Prevention is key during Sexual Assault Awareness month at YARS Published April 20, 2012 By Major Colleen VanNatta 910AW/PA YOUNGSTOWN AIR RESERVE STATION, Ohio -- Youngstown Air Reserve Station (YARS) Sexual Assault Response Coordinator, Shelly Trimble filled her Sexual Assault Awareness Month table with promotional items, drawing in Airmen to talk with them about how sexual assault affects not only one victim, but the entire Department of Defense (DoD). Her signs and material display DoD's theme this year, "Hurts One, Affects All." Trimble said she believes prevention is the key. She stressed that being a good wingman is one of the ways to prevent assaults. "Wingmen intervene when they see something that just doesn't look or feel right," Trimble said. "They are a vital link in the Air Force's culture of zero tolerance." Trimble also teaches Bystander Intervention Training to all YARS Airmen because it is another piece of the puzzle in preventing the physical and psychological injuries that plague victims of sexual assault. "Sexual assault crimes often happen because a bystander, for whatever reason, doesn't intervene," Trimble said. "And sadly, all too often, perpetrators are counting on that inaction." Trimble implores Airmen to be prepared to take action. "Be aware of what's going on around you, be a good wingman, and don't be afraid to step in," Trimble urges. "It's our best defense against this demoralizing and tremendously damaging crime."