AMERICAN LEGION be THE ONE PROGRAM

Today, the No. 1 issue facing the veteran community is suicide. The mission of The American Legion's Be The One initiative is to reduce the rate of veteran suicide. We're actively working on lessening the stigma associated with mental health treatment and empowering everyone to take appropriate action when a veteran or service member may be at risk – one life at a time. 

Whether you're a veteran or the friend or family-member of a veteran, you can Be The One.

Across the nation, change is underway to reduce the number of military-affiliated Americans who are lost to suicide. Various estimates have put the daily toll at 18 or 22, while others say those figures underestimate the real number. In any case, The American Legion believes one is too many. That's why The American Legion has prioritized raising awareness about the issue, providing free suicide prevention training and reassuring those who find themselves struggling that it is “OK to not be OK.” Our goal is to talk openly and boldly about the challenges affecting Americans every day.

Learn more about our mission to train 100,000 people in suicide prevention by end of 2025, and how you can sign up for free training from Columbia University Lighthouse Project.

We consider it our most sacred responsibility to look out for each other and our fellow veterans.  Learn how Legionnaires reach out to veterans in our communities who need connection and assistance though organized Buddy Checks.