CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Approximately 80 non-commissioned officers with Combat Logistics Regiment 17, 1st Marine Logistics Group, attended a NCO Suicide Prevention course here, Aug. 10.
The course is designed to give NCOs the tools they need to recognize the warning signs of suicide so they can be the first line of defense in helping to prevent them in the Marine Corps.
According to the Marine Corps’ suicide prevention website (www.usmcmccs.org/suicideprevent), between October 2010 and July 2011, 21 Marines have committed suicide and 107 have attempted suicide. The class “is important because the numbers are saying that we are losing too many Marines,” said Sgt. Philippe Leveille, master instructor of the suicide prevention course, CLR-17, 1st MLG. “Everybody is vulnerable to this, so it’s important to take the class seriously.”
During the class, Marines watched videos about other Marines and family members who attempted or committed suicide and learned about the devastating effects suicide has on families, friends and co-workers. They also learned about the RACE Method, which stands for Recognize, Ask, Care, Escort -- the steps to helping Marines in need.
With suicides claiming the lives of Marines, it is up to their fellow brothers in arms to assist them in seeking help before it’s too late.