There is no better time than now to take steps toward reducing the number of veterans and servicemembers lost to suicide. Here’s how.
Dear American Legion Family members and friends,
There are no topics more important than our Be the One mission to share with you as my first Commander’s Message. It’s critical to renew our focus on this priority, especially during the month of September, Suicide Prevention Awareness Month.
During my acceptance speech as national commander, I referenced just how important the Legion’s Be the One mission is to me on a personal level. And I am sure that it is personal to you, too, whether you are a survivor, lost a loved one to suicide or have some personal connection.
As veterans, we didn’t stand down when the enemy attacked. Now, our enemy is the loss of our brothers and sisters to this tragedy. Join me in doing everything we can to save just one life of a veteran who may be in a dark place.
So what can you do as part of this mission during September — and beyond?
• Raise awareness in your community. American Legion posts have conducted 2.2-mile hikes or 5K run-walks to highlight our mission, connected veterans with valuable resources during community events, and led the way in elevating the fact that it is OK to not be OK. Visit our resource page to find materials that would be most useful for an event in your community.
• Take part in our free, 90-minute suicide prevention training classes conducted by Columbia University experts. If you have not already taken the class, sign up now so that you can be prepared to make a difference for a veteran who may be at risk. If you have previously taken the training, now is a good time to retake it as a refresher. Find a session on our schedule, which is regularly updated with additional options.
• An important part of suicide prevention is talking about it. Share how you are striving to make a difference by taking the training, creating an event, or otherwise making Be the One a priority. Let us know if you have applied the training to save the life of a veteran, or share your story on our Legiontown web platform.
The American Legion Family is a family that has your back. We are each other's battle buddy. No matter what, you are never alone. Thank you for all that you do for each other, for The American Legion and for our highest priority, Be the One.
National Commander
Dan K. Wiley
- Commander