Col. Marcus Hunter, commander of U.S. Army Garrison Japan, signs a proclamation during the Domestic Violence Awareness Month kickoff event Oct.1 at the Camp Zama Community Club. Camp Zama’s Army Community Service hosted the event. (Photo by Noriko Kudo)
CAMP ZAMA, Japan – Camp Zama’s Army Community Service hosted a kickoff event to mark the beginning of Domestic Violence Awareness Month Oct. 1 at the community club here.
The event featured a proclamation signing by the U.S. Army Japan and U.S. Army Garrison Japan command teams and a speech from Col. Marcus Hunter, USAG Japan commander.
In his remarks, Hunter praised the ACS team and their energy while emphasizing the importance of community support and ongoing efforts to raise awareness for domestic violence.
“This is a continuing effort all year long,” Hunter told attendees. “I call you to action. I call you to fill your hearts with energy, then you will be able to think on and take action in ways that you’ll be able to continue to support your personnel and protect those that may be suffering or in need.”
Dr. Justin Cole, Family Advocacy Program manager at ACS, said the event helped to bring attention to a variety of resources available to the community.
“The purpose [of this event] is to let people know that we are an amazing resource,” Cole said. “It’s a chance for them to see who we are, to put a face with the program.”
Cole said he and his team want to build a relationship with the community in which they can trust in ACS and understand that the organization is here to support them.
“It takes a community to be able to identify and to provide services,” Cole said.
Cole said it was very special to have leadership from both USARJ and the garrison see the efforts of ACS and their dedication to what is an Army-wide initiative.
Jennifer Luera, a Family Advocacy Program specialist at ACS, said she wants the community to know the resources are available all year long and the importance of a community taking care of each other.
“We are united against domestic violence; it has no place in the Army,” Luera said.
Throughout the month, ACS will host various events to raise awareness and provide support for victims and survivors of domestic violence. The community is encouraged to participate in these events and learn more about the resources available.
