Details Matter: Breaking Down Barriers

  • Published
  • By Kristina Conwill
  • 14th Flying Training Wing

Do you believe details matter? Our Columbus Air Force Base Sexual Assault Prevention and Response office and The Office of Special Investigations Detachment 406 team believe so. Recently, these agencies partnered to modernize and enhance the interview rooms used by sexual violence survivors and witnesses.

“Our survivors are important, and we believe in supporting victims with the smallest detail to include how we make them feel,” said Tony Bean, 14th Flying Training Wing Sexual Assault Response coordinator. “Details make a difference. They create connection, depth and authenticity.”

The SAPR office attributes their philosophy to Maya Angelou, an American memoirist, poet and civil rights activist who wrote, “People will forget what you said, people will forget what you did, but people will never forget how you made them feel.” This is why details matter to SAPR and OSI.

“Our OSI team is grateful for the opportunity to partner with the SAPR office. They secured funding for the new renovation to include décor, a new couch, chairs and tables,” said Jennifer McKenna, Special Agent in Charge. “We wanted to create an environment that feels warm and inviting as opposed to dull, cold and uncomfortable. SAPR provided the support we needed to make it happen.”   

“Lt. Kayle Bell, agent in training, receives all the credit in creating the vision for our interview room,” said McKenna. “She researched color psychology for the appropriate paint scheme. She chose swivel chairs, so everyone has the freedom of movement during the interview.  In addition, Bell chose pillows and blankets for those being interviewed to hold as well.  We understand it can be overwhelming being interviewed by our agents; so fidgeting or holding onto something reduces anxiety during the process.”

McKenna wants to change the perspective and stigma of OSI.  “We are not just hiding in the bushes waiting for a crime to occur. We are an unbiased agency, and our opinions are checked at the door. We care about people and that is why we want to provide an atmosphere to hear about their experiences and provide the facts to the proper channels.”

“The two key components to interviewing, fact-finding and effective investigations is making everyone feel safe and allowing information to freely flow,” said McKenna. “We are breaking down barriers, paying attention to details and creating a safe space.” 

If you are looking for ways you can help others in overcoming barriers, we encourage you to reach out to your local SAPR office.  For “details” [because they matter] on how, contact Mr. Tony Bean at 662.434.1228 or tony.bean.3@us.af.mil.