In a recent government meeting, former Coast Guard members shared harrowing accounts of sexual harassment and misconduct within the service, highlighting systemic failures in addressing such issues. One former member recounted her experience of being sexually harassed by a superior, revealing that despite her complaints, the investigation into her claims was closed without her knowledge. She expressed frustration that the perpetrator was allowed to retire rather than face accountability, emphasizing the emotional toll of feeling unsafe in her workplace.

Another participant, who grew up in a Coast Guard family, described a culture of silence and cover-ups regarding sexual assault cases. He noted that the release of the \"Operation Foul to Anchor\" report, which detailed misconduct within the Coast Guard, confirmed his long-held suspicions about the organization's handling of such allegations. He criticized leadership for prioritizing the Coast Guard's image over the well-being of its members, stating that the culture of obfuscation has been ingrained in the institution for decades.

Several attendees echoed these sentiments, stating that the military environment often discourages victims from reporting assaults due to fears of negative repercussions on their careers. They argued that the focus should shift from penalizing victims to holding leaders accountable for their responses to allegations. One former member pointed out that the stigma surrounding reporting sexual assault leads to a cycle of silence, preventing victims from receiving necessary support and justice.

The discussions underscored a pressing need for reform within the Coast Guard to ensure a safer environment for all personnel, particularly women, who are disproportionately affected by these issues. The testimonies revealed a deep-seated concern that without significant changes in policy and culture, the cycle of harassment and abuse will continue unabated.