Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr. statement, November 7, 1996

NEWS FROM Robert L. Ehrlich, Jr Second Congressional District of Maryland 1 407 York Road, Suite 304 3 1 5 Cannon House Office Building Lutherville, Maryland 2 1 093 Washington, D.C. 205 1 5 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: CONTACT: Richard Cross November 7, 1 996 202-225-3061 STATEMENT BY CONGRESSMAN ROBERT L. EHRLICH, JR. REGARDING ALLEGATIONS OF SEXUAL MISCONDUCT AND RAPE AT ABERDEEN PROVING GROUND “I am deeply troubled by allegations of sexual misconduct and rape at the Army Training and Doctrination Command at Aberdeen Proving Ground. “This kind of behavior is unacceptable under any circumstances. The fact that it allegedly involves drill sergeants and members of the training cadre — people in positions of authority — adds a whole new dimension to the offense. People who wear our nation’s uniform have a responsibility to abide by the highest personal standard of conduct. That responsibility begins with their subordinates. Violating this trust is an affront to everyone who wears the uniform. “Major General Robert Shadley briefed me about this incident personally this afternoon. He has assured me of his strong commitment to seeing that justice is done. Moreover, I am confident that the Army’s planned changes in policy will prevent a reoccurence of such repugnant behavior.”