Shannon Hough: From Survivor to Founder – Shield of Sisters Pioneers Healing for Female Veterans Affected by Military Se
USA News April 29, 2025
Share
Nationwide (USANews.com) Shannon Hough, Founder and CEO of Shield of Sisters (SOS), has become a powerful advocate for women veterans who have experienced Military Sexual Trauma (MST). Through her leadership, SOS is providing essential resources, community support, and a platform for these courageous women to reclaim their voices and rebuild their lives after facing trauma during their military service.Military Sexual Trauma continues to be a pervasive issue within the armed forces, with studies indicating that sexual assault disproportionately affects women in the military. According to reports from the Department of Veterans Affairs, a significant portion of female veterans experiences sexual trauma during their service, with many struggling with its long-lasting effects, such as mental health challenges, increased risk of suicide, and difficulty reintegrating into civilian life.In response to these challenges, Shannon Hough founded Shield of Sisters with the mission of providing dedicated support to women veterans who have experienced MST. The organization offers a range of resources, including Restoration Retreats, where survivors can connect with others, gain access to necessary services, and participate in restorative practices that focus on resilience and healing. These retreats are held across the United States and its territories, aiming to reach as many veterans as possible, with the support of local SOS chapters.Beyond providing immediate support, SOS is also committed to advocating for long-term change. Hough and her team work to raise awareness of MST and collaborate with other organizations to push for policy reforms within the Department of Defense and other key institutions. Their advocacy efforts aim to bring greater attention to the issue of sexual assault in the military and ensure that all servicewomen receive the care, respect, and safety they deserve.Shield of Sisters stands apart by focusing exclusively on the unique needs of women who have experienced MST. While other organizations may provide support to all veterans, SOS is dedicated to addressing the specific challenges that female survivors of military sexual assault face. The organization’s work emphasizes understanding the often invisible wounds these women carry, providing both emotional and practical support tailored to their needs.Hough’s leadership is grounded in her own journey. As a survivor of MST herself, Hough understands firsthand the lasting impact such trauma can have, and her dedication to helping others heal is reflected in SOS’s work. “Too many women have suffered in silence,” Hough said. “Shield of Sisters is here to ensure that no woman who experiences military sexual trauma has to endure it alone. We are a community of strength, resilience, and hope. Together, we can break the cycle of trauma and help these women reclaim their lives.”In addition to providing direct support, SOS advocates for policy changes aimed at preventing MST and improving the treatment of female veterans within the military. Through their work, they have been instrumental in highlighting the importance of creating safer environments for women in service, and they continue to be a strong voice for change.Shield of Sisters has also garnered support from various organizations and individuals who share its mission of empowering survivors of MST. By working together with other nonprofits, advocacy groups, and government entities, SOS aims to create a national movement focused on preventing sexual assault and ensuring that women in the military are supported throughout their service and beyond.For more information on Shield of Sisters and its work, visitShield of Sisters or follow them on social media at @shieldofsisters.
---2025-04-29T235023.233.png?alt=media&token=2a87bc32-ea28-45c4-bdb0-0d6ae7de8024)
