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What happens when a community comes together to combat veteran suicide? In this episode, we welcome Henry Angulo, the Regional Programs Director for the Firewatch in South Florida, who shares the organization's profound mission and its grassroots approach to suicide prevention. Inspired by General Fleming, the Firewatch provides free suicide prevention training to turn participants into vigilant "watchstanders." Henry covers the expansive region from central Florida to Miami-Dade, dedicatedly conducting numerous monthly training sessions using the SAVE model—Signs, Ask, Validate, Expedite/Encourage.

Imagine transitioning from the disciplined life of the Marine Corps to the uncertainties of civilian life, only to face homelessness and mental health struggles. Henry recounts a deeply personal journey from dropping out of college to enlisting in the Marines, and the subsequent challenges of reintegration into society. This narrative underscores the importance of breaking the stigma around seeking help and highlights the vital role of veteran support services like the VA. It’s a testament to the shared struggles many veterans face and the strength found in reconnecting with their military identity.

Persistence pays off, whether you're attending AA meetings or navigating the VA system. We explore the critical message of not giving up, discussing the need for ongoing recovery efforts and regular VA appointments to stay connected within the system. Henry sheds light on the troubling increase in veteran suicides as revealed in the 2024 Firewatch report, emphasizing community involvement and training in creating veteran-safe spaces. Listeners are encouraged to participate in Firewatch training to build a robust support network, making a significant impact on reducing veteran suicides.