National suicide survivor day Nov. 17

By U.S. ArmyNovember 15, 2012

Nov. 17, the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention will observe the 14th annual National Survivors of Suicide Day.

This day was established through the efforts of Sen. Harry Reid, who lost his father to suicide. The nationwide event connects tens of thousands of people in the national survivor community for support, healing, information, empowerment and most of all, to share their experiences of loss.

Various cities are hosting a National Survivors of Suicide Day conference and each will be linked via satellite Nov. 17 from noon to 1:30 p.m. Local participation is being held in Lawton at Comanche County Memorial Hospital. The link to the conference is www.afsp.org/survivorconference. For those who don't live near a conference site or who find it difficult to attend in person, the 90-minute program will also be available live on the AFSP website with an online chat offered immediately afterward.

Suicide is a serious problem among our Soldiers and family members across the military. In remembrance of those who have tragically taken their lives and left loved ones behind Fort Sill will hold a moment of silence Nov. 16 at noon.

Fires Strong!

Mark McDonald

Major General, USA

commanding

Fort Sill resources

Reynolds Army Community Hospital: Building 4301 Wilson St., 558-2800

Behavioral Health: Building 2442, Crane Ave., 442-4833

Social Work Services: Building 3423 Babcock Road, 442-2386/8748

Army Substance Abuse Program: Building 3415 Miner Road, 442-4205

Casualty Assistance: Building 4700 Mow-Way Road, 442-6405.

Army Community Service: Building 4700 Mow-Way Road, 442-4916

Chaplains: Building 2934 Marcy Road, 442-3302

Red Cross: Building 1651 Randolph Road, 558-2132

Military Family Life Consultant: 574-7362/7363/7364.