Be the One with the American Legion Post 92

The American Legion Post 92 in McCloud is participating in a national program called “Be the One.” The mission of “Be the One” is to end veteran suicide. The American Legion has joined forces with Columbia University to develop training for those who want to learn more about interacting with and responding to veterans who may be in crisis.

The Post family, which includes the Sons, the Auxiliary, the Riders, along with the Post itself, are organizing events to help bring awareness and support veterans who may be in need.

The American Legion has elevated “Be the One” to be its primary mission, empowering veterans, service members, their families, and civilians to act appropriately when a veteran is at risk.

Post 92’s “Be the One” Programs include:

• Conversation and Coffee: Last Friday of every month at 9am (veterans only)
• Be the One Dinner: 1st day of every month from 5 to 7pm in the clubroom (Veterans eat free, suggested donation of $10 for members and guests)
• Post Service Officer: Lynn Clark helps connect veterans with services. Contact: (530) 859-2174

About the American Legion

The American Legion is the largest wartime veterans service organization with more than 1.6 million members in roughly 12,000 posts across the nation. Chartered by Congress in 1919, The American Legion is committed to mentoring youth and sponsoring wholesome community programs, advocating patriotism and honor, promoting strong national security, and continued devotion to service members and veterans.

To learn more, visit legion.org or call 1-800-433-3318.

How You Can Help

American Legion Family members are encouraged to take part in this training and share it with the community. To receive information about training opportunities in suicide identification and prevention, subscribe to the American Legion Online Update Newsletter. A mobile app can be downloaded from Google Play or the Apple Store.

It is Okay to not be Okay

People need to:

• Talk to veterans about how they are feeling
• Listen when a veteran needs to talk
• Be judgment-free
• Offer help if needed

Anyone can take the training. Everyone needs to celebrate veterans in their communities.

Crisis Resources

• Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then press 1 or text 838255
• Online: veteranscrisisline.net
• Available 24/7
• For immediate Mental Health Services: dial 911

Did you know?

Between 17 and 22 veterans die by suicide each day.

Recognizing the Signs of Suicide Risk

1. Thinking about hurting or killing yourself
2. Looking for ways to kill yourself
3. Talking about death, dying, or suicide
4. Self-destructive behavior such as drug abuse
5. Hopelessness, feeling like there is no way out
6. Anxiety, agitation, sleeplessness, or mood swings
7. Feeling like there is no reason to live
8. Rage or anger
9. Engaging in risky activities without thinking
10. Increasing alcohol or drug abuse
11. Withdrawing from family and friends

Additional Contacts

• Siskiyou County Veterans Services: (530) 842-8010
• Veterans Crisis Line: 1-800-273-8255

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