Stronger Together: Humphreys community connects to prevent suicide

CAMP HUMPHREYS, South Korea – September is Suicide Prevention Month, but for the Soldiers, families, and civilians at U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys, the effort to prevent suicide is not confined to a single month – it is a year-round mission of compassion, connection, and hope.

This year’s observances began Sept. 5 at the Humphreys Hub with a proclamation signing ceremony declaring the garrison’s support for the 2025 theme, “We Are Stronger Together, Connecting to Protect.”

“This is a time that is dedicated to bringing visibility to the role everyone in the community can play in preventing suicide and to encourage all community members to know the signs, find the words, and reach out to someone they are concerned about,” read the proclamation signed by Col. Kristin E. Steinbrecher, garrison commander.

USAG Humphreys Suicide Prevention Program, which is part of the garrison’s Directorate of Human Resources Army Substance Abuse Program, organized all the community events in September.

“The words in the proclamation set the tone for a series of community events designed to spark conversations, reduce stigma, and remind people that no one must face their struggles alone,” said Kimberly Smith, suicide prevention program coordinator.

Among the highlights was the “Third Annual Honor Bead Walk” on Camp Humphreys’ Balboni Field. There, participants wore color-coded beads to symbolize personal experiences with suicide whether through loss, personal struggle, or as supporters. The walk aimed to reduce stigma, raise awareness, and highlight available resources.

Maj. Colin Sexton, executive officer for Headquarters and Headquarters Battalion, Eighth Army, spoke candidly about his own journey.

“On paper, I looked like where I was supposed to be,” Sexton said. “Inside, I was collapsing. There are never circumstances where the permanent solution of suicide is the justifiable answer.”

His message of learning, growing, and restarting resonated deeply with the crowd, underscoring the importance of reaching out and seeking help.

Later in the month, the K-16 Airfield community in Seongnam gathered for “Light Up the Night,” a candlelit walk where LED lights symbolized lives lost, those still struggling, and the community’s ongoing support. As the soft glow spread across the installation on Sept. 25, the event offered both remembrance and hope.

USAG Humphreys also challenged its community to stay active with the “Making Strides Against Suicide Step Challenge.” The goal was ambitious – five million steps – a testament not only to physical endurance, but also to the strength of a community determined to walk forward together.

“From proclamation to final steps, each event, whether solemn or active, carried the same message: suicide prevention is about connection, compassion, and never giving up,” said Smith.

Suicidal behavior is a complex and sensitive issue that affects millions of people worldwide, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Recognizing the signs that someone may be contemplating suicide and providing them with the necessary assistance can save lives.

USAG Humphreys encourages anyone who may be struggling to seek help, and encourages community members to be aware and reach out to assist those who may be struggling.

U.S. Army Garrison Humphreys is the “Army’s Home in Korea.” The garrison’s area of responsibility includes Camp Humphreys, Camp Yongin, K-16 Airfield and 11 other smaller sites within Area II and III of U.S. Forces Korea. Camp Humphreys – located along the western coast of the Republic of Korea within the seaport city of Pyeongtaek – is the hub of USFK and headquarters for the Eighth Army, the 2nd Infantry Division, and the U.S. Army’s most active airfield in the Pacific – Desiderio Army Airfield.