Swordfish Host International Meet
National Preparedness Month Wraps Up
PAGE 4
Ryanair Changes Carry-On Policy
PAGE 8
N A S SIG O N E L L A
PAGE 15
SEPTEMBER 28, 2018
Vol. 35 No. 36
NAS Sigonella Raises Awareness During Suicide Prevention Month Story by MCC Jessica Vargas NAS Sigonella Public Affairs
NAS SIGONELLA, Sicily – Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella held several events throughout National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month to emphasize the importance of committing resources to education and suicide prevention for service members, their families, and DoD civilians. The entire community was encouraged to “Be There” for each other every day. Anyone can make a dramatic difference and save someone’s life simply by caring enough to listen and take appropriate action. Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer of NAS Sigonella, and other leaders throughout the installation kicked off this year’s Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month by signing a proclamation on Sept. 7. “Suicide Prevention Month helps to renew our commitment and remember our responsibility to look out for those we live and serve with,” said Lt. Steven Hervey, chaplain on board NAS Sigonella. “One of the best things about Suicide Prevention Month is the collaboration between the various organizations such as the First Class Petty Officer Association, the Chief Petty Officers’ Association, U.S. Naval Hospital Sigonella’s Health Promotions Department, and the Fleet and Family Support Center. Working together in this way demonstrates that here at NAS Sigonella, we are here for one another and will be there for every Sigonella Citizen every day.” Preventing suicide requires an enduring commitment to taking care of ourselves and each other on a daily basis. Suicide Prevention Month is an opportunity to refresh that commitment and kick off year-round engagement that enables us to talk openly and honestly about psychological health. In doing so, it empowers us to seek help when we need it. “Often times, the stressors that cause suicidal thoughts or attempts may come from financial issues, the pressure of family separation, domestic violence, fear of the unknown when
SIGONELLA, Sicily (September 7, 2018) Capt. Brent Trickel, commanding officer, NAS Sigonella, signs a proclamation pledging to be there for every Sailor, every day during a kickoff event for Suicide Prevention and Awareness Month aboard Naval Air Station (NAS) Sigonella. (U.S. Navy photo by Lt. Andriana Genualdi/Released)
separating from the military, or a host of other things,” said Shannon Harden, NAS Sigonella’s Sexual Assault Response Coordinator. “The Fleet and Family Support Center has programs to help address all of these issues once they’ve occurred, and more importantly, before issues arise. We are in this together. No one is alone.” Throughout the month, service members also participated in the “1 Small ACT” campaign. One small act by a shipmate, leader, or family member to encourage healthy behaviors, offer support, and uphold seeking help
“PREVENTION” continued on Page 15
Ways to Get Help • Chaplains, Fleet and Family Support Center (FFSC) or medical • Military Crisis Line: call 1-800-273-TALK, Press 1; text 838255; In Europe: Call 00800 1273 8255 or DSN 118; visit www.militarycrisisline.net • “BeThere” Peer Support Call and Outreach Center: 1-844-357-PEER, text 480-360-6188 or visit www.betherepeersupport.org • Military OneSource: www.militaryonesource.mil • National Suicide Prevention Crisis Lifeline (1-800-273-8255), https://www. veteranscrisisline.net/support/be-there • USMC DSTRESS Line (1-877-476-7734) • Civilian employees and their families: Civilian Employee Assistance Program at 1-844-366-2327, 1-866-829-0270 (international) or https:// DONCEAP.foh.psc.gov