MALMSTROM AIR FORCE BASE, Mont. -- Editor's Note: This is the third article in an on-going monthly series of articles focusing on a wide array of topics that fall under the Culture of Reponsible Choices Umbrella. 

Domestic Violence Awareness Month evolved from the first Day of Unity observed in October, 1981 by the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence. The intent was to connect battered women's advocates across the Nation who were working to end violence against women and their children. The Day of Unity soon became a special week when a range of activities were conducted at the local, state, and national levels. 

In October 1987, the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month was observed. In 1989 the first Domestic Violence Awareness Month Commemorative Legislation was passed by the U.S. Congress.

Domestic violence takes on many forms. Often it begins with verbal threats and escalates to pushing, slapping, hitting, which all can lead to hospitalization. Incidents of violence in the home are repetitive and often grow in intensity over time. This cycle of abuse is known as the "Battering Cycle". In the initial phase there is a lot of tension and verbal fights often over trivial situations. The next phase, which is the "explosive" phase, involves the actual physical violence...slapping, pushing, hitting, biting, etc. The "honeymoon" phase then follows. During this time the batterer promises the abuse will never happen again and often showers the victim with gifts and agrees to getting help.

Too many times family violence like this is not reported due to the victims feeling shame about being abused and hopeless about their situation. Victims may be economically dependent on the abuser and also may have few support systems due to isolating themselves socially. In addition, victims may be unaware of the help that is available from agencies, shelters and the police.

There are many reasons why an individual harms the ones they love. Some feel a need for power and control over family members and soon learn that violence can assist in meeting that need. Unfortunately, the severity of violence often grows in order to maintain this control. Family background is also a factor. Research has shown that people who have grown up in a violent home are prone to be abusive towards their own families, thus the cycle continues to the next generation.

Violence does exist in our community. If you or someone you know is in a domestic violent relationship there is help. Reporting family violence is made mandatory by Air Force Instruction 40-301 section 1.29 which states, "All active duty members must report all incidents of suspected family maltreatment to the Family Advocacy Officer." Sometimes when we are aware of a domestic violence issue, we do not want to say anything or get involved. However, this passive stance is not a responsible choice and allows the cycle of violence to continue. If you are considering reporting an incident you can remain anonymous. Additional information and help can be found by calling the National Domestic Violence Hotline at: 1-800-799-SAFE (7233), or by visiting their website: http://ncadv.org/

Responsible choice also means that if you are finding yourself wrapped up in an abusive situation either as a victim or an abuser, help is available. It is much better to get help to learn how to deal with frustration, stress and anger, before an incident is identified. It is Air Force policy that no military family member should have to suffer physical or emotional abuse or neglect by another military family member or dependent. Family violence is not tolerated within the Air Force. Having a Family Advocacy Record can affect a person's career. All domestic violence cases that meet the criteria for physical, emotional, and sexual maltreatment are tracked by the Department of Defense in a permanent registry that provides a lifetime historical record. This information can be accessed by all military installations and as an example is used when one applies for permission to open a child-care business or when families move from base to base, if an incident occurs. A military member is putting their career in jeopardy when committing domestic violence. Non-judicial punishment is very commonly recommended by the Judge Advocate to Commanders when addressing members who are found to be perpetrators of domestic violence. To make a referral, call the Family Advocacy Office at 731-2161. After hours, call the Command Post at 731-3801 or 911.

At Family Advocacy, we have many educational resources available to you, to help prevent domestic incidents from occurring. We are planning an event to assist parents and reduce the potential for domestic violence called Parent University. This will be Oct. 4 at 1 p.m. at the Chapel Annex . We are providing lunch, daycare and valuable information for parents of children up to age 10. Scheduled speakers are Maj. Renee Vincent from the base Pediatrics Clinic will be presenting along with Laurie Ekert (New Parent Support Nurse), Dennis Van Hook, Family Advocacy Outreach and Treatment manager, and Jacquie Maillet from the Health and Wellness Clinic. Child care and lunch is being provided, along with special gift prizes for those who attend. To attend and make a reservation, call the Family Advocacy Office at 731-2161.