What Is Military Sexual Trauma (MST)?
Military Sexual Trauma (MST) is the term used by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs to describe sexual assault, rape, or repeated, threatening sexual harassment experienced during military service.
For thousands of service members and veterans, MST leaves lasting impacts that can include PTSD, depression, anxiety, homelessness, substance abuse, relationship challenges, and long-term physical and mental health struggles.
Yet many Americans have never heard of MST until it affects someone they love.
A Hidden Risk of Service
America’s military asks men and women to make extraordinary sacrifices in service to their country. Recruits are informed about many of the risks of military service, including combat injuries, deployments, and time away from family. But too often, the risk of MST is overlooked.
Many survivors never report their experiences due to fear of retaliation, stigma, or lack of confidence in the reporting process. For those who do report, accountability is often difficult to achieve.
The result is that countless service members continue to suffer the life-altering consequences of MST long after their military service ends.
Every Recruit
Deserves the Facts
Veteran Sisters believes every woman considering military service deserves clear, honest information about Military Sexual Trauma before making the decision to enlist.
We are calling on Congress to require the Department of Defense to provide a written MST disclosure to all prospective recruits. This disclosure would explain:
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What Military Sexual Trauma is
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The prevalence and impact of MST
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Available reporting and support resources
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Potential long-term consequences for survivors
This is not about discouraging military service.
It is about ensuring that every woman can make an informed decision with a full understanding of the risks she may face.
Sign the Petition
If you believe transparency matters and that future service members deserve access to complete information before they enlist, add your name to our petition.
Together, we can raise awareness, improve accountability, and help protect the next generation of women who choose to serve our nation.
GET INVOLVED
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