Domestic Violence Awareness Month Proclamation Published Oct. 2, 2017 By Sue Ann Simmons 7th Bomb Wing Public Affairs DYESS AIR FORCE BASE, Texas -- End domestic violence: To remain silent is to participate. When we prevent domestic violence, we promote safety within our families and show respect for the dignity of all our Airmen, Civilians, and Family Members. It is imperative that Dyess Airmen and their families remain focused on the urgency of this issue.When an incident of domestic violence occurs, it cannot be kept a private matter. Violence and abuse in family relationships have negative effects that go far beyond the couple/family involved. It puts stress on their children, their extended family, their friends and their neighbors. Not only does domestic violence undermine the ability of families to be resilient, it also undermines "readiness."According to the National Coalition Against Domestic Violence: * Nearly 20 people per minute are victims of domestic violence by a domestic partner in the U.S., 10 million women and men per year.* One in three women and one in four men have experienced some form of physical violence by an intimate partner within his or her lifetime. * One in five women and one in seven men have experienced severe physical violence by an intimate partner in his or her lifetime. Intimate partner violence accounts for 15 percent of all violent crime. In domestic violence homicides, women are six times more likely to be killed when there is a gun in the house. * Three to 10 million children are witness to domestic violence in their homes, and research has shown children who witness domestic violence and do not get help are more likely to become victims or perpetrators of future abuse. * Nearly three out of four Americans personally know someone who is or has been a victim of domestic violence.This month, we recognize the survivors and victims of abuse whose courage inspires us all. We recommit to offering a helping hand to those most in need, and we remind them that they are not alone.