Sexual harassment reporting shifts Published June 16, 2010 By Hannah Hill 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- In the last fiscal year, formal sexual harassment cases Air Force-wide have fallen 68 percent, while informal sexual harassment complaints have risen 45 percent. According to AFI 36-2706, "Military Equal Opportunity (MEO) Program," sexual harassment is "a form of sex discrimination that involves unwelcome sexual advances, request for sexual favors, and other verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature." While an informal complaint is resolved within the chain of command, a formal complaint is handled by MEO staff members. According to Tech. Sgt. Margarita Lugo, 375th Air Mobility Wing Equal Opportunity NCOIC, these changes could be caused by the recent high-profile case that appeared on the front page of "Air Force Times." Another cause could be the training programs provided by the Air Force. "I feel with the additional training and showing it can happen to anyone--regardless of gender or rank--people are feeling more confident in coming forward to report the incident," said Sergeant Lugo. Sergeant Lugo also explained why combating sexual harassment is so important. "The Air Force is really focusing on this type of issue because of the huge impact it has on all individuals involved--the person offended and the offender, their unit morale and ultimately the overall mission." To report claims of sexually harassment in the work place, speak with a Wingman, chaplain, first sergeant or someone in the chain of command. People can also speak with a trained advisor within the Equal Opportunity Office. The EO office can facilitate, mediate or file an informal or formal complaint for an incident. For more information, call EO at 256-6581 or 256-3770.