National officers from the American Legion are touring across Iowa to promote an ongoing initiative known as “Be the One” in an effort to address the alarming veteran suicide rate. According to National Vice Commander James Kellog, a concerning number of veterans die by suicide every day, and the data suggest the problem is growing.
Reports from the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs show more than 30,000 veterans of the Global War on Terror (GWOT) have died by suicide, compared to the 7,088 who died in combat during the same conflicts. Kellogg says Be the One has several missions, the first of which is to help veterans understand they aren’t struggling alone.
Kellogg notes it is difficult to help a veteran if they don’t tell somebody. However, Be the One outlines ways fellow veterans, friends, and family can connect with vets using a Columbia University-designed protocol.
The Columbia Protocol asks pointed yes/no questions, such as “Have you wished you were dead or wished you could go to sleep and not wake up,” or “Have you done anything, started to do anything, or prepared to do anything to end your life?” Kellogg says this can be daunting for some, but it can make all the difference to a veteran in crisis. Once suicidal ideation has been identified, Kellogg says there are many resources available, such as the 988 National Suicide and Crisis Lifeline, your county’s Veterans Affairs office, and medical service providers. As the Be the One campaign grows and develops, the American Legion is seeking volunteers to provide suicide prevention training to posts throughout the state. Those interested in becoming a trainer can register online using the link included with this story on our website. Learn more about Be the One at www.legion.org/advocacy/be-the-one.
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