Post 143 officially launched their Be the One program on Dec. 13, 2025, during the Army/Navy Game.
Over 20o people attended the program, and free pizza was had by all.
Commander Tim Shaw opened the game with a short speech explaining to the attendees what was at stake and how the post is postured to tackle this crisis:
"On behalf of American Legion Post 143, I want to welcome you to one of the most time-honored traditions in American sports: the annual Army-Navy Game. For more than a century, this game has brought together servicemembers, veterans, families and supporters from across the nation. It is more than football; it is a celebration of duty, sacrifice, discipline and the shared bond that connects all who have worn the uniform.
Today, as we gather to enjoy this rivalry deeply rooted in honor and service, Post 143 is proud to take this moment to introduce something profoundly important - an initiative that goes beyond the game, beyond the uniforms, and directly into the heart of our mission as veterans and as Americans.
We are officially launching our participation in The American Legion’s Be the One Initiative - a national movement with a simple but powerful goal: to end veteran suicide.
Every day in this country, we lose veterans to a battle that takes place not on foreign soil, not in training fields, not on missions - but within themselves. These are men and women who once stepped forward without hesitation to serve their nation, yet too often feel they must face their struggles alone. Since 2001, 7,000 of our brave men and women in uniform have died in battle ... 140,000 have perished by suicide.
Be the One challenges that idea.
It reminds us that one person can make a difference.
One conversation can offer hope.
One moment of connection can change a life.
One act of courage can quite literally save one of our brothers or sisters.
Being the One can be as simple as:
• Reaching out to a veteran who has gone quiet
• Listening without judgment
• Asking directly, “How are you really doing?”
• Encouraging a fellow veteran to seek help
• Or being honest about your own struggles and asking for support yourself
At Post 143, we are committing ourselves to this effort wholeheartedly. We are pledging to create a culture where veterans never feel silenced, isolated or forgotten. A culture where reaching out is seen as strength - not weakness. A culture where every veteran knows there is someone who will answer the phone, listen to their story and stand beside them.
Over the coming year, Post 143 will roll out programs, training, community awareness events and direct outreach - all centered on this mission. The Columbia Protocol training is held here in our offices and is available to all. You can help in this effort by signing up today, online or in the office. This is not a campaign; it is a promise. A promise that we will do everything in our power to ensure no veteran faces their darkest moments alone.
So today, as we prepare to watch Army and Navy take the field, let’s remember what this rivalry represents - honor, loyalty, courage and the bond between all who serve. These values do not disappear when the game ends or when the uniform comes off.
They continue in how we care for one another.
Today, I invite you to join us - to stand with American Legion Post 143, with our veterans and with their families. Be a partner in hope. Be an advocate. Be a friend.
Be the One who saves a life.
Enjoy the game and thank you for supporting American Legion Post 143 and our mission to serve those who served.
Every table has a Legion representative at it who can answer any question you may have in regards to this new program. By being here, you’ve already taken the first step in helping us navigate and change this tragic epidemic.
You’ve shown that you care.
One year ... 1,000 trained."