About Author

WA Pembleton brings a wealth of experience and a deeply personal connection to the issues explored in “COURT SANCTIONED FORCED SILENCE: A Modern Examination of Victim Re-Victimization and Moral Injury.” With a bachelor’s degree in Sociology and an MBA, she has spent over 20 years working for the Department of Defense as a civilian employee, where she earned the USAF Civilian Achievement Medal and numerous other awards for their outstanding contributions. During this time, WA Pembleton also served as a Victim Advocate, and working with the military’s Sexual Assault Prevention and Response Program (SARP), where they supported survivors and fought for victims’ rights.

As the spouse of a Retired Veteran and a victim of Court-Sanctioned Forced Silence, WA Pembleton was diagnosed with Moral Injury, giving her a unique perspective on the issues of legal trauma and re-victimization. In addition to her work as an advocate, she has served as a mentor to countless individuals navigating the complexities of everyday life, trauma and recovery, leveraging her extensive background in communication facilitation (Prevention and Relationship Education Program, Master Resiliency Trainer and Profession of Arms Center for Excellence).

Over the course of her career, WA Pembleton edited the 20th Logistics Readiness Squadron Newsletter for nine years, showcasing their skills in writing and editorial leadership along with creating new educational programs for military youth. Additionally, she has been recognized with the USAF Civilian Achievement Medal, as Volunteer of the Year for the 20th Fighter Wing (Shaw AFB) and Sumter County Chamber of Commerce Military Citizen of the Year, further cementing their role as a dedicated advocate for her community and those affected by trauma. This blend of professional expertise, advocacy, and personal experience positions WA Pembleton as a powerful voice for those seeking justice and reform. Her experience advocating for mental health awareness and legal reform has shaped my passion for shedding light on the invisible wounds of Moral Injury.