Adam Marr, co-host of The American Legion Tango Alpha Lima podcast, serves as the emcee for the second annual Be the One Symposium in New Orleans. (Photo: American Legion HQ)
The American Legion’s second annual Be the One Symposium, held in New Orleans on August 22, addressed the ongoing crisis of Veteran suicide. This event, part of The Legion’s national convention, brought together Veterans, leaders, and experts to explore solutions, share new research, and offer hope for reducing Veteran suicides, as reported by Henry Howard.
Waco Hoover, a Marine Corps Veteran and chairman of the Be the One initiative, emphasized that tackling Veteran suicide is a long-term mission. He noted the progress made in the past year, such as diminishing the stigma around mental health treatment and increasing openness among Veterans about their struggles. New research is also offering innovative approaches to support. Hoover stressed the importance of events like this symposium in continuing the effort to save lives.
The symposium featured a range of speakers who presented various perspectives and solutions. Adam Marr, co-host of The American Legion’s Tango Alpha Lima podcast, served as the event’s emcee. The discussions covered topics including healthcare delivery, mental health, and the role of technology in suicide prevention.
Former Army Capt. Christopher Molaro shared his personal experience of losing a soldier to suicide, which drove him to create NeuroFlow. His company combines suicide prevention technology with human outreach to support at-risk Veterans, addressing both physical and mental health needs.
Army Veteran Michael “Rod” Rodríguez, president of the Global War on Terrorism Memorial Foundation, moderated a panel on military families. Rajeev Ramchand, co-director of the RAND Epstein Family Veterans Policy Research Institute, discussed the crucial role of caregivers in prevention. He stressed the need to educate families on recognizing warning signs and taking preventative measures, such as securing firearms.
Besa Pinchotti, CEO of the National Military Family Association, spoke about the importance of support networks for military families. She discussed Operation Purple Camp, which helps children from military families build connections and friendships, providing a supportive environment away from their everyday challenges.
Navy Veteran Nick Howland, executive director of the Fire Watch, presented a case study on how community-based efforts in Florida have successfully reduced Veteran suicide rates. By engaging civilians in prevention efforts, Fire Watch has made a significant impact in specific counties.
And Marine Corps Veteran Chris Earl, founder of Regiment Gaming, discussed how online gaming communities support Veterans. He explained that these virtual spaces help Veterans connect, form friendships, and find support, addressing feelings of isolation and despair.
Author: Rikki Almanza
Rikki is a Web Content Coordinator for the American Legion, Department of California. With a deep-rooted connection to the military, a spouse who is a Navy veteran, a father who served in the Air Force for 25 years, and a grandfather who proudly served, Rikki is committed to using her skills and knowledge to provide valuable assistance and resources to servicemembers and veterans.
