Victim’s mother brings light to sexual assault in the service Published April 1, 2014 By Senior Airman Mary O'Dell 92nd Air Refueling Wing Public Affairs FAIRCHILD AIR FORCE BASE, Wash. -- A sexual assault victim's mother will be visiting Fairchild April 7 to tell her daughter's tragic story so that others may learn from it. Lance Cpl. Maria Lauterbach was raped and subsequently murdered by a fellow colleague while preparing to testify against the accused. Being just 20 years old when she was killed, she was also eight months pregnant. "I have received calls from many women in the military facing the same issues as my daughter had after she was raped," said Mary Lauterbach, Maria's mother. "Being afraid to come forward and report these issues is something no one should ever have to fear." Since Maria's death, Mary has been traveling around the country, actively working to increase awareness of sexual assault in the military to include improving the care service members receive when they are assaulted. "I believe I owe it to my daughter and her military brothers and sisters to tell Maria's story," said Lauterbach. "No one should have to feel like they are alone in any situation similar to hers." During Sexual Assault Awareness Month, Team Fairchild is taking time to reflect on the support in place for victims of sexual assault. Lauterbach will be giving two Sexual Assault Response Coordinator-sponsored presentations, April 7 from 8:30-9:45 a.m. and 10:15-11:30 a.m. at the Base Theater. All supervisors of military members are encouraged to attend. Also during SAAM, a Rape Aggression Defense training class is being held April 24 and 25. SAPR is joining with the base gym for a run supporting SAAM, offering a 1.5-or 5-mile course, with the first 300 to cross the finish line receiving a t-shirt. Another program is the "Clothesline Project," displaying t-shirts designed by those affected by sexual violence as an avenue to express their thoughts and emotions. "The Clothesline display educates and promotes Sexual Assault Awareness," said Jessica Bradshaw, 92nd Air Refueling Wing SARC. "It also validates the fact sexual assault victims live in our community." For more information regarding SAAM or any events being held, contact the SAPR office at (509) 247-4771.