We at MaleSurvivor are compelled to reach out to those who have served in the US military as well as those who are currently serving and defending our interests throughout the world. The value of your service and sacrifice has been presumably questioned by those at the very top of the chain, according to multiple sources and reported by several reputable news agencies in recent days. MaleSurvivor will not engage in political conversation or debate regarding these reports. Irrespective of where the ultimate truth is, our concern is about the effect this situation has on the morale of those who are putting everything on the line for us as well as those who have served honorably in the past.
A simple “Thank you for your service” can ring hollow and trite for those who stepped forward and answered the call to serve. Such words fall far short of meaningful support. Some of us on the board are veterans, and we are keenly aware that the transactional world which defines our economic philosophies and prosperity would simply not be possible without the non-transactional world of service that laid its foundation. The world of men and women who understand true sacrifice, and whose answer to the question “What’s in it for me?” is simple: Honor. Character. Courage. And commitment to something greater than oneself. Those values are not transactional. They are intrinsic to the very best among us.
Many survivors of sexual abuse who are registered with this site have served, and we have an active military forum for those who have served to discuss experiences of abuse, whether suffered during their time in the military or in their childhood. Like the military itself, MaleSurvivor is a brotherhood. We are survivors helping survivors. Our hearts go out to you, especially if recent events have created challenges perhaps unimaginable just days before. We are here for you. And please know that for many of us, the depth of our appreciation for what you do and what you have done is soundless.
– The MaleSurvivor Board of Directors, on behalf of ourselves and the over 14,000 registrants and members of MaleSurvivor.org
