‘‘Sexual assault is a crime and such acts will not be tolerated. It is prejudicial to good order and discipline and directly counter to our Core Values. Marines must be fully committed to the highest standards of personal conduct, morality, and respect for others. As commanders we must ensure our commands promote both sexual assault prevention and response.

We must do our utmost to prevent sexual assault. Prevention of sexualassault is crucial to defeating this issue. I am concerned that many of our Marines may not realize the gravity of this crime and may have misconceptions about the many circumstances in which it may arise; circumstances that, too often, involve large groups of young Marines and alcohol abuse. I charge you with educating yourselves on sexual assault, identifying the misconceptions your Marines may have about it, and creating a command climate that dispels these myths and establishes clear standards for personal behavior.

We must also improve upon the gains the Marine Corps has made inresponding to sexual assault. Victims of sexual assault will be treated with sensitivity, decency, and respect; receive appropriate support; and be kept safe. All Marines will comply with the requirements of the reference (MCO 1752.5A), including the training requirements. Commanders will holdaccountable those found to have committed sexual assault.

Sexual assault prevention and response requires your personal continuous attention and action. There is no substitute for your direct, hands-oninvolvement.”

A copy of White Letter Number 02-09 can be downloaded from the Marine Corps Base Quantico Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Web site at: www.quantico.usmc.mil⁄activities⁄?Section=SAPR.

If you or someone you know has been sexually assaulted and would like information about support services, please call 703-784-3532 or 703-898-9863 after-hours.