Wyoming Fights to Prevent Veteran and First Responder Suicides
Gov. Mark Gordon, Governor of Wyoming, greets people during the Wyoming Veteran and First Responder Suicide Awareness and Prevention Ceremony at the Wyoming State Capitol Building, Cheyenne, Wyoming, June 1, 2024. The Wyoming Governor signs a proclamation to stress the importance of raising awareness that every veteran and first responder's life is valuable and to prevent suicides. The Wyoming Veterans Commission organized the event to save the lives of those who serve our state and nation. (U.S. Army National Guard photo by Joseph Coslett Jr.)
CHEYENNE, Wyo. – The Wyoming Governor signs a proclamation to stress the importance of raising awareness that every veteran and first responder's life is valuable and to prevent suicides at the Wyoming State Capitol Building, Cheyenne, Wyoming, June 1, 2024.
The Wyoming Veterans Commission organized the Veteran and First Responder Suicide Awareness and Prevention Ceremony to save the lives of those who serve our state and nation.
Gov. Mark Gordon, Governor of Wyoming, Brig. Gen. Steven Alkire, Assistant Adjutant General for the Wyoming Army National Guard, Sheriff Brian Kozak, Sheriff of Laramie County, Shawn Moore, suicide survivor and Brandy Krugler, suicide survivor, spoke at the event to share their stories of being there for our veterans and first responders when they need us the most.
The ceremony included the singing of the national anthem, the signing of the proclamation, speeches, the singing of Amazing Grace, a motorcycle ride through Cheyenne, and a barbecue at the American Legion Post 6.
The Veterans Commission wants to share some information about the importance of suicide awareness and prevention.
- Save Lives: Early identification and intervention can help individuals to seek help before it’s too late. Suicide is a leading cause of death worldwide, and effective awareness and prevention can reduce the incidence of suicide.
- Reduce the Stigma: Encourage people to seek help without fear or judgment. Increasing awareness helps break down the stigma associated with mental health issues and suicide.
- Provide Support: Share crisis hotlines, counseling services and community resources that provide immediate and long-term support to ensure people know where to get help.
- Build Resilience: Educate people on coping mechanisms, resilience and mental wellness can empower individuals to manage stress and challenges more effectively.
- Community Strength: Come together to address suicide, this will create a supportive environment that fosters connectedness and mutual aid.
“By raising awareness, reducing stigma and providing robust support systems, we can make significant strides in preventing suicide and promoting mental health for all,” said Tim Sheppard, Director of the Wyoming Veterans Commission.