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Baldwin County Commission proclaims September National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month
Summary
The Baldwin County Commission unanimously adopted a proclamation designating September as National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month and heard from the county veteran service officer about a flag-based remembrance effort for veterans who died by suicide.
The Baldwin County Commission voted to adopt a proclamation recognizing September as National Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month and heard a presentation from the Baldwin County veteran service officer about local activities tied to the observance.
The proclamation calls on “citizens, government agencies, nonprofit organizations, health care providers, and the faith‑based community to raise awareness of the importance of mental health and suicide prevention,” and asks the community to help identify individuals in need of care and connect them with support services.
Baldwin County veteran service officer Larry, accepting the proclamation, described a county effort tied to the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs called Operation We Remember. “Throughout the month of September, our office through the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs, is conducting Operation We Remember, in which we honor the 139 Alabama service members who have committed suicide last year,” Larry said. He added that the office will place 139 American flags at various locations to draw attention to veteran suicide and to encourage the community to seek and offer help.
Commissioners thanked staff for placing the proclamation on the agenda and spoke about the local impact of veteran suicide. One commissioner said the issue affects “parents, spouses, children, and siblings” and called the proclamation more than “words on paper,” urging community organizations to participate. The commission made the motion to adopt the proclamation, the motion was seconded, and the commission approved it by voice vote.
The proclamation does not create new county policy or funding; it is a formal expression of recognition and a request for community action. The proclamation text asks local partners to promote open conversation, reduce stigma, and support initiatives to strengthen mental health and suicide prevention services in Baldwin County.
A photo opportunity followed the vote and remarks.
