Jackie Speier: “I rise again today to highlight the epidemic of rape and sexual assault in the military. This issue was recently brought…”

“I rise again today to highlight the epidemic of rape and sexual assault in the military. This issue was recently brought up on Fox News by a commentator who ignorantly declared that women who join the military should expect to be raped. Yes, believe it or not, this was what the commentator said. I don't think our women choose to enlist in the military with the expectation that they might get raped. This morning I'm going to tell you the story of U.S. marine Stephanie Schroeder, who was raped in a public restroom by a fellow marine. He shoved her down, beat her, and forced her on her back. He ripped down her pants and raped her. Then he ejaculated on her inner thigh and spit on her. Private Schroeder reported the rape to command. Her commander laughed at her and said don't come ``blankin'' to me because you had sex and changed your mind. {time} 1100 Don't come ``blankin'' to me? That's the response that was given to Private Schroeder. That was her leader. That was her commander saying that to her. Instead of helping her, her commander called her a liar and restricted her from seeking medical help or any type of counseling. And what's worse is that her commander did nothing illegal. The military judicial system allows commanders complete discretion for handling cases of rape and sexual assault. To the current standard of justice, the commander did absolutely nothing wrong. This story is one of thousands that happens in the military every year.…”