SAN ANTONIO – (Sept. 22, 2023) – The first day of September marks the beginning of National Suicide Prevention Month. During the 88th Legislature of the State of Texas, legislators passed H.C.R. No. 12 designating Sept. 22 as Texas Veterans Suicide Prevention Day.
On this day, veterans, city and county officials, and the community gathered at Veterans of Foreign Wars Post 76 to pay tribute and recognize the challenges and sacrifices endured by the nation’s defenders on and off the battlefield.
At 9:22 a.m., all in attendance observed the raising and lowering of the Stars and Stripes to half-mast followed by a rifle team salute and the sounding of taps.
According to event coordinator Steve Price with Voices of Our Veterans, the time of 22 minutes represents the number of veterans in Texas who commit suicide daily.
Special guests included Texas State Rep. Ray Lopez (District 125), vice chair, House Defense and Veterans Affairs; State Rep. Josey Garcia (District 124); Texas Veterans Commission Chairwoman Laura Koerner; and Bexar County Veterans Service Officer Keith Wilson, who all delivered remarks.
“It is a great honor to announce the designation of Sept. 22 as Texas Veterans Suicide Prevention Day, a result only achievable through the continued dedication and commitment of all Texans to safeguard the well-being of our nation’s defenders,” said Lopez. “More than just legislation; it is a lifeline of empathy extended to those who have carried the burden of service. By dedicating a day to veteran suicide prevention, we are making a solid commitment that their struggles will no longer be unnoticed.”
Koerner reminded the attendees of Buddy Check Day, which occurs on the 11th day of each month. “Buddy Check Day is when we encourage everybody to contact a veteran in their life and check up on them,” said Koerner. “So you may be the one person they talk to that month who asks them how they are doing and if they need anything. It may be that one chance to connect them to something that helps them get past any despair they may have.”
Attending from The American Legion were Post Commander Burrell Parmer and Post Historian Barry Andrews Sr. of Fred Brock American Legion Post 828.
