WASHINGTON (NEXSTAR) – The Senate is conducting an investigation into the Coast Guard.
“The time for words is over. Time for action,” Sen. Richard Blumenthal (D-Conn.) said.
Blumenthal says it’s time the Coast Guard is held accountable for those who experienced sexual assault and harassment while enlisted.
“Rid the scourge of sexual misconduct and culture of concealment,” Blumenthal said.
Blumenthal released a report before the hearing, detailing experiences by more than 80 whistleblowers.
“My two assaults went unreported,” Shawna Christine Ward, Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 said.
“Alluded to previous sexual assaults I experienced, stating I was a problem,” Crystal Van Den Heuvel, Yeoman Petty Officer First Class said.
Survivors shared their stories, where they were photographed inappropriately during an X-ray, received explicit messages, and were drugged and assaulted.
“After that traumatic experience, I felt isolated and alone,” Julian Bell, Chief Warrant Officer 4 said.
For one witness it was just two days after she joined her unit.
“I met the man who would continue to assault me and harass me over the course of the next four months,” Meghan Lori Klement, Former Seaman said.
Many of the victims say they were discouraged from coming forward.
“I was just told, get over it. He’s in the brig,” Tina Owen, Retired Lieutenant Commander said.
The Coast Guard released a statement on X saying, “We are inspired by their courage to share their stories,” and that they are implementing changes to culture and care for victims.
However, Blumenthal is frustrated that many victims are still struggling to get records from the Coast Guard on their own cases.
“I love the Coast Guard. I still do. But there’s a certain part of the Coast Guard that’s completely broken,” Ward said.
Blumenthal is encouraging the Coast Guard to cooperate with his committee’s requests and ensure more transparency.
