The mission of Silent Watch, Veteran Suicide Awareness, is to recognize and bring awareness to the concerning the number of veteran suicides that occur every day around the United States.

Currently, the estimated number of veteran suicides is between 22 to 25 per day.

The Silent Watch organization raises money throughout the year to send veterans who are suffering from PTSD, anxiety, depression and similar issues to receive a treatment called Stellate Ganglion Block (SGB) injection.

“We have sent local veterans to receive the injection - all with incredible, immediate, long lasting, life changing results,” Silent Watch representatives noted.

The Logan County Veterans Service Commission is partnering with Silent Watch to prepare for a special event in September, which is recognized as Suicide Prevention Awareness” Month.

The upcoming remembrance, a local “Silent Watch” is set for noon to 4 p.m. Thursday, Sept. 3, outside of the Logan County Courthouse, specifically at the Veterans Plaza on the north side of the courthouse.

During a Silent Watch, volunteers stand at “parade rest” for 20-minute rotations in front of a strong visual prop – usually a flag-draped casket, 22 pair of boots, flags and pictures etc.  

The volunteer who is “standing watch” is not allowed to speak or gesture to anyone while on their rotation.

Other volunteers may choose to stay throughout the day to speak with the public, to show their respect and to stand watch multiple times throughout the duration of the event.

“We would like to be able to reward them with something to eat or drink during the day and ask the public to consider supporting our mission by donating food and drinks to our volunteers during the event,” officials said in a release.

“We can provide you with a donation receipt and would be willing to put your store or company logo on display at our booth to show everyone that you support our mission.”

To reach the Logan County Veterans Services Commission about this initiative or for other ways to support local veterans, call 937-599-4221. To learn more, visit www.silentwatch.org.

Together, we can each do a part to raise awareness and work to lower the number of veteran suicides. ■