04/11/2013 -- About 18,000 sexual assault cases were reported in the armed forces last year, according to Marcus White, new victim advocate, Marine Corps Logistics Base Albany.
“With this number steadily increasing in all of the branches of armed forces, there is a need for advocates to help those assaulted,” White said.
White has been the Family Readiness Officer for MCLB Albany since October 2010. He took his new position as victim advocate March 1. His hours are 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. and he can be reached at 229-639-8896.
According to White, a victim advocate is a person who responds to incidents when someone on base has been assaulted. The victim advocate then meets with the assailed to learn what happened, explains options the victim can take to help himself or herself, counsels that person, assists him or her in legal cases and navigates the legal process.
“The victim advocate is someone who understands the emotional side of an assault and knows how to control a situation,” White said.
A victim advocate is available 24/7. White is available during regular working hours, but there is always someone on call.
White expressed his excitement in becoming the base’s new victim advocate and being able to be a voice for those who need it.
“It gives me an opportunity to help hurting people and make a difference in people’s lives,” he said. “It is what I have been called to do.”
White has more than 30 years of experience assisting all kind of assault cases.
His experience ranges from working as a child abuse investigator, foster care supervisor, Medicaid worker to teaching crisis intervention classes.
White worked in the Atlanta area for almost 15 years before moving to Albany.
He worked with Dougherty County child services and headed the organization, Helping Hands.
He is also a full-time local pastor.
White has been involved with the military community for about 17 years.
He started a marriage enrichment program for active-duty and retired Marine couples.
“I’ve always had a strong involvement in the military community and I love to help people,” White noted. “I bring a steady hand, knowledge and understanding to help people in need.”
White voiced his enjoyment working as the Family Readiness Officer for several years.
“I have thoroughly enjoyed working with families and being able to help them stay strong,” White said. “It is about making sure Marines and their families are strong so that nothing interferes with the mission.”