The U.S. military has a domestic violence problem.

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The U.S. military has a domestic violence problem. It is widespread. It is deadly. It is not new or secret. Decades of studies, plans, and internal policies have done nothing to reduce it. The Pentagon has long known about the significantly increased risk of domestic violence by combat-exposed troops, yet has failed to properly inform military members or their families, and has violated laws mandating reporting on the problem.

This lack of transparency and breach of legal responsibilities has left thousands of spouses, children, caregivers, parents, partners, and veterans dead, injured, suffering emotional distress and damages and real property losses, or struggling in silence without the resources or support they should have.

Victims of military domestic violence plan to gather in Washington, D.C., on May 19-21, 2025, to request Congressional committee hearings, to demand compensation from the Pentagon and Veterans Affairs, and to speak with the public and journalists. They will also deliver initial Claims for Damage, Injury, or Death (Government Form SF95-07a) to Congressional Committees and file them with federal agencies. This is the required first step for pursuing a class action. Organizing is being led by Stacy Bannerman, author of Homefront 911: How Families of Veterans Are Wounded by Our Wars.