USCC CSM Craven Suicide Prevention Message 2022

Hello, team. I'm Robert Craven, the 26th Command Sergeant Major of the United States Corps of Cadets. After 27 years of service, I know firsthand that not every fight is on the battlefield. While we dedicate the month of September to suicide prevention awareness, this is truly a 24-7, 365-day-a-year endeavor. Every suicide is one tragedy too many. Suicide affects not only the victims, but also those around them, their loved ones, friends, and teammates. It is absolutely our responsibility as soldiers and leaders to check in our battle buddies, family members, friends, and teammates. Include everyone as a part of your squad. Connect with your peers and chain of command. Engage. It's in those moments that we find ourselves struggling that we lean on our teammates. Remember, we are stronger together. Reaching out is not about admitting you are struggling, but about strengthening your resilience by building healthy relationships and a network of support. If you need help, we have a wealth of resources here at West Point available to you and your families, so please take advantage of them. If you need someone to talk to, military and family life counselors are available to all our soldiers, family members, and cadets. Confidential counseling is available to the Corps of Cadets through the Center for Personal Development. Our chaplains can be reached 24 hours a day, seven days a week. You can also reach out to our behavioral health team for clinical counseling. And remember, the military crisis line now can be reached by simply dialing 988 or texting 838-255. Support is within reach. Thank you.