By 2nd Lt. Sean Embry, Kentucky National Guard Victim Advocate Coordinator
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Staff Sgt. Gary Brumley is presented the Department of Defense Sexual Assault
Prevention Innovation Award by Maj. Gen. Stephen Hogan in Frankfort, Ky., Nov. 9, 2016. Brumley was recognized for his efforts in training Recruit Sustainment Program Soldiers on ways to identify the warning signs of an unhealthy and potentially dangerous relationship. (U.S. Army National Guard by 2nd Lt. Sean Embry)
FRANKFORT, Ky. -- Staff Sgt. Gary Brumley was presented with the Department of Defense Sexual Assault Prevention Innovation Award by Maj. Gen. Stephen Hogan Nov. 9, for his efforts in training Recruit Sustainment Program Soldiers on ways to identify the warning signs of an unhealthy and potentially dangerous relationship by utilizing the One Love Foundation’s Escalation Workshop.
Realizing that young recruits fall into the 18-24 age demographic that susceptible to a higher risk for dating violence, Brumley became a training facilitator and has brought the film to Soldiers across the state. “I’ve witnessed (abuse) and it hit home – the video is phenomenal,” Brumley said.
The workshop has proven to be an effective training experience when used in conjunction with annual SHARP Refresher Training. Brumley plans a larger training seminar in December to train Recruiters and Victim Advocates to be facilitators in order to instill Soldiers with the necessary tools to intervene when confronted with relationship violence in their units and communities.
“Kentucky SHARP specialists continue to impress,” said Maj. John Harvey, State Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. “From the perspective of the JFHQ SAPR office, we are always looking for opportunities to shine a light on the hard work being done in the field. This year, Staff Sgt. Brumley had the foresight to acknowledge the excellent training block the Victim Advocate Coordinators provided for continuing education, and utilizing it as a timely and effective way to train and support our newest enlistees.”
For more information on the One Love Foundation and ways to become an Escalation Workshop facilitator, please visit joinonelove.org.