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OKINAWA, Japan - Marines are always on the alert as America’s force in readiness. Often, this can bring about an increased stress level. Stress impacts everyone differently and, unfortunately, can absolutely overwhelm some. When it does, one’s peers are the first line of defense.
Marine administrative message 524/12 was implemented Sept. 20 to enhance the capabilities of the never leave a Marine behind program. The program, created in 2009, promotes suicide prevention and awareness to Marines, sailors and their leaders.
“In response to the growing concern for preservation of our force, the Marine Corps (created) this program to prevent unnecessary loss of life,” said Lt. Cmdr. Aaron C. Carlton, chaplain, Headquarters and Service Battalion, Marine Corps Base Camp Butler. “For the Marines, the job is hard enough as is. We want to provide as much support as we can.”
Never leave a Marine behind is designed to teach Marines and unit leaders the proper action to take if a Marine exhibits signs of suicide, according to MARADMIN 524/12.
“The program extends support to Marines and serves as a platform to get the message out,” said Carlton. “We have the responsibility to watch for the warning signs that lead to suicide. It also teaches these abilities to young leaders and gives them the resources to treat Marines at their level.”
The MARADMIN enhances never leave a Marine behind by creating classes to train personnel as instructors for the program.
“Everyone needs to be trained,” said Carlton. “I can only be one place at one time to help, but when I have lance corporals calling me and saying they have a Marine that needs help, I know the program is working.”
Suicide is a very serious issue and its affects are not limited to just the individual, but everyone who knows them. With the implementation of the MARADMIN and the help of dedicated Marines, needless loss of life from suicide can be prevented.
“Suicide is a permanent solution to a temporary problem,” said Carlton. “It affects so many people, but through using the resources around us, we can make our problems (more manageable).”
Marines can learn more about the never leave a Marine behind program by visiting marines.mil or by contacting their section leadership, chaplains or suicide prevention officers.
| Date Taken: | 10.01.2012 |
| Date Posted: | 10.04.2012 04:11 |
| Story ID: | 95695 |
| Location: | OKINAWA, JP |
| Web Views: | 225 |
| Downloads: | 0 |
This work, New MARADMIN aims to never leave a Marine behind, by LCpl Ian McMahon, identified by DVIDS, must comply with the restrictions shown on https://www.dvidshub.net/about/copyright.
