Women Serve Too

Shield of Sisters: Confronting Military Sexual Trauma Head-On

Brittinie Wick Season 2 Episode 8

Send us a text

In this episode, Brittinie Wick interviews Shannon Hough, the CEO and founder of Shields of Sisters, a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting women veterans who have experienced military sexual trauma. Shannon shares her personal journey, including her military service, the sexual assault she endured, and the subsequent creation of her organization to help others heal. The conversation delves into the challenges faced by veterans in accessing adequate support from the VA and military, the stigma surrounding military sexual trauma, and the need for a holistic approach to healing. Shannon emphasizes the importance of accountability for assaulters and the need to change the narrative around military sexual trauma. In this conversation, Shannon Hough and Brittinie Wick discuss the pervasive issue of military sexual trauma, the importance of creating safe spaces for survivors, and the need for effective prevention programs. They highlight the often-overlooked experiences of male victims and the emotional struggles faced by survivors. Shannon shares personal stories that underscore the impact of their work at Shield of Sisters, emphasizing the importance of emotional expression and breaking the stigma surrounding it. They also address the political climate affecting military sexual trauma programs and the necessity of survivor voices in shaping effective solutions. The conversation concludes with information on how to get involved and support the cause.

ABOUT SHANNON: 

Shannon Hough is Shield of Sisters CEO and Founder. She is a Lady Veteran of the Navy, a military wife and mother. Shannon has also served as a mayor, congressional staff member and as a city administrator. Shannon holds an MPA and MBA from Norwich University. Shannon endured sexual assault in the Navy over 25 years ago and never fully recovered from what happened to her. While Shannon was serving as a congressional staffer she encountered several service members who needed help with their own sexual assaults while serving in the military. She decided to create Shield of Sisters as a way to help her sisters that endured MST. Shannon’s passion is helping others find restoration and supporting her sister service members. She is an avid reader, loves to cook and spend time with her family, including her dog Zeus.

CONNECT:

https://www.facebook.com/ShieldofSisters

shannon@shieldofsisters.com

Invisible No More is our podcast, we tell our stories of sexual assault and how we have overcome the pain of betrayal and assault while serving our country. https://shieldofsisters.com/podcast/

Support the show

SUBSCRIBE and SHARE!
Women Serve Too Merch (10% of Profits Benefits Female Veterans): https://www.etsy.com/shop/WomenServeToo