Military Sexual Trauma and Letting Go of Repressed Pain: Ron Carter (Part 2) | The Silenced Voices of MST with Rachelle Smith
Military Sexual Trauma survivor Ron Carter appears on The Silenced Voices of MST to share the experiences that shaped his early service, the assault he endured, and the long-term effects that developed when the trauma went unrecognized. This interview begins a three-part series that follows his path from enlistment through MST, behavioral collapse, and his eventual understanding of PTSD outside of combat contexts. His story offers clear insight into how MST develops within military structures and how untreated trauma influences thinking, memory, relationships, and emotional regulation over decades.
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter discusses Military Sexual Trauma, finding benefit in doing intensive therapy and somatic release to come to terms with what he survived while serving on The Silenced Voices of MST.
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter continues his story on The Silenced Voices of MST. In Part 1, Ron shared his experience of assault and decades of undiagnosed PTSD. In Part 2, he shares a possible reason for the outcome of filing his disability claim with uncharacteristic ease that validated his trauma and raised more questions, reaching his breaking point at an annual VA appointment, and his experiences through therapy and alternative treatments. Ron shares many profound insights going from crisis to acceptance, the role of persistence in navigating, and what is possible when survivors finally find therapies that work.
Military Sexual Trauma survivor Ron Carter appears on The Silenced Voices of MST in Part 2 of his 3-part series to recount what it was like finally seeking help after trying to live his life without acknowledging or understanding the severity of his assault while serving in the Army. An unexplained breakdown and an understanding VA staff led to him remembering the trauma he’d repressed for 35 years, and as soon as he could, he began treatment for PTSD and other mental illnesses that had resulted. He shares the methods of therapy he used to begin healing, including a detailed account of how Psilocybin therapy offered him somatic release from the trauma that remained trapped in his body. He and Rachelle discuss how predators and perpetrators can be held accountable, as well as their hopes for future generations having safety without people who commit crimes and harm having many places to hide. This episode provides invaluable insights into the importance of having support, numerous methods of therapy to choose from, and acknowledges that the military needs to do something in order to protect the men and women called to serve the country.
Dealing with the VA Disability Claims Process
Ron initially avoided anything connected to his military service. Years of suppressing his trauma led to a disconnect from the experiences that shaped his post-military life. He describes burying the assault so deeply that he convinced himself it never happened, or at least that it didn't matter anymore. This avoidance extended to the VA system itself. Ron resisted engaging with the VA because the military had already failed him once, and he questioned why the VA would be any different.
Despite his resistance, Ron eventually filed for PTSD disability. The approval came quickly. The VA granted him a 70% rating, but Ron was surprised about how easy it was to get to 100% with the help of a lawyer. The unexpected ease of the approval process raised questions about his perpetrator. Had the platoon sergeant harmed more people the same way? Without answers, Ron recalls that at times, he still feels rage resurface about that day. But he is also unsure that he would want that information, because he wasn’t sure if he’d be able to keep himself from doing anything about it.
Expressing deep concern for the future service members in the Armed Forces, he points out that he is oddly glad that if an assault were to happen to him at any point in his life, he was grateful that it was while serving in the military. Now, there are multitudes of resources and help available when someone understands what happened to them. The veterans’ benefits helped him and his family, while he realizes that civilians don’t usually have the same access to care. He calls this a silver lining.
But he does want the next generations to not be a part of the current epidemic of military sexual trauma. He shares the numbers of people affected and suicides each year, and the infuriation of this continuing to happen consistently to the young people who are choosing to serve.
The Exhaustion that Led to Confronting the Past (Trigger Warning)
Trigger Warning: This section contains discussion of mental health crisis.
Even with the disability rating, he spent years holding everything in, feeling as though he was the only person this had ever happened to. Then came the breaking point at an annual appointment at the VA.
"I went to talk and I couldn't talk. I started crying uncontrollably." Ron explains. The trigger for the breakdown?
The Physicians Assistant asked, “Hey Ron, how are you?”
“I can’t live like this anymore. I’m tired of
fighting.”
All those years of suppressing his trauma, and suddenly he couldn't do it anymore. He describes sitting in that VA office, confronting suicidal thoughts he'd been pushing away for decades. He was exhausted from hypervigilance and not understanding what was happening inside his body and mind. When the PA called a Psychiatrist down, he wasn’t able to speak to her either. It took quite a while for him to calm down enough to say, “I can’t live like this anymore. I’m tired of fighting.”
Ron's sudden outburst was the culmination of years of isolation that nearly cost him his life during ongoing battles with suicidal ideation. The breakdown forced him to acknowledge that he could no longer survive by burying his pain. He needed help, and he needed it immediately. This crisis became the turning point that led him toward therapy, treatment, and eventually healing.
Remembering His Assault: Rediscovering Buried Memories
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter discusses Military Sexual Trauma, finding benefit in doing intensive therapy and somatic release to come to terms with what he survived while serving on The Silenced Voices of MST.
The psychiatrist that Ron spoke to listened to what Ron had been struggling with for decades, and identified severe depression and PTSD . He responded that he couldn’t have PTSD, because he hadn’t been in combat. The therapist told him to think about it to see if he could remember and assured him that it could be caused by more than combat.
In the interview, he says that he had forgotten what had happened, but memories of the assault began to surface after a few days of ruminating. Shocked, he had to gather his courage and return to the psychiatrist, saying flatly what happened through another crying jag. The doctor didn’t judge, and immediately got Ron into treatment and resources to begin the work of healing.
He didn't have the language or framework to understand what he was experiencing. Not realizing he had PTSD for decades meant also understanding it was real and damaging.
This process is common among trauma survivors. The brain protects us by suppressing memories too painful to process, but they don’t disappear completely. They continue to live in our bodies, affecting our relationships, our mental health, and our ability to function. Therapy gave Ron permission to remember. More importantly, it gave him tools to process without being destroyed.
Embracing Therapy and Psilocybin Treatment
Ron tried multiple therapeutic approaches, including Cognitive Based Therapy and Written Talk Therapy and Written therapy helped, but it was a psilocybin treatment that created a breakthrough. He made serious progress identifying the experiences that harmed him, but still felt as though the trauma was trapped in his body for decades.
"I had a conversation with God," Ron explains. “It’s weird to talk about because I’ve not met a person yet who’s done it that can do it any justice with words."
Ron acknowledges that healing is a uniquely personal journey for everyone. What works for one person may not work for another, but the key is remaining open to different approaches and being willing to try new methods when traditional therapy plateaus.
Written therapy allowed Ron to express thoughts he couldn't speak aloud, and psilocybin allowed him to access emotions he couldn't reach otherwise. He describes the experience as finally being able to release pain he didn't even know he was carrying, by seeing that all humans are connected and loved. The biggest lesson he took away from the hero dose session: I’m always loved, and I will always be loved.
Ron's Advocacy Mission
"Why would we go through these things if we can’t turn it into something that’s positive?" he asks, then emphasizes, "I want to help people, young men and women."
Ron now focuses on raising awareness about MST and supporting other survivors. His mission is clear: prevent the next generation of service members from experiencing the same trauma. Being silent for decades was survival in a system that punishes vulnerability. Talking openly on social media about his experience so others don't have to suffer in isolation, which results in receiving messages from people encouraged by his vulnerability to seek help.
Frequently Asked Questions about Military Sexual Trauma and Male Survivors
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About 1 in 50 male veterans report military sexual trauma (VA National Center for PTSD), but studies using anonymous survey methodology found rates as high as 12.4% (Trauma, Violence & Abuse, 2011). The gap between reported and actual incidents reveals massive underreporting. Because of the higher ratio of men to women in the military, the raw numbers of men and women who experience MST are comparable, challenging the misconception that MST primarily affects women.
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About 90% of men in the military did not report a sexual assault they experienced in 2021 (DAV). Overall, it's estimated that 77% of service member sexual assaults go unreported. Male survivors often worry that others will perceive the assault as weakness, femininity, or homosexual orientation. These cultural barriers, combined with fear of retaliation and career damage, make it especially difficult for male survivors to come forward.
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MST survivors are 7.25 times more likely to be diagnosed with PTSD than those who did not experience sexual trauma (Columbia Social Work Review). The severity of PTSD from MST is extreme. This is because MST involves betrayal by trusted colleagues within a system meant to provide safety, creating compounded trauma that requires specialized treatment.
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From 2011 to 2021, the total number of MST claims filed by men increased by more than 119%. The number of claims granted by the VA grew from 27.8% in 2011 to 68.5% in 2021 (VA Claims Insider). This shows significant progress, though it also reveals how many survivors had to fight for recognition and validation of their trauma.
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Roughly 17 veterans die by suicide each day (VA Mental Health), and military sexual trauma puts veterans at significantly higher risk. MST survivors face compounded trauma that requires specialized support. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, then press 1.
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Recent studies show that 60% of veterans with severe treatment-resistant depression who received psilocybin treatment met response criteria at three weeks. The VA announced funding for MDMA and psilocybin-assisted therapy studies in 2024, marking the first time since the 1960s that the VA has funded research on psychedelic compounds. Nine VA facilities are now participating in these studies.
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No. You don't need a service-connected disability rating or other VA benefits to receive MST-related care. Every VA facility has an MST coordinator available to help survivors access treatment and support. Call your local VA or visit www.va.gov to connect with an MST coordinator.
Episode Trigger Warnings and Timestamps
00:00 VA Disability Claim and Possible Patterns of Abuse
Triggering content 2:57 - 4:38 (suicide + MST statistics)
06:28 Breaking Down at the VA and Confronting Buried Trauma
Triggering content 6:51 - 10:59 (Suicidal ideations, breakdown, remembering his repressed trauma)
11:08 Ron’s Beginning Different Modalities of Therapy
14:20 Ron’s Conversation with God
19:48 The Relationship Between Technology, Connection, and Accountability
23:30 Preview of Part 3 of Ron’s Story
Resources from this Episode
Resources for Survivors
If you or someone you know is struggling with military sexual trauma, resources are available. For additional support navigating VA claims, download our free VA Disability Toolkit.
VA MST Support: Every VA facility has an MST coordinator. You don't need a service-connected disability rating or other VA benefits to receive MST-related care. Call your local VA or visit www.va.gov to connect with an MST coordinator.
Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988, then press 1. Available 24/7 for veterans in crisis. You can also text 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net.
Military OneSource: Offers confidential counseling and support for active-duty service members and their families. Call 800-342-9647 or visit MilitaryOneSource.mil
The Advocates of MST: By joining The Advocates, you add to a powerful collective voice that demands attention and action. Connect with others who understand your experiences and are committed to supporting each other. Find support at https://www.facebook.com/groups/theadvocatesofmst
Watch or Listen to Ron's Full Story
You can hear Part 2 of my interview with Ron Carter on The Silenced Voices of MST podcast available on all major podcast platforms including Apple Podcasts, Spotify, and YouTube. We dive deeper into his experience with the VA, his therapeutic journey, and his current advocacy work. If you haven't already, listen to Part 1 of Ron's story where he shares his assault experience and the years of undiagnosed PTSD that followed.
Healing is the end goal of military sexual trauma. You’re not alone, and you can explore more survivor stories and resources on our blog.
About the Guest
Ron Carter is a former Army infantryman turned MST advocate. After surviving a premeditated and devastating assault while on active duty, he committed himself to supporting others who have been affected. Through speaking engagements and community work, Ron pushes for better resources and policy change and uses his platform to amplify survivor voices.
About the Host
Rachelle Smith is the host of The Silenced Voices of MST and a survivor of military sexual trauma. She served as a Public Affairs Officer in the Air Force after growing up in a military family. Her experience with MST and the years spent struggling with PTSD and depression gave her a unique understanding of what survivors face.
This podcast exists because she knew firsthand how isolating MST can be. Since launching The Silenced Voices of MST in 2023, she’s interviewed dozens of survivors, advocates, and experts. Her mission is to empower survivors by providing a space to amplify survivor stories and demand change.
Help Keep This Podcast Going
I've been funding this podcast entirely on my own since 2023, and it hasn’t been easy. If this work has helped you or someone you care about, please consider supporting it with a monthly donation. Even $10 a month makes a real difference in covering hosting, editing, and production costs.
Military Sexual Trauma and The Monster Inside of Me: Ron Carter (Part 1) | The Silenced Voices of MST with Rachelle Smith
Military Sexual Trauma survivor Ron Carter appears on The Silenced Voices of MST to share the experiences that shaped his early service, the assault he endured, and the long-term effects that developed when the trauma went unrecognized. This interview begins a three-part series that follows his path from enlistment through MST, behavioral collapse, and his eventual understanding of PTSD outside of combat contexts. His story offers clear insight into how MST develops within military structures and how untreated trauma influences thinking, memory, relationships, and emotional regulation over decades.
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter discusses Military Sexual Trauma, suffering from repressed pain, and survival on The Silenced Voices of MST.
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter brings his story of Military Sexual Trauma to The Silenced Voices of MST. As the author of The Monster Inside of Me, Ron details his experience of assault, the devastating toll of silence, and the heavy price of betrayal within the system.
Ron Carter appears on The Silenced Voices of MST to share the experiences that shaped his early service, the assault he endured, and the long-term effects that developed when the trauma went unrecognized. This interview begins a three-part series that follows his path from enlistment through MST, behavioral collapse, and his eventual understanding of PTSD outside of combat contexts. His account offers clear insight into how MST develops within military structures and how untreated trauma influences thinking, memory, relationships, and emotional regulation over decades.
His Path to The Army
Ron grew up in a small town in Oregon where financial constraints made college unrealistic. He chose the Army at seventeen and entered the delayed entry program with his best friend, believing service would provide structure, stability, and a clear direction for becoming a mature adult.
Basic training introduced him to disciplined routines, intense physical demands, cultural diversity, and a level of pressure he had not experienced before. Although he passed out on his first day due to the heat, he recovered and progressed with strong performance. By excelling in physical training, Ron gained respect with some drill sergeants, and completed airborne school after graduating. These accomplishments were steps toward a promising military career.
When Ron and his friend received their orders they expected to serve together but were separated on arrival in Germany. This unexpected change intensified Ron’s sense of isolation. The unfamiliar environment, distance from home, and sudden loss of his support system made the adjustment difficult.
What Led to His Assault (Trigger Warning)
“As parents, we’re trusting our children to the United States of America. That should really mean something.”
Being stationed in Germany introduced Ron to culture shock and his first real experience of distance from home at 19 years old. He enjoyed the physical demands of fieldwork but disliked the constant emphasis on garrison expectations. During this period, he noticed hostile behavior from a higher ranking soldier in a different platoon, although he did not understand the cause.
The situation escalated when the platoon sergeant invited Ron and another private to what was presented as a simple gathering at his home. Ron wanted to behave respectfully and show he was a good guy, so he agreed to be there. Almost immediately after consuming a beer, he experienced sudden physical impairment and lost consciousness. He regained awareness during an assault, lost consciousness again, and later found himself back in the barracks. An aspect of his assault that sticks with him today is that he had no memory of how he had returned and never saw the other men involved again.
Ron had no way to describe what was done to him that day which contributed significantly to his confusion, aggressive behavior, and distress.
Help us continue amplifying voices of Military Sexual Trauma survivors.
Immediate Impact After the Assault
The trauma produced abrupt behavioral and emotional changes. Ron began drinking heavily, smoking hash, and getting into fights resulting in receiving multiple Article 15s. Finding himself unable to regulate his reactions, experiencing intrusive thoughts, night terrors, and unpredictable anger, Ron relied on his survival instinct to make it through daily life. Hyper-vigilance became constant, yet he did not understand why he felt disconnected from his own behavior.
U.S. Army veteran Ron Carter speaks out about Military Sexual Trauma, living in silence, and the lifelong journey to healing.
He interpreted his reactions as personal failure because no one ever explained trauma, dissociation, or survival responses in the mid-80’s. Without any knowledge of mental health, his behavior and internal chaos reinforced the shame he carried and made it increasingly difficult to function in a high-pressure environment.
The Long-Term Effects on Thought, Behavior, and Identity
Ron shares that he lived with these symptoms for many years without understanding their source. The missing modern-day understanding of post-traumatic stress led to the assumption that the volatility, emotional distance, and reactivity he experienced reflected deep flaws in his character. Trying to suppress memories intensified their impact on his relationships, jobs, and at times his will to live.
Only later did he learn the language of trauma, emotional processing, and PTSD. He discovered that trauma can alter memory, disrupt emotional regulation, and create long-standing patterns of hypervigilance and mistrust. This allowed him to reinterpret his symptoms with clarity and accuracy.
PTSD is not only caused by combat experiences, which is something Ron learned and wants people to know. Understanding this reshaped his perception of himself, his past, and helped him identify the years of untreated trauma.
Ron’s Work Now
By sharing his story publicly, Ron’s goal is to increase awareness of MST so that parents and young people considering joining the military understand the reality of what serving can look like. His work includes advocacy, community engagement, and contributing to public education about trauma and its effects. An important aspect of his mission to help is getting survivors access to information that was unavailable during his service.
If this podcast has helped you understand what survivors are up against, leave a review. Reviews are one of the only ways these stories reach people who would otherwise never hear them.
Episode Trigger Warnings and Timestamps
00:00 Introduction to Ron Carter's Journey
02:08 Deciding to Join the Military
04:53 Basic Training Experience
07:09 Transitioning to Military Life in Germany
09:18 The Reality of Military Culture
11:06 Experiencing MST and Its Impact
Triggering content from 12:55 - 25:48 that includes discussion of being drugged, sexual assault, loss of conciousness and memory, physical assault, coerced sexual acts, and blackmail
13:31 The Aftermath of Trauma
15:45 Coping Mechanisms and Struggles
18:36 The Long Road to Healing
23:55 Understanding PTSD Beyond Combat
25:56 Part 2 of Ron’s Story Preview
Resources from this Episode
Support and Community:
Veterans Crisis line: Dial 988, the press 1
DoD Safe Helpline: https://www.sapr.mil/dod-safe-helpline
Join our Facebook community: https://www.facebook.com/groups/theadvocatesofmst
About the Guest
Ron Carter is a former Army infantryman turned MST advocate. After surviving a premeditated and devastating assault while on active duty, he committed himself to supporting others who have been affected. Through speaking engagements and community work, Ron pushes for better resources and policy change and uses his platform to amplify survivor voices.
BIG VOICE MST | Podcast News Update - March 14
Stay informed on MST-related news, survivor stories, and resources. This week's updates cover new legislation, global MST stories, and recovery from PTSD.
Howdy Madvocates,
A quick reminder that the final part of Brian’s episode is streaming now wherever you get your podcasts and YouTube. I highly recommend to watch or listen if you are struggling while trying to advocate for yourself in health care or trying to get your discharge changed, because this episode has the lessons that Brian has learned from fighting for justice for two decades and what his healthy coping strategies are, . If you have trouble with falling asleep because of anxiety or PTSD, this is the episode for you.
Now on to The BIG VOICE.
Let’s get into the latest Military Sexual Trauma-related news, new MST legislation that affects the MST community, and resources designed to support survivors and advocates like you. I urge practicing self-care while browsing some of these stories, there are trigger warnings for content that may be upsetting. There are also positive stories of recovery and MST survivor resources as well, I didn’t want this to be “doom and gloom’ as if change is not possible.
Change is possible, especially if we stay informed and stay vigilant.
As you know, this problem is not a rare occurrence—there’s a global MST crisis that demands accountability, justice, and care for survivors. The stories from around the world showcase this problem, but it’s a small snowflake on an otherwise huge iceberg of pain, shame, and anger this issue causes. And it’s never one person affected by an assault or harassment. Entire communities feel the ripple effects of this issue, even if they don’t realize it.
Whether you’re here to stay informed, take action, or find resources for yourself or a loved one, this is your space to connect, learn, and advocate for change. Need support? Come find our group on Facebook: The Advocates of MST. We’re here to listen, share, uplift, and create an environment of acceptance without gender restrictions.
If you or someone you know is struggling with MST-related PTSD, depression, or suicidal thoughts, please know that help is available. The Veterans Crisis Line is open 24/7—dial 988 and press 1 for confidential support.
New Jersey bill looks to give easier access to mental health drugs
WPIX-TV (U.S. MST related-legislation)
By Jim Vasil
TRENTON, N.J. (PIX11) — When Krystal Cordero came home from an operation enduring freedom, PTSD followed her along with Military Sexual Trauma, or MST.
“They truly don’t set you up for the violence that you see, the aftermath, the feeling of loneliness, the feeling when you transition out that you no longer have somebody to really talk to,” said Cordero, an Army veteran of Totowa. “I unfortunately had an officer who tried to take advantage of me. He did not succeed but nonetheless, I had to suffer the assault.”
For years after coming home, she endured what many veterans have experienced: having to jump through hoops to get the prescription meds to treat their condition — hoops like step therapy or needing prior authorization.
“It’s almost like you’re dangling a treat in front of them and you’re saying, ‘almost there,’ but not there yet,” said Cordero. “We’re tired of chasing things. We need to be heard.”
Next week in Trenton, lawmakers will discuss a bill that will make it easier for patients with serious mental illnesses like PTSD, schizophrenia, bipolar disorders, and others to get the medicine they need – by requiring prescription drug coverage without prior authorization, or step therapy, a method of having patients try a less expensive drug first.
Read the article here: https://pix11.com/news/local-news/new-jersey/new-jersey-bill-looks-to-give-easier-access-to-mental-health-drugs/
Impending Legislation Senate Veterans Affairs Committee
Veterans of Foreign Wars (U.S. MST -related legislation)
Statement by Pat Murray
Draft legislation, Servicemembers and Veterans Empowerment and Support Act
The VFW supports this legislation, particularly its overarching theme of enhanced training for claim processors and reviewers that emphasizes accuracy, completeness, and improved communications throughout the disability claims process. This aspect of the bill is especially compelling by seeking to increase the proficiency of claims processors in recognizing nuanced non-military sources of evidence, eliciting vital information without retraumatizing the survivor, and in correctly processing claims involving military sexual trauma (MST). The annual focused reviews should validate (or refute) the effectiveness of the training. Emphasizing their importance, these reviews will continue until claim processors for MST-related claims achieve a 95 percent accuracy rate for five consecutive years. Additionally, the VFW concurs with VA’s aggressive outreach campaign pertaining to various facets of MST reporting and claim adjudication. However, we doubt VA’s ability to achieve its laudable goal of providing MST claims information to disenrolled service academy students from the last 80 years unless Congress substantially resources VA for this purpose. Lastly, the VFW concurs with VA’s updated definition of MST that includes trauma involving online or other technological communications
See the draft legislation here: https://www.vfw.org/advocacy/national-legislative-service/congressional-testimony/2025/3/pending-legislation-svac
Defence Force sexual assault prevention team's future uncertain
Radio New Zealand (New Zealand MST News)
By Rachel Helyer Donaldson
The Defence Force insists it remains committed to preventing harmful sexual behaviour in its ranks, despite putting its entire Sexual Assault Prevention Response Advisor (SAPRA) team on notice.
It is understood that the team, who were brought in as part of an action plan to eliminate inappropriate sexual behaviour, were told last week that they could be made redundant, following a consultation period.
An NZDF spokesperson confirmed the Defence Force would be starting a consultation process with staff and unions on "proposals for change across its civilian workforce" from Thursday, 20 March.
Read the article here: https://www.rnz.co.nz/news/national/544938/defence-force-sexual-assault-prevention-team-s-future-uncertain
Trump, Hollywood, and How We Fail Latinas in the Military
LatinaMedia.co
By Denise Zubizarreta (U.S. MST News)
Pin it!
As a Navy veteran, I know firsthand what it’s like to serve in a system that doesn’t always see you, protect you, or uplift you. I’ve seen how Latinas in the military have to work twice as hard to get half the recognition. So when I saw that Trump fired Admiral Linda Fagan, the first woman to ever lead a branch of the U.S. military, I knew exactly what that meant.
This wasn’t just a political move. This was a message. And if we don’t take that message seriously, we’re in trouble.
The U.S. military has never been an easy place for women, especially Latinas. We’ve been here since World War II, shoved into support roles, denied leadership opportunities, and left out of the history books. The military loves to use our labor – but when it comes to promotions, recognition, or safety? We’re an afterthought.
We know the stats: Latinas are overrepresented in lower ranks and underrepresented in leadership. We’re more likely to face sexual harassment and discrimination (unfortunately, they removed the study on the DOD website delineating this!). We’re less likely to be promoted compared to our white male counterparts. And now? With federal DEI programs being gutted, the little progress we’ve made is about to disappear.
Read the article here: https://latinamedia.co/latinas-in-the-military/
One veteran’s path to healing from trauma
Department of Veterans Affairs - Audacy (U.S. MST News)
Army veteran Candace Decker describes herself as “being in a very dark place” before she connected with Pacific Islands VA.
She had experienced military sexual trauma while she was active duty and even after she left the Army, she continued to have night terrors and other issues.
At first, she didn’t think VA had programs that she would find helpful.
“I connected with the iVET Post Traumatic Stress Disorder Program first. They helped me to connect with other programs that could get me help that I needed,” she said.
When Decker first connected with the VA, she had terrible problems with her digestive tract from eating things that she didn’t realize were causing inflammation and from taking pills for pain. With the help of VA doctors, she was able to change her diet. She was also able to discover triggers for her headaches.
Read the article: https://www.audacy.com/connectingvets/get-help/mental-health/one-veterans-path-to-healing-from-trauma
PGA Tour player Billy Horschel visits with Panama City Beach veteran and service dog
PanamaCity News Herald (U.S. MST News)
By DeonTay Smith
On Wednesday, eight-time PGA Tour winner Billy Horschel surprised a Panama City Beach Air Force veteran, Joey Pate, and his K9s For Warriors service dog, Roscoe, at The Players Championship in Ponte Vedra Beach.
Horschel and the Horschel Family Foundation are helping K9s For Warriors raise awareness of veterans suffering from PTSD, traumatic brain injury and/or military sexual trauma.
According to a press release, the Horschel Family Foundation sponsored Roscoe’s service dog training in 2024, and the pair graduated from K9s For Warriors in November.
On average, 20 veterans a day take their own lives. K9s for Warriors is determined to end veteran suicide by providing trained service dogs to veterans.
Pate and Roscoe have been paired for nearly five months.
Read the article here: https://www.newsherald.com/story/news/local/2025/03/13/panama-city-beach-florida-veteran-helped-by-pga-tours-billy-horschel/82372724007/
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Sen. Moran Urges GAO to Investigate Ways to Support VA Employees Responsible for Processing Military Sexual Trauma Claims
U.S. Senate Committee on Veterans Affairs (U.S. MST-related legislation)
WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Jerry Moran (R-Kan.) – chairman of the Senate Committee on Veterans’ Affairs – called on the Government Accountability Office (GAO) to investigate how the Department of Veterans Affairs can better train and support employees responsible for processing disability compensation claims for veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma (MST).
To improve the timeliness of processing MST claims, the Veterans Benefits Administration (VBA) initially created specialized teams of employees in each VBA regional office. However, in 2022, VA consolidated all MST claims processing to the regional office in San Juan, Puerto Rico, while dedicating “surge sites” at other regional offices, as needed, to meet increased workload demands for MST claims.
Recent committee oversight has identified concerns regarding insufficient training and a lack of support for the VBA employees in San Juan and the surge sites – many of whom are veterans themselves – responsible for processing MST claims.
Read the press release: https://www.veterans.senate.gov/2025/3/sen-moran-urges-gao-to-investigate-ways-to-support-va-employees-responsible-for-processing-military-sexual-trauma-claims
Keep Marching Forward: The ongoing battle for women veterans
The Big Smoke (Australia MST News)
By Llani “LJ” Kennealy
Last Saturday was International Women’s Day—a day which consistently reminds us that progress is not inevitable. It is fought for, step by step, voice by voice.
The theme for 2025, Keep Marching Forward, especially resonated deeply for women veterans, who continue to push for equity, respect, and systemic change in the wake of the Royal Commission into Defence and Veteran Suicide.
The commission has exposed long-standing cultural and structural barriers that have disproportionately affected women in service. Now, more than ever, we must ensure that this results in meaningful reform, not just rhetoric. The fight for women veterans’ rights is ongoing, and it is one for which we must continue to march forward in unison.
The findings of the Royal Commission have once again exposed deeply-rooted issues, including gender-based discrimination, alarming levels of sexual trauma, and lack of career progression. These systemic challenges (including holding to account perpetrators of unacceptable behaviour) have contributed to poor mental health outcomes for many women in Defence.
Read the article here: https://thebigsmoke.com.au/2025/03/14/keep-marching-forward-the-ongoing-battle-for-women-veterans/
More sexual abuse complaints filed against Coast Guard, service now faces $290M in claims
Stars & Stripes (U.S. MST News)
By Gary Warner
🔔 (trigger warning, graphic details of assaults in article)🔔
Seven more former U.S. Coast Guard cadets filed claims that they were victims of sexual abuse at the service’s academy, the latest round of complaints tied to the Fouled Anchor scandal.
The Coast Guard now faces $290 million in claims from the sexual assault scandal at its academy in New London, Conn. The administrative complaints were filed Thursday under the Federal Tort Claims Act, the first legal step in initiating a civil lawsuit against the federal government.
The new filings bring the total to 29 cadets and prospective cadets who have filed complaints, according to Christine Dunn, an attorney with the Washington, D.C., law firm Sanford Heisler Sharp McKnight, which is representing the cadets.
The legal complaints follow a year of scrutiny for the U.S. Coast Guard Academy that began with the revelation that the service concealed a report that found academy officials had routinely mishandled reports of sexual assault among cadets. The report, known as Operation Fouled Anchor, was the result of a six-year internal review of 102 reports of sexual assault and harassment cases at the academy between 1990 and 2006.
Read the article here: https://www.stripes.com/branches/coast_guard/2025-03-13/coast-guard-sexual-assault-fouled-anchor-17131851.html
Army women reveal abuse as former minister admits 'colossal failure'
SkyNews (U.K. MST News)
By Becky Johnson, social affairs correspondent, Rebecca Spencer, specialist producer
Warning: This article contains material some readers may find distressing
Jane* served in the British Army for almost 20 years. It was a career she loved and excelled in, rising through the ranks. But then, she says, it ended when a colleague r*ped her.
She breaks down as she recalls the night out, almost six years ago.
Jane reported the attack to the Royal Military Police but days later was called into a meeting with officers in her chain of command and accused of flirting with men and drinking too much. Later, she discovered messages they had exchanged calling her a whore.
The military police investigated, but the case never made it to court martial, where military trials are heard - she was told there was an unrealistic chance of conviction.
Her case formed part of a legal process to try to force the previous government to transfer rape investigations in the armed forces to civilian courts, but the change was voted down in parliament.
Now, a high-profile former defence minister, and veteran, who failed to back the move has admitted he got it wrong.
Read the article here: https://news.sky.com/story/army-women-reveal-abuse-as-former-minister-admits-colossal-failure-13325673
Fort Cavazos warrant officer charged with sexual assault of a child, domestic abuse
Killeen Daily Herald (U.S. MST News)
By Brent Johnson
🔔 (trigger warning, graphic details in article’s
description of charge sheet and victims’ injuries)🔔
A soldier assigned to Fort Cavazos was arraigned in a post courtroom last week on charges of physically abusing his wife and children, sexually assaulting a child, disobeying a lawful order by a superior officer and obstruction of justice.
Warrant Officer 1 Jonathan Mateo, an officer with 1st Cavalry Division, is accused of a string of offenses against family members dating back to mid-2018, according to a redacted charge sheet released by the Army Office of Special Trial Counsel. The alleged incidents took place both at Fort Cavazos and Fort Huachaca, a small Army post in southern Arizona.
Read the article here: https://kdhnews.com/military/fort-cavazos-warrant-officer-charged-with-sexual-assault-of-a-child-domestic-abuse/article_4d68253a-0071-11f0-ad76-8f5124c7dbd0.html
Rachelle’s Take: Personally, I’m elated to see the legislation out there to improve the quailty of life for veterans who have been through so much turmoil trying to navigate lief after MST. There is hope and beauty in knowing that many of us are out here, fighting and advocating for complete strangers, because we are bonded by service and the pain caused by it.
How can we advocate for these changes together?
Leave a comment below with your ideas!
Yes, these stories are difficult to read, but MST survivors know that it’s even more painful to live in then re-live for the rest of our lives. MST is a crisis that affects service members and veterans across the globe, and the best way to demand change is by refusing to stay silent and call for accountability. Too many have been forced to endure their pain in isolation and shame.
Survivors deserve justice, accountability, and relentless support—not just in the United States, but worldwide.
Also, before we go, I wanted to share that we have a new playlist on YouTube! It’s called “The MSTea” because I’ll be spilling the tea with breakdowns of previous high visibility MST scandals, analysis of current legislation and yes, even politics, because they affect us. If you’re not subscribed to our YouTube channel, click here. Why I’m excited about this: As a Public Affairs officer, I never got to be snarky or sarcastic and point out the obvious hypocrisy of many actions taken that were supposedly supposed to support our military or veteran community. Now, the gloves are off.
A Special Update on The Silenced Voices of MST
Madvocates (that’s our new name, y’all!), as many of you know, I've been on a path of deep reflection and soul-searching recently. This journey has led me to reconsider how our podcast and YouTube channel can best serve you, our dedicated listeners and viewers. Over the past few months, I've reached out to many of you to ask what you truly want from this platform. Your feedback has been invaluable, and it’s clear that we’re ready for some changes.
Madvocates (that’s our new name, y’all!), as many of you know, I've been on a path of deep reflection and soul-searching recently. This journey has led me to reconsider how our podcast and YouTube channel can best serve you, our dedicated listeners and viewers. Over the past few months, I've reached out to many of you to ask what you truly want from this platform. Your feedback has been invaluable, and it’s clear that we’re ready for some changes.
More Value, More Support
Pin it!
You’ve asked for more actionable resources, and I hear you. The episodes that have resonated the most with our community are those that offer tangible benefits—like discussions on float spas for PTSD relief or Pablo's story about using plant medicine for healing. Moving forward, we promise to focus on providing the resources that will genuinely improve your lives. Expect more episodes filled with coping strategies, alternative healing methods, and expert advice designed to empower you every step of the way.
Why the Big Voice is Taking a Break
The "Big Voice"—the news segment we've used to address military sexual trauma—will be taking a backseat for now. This decision wasn't made lightly. I realized that most of us who tune into the podcast or watch our YouTube channel are already well aware of the prevalence and severity of MST. It’s a reality we live with daily; it's not new to us, and constantly hearing about it in broad strokes doesn’t add meaningful value to our lives. Our community understands the depth of the issue. What we need now is not more reminders of how often these tragedies occur but rather resources, support, and practical tools to help us navigate the aftermath. That’s where our focus will shift.
So, how can you expect our content to change? Moving forward, we plan to produce more in-depth content rather than weekly summaries. This means fewer, but more substantial episodes and videos. We'll dive deep into specific stories, using Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests and other investigative tools to uncover how systemic failures occur and explore potential solutions. These deep dives will allow us to understand not just the “what” but the “why” and the “how”—how things went wrong, why they continue to go wrong, and what can be done to fix them. By focusing on these comprehensive investigations, we can offer a clearer path forward and actionable insights for our community.
Connecting Emotionally: The Power of Stories and Support
Our shift in focus also comes from a desire to connect with you on a deeper emotional level. I am committed to sharing stories that not only highlight the challenges we face but also the resilience and strength within our community. By spotlighting those who have been tirelessly fighting the good fight, we can inspire and support each other. I’ve connected with incredible individuals and organizations doing this work not for profit, but to protect others from what happened to them. It’s time these unsung heroes get the recognition they deserve.
Expanding Our Global Impact
Another exciting development is our expansion into the global landscape of MST. You may not know this, but military sexual trauma is not confined to any one country; it is a pervasive issue affecting militaries worldwide. I've had the privilege of connecting with people in different armed forces around the globe, and I told you the podcast was growing—I wasn't kidding! Together, we will create an international dialogue that highlights the universal nature of this problem, pushing for change wherever it is needed.
Practical Tools and Resources for Healing
In future episodes, expect practical, easy-to-implement advice that can help you navigate your healing journey. And if you become a member of our Patreon, you'll get access to them before anyone. Whether it's understanding how to get the most out of your C&P exam or finding new ways to cope with trauma, we're here to provide you with the tools you need. The podcast will focus on actionable content designed to make a real difference in your daily life. To continue receiving all these valuable insights and resources, make sure you're subscribed to our podcast and YouTube channel. Don't miss out on the latest episodes filled with expert advice, powerful stories, and practical tools to support your journey. Hit that subscribe button now and join us in this global movement for change.
Thank You for Your Patience and Support
I want to take a moment to thank each and every one of you—our listeners, viewers, readers—our Madvocates—for your patience as I navigate these changes. Your feedback and support have been a guiding light. I've realized that the work we're doing here is vital, and I’m committed to making this space as supportive, informative, and empowering as possible. I’ve been through quite a bit in the last year since starting this show, and I truly appreciate you going on this journey with me. It’s been an interesting one, to say the least, but I’m here for you, and I’m determined to continue growing and evolving this platform. This new direction feels like the best way forward, with a focus that is clear and unified.
What Do You Want to See Next?
As we move forward, I want to hear more from you. What kind of content would be most helpful? What topics do you want us to explore? Please share your thoughts in the comments below. Your input is crucial to ensuring that this podcast continues to serve its most important purpose: supporting and empowering survivors.
Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments. What would you like to see from the podcast? How can we better support you as you heal? Your feedback is invaluable, and I’m committed to incorporating your ideas to make this podcast the best it can be.
Let’s keep moving forward, together.
<3 Rachelle
Introducing BIG VOICE - Weekly Roundup from June 10-15
BIG VOICE is a weekly podcast that delves into the most pressing news stories affecting our military and veteran communities. Released every Saturday, this podcast aims to provide transparency, accountability, and a platform for advocacy within the military. By uncovering stories that matter, BIG VOICE seeks to empower listeners with the information they need to demand justice and support for all service members.
What is BIG VOICE ?
In the military, the term "Big Voice" typically refers to a loudspeaker system used on military bases to broadcast important announcements, warnings, or instructions. These messages are critical for maintaining safety, security, and operational efficiency within the base, ensuring that all personnel are informed of any immediate actions they need to take.
However, in the context of our podcast, BIG VOICE symbolizes our commitment to amplifying the stories and issues that matter most to the military and veteran communities.
BIG VOICE is a weekly podcast that delves into the most pressing news stories affecting our military and veteran communities. Released every Saturday, this podcast aims to provide transparency, accountability, and a platform for advocacy within the military. By uncovering stories that matter, BIG VOICE seeks to empower listeners with the information they need to demand justice and support for all service members.
Welcome to this week's episode of BIG VOICE, where we delve into the most pressing news stories affecting our military and veteran communities. This week, we uncover a series of alarming events that demand our attention and action:
1. Resignation and Allegations of Cover-up in the Coast Guard (00:00)
A high-ranking Coast Guard official has resigned after being instructed to cover up misconduct. This shocking story highlights the urgent need for transparency and accountability within our military branches. [For more information]
2. Suspension of ROTC Leader Amid Sexual Misconduct Investigation (02:36)
An ROTC leader has been suspended following allegations of sexual misconduct. This case underscores the importance of vigilance and immediate action in addressing such serious accusations. [For more information]
3. CEO of Veterans Nonprofit Found Liable for Sexual Harassment (03:58)
The CEO of a prominent veterans nonprofit has been found liable for sexually harassing 12 women. This disturbing revelation calls for stricter oversight and zero tolerance for harassment in organizations serving our veterans. [For more information]
4. Charges Against Major General in the Air Force (05:47)
A Major General in the Air Force has been charged with multiple crimes, including rape. This case exemplifies the critical need for holding individuals accountable, regardless of their rank, to ensure a safe and respectful environment for all service members.
[For more information], [For more information], [For more information]
What Can We Takeaway From These News Stories?
- Transparency and accountability are crucial in all branches of the military.
- Support for survivors of military sexual trauma is essential.
- There is an ongoing need for vigilance and accountability in addressing sexual misconduct in the military.
- Power dynamics within the military can complicate issues like consent.
- Holding people accountable regardless of their position is important for creating safe and respectful environments.
- Advocacy and sharing stories can contribute to positive change.
Join the Conversation
Join the conversation and make your voice heard! Like, share, and subscribe to stay updated on the latest developments and support our mission for justice and accountability in the military.
We now have a private Facebook group named The Advocates of MST, please join! https://www.facebook.com/share/2K6kFarhiqBv8HkA/
Click the thumbnail below to watch, and remember: accountability and change are impossible without visibility. Your voice is a weapon against MST.
Emerging: Coast Guard Commandant Testifies On Massive Cover-up At Academy
Admiral Linda Fagan’s testimony last night revealed a shocking cover-up within the U.S. Coast Guard. The “Operation Fouled Anchor” investigation uncovered numerous incidents of sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy, yet these findings were hidden from Congress and the public. This blatant disregard for justice demands immediate action. Join us in demanding transparency and accountability. Share this post, follow us on social media, and subscribe to our podcast to help amplify the voices of survivors and hold the military accountable.
Last night’s testimony of Admiral Linda Fagan before Congress has shed light on a scandal of monumental proportions. The U.S. Coast Guard’s “Operation Fouled Anchor” investigation, which uncovered rampant sexual assault and harassment at the Coast Guard Academy, was deliberately concealed from Congress and the public. This betrayal is a blatant disregard for justice and transparency, and it demands immediate action.
A History of Neglect and Concealment
The investigation revealed that between the late 1980s and 2006, dozens of substantiated incidents of rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment occurred at the Coast Guard Academy. Despite these findings, the report was buried, and the victims were denied justice. This cover-up is not just an oversight; it’s a calculated attempt to protect the institution at the expense of the survivors .
Key Findings:
Dozens of substantiated incidents of rape, sexual assault, and sexual harassment.
Failure to disclose the investigation to Congress and the public.
Continued concealment by top officials, including former Commandant Karl Schultz.
The Cost of Silence
Admiral Linda Fagan’s testimony last night has brought this scandal into the public eye, but her admission of ignorance about the full extent of the investigation until recently is unacceptable. The Coast Guard’s actions—or lack thereof—demonstrate a systemic issue that must be addressed immediately.
Admiral Fagan’s Testimony Highlights:
Admitted failure to report the findings to Congress.
Unaware of the investigation’s full scope until it was exposed by the media.
Commitment to notifying Congress only after the scandal broke.
Congressional Response
Senator Richard Blumenthal and other members of the Senate Permanent Subcommittee on Investigations have been vocal about the need for full disclosure and accountability. Their call for an Inspector General investigation into why “Operation Fouled Anchor” was kept secret is a crucial step toward justice.
The Impact on Survivors
The Coast Guard’s betrayal has a profound impact on the survivors of these heinous acts. By concealing the investigation, the Coast Guard has further victimized these individuals, denying them the justice and support they deserve.
Survivor Testimonies:
Voices silenced by institutional neglect or fear of retaliation.
Continued trauma from the lack of accountability.
Demand for justice and transparency.
A Safe Space for Survivors
We understand that coming forward can be daunting, especially when trust has been so deeply violated. We welcome survivors to share their stories anonymously if they don’t feel safe. Your voice is powerful, and we are here to support you.
Episode 7 came to my mind as I watched this testimony. Our guest, a courageous Navy Commander, shared the story of her brutal assault and how she was treated afterward. This is not new information to our Senators, but this problem continues?
How You Can Make a Difference
We must keep the pressure on the Coast Guard to fully disclose all information related to “Operation Fouled Anchor” and hold those responsible accountable. Sharing these stories and amplifying the voices of survivors is crucial in the fight for justice.
Here’s how you can help:
•Share this post to raise awareness.
•Follow us on social media to stay informed and engaged.
•Subscribe to our podcast for in-depth discussions on this issue and to give these stories the attention they deserve.
Together, we can ensure that these voices are heard and that meaningful change is achieved. By holding the military accountable, we can protect and advocate for survivors of military sexual trauma.
Demand Justice Now
The U.S. Coast Guard’s concealment of sexual assault cases is a gross injustice that cannot be ignored. We must demand transparency and accountability from those in power. Join us in this critical mission to protect and advocate for survivors of military sexual trauma.
Links for Further Reading:
How do you feel knowing a cover up was going on for decades in the Coast Guard? Share your thoughts below
Military Sexual Trauma survivor Ron Carter appears on The Silenced Voices of MST to share the experiences that shaped his early service, the assault he endured, and the long-term effects that developed when the trauma went unrecognized. This interview begins a three-part series that follows his path from enlistment through MST, behavioral collapse, and his eventual understanding of PTSD outside of combat contexts. His story offers clear insight into how MST develops within military structures and how untreated trauma influences thinking, memory, relationships, and emotional regulation over decades.