According to OSHA 2 million American workers are victims of workplace violence each year. 

Healthcare and social services account for 12.2% of the working population however nearly 75% of work assualts occur in the healthcare setting.

The workplace violence rates highlighted in BLS data are corroborated by the NCVS, which estimates that between 1993 and 2009 healthcare workers had a 20% (6.5 per 1,000) overall higher rate of workplace violence than all other workers (5.1 per 1,000).

46% of nurses reported some form of workplace violence during their five most recent shifts.

The fact is that workplace violence is growing both in the civilian sectors and in the federal healthcare facilities. The data and research is plain - solutions must be implemented to help mitigate and prevent workplace violence. Although the military states they are dedicated to fix this broken system and engage in the culture of safety, bureaucracy ensures delayed implementation of meaningful interventions. Please listen to my story and there are many more like mine out there, I thankfully survived while many others have not. The system is broken! My recommendation is first start with comprehensive and detailed policies that allow the military leaders to take preventative action. Then allow for evidence based staff training, education, cultural change, reporting and threat assessment teams. Give our leaders the tools and guidance to use when appropriate. One of our warrior ethos is to never leave a soldier behind. Well that is just what we are doing by allowing this broken system to continue to perpetuate violence. Please take a stand to protect the Sons and Daughters of America.

These are my boys pictured- right now they all have aspirations to follow in our families tradition in serving the country through the military. Our children are our future and if we start now we can rally together to ensure they do not go through the undue hardships I have endured. Workplace Violence is NOT part of the job!