By Mass Communication Specialist 3rd Class Omar A. Dominquez, USS Peleliu Public Affairs
USS PELELIU, At Sea (NNS) -- Sailors and Marines aboard amphibious assault ship USS Peleliu (LHA 5) took part in suicide prevention training in the hangar bay May 25.
The hour-long training helped service members recognize the warning signs which might suggest an individual could be thinking about committing suicide.
"The idea here is to help us better understand and recognize the indications of someone that might be overwhelmed and considering taking their own life," said Capt. James Cox, Peleliu's executive officer. "What you learn here today could save a shipmate's life."
The training started with a 23-minute video, concluded with a presentation delivered by Cmdr. Gary Clore, Peleliu's chaplain.
Clore said everyone is affected by suicide, and servicemembers work in an environment that creates risk factors for suicide.
"Suicide awareness is an issue that every one of us should be concerned about, from E-1 to O-10," said Clore. "We live in an operational environment, and you have to be tough to deploy in this type of stressful environment."
"Risk factors to look for include attitude change, previous suicide attempts, and substance abuse," said Clore. "There are many ways a servicemember can reach out and look for help, which include talking to their chain of command, chaplain, and medical service providers. Other resources are Fleet and Family Support Center, financial counselors or substance abuse counselors."
Culinary Specialist 2nd Class Rodney Warren, said the training was a very well researched and informational.
"The most important thing any Sailor or Marine can look for is recognizing the signs that a shipmate is in trouble," said Warren. "But getting that person help is equally as important."
Clore said it's also important that those contemplating suicide recognize their own emotional state and have the courage to ask for help.
Suicide training aboard Peleliu will continue throughout the week to make sure all hands have the opportunity to receive it.
USS Peleliu is currently on a scheduled deployment to as the flag ship of the Peleliu Amphibious Ready Group (ARG). The ARG consists of the USS Peleliu (LHA 5), USS
