VOLUME 19, NUMBER 506
NAVAL SUPPORT ACTIVITY BAHRAIN
October 18, 2023
BREAKING THE SILENCE: THE HIDDEN SCOURGE OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE IN MILITARY FAMILIES By Gerald D. Bridgers, NAVSUP FLC As October unfolds in Bahrain, the days grow shorter and the nights cooler, signaling a subtle seasonal shift. This month serves as a poignant reminder of an issue that remains, tragically, evergreen. October is Domestic Violence Awareness Month—a time for reflection and action. It's a month that calls us to confront an issue often shrouded in secrecy, stigmatized by society, and exacerbated by silence. Domestic violence is not an isolated problem; it's a pervasive epidemic that infiltrates even the most disciplined and structured communities, including our military families, Department of Defense (DOD) civilians, and their loved ones. A Personal Account: The Echoes of Childhood Trauma I am personally aware of the devastating impact of domestic violence firsthand. As a child witness to such abuse, I carry the emotional scars that serve as a haunting reminder of how deeply domestic violence can affect individuals and communities. "The trauma doesn't just fade away; it reverberates through families, leaving emotional wounds that can take a lifetime to heal; it shapes how you view relationships, trust, and even your sense of self."
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The Military Dimension: A Unique Set of Challenges In military families, the issue of domestic violence takes on additional layers of complexity. The unique stresses associated with military life—such as deployments, the uncertainty of active duty, and frequent relocations— can exacerbate existing tensions and contribute to a
vicious cycle of abuse. The impact is not only on the immediate family but also on unit cohesion and mission readiness, making it a matter of national security. Resources for Help: A Beacon in the Darkness For those entangled in the web of domestic violence, help is available both on and off the base. The Family Advocacy Program (FAP) is a lifeline, offering services from counseling to emergency shelters. These resources are not just stopgap measures; they are vital tools for breaking the cycle of abuse and offering victims a path toward healing and empowerment. Community Responsibility: It Takes a Village Tackling domestic violence is a collective responsibility. It's not enough to place the onus solely on the victims or the perpetrators. As military and DOD civilian community members, we all have a role to play. Whether recognizing the signs of abuse in a colleague or offering a listening ear to a friend, our actions can make a difference. Silence is collaboration, and it's high time we spoke up. Conclusion: A Call to Arms As we commemorate Domestic Violence Awareness Month, let us not merely pay lip service to the issue. Let's commit to tangible actions that break the silence and shatter the cycle of abuse. It's not just about raising awareness; it's about catalyzing change within our military community and in the broader tapestry of society.
Keeping Our People Safe: Vehicle Parking Regulations By Asif B. Thaj, Deputy Safety Director As NSA Bahrain evolves, it's essential that we ALL do our part to ensure the safety and accessibility of our surroundings. One crucial aspect is responsible (and legal) vehicle parking. Whether you drive a car, truck, low-speed vehicle (LSV), ride a bicycle, or hop on an e-scooter, it's vital to park only in designated areas and respect the rules designed to protect pedestrians and emergency access routes. Designated Parking Areas NSA Bahrain provides designated parking areas, as space allows, for all types of vehicles within the fence lines. If you drive a car or truck, use the parking lots provided. For LSVs, bicycles, and e-scooters, designated parking spots and racks are available to keep our walkways clear and orderly. Unauthorized Parking Near Building 213 A recurring issue that needs addressing is the walkway leading to Building 213, the “WalkIn Gate. Unauthorized parking along that walkway has been forcing pedestrians at that busy intersection to walk in the road. It also disrupts the flow of vehicles traveling through the area.
New RULES In response to this ongoing hazard, new "NO PARKING" signs have been installed along the walkway in front of Building 213. These signs are strategically placed to clearly indicate areas where parking is strictly prohibited. Unauthorized parking in these zones will result in parking violation tickets and a visit to traffic court. Respect the Rules and Signage These signs, as with all traffic signage are NOT suggestions. We urge all personnel to respect the rules and signage in place. Unauthorized parking poses a risk to pedestrians and to emergency response teams needing access in case of emergencies. Stay Informed and Educate Others Awareness is key to maintaining good order and safety on our installation. Familiarize yourself with the parking regulations, especially in congested and busy areas like Building 213, and encourage your colleagues and friends to do the same. We can keep our installation a safe and welcoming place for everyone, by working together.
Report Violations If you come across any unauthorized parking, please report it to the appropriate authorities Naval Secuity Force (NSF) Bahrain – Law Enforcement (LE) Desk at Defense Switched Network (DSN) 439-3767 or (cellphone) 17853767 immediately. Reporting violations promptly ensures that corrective action can be taken and helps maintain safety and accessibility. This is an “everyone” problem. Let's adhere to the designated parking areas and rules outlined above, especially in the areas marked with "NO PARKING" signs. By doing so, we can address this issue and keep our installation safe, accessible, and enjoyable for all. Your cooperation and commitment to safety can make a significant difference. Thank you for your continued support.