST at the time of the incident, have a CG-6095, or provide proof of the incident.
DHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) Investigation
The DHS Office of the Inspector General (OIG) is conducting an independent review of Operation Fouled Anchor (OFA) and allegations of sexual assault. The Coast Guard is fully cooperating and is prohibited from taking any action that would interfere with the DHS OIG’s investigation.
Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and Records Request
The Coast Guard processes information requests in accordance with the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) and the Privacy Act of 1974. Victims can receive their own personnel records at any time. These records will not be redacted.
Resources for Victims of Sexual Assault or Harassment
Victims can access a safe and healing space in the DoD Safe Helpline Chat Room. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs provides free treatment for any conditions related to experiences of Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Victims can also contact their local SARC and VAPS or submit a report online at P3 Tips.
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