ALTUS AIR FORCE BASE, Okla. -- April is Sexual Assault Prevention Month and Altus Air Force Base is scheduled to hold a number of events in support of the victims and efforts to end sexual assault.

The intent of these events is to bring awareness and to educate Airmen on the seriousness of sexual assault and how they can help combat it.

Most recent statistics show every 98 seconds an American is sexually assaulted. In 2015, 18,900 military members experienced unwanted sexual contact. Out of every 1,000 sexual assaults, only 344 are reported to the police, and only six perpetrators of those 1,000 will go to jail.

Though 2015 showed an increase in rape cases by 6.3 percent in America, the U.S. Air Force is on a mission to bring awareness and eradicate sexual assault.

“The intent of SAPM, is designed to bring awareness that we still have an issue, not just in the Air Force, but nationwide,” said Matt O’Dell, 97th Air Mobility Wing sexual assault response coordinator. “This is not a forgotten issue and we’re working to change the culture. For the Air Force, the goal is to have zero sexual assaults. We’re a long way from that, but we’re changing the culture.”

During April, there will be several events that aim to bring light to the issue and show support to the victims.

The events will begin with a proclamation signing by wing leaders, to reaffirm Altus AFB’s commitment to fight sexual assaults and provide support for victims, April 4, at 1:30 p.m. in the Base Chapel Activity Room. There will also be a presentation of “My story, your actions”, true stories of victims in the USAF and the result of bystander’s actions or inactions. To RSVP to the event, visit https://einvitations.afit.edu/inv/anim.cfm?i=333206&k=0162410B7B51 . Altus AFB also signed a proclamation with the City of Altus to show unity in the fight to end sexual assault.

Hands Across Altus will be held April 6, at the Commissary, from 10 a.m. – 1 p.m. All are invited to come out to show unity and support by stamping their handprint as a symbol of solidarity for victims. There will also be a 5k color run to cap the month off, April 29, location to be determined.

One of the most important events being held is a volunteer victim advocate course.

“We’re actively looking for volunteers, E-4/O-2 or above, 21 years of age or older and able to pass a background check,” said O’Dell. “Not everybody is cut out to be a victim advocate. You need to be that person who is calm during the storm, control your emotions and be a good listener in order to help someone. They’re already in the storm and you need to be able to help empower them to make their own decisions.”

Though the focus throughout the month will be awareness and prevention of sexual assault, effort will continue year-round at Altus AFB.

“Our number one priority is response,” said O’Dell. “My hope is that we reach somebody that might be fighting. It takes a lot of courage to come forward and say ‘I’ve been sexually assaulted’. By us being out there and reminding people we’re still in the fight and are looking to change this culture, it may help that one person to come make the report so they can get the help they need.”

To contact the SARC, call the in-office number (580) 481-7835 or the 24 hour phone line (580) 649-0656.