AN INVITATION TO SERVE THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED
FROM THOSE WHO HAVE SERVED OR HAVE LOST SOMEONE WHO HAS SERVED
TO RSVP AND VIEW AND/OR DOWNLOAD ENTIRE SUMMIT PROSPECTUS, PLEASE GO TO: https://www.efundraisingconnections.com/c/AngleForceUSA/Sept2628StopSuiSilenceMentalHealthSummit
FROM:
Brigadier General Edward H. Bailey, US Army (Ret), Commanding General, US Army Medical Research and Development Command
General Michael X. Garrett, US Army (Ret), Commanding General of United States Army Forces Command, Executive Leadership Advisor
Brigadier General Dana Hessheimer, US Air Force (Ret), Board Member and Chair, Military Mental Health Advisory Council, Angel Force USA
General Joseph L. Votel, US Army (Ret), Strategic Leader, National Security Expert and Former CENTCOM Commander
Colonel Sam Whitehurst, US Army (Ret), Vice President, Programs and Services, Dixon Center for Military and Veterans Services
Sarah Taylor, Former President, American Gold Star Mothers
Josh Otero, Founder and Chairman, Warrior GMR Foundation
Anne Hyde Dunsmore, Founder and Chair, Angel Force USA
SUMMARY:
According to the Centre for Suicide Prevention, one suicide impacts 135 lives.
This statistic does NOT account for:
Future generations
Individuals affected by someone who is AT RISK but has not “completed” a suicide.
Accidental deaths
Some of the most concerning statistics arise from one of our nation’s most valued groups - those who protect our freedom - military service members.
Since 9/11, over 30,000 have died by suicide compared to more than 7,000 in combat. Estimates suggest that between 17 to 45 service members die EVERY DAY (approximately 1 to 4 PER HOUR).
Moreover, numerous studies worldwide have established that the contagion effect is real and that responsible conversation, accurate reporting, and increased awareness can significantly lower the risk of further suicides.
The Warrior GMR Foundation, Angel Force USA, Irreverent Warriors and other veteran service organizations will host their inaugural joint STOP SUISILENCE MENTAL HEALTH SUMMIT at Fort Belvoir, VA from September 26 to 28, 2025 during Suicide Prevention Month. This three-day event will unite veterans, mental health professionals, policymakers, community support organizations, and influencers to encourage meaningful discussions, forge broader partnerships, and create a roadmap for GETTING TO ZERO suicides.
Our mission is to STOP SUISILENCE (the avoidance of discussion about suicide), eliminate stigma, and educate the public about the complexities of the issue. Social support and connection are crucial protective factors against suicide. Engaging the public in recognizing and supporting those at risk through treatment and crisis intervention, preventing reattempts, promoting long-term recovery, and aiding survivors of suicide loss are essential to GETTING TO ZERO.
Our summit will feature:
Panel discussions on topics:
One Suicide Changes 135 Lives:Voices of Survival and Loss
Rethinking Veteran Suicide
Eradicating Veteran Suicide: Innovative Strategies
Getting to Zero: A Call to Action
“No Man Left Behind” Gala at the National Army Museum
Veteran Gaming Tournament
“Buddy Bowl” Flag Football Tournament
Veterans Free “Red T-Shirt Friday” (Remember Everyone Deployed) Concert
Free to those who have served and their immediate family — limited to 200 people
Featuring Angel Force Band – a touring group of musicians dedicated to the cause from bands including The Who, Bob Dylan, Crosby Stills Nash, David Gilmour (Pink Floyd), Robby Krieger (The Doors), Mick Jagger as well as veterans and military personnel
War Memorial Walk and Laying of the Wreath Ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
Over 1,000 participants through all media including:
Event and panel attendance totaling 500 people.