Fort Buchanan reinforces readiness, community support during Domestic Violence Awareness Month

FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico — Service members, Army civilians, families and local community members gathered at the Fort Buchanan Post Exchange Oct. 1 fo… FORT BUCHANAN, Puerto Rico — Service members, Army civilians, families and local community members gathered at the Fort Buchanan Post Exchange Oct. 1 for the installation’s Domestic Violence/Intimate Partner Abuse Proclamation Ceremony, marking the start of Domestic Violence Awareness Month and reinforcing Fort Buchanan’s commitment to prevention, victim support and community readiness. The ceremony highlighted efforts to increase awareness of domestic violence and intimate partner abuse, encouraged early intervention and ensured community members know where to find assistance. “Fort Buchanan remains steadfastly committed to providing the resources, support and training necessary to prevent domestic violence and intimate partner abuse, including confidential reporting, counseling and victim advocacy,” said Ulises Marrero, Fort Buchanan acting garrison manager.

Army Community Service and the Family Advocacy Program support those efforts through education, prevention, assessment, victim assistance and coordination with military and community resources. “Everyone deserves to feel safe, respected and supported in their relationships,” said Wilma Diaz, Fort Buchanan Army Community Service director. “Preventing domestic violence and intimate partner requires all of us to recognize the warning signs, speak up when something is not right, and support those who may be experiencing abuse.” The event also emphasized the connection between individual