ORLANDO, Fla. — In observance of National Suicide Prevention Month, the 143rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command hosted its second annual Resource Wellness Fair on Sept. 12, 2026.
The event brought together service members from Reserve components in the U.S. Army, Navy and Marine Corps service branches, as well as Department of War civilians to strengthen unit resilience, enhance protective factors, and connect the force with vital mental health support networks.
The Resource Wellness Fair is part of the command's ongoing holistic health strategy focused on normalizing conversations around mental wellness, reducing barriers to seeking care, and ensuring readiness across all echelons.
This year’s theme, "We Are Stronger Together. Connect To Protect," featured keynote speaker Kevin Berthia, a nationally recognized suicide survivor, mental health advocate, and public speaker. Drawing from his personal experience surviving a 2005 crisis at the Golden Gate Bridge, Berthia addressed the critical impact of self-care, structure, and early support during times of crisis.
Coordinated by the 143rd ESC Suicide Prevention Program Office, the fair integrated multidisciplinary resources, including Military and Family Life Counselors, and community-based veteran support organizations.
Keshia Sawyer, the 143rd ESC suicide prevention program manager, emphasized the importance of peer accountability and command-wide awareness. Sawyer said she hopes soldiers understand that resources are available for anyone who needs support. "Everybody needs help, and it’s okay to reach out and ask for help," Sawyer said.
Help is available 24/7 for service members, veterans, and their families:
| Date Taken: | 09.15.2026 |
| Date Posted: | 09.15.2026 11:43 |
| Story ID: | 574737 |
| Location: | ORLANDO, FLORIDA, US |
| Web Views: | 38 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, 143rd Expeditionary Sustainment Command hosted Resource Wellness Fair for Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, by CPT Janeen Phelps, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.