UNADVERTISED
UNADVERTISED are personal stories from real experiences. Through this platform we provide a safe place to support each other. It’s about spreading awareness on what’s going on behind closed door’s. The true crime we should be talking about. Join me in the fight for justice. All are welcomed.
UNADVERTISED
When Your Brothers Become Predators: One Soldier's Story
Sexual assault in the military remains one of America's most devastating hidden crises, with survivors often suffering in silence for decades. Today's powerful account follows Damien, a young Army recruit whose life was forever altered during a weekend in the barracks when fellow soldiers drugged and sexually assaulted him.
The trauma of that night haunted Damien for over twenty years. Facing a military culture that prizes masculinity and protects higher ranks, he kept his assault secret, knowing that reporting could lead to retaliation rather than justice. When alcohol problems emerged at his next duty station, even the base chaplain dismissed his suffering. Like countless male victims, Damien carried the weight of shame, humiliation, and an expectation that he should have somehow fought back or prevented his assault.
Damien's story exposes the critical need for systemic reform within military institutions. His attackers weren't just shielded from consequences—they were promoted, while he struggled alone with the psychological aftermath. Only after two decades did he finally disclose his assault to Veterans Affairs. This stark reality demands the implementation of independent reporting systems that operate outside the chain of command, ensuring survivors can safely come forward without fear of reprisal. As we confront these uncomfortable truths, we must remember that healing begins with listening to survivors and committing to meaningful change. Share this episode to help break the silence surrounding military sexual assault and support those still suffering in isolation.
Welcome to Unadvertised. I'm your host, melina Lopez. Disclaimer the information, opinions and recommendations presented in this podcast are for general information only. Any reliance on the information provided in this podcast is done at your own risk. This podcast should not be considered professional advice. The content discussed will include sensitive topics such as sexual assault, self-harm, violence and mental illness. Listen at your own risk. Today we'll be discussing Damien.
Speaker 1:Damien joined the army to serve his country. After basic training, he attended a four-month program. During this time they had an extended long weekend. Damien was only 20, so he usually stayed in the barracks. This particular weekend, most of the barracks were empty, with the exception of a few other soldiers that were drinking in the room next to his. They asked Damien if he wanted to join. Damien agreed. He wasn't sure what was in the drink, but after only two drinks he was extremely lightheaded and dizzy. One of the guys started pulling down his underwear, trying to rub up against him. Damien remembered another guy holding him down on the bunk. They anally penetrated him, choked him. Damien remembered another guy holding him down on the bunk. They anally penetrated him, choked him. Damien was terrified. The room was dark. All he heard was them laughing.
Speaker 1:When Damien woke up not in his own room, naked and bruised. He went down to the shower room where he remembers crying for a really long time. They did this to other new recruits as an initiation. The next day was Sunday. Damien was shocked and horrified. He never told anyone because of the shame, the humiliation and the fear that they might do it again. Damien knew better than to report it.
Speaker 1:The mindset in the military is to protect the higher ranks. Damien began to have alcohol problems at his next duty station. He went to the base chaplain who basically ignored the situation. As a male victim, damien was supposed to fight back, be masculine, but now, looking back on it, he knows that he was drugged and taken advantage of. It took Damien over 20 years to finally tell the Veterans Affairs Department. He found it very difficult to tell anyone. Things need to change, especially for male victims. The perpetrators in Damien's case not only escaped accountability but were even promoted. This is a stark reminder that the military must implement an outside reporting system to ensure that the victims are heard and protected.
Speaker 1:As we reflect on Damien's experience, it's clear that the military must face these uncomfortable truths head-on if we are to prevent further trauma and injustice. The mental and physical scars left by such experiences are profound, and they remind us that the path towards justice and healing is often long and rigorous. Let's open up the conversations around these critical issues. We must advocate for change, support survivors and ensure that no one else has to endure what Damien did.
Speaker 1:Thank you for tuning in to Unadvertised. If you or someone you know has experienced a similar situation, I encourage you to reach out for help. Remember, sharing your story can be a powerful step towards healing. If you enjoyed today's episode, please take a moment to leave us a review on Spotify, Apple Podcast, podcast Index, podcast Addict, deezer and Player FM. Your feedback helps us grow and bring you even better content. If you would like to reach out and submit your story, please email unadvertisedinfocrime at gmailcom. Don't forget to hit the subscribe button so you never miss an episode we post every Friday. Until next time, stay safe, stay informed and take care of each other. Always remember you are not alone.