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Auburn’s Sarah Blum, a nurse Vietnam veteran and nurse psychotherapist specialist, has recently released a book, “Women Under Fire: Abuse in the Military” (Brown Sparrow Publishing), which takes a hard look at the extraordinary culture of violence and sexual abuse committed within the armed forces.

“It is time for accountability and justice for these women,” Blum said in her powerful book.

Blum interviewed more than 58 women veterans over the past seven years to write the book.

Blum also has embarked on a national tour. She is calling on national, Congressional and military leaders to address the problem and correct it.

“I went to Washington, D.C. for Veterans Day, told my story at the Vietnam Women’s Memorial, met many other nurses from the 12th Evacuation Hospital and some guys from the 25th Infantry Division,” Blum wrote on her website. “Then I went to Congress and had 70 meetings to urge positive changes in military culture. … (I) dropped off written information at 30 more (meetings) for 100 (total), including all the members of the Senate and House Armed Services Committee and other key women senators and representatives.

“Many said, ‘Can’t wait to read your book. Thank you for your military service, your advocacy and for coming to see me and give me your ideas and perspective,'” Blum said. “I will certainly take these to the committee.”

For more information on the author or to help support her tour or purchase the book, please visit http://womenunderfire.net/ or www.gofundme.com/43om48.