We know that being connected is a powerful way to decrease isolation and reduce suicide risk. How do we engage veterans and make that happen?

Lt Col Charlie Brown don't know the perfect solution, but I have found veterans helping veterans, one on one, developing friendship, very much hands on.

Don't let a brother or sister carry their ghosts alone. Veterans often open up quicker and deeper to another veteran who can cry with them, laugh with them, identify with them. This is just the tip of the iceberg.

Vets turn to all kinds of “tribes” after they complete their service. Some find good, some find bad, it is all circumstance. My wife is active duty, we have had many suicide prevention classes. Seen it fail time and time again when the clues are either ignored or unseen. What can be done if someone wants to do this and sends out no signals or signs? Very unfortunate I feel... How can this process be improved upon, interesting question I have no answer for.

I talk to several veterans during the month, I listen to what they have to say, offer minor suggestions.