Do be aware of its purpose.
For the second consecutive year, the Center will be the sight of the Veterans Suicide Awareness Silent Watch, where from 7 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., a volunteer will stand in silence for 15-minute intervals to draw attention to veterans in need.
A state-wide effort inspired by a retired U.S. Air Force chief master sergeant, the Silent Watch is done on different days in various Ohio counties. The U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs reported in 2017 there were 6,139 suicides nationwide, including 247 in Ohio, the highest percentage between ages 35-74.
“People probably don’t think about it until it is right there in front of them. It’s moving to see it in person,” said Cathy Wood, executive director of the Clark County Veterans Office, which is sponsoring the local event.
She was gratified by the interest of the volunteers in 2019, ranging from everyday people to members of the Springfield-based 178th Wing of the Ohio Air National Guard .
“We had a lot of good feedback. People driving by were curious and were glad to stop by to see it and really appreciative,” said Wood.
Already a business that honors veterans in its services and each June with the annual Honor Field event that sets up 300 American flags on its lawn, Life Celebration Center owner Frank Lewis was eager to partner when Wood asked.
“This symbolizes us having (veterans') backs and brings awareness to the plight of veteran suicide,” said Lewis. “It’s another opportunity to say thanks to our veterans not just with words but with actions.”
Anyone is welcome to volunteer as a silent witness or to stop by and see what it is about and support it. People can sign up to volunteer the day of the event and can do more than one 15-minute shift depending on the entries.
“The more people in the community we can make aware the better,” Wood said.
About the Author