Share with us those veterans you’ve lost to suicide

September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, when mental health advocates, prevention organizations, survivors, allies, and community members come together to raise awareness about the stigmas associated with suicide, provide mental health resources and share the message that suicide is preventable.

That is the mission behind The American Legion’s Be the One initiative:  to destigmatize asking for mental health support, provide peer-to-peer support and resources, and educate everyone on how they can Be the One.

During Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, The American Legion wants to put a face with the crisis that is veteran suicide. While there are several different numbers associated with the amount of monthly suicides, there are individuals behind the numbers – and families and friends left behind.

We’re asking for those who have lost a veteran to suicide to share with us who that person was so we can honor him or her during September while also sharing resources available through Be the One and other entities.

We would like you to provide:

·         A photo of the veteran, in uniform if possible;

·         The veteran’s name, branch of service and time of service, and date of birth and death; and

·         Who that veteran is remembered by, e.g. “Loved and missed by his family.”

We will share your submissions throughout the month as a way to pay tribute to them and, hopefully, prevent future suicides in the veteran community.

Submissions can be made via email to sbrooks@legion.org.