Marshall, Minn. – Veterans, healthcare providers, counselors and those affected by Veteran suicide gathered here today to shine a light on this issue and bring people together in a time of healing. The seventh annual Veterans Suicide Prevention and Awareness Day event was hosted by the Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA).

“The state of Minnesota is committed to addressing the tragedy of Veteran suicide,” says Eric Meittunen, Deputy Commissioner of Veterans Healthcare at MDVA. “We support Veterans when they are in crisis while also prioritizing the overall wellness and mental health of Veterans and their families.”

Dozens of community members and service and care providers gathered at Marshall’s Red Baron Arena Saturday morning to show they are willing to “be the one” to make a difference in preventing suicide.

Following community time with donuts and coffee and an opportunity to visit resource tables staffed by Veteran support organizations, attendees honored our military during a presentation of the colors by honorary color guards. Mental health specialists and community leaders talked about their dedication to doing more to end Veteran suicide.

Freddy Real, the Military and Veteran Liaison Officer at Avera Health – spoke about the hard realities of Veteran suicide. “Veteran suicide isn’t a distant thing that doesn’t happen,” Freddy says. “You may have a friend or someone in your life, and they seem fine. But the battles they’re fighting are on the inside now.” He encourages everyone to ask a Veteran how they’re doing. “A Vet won’t necessarily tell you what’s going on, but if they pause long enough, you’ll get it.”

Following the program, MDVA hosted a Suicide Awareness Voices of Education (SAVE) training session. “You learn that you don’t have to have all the answers, but just be present and care,” says Kristi Stites, MDVA Veteran Suicide Prevention and Program Development Coordinator. “The training also gives you the confidence to ask questions if you see someone is struggling.”

If you are a Veteran or know a Veteran who needs help, please take the first step.

Call 988 and press 1

/mdva/resources/veteransuicideprevention/index.jspVisit our Veteran Suicide Prevention page

Learn about:

• Free Gun Locks
• S.A.V.E. Training
• Suicide Prevention in Minnesota

###

About MDVA
The Minnesota Department of Veterans Affairs (MDVA) is a cabinet-level state agency dedicated to serving Minnesota Veterans and their families. In addition to overseeing the eight State Veterans Homes, MDVA helps eligible Veterans and families secure state and federal benefits and provides programs and services relating to higher education, benefits, burial, claims, outreach and Veterans employment. Veterans and their families are encouraged to visit www.MinnesotaVeteran.org or call 1-(888)-LinkVet for more information about benefits.