Breaking the cycle: Motivational speaker to address suicide awareness

  • Published
  • By Tech. Sgt. Tammie Moore
  • 4th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
SEYMOUR JOHNSON AIR FORCE BASE, N.C. --  As the 4th Fighter Wing takes a day to reflect on safety, Group 56 members are hosting a suicide prevention speaker from the Minding Your Mind Foundation who will brief Sept. 28 at 9 a.m. and 2 p.m. in the RED HORSE Squadron auditorium.

In 2012, approximately 33 active-duty service members committed suicide every month, according to Pentagon reports.

In an effort to reach out to those who are contemplating suicide and to help friends, family members and co-workers better understand the epidemic Group 56 invited Jordan Burnham to speak to Team Seymour.

"We all know that with the coming transition into the holiday season there comes another unfortunate trend, suicides," said U.S. Air Force Staff Sgt. James Ward, Group 56 president and 4th Civil Engineer Squadron dormitory leader.

Ward learned about Burnham's motivational story nearly two years ago while watching TV.

"Burnham had a lot going for him and tried to commit suicide by throwing himself out of his window," Ward said. "After making his recovery he became an advocate for depression and suicide prevention. It was such a powerful story that I continuously pondered about it and tried to think of a way to use his story to help all of us Airmen. So I pitched the idea to the Group 56 council members and a member of the Chief's group. They were all on board with the idea."

During the briefing, Burnham will speak about his battle with depression and the lead up to his suicide attempt. Then he will discuss his road to recovery, followed by an open forum for question and answer.

"This is honestly the most powerful and touching depression and anti-suicide briefing I have ever heard," Burnham said. "Group 56 and I would not endorse it if it wasn't."

This is not a mandatory briefing, but it is open to the entire base population. Seats are limited.

"I hope that everyone that attends the briefing will walk away with a greater understanding of what depression is and how it can affect anyone," Ward said. "I also hope they realize just how important it is to receive help and not try to handle it on your own."

For more information, call Ward at 919-722-7487.