Illinois National Guard collaborates with rape crisis centers

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SPRINGFIELD, IL (09/30/2014)(readMedia)-- Illinois National Guard collaborates with rape crisis centersSPRINGFIELD, Ill. – Daniel M. Krumrei of Springfield, Illinois, Adjutant General of the Illinois National Guard signed memorandums of understanding between the Illinois National Guard and multiple rape crisis centers throughout Illinois at Camp Lincoln, Sept. 30.

"At the center of our vision for the future of the Illinois National Guard, is for us to always do the right thing, at the right time, for the right reasons," said Krumrei. "While it's true that sexual assault negatively affects our mission effectiveness, there is an even bigger picture here and that is to do right by our Soldiers, Airmen, and our citizens. This is what right looks like."

The memorandums establish a written understanding between the Illinois National Guard and 27 rape crisis centers; defining processes and procedures for the coordination of services and support for National Guard military personnel who are victims of sexual assault residing within the centers' service area.

"Governor Quinn has made it crystal clear that sexual assault has no place in the great state of Illinois, and we in the Illinois National Guard do not tolerate it within our ranks," said Krumrei. "It is our top priority to create an environment where all of our servicemembers are safe. We will provide for every person in all of our formations, the simple human dignity that we all deserve."

The memorandums provide insight into the care and advocacy a sexual assault victim receives and promotes communication between organizations to assess and support a victim's needs.

"Anytime more victims can be served, it is a good thing," said Sean Black, communications coordinator for the Illinois Coalition Against Sexual Assault. "We are looking forward to this partnership; we hope this reduces violence in the Guard and outside of the Guard. The education we can provide will help reduce sexual violence. It is a step in the right direction to prevent sexual violence."

(Left) Cathy Byers, Growing Strong Sexual Assault Center, Decatur, Illinois, The Illinois Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Daniel M. Krumrei and Catherine Walters from Prairie Center Against Sexual Assault, Springfield, Illinois, sign a memorandum of understanding between the Illinois National Guard and rape crisis centers throughout the state of Illinois at Camp Lincoln, Sept. 30.

The Illinois Adjutant General, Maj. Gen. Daniel M. Krumrei, signs a memorandum of understanding between the Illinois National Guard and rape crisis centers throughout the state of Illinois at Camp Lincoln, Sept. 30.