In a powerful and emotional government meeting, survivors of military sexual assault from the Coast Guard shared their harrowing experiences, calling for urgent reforms to ensure a safer environment for service members. Tina Owen, a former health service technician, recounted her own trauma and the systemic failures that allowed her assailant to continue his misconduct. She emphasized the need for the Coast Guard to transform into a safe space for all personnel, urging the Senate to take decisive action.

Owen detailed her experiences of sexual assault and harassment, highlighting a culture of silence and shame that often discourages victims from coming forward. She described incidents of violence and humiliation faced by her and her colleagues, stating, \"They just wanted to serve their Coast Guard in a safe space that they were violated.\" Owen's testimony culminated in a poignant moment of silence for fallen comrades, underscoring the gravity of the issue.

Megan Clement, another survivor, echoed Owen's sentiments, sharing her own struggles with reporting her assault and the subsequent lack of support from leadership. She criticized the prevailing culture within the Coast Guard, stating, \"The teachings of the academy have poisoned the entire fleet,\" and called for accountability and change. Clement's advocacy has led her to connect with numerous other survivors, amplifying their voices in the fight for justice.

Chief Warrant Officer Julian Bell also shared his story, detailing the toxic environment he encountered during his service and the challenges he faced in seeking justice after being assaulted. Bell's experience reflects a broader pattern of neglect and failure within the military's response to sexual assault, as he described the emotional toll and health issues stemming from his trauma.

The testimonies from Owen, Clement, and Bell highlight a critical need for reform within the Coast Guard and military at large. They called for a cultural shift that prioritizes the safety and well-being of service members, urging leaders to listen to survivors and take meaningful action. As the meeting concluded, Senator Blumenthal expressed pride in the survivors for their courage and reiterated the importance of addressing the systemic issues that have long plagued the military. The survivors' stories serve as a clarion call for change, emphasizing that the time for action is now.