Connecting the community: McConnell prepares for suicide prevention awareness month

Courtesy Photo | This graphic details the events happening throughout Suicide Prevention Awareness Month at McConnell Air Force Base, Kansas. The month of September is dedicated to starting the conversation about suicide prevention, and educating about options. (U.S. Air Force Courtesy Asset)  

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, KANSAS, UNITED STATES

08.23.2026

Story by Senior Airman Patrick ONeill 

22nd Air Refueling Wing

MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, Kan. — McConnell is preparing to observe Suicide Prevention Awareness Month in September with a month-long slate of events designed to foster connection, promote mental wellness, and reinforce support systems across the installation.

Suicide prevention remains a critical priority for the military community. Department of War data shows that active-duty military members face unique stressors, from operational demands to personal transitions, making base-level support networks and early intervention essential. September offers an opportunity for installation leaders, service members, and families to break down barriers around mental health, discuss resources openly, and strengthen protective factors across the base.

“I think everybody should be wingmen,” said Bob Wagner, 22nd Air Refueling Wing violence prevention facilitator. “Supervisor, subordinate, peer – it doesn't matter who's who. Anybody can change anybody's life”

To encourage participation and promote positive engagement, Team McConnell has scheduled several base-wide activities throughout September:

• Sept. 1 — Gate Greeting (6:30–8:30 A.M.): Base volunteers and the Integrated Resilience Office will welcome personnel at the gate with messages of hope, banners, and positive affirmations.
• Sept. 18 — Love on a Leash Event (11:00–1:00 P.M.): Service members can interact with therapy dogs at the Refuel area while enjoying free food and snow cones.
• Sept. 21 — 3rd Annual Sports Day Resiliency Event (7:30–1:00 P.M.): A dedicated base resiliency day featuring sports and team-building activities designed to strengthen camaraderie.

“The events we have lined up this year are just a time for people to connect,” said Nicole Schmalbach, 22nd Air Refueling Wing IRO prevention chief. “I think connection is a huge protective factor against self-directed violence, so if we can get airmen out there interacting with animals or interacting with each other, I think that that's a big win.”

Under the theme "Creating Hope Through Action," McConnell aims to remind every Airman and family member that support is always within reach.

If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available 24/7. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line by calling 988 and pressing 1, or reach out directly to the McConnell AFB IRO or the Base Chaplain.

• Date Taken: 08.23.2026
• Date Posted: 08.24.2026 12:46
• Story ID: 573078
• Location: MCCONNELL AIR FORCE BASE, KANSAS, US