Shannon Hough: Championing the Healing of Female Veterans Through Shield of Sisters’ Revolutionary Approach to Military
USA News April 29, 2025
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Nationwide (USANews.com) Shannon Hough, a courageous survivor of Military Sexual Trauma (MST), has established herself as a leading advocate for women veterans through her nonprofit organization, Shield of Sisters (SOS). As the Founder and CEO of SOS, Hough is committed to providing veterans with the necessary tools and support to heal from the trauma they experienced while serving in the military, particularly the pervasive issue of MST.MST, defined as sexual assault or repeated, threatening sexual harassment that occurs during military service, continues to affect a significant number of women serving in the armed forces. Despite efforts to address this issue, studies show that the prevalence of MST among female service members remains alarmingly high. According to the Department of Veterans Affairs, a large portion of female veterans report having experienced sexual trauma during their service, with many struggling with the aftermath, including severe mental health challenges and a heightened risk of suicide. Reintegrating into civilian life often becomes a major hurdle, further exacerbating the effects of MST.Recognizing the gaps in support for female veterans, Shannon Hough founded Shield of Sisters to offer specialized services that cater specifically to the needs of women survivors of MST. SOS provides a variety of resources, including educational programs, peer support groups, and therapeutic retreats. These retreats, held in various locations across the United States, allow survivors to connect with others who share similar experiences, fostering an environment of healing and empowerment. The retreats combine emotional support, professional guidance, and practices focused on self-care and resilience.Shield of Sisters also offers practical assistance to veterans navigating the complexities of accessing government benefits and health care. In addition to facilitating access to services, the organization’s work ensures that survivors are heard and supported in every step of their journey, from recovery to reintegration into civilian society. Hough's commitment to addressing the long-term needs of these women sets SOS apart from other organizations, which may serve a broader range of veterans but are often unable to provide the specific, tailored support required by female survivors of military sexual assault.A critical component of SOS’s mission is advocacy. Through Hough’s leadership, the organization is actively working to raise awareness about MST within the military and advocate for systemic changes that address the causes and consequences of sexual assault. SOS collaborates with lawmakers, veteran service organizations, and mental health professionals to advance policies that protect servicewomen and ensure they receive the care they need after leaving the military. By highlighting the importance of supporting women during and after their service, SOS is helping to reshape the conversation around sexual violence in the military.As a survivor herself, Shannon Hough’s dedication to this cause is deeply personal. She understands the challenges that MST survivors face firsthand and is committed to ensuring that no woman who has experienced military sexual trauma has to endure it in isolation. "The impact of MST is not just physical; it's emotional and psychological," said Hough. "We are creating a community where women can find their strength again and take the steps toward healing. Shield of Sisters provides more than just services—we provide a sense of belonging and a pathway to reclaiming one’s life."One of the most notable aspects of SOS’s work is its focus on restoring the dignity and agency of women who have experienced MST. Rather than focusing solely on the trauma, SOS’s approach emphasizes the strengths and resilience that these women possess. Through empowerment-based initiatives, the organization helps survivors reconnect with their own voices, fostering self-confidence and autonomy. This approach empowers veterans to take control of their healing process, building a foundation for sustainable mental and emotional well-being.Since its founding, Shield of Sisters has gained widespread support from a network of individuals, community groups, and institutional partners who share the organization’s vision of supporting female veterans. By working collaboratively with other organizations, SOS is helping to create a broader movement dedicated to preventing MST and ensuring that women who have served in the military are never left behind.For more information about Shield of Sisters and its programs, visitShield of Sisters or follow them on social media at @shieldofsisters.
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