WRIGHT-PATTERSON AFB, Ohio (AFLCMC) – Reaching out to ask for help can be incredibly difficult which makes it essential that someone is there to take your hand.
Under the Sexual Assault and Response program, the Volunteer Victim Advocates are available around the clock to ensure Airmen get the help they need.
“Our job is to be there when someone calls in and then staying with that person through the entire process,” said Capt. Odis Tucci, a VVA currently assigned to AFLCMC’s KC-46 Division, during a recent episode of Leadership Log podcast.
The support is provided to the total force – civilians, active duty, guard or Reserves.
Tucci said watching the interaction between commander and the Base Sexual Assault and Response Coordinator while he was serving in a staff position convinced him to volunteer.
“They're very passionate about taking care of people and doing whatever they need to help an individual get through that kind of crisis in their life,” Tucci said. “And so that really kind of sparked it for me.”
Applicants are thoroughly vetted before attending a week-long training session. There are also recurring training requirements to maintain the certification.
“When someone's going through this situation, it is most likely the worst situation they've ever had in their life to that point,” Tucci said. “And being there for that person during that time, you realize that you will make a difference.”
The volunteer experience made such an impact for Tucci that he applied to become a full-time SARC and make that his primary job starting this summer.
To hear the full conversation, you can watch Leadership Log on YouTube at https://youtu.be/Q2tluGScelw. You can also listen by searching “Leadership Log” on Apple Podcast, Google Podcast, Spotify, Overcast, Radio Public or Breaker.