Yellow roses laid to honor first responders and veterans who lost their lives to suicide

 

MILWAUKEE (CBS 58) --- September is National Suicide Prevention Month. The Wisconsin Air National Guard is raising awareness about the challenges facing first responders and services members when it comes to their mental health.

"In an environment where our military members and our first responders are seeing a lot of really bad things all the time, they do a really good job of keeping it all inside to their detriment sometimes," said Kelsey Danner, Sexual Assault Response Coordinator at the 128th Air Refueling Wing.

The 128th Air Refueling Wing held its first suicide prevention walk, Refuel Resilience. Dozens from area police and fire departments and v-a members showed up to support on Friday, Sept. 22.

"Being in a group like this where you have so many people surrounding you who are going through the same things, feeling the same things, experiencing the same things...just to be able to look at somebody and go I've been there. I understand it...does a huge amount for people's mental health," said Danner.

Last year, 29 law enforcement members and 138 veterans committed suicide here in the state of Wisconsin. After the walk, a single yellow rose was placed on each chair to represent each life lost. "It's critical that we take the time out to let people know that the resources are available," said Colonel Charles Merkel, Deputy Wing Commander.

Col Merkel says not only does raising awareness let people know that help is available, but it also helps others navigate difficult conversations. "I've had two times in my career where I've had to approach somebody and ask them if they thought they were going to hurt themselves," he said.

Col Merkel says training provided here has helped him help others. "Without having the recurring conversations about the signs and what to look for and where to get help, I don't know if I would have known to ask the question," he said.

The 128th Refueling Wing now plans to hold the Refuel Resilience walk annually.

If you or someone you know needs help, dial 988 to reach the National Suicide Prevention Lifeline. Veterans can then press 1 to be directed to specialized resources.