Jarred by statistics that show suicides among service members rose 18 percent during the first half of 2011, Defense Secretary Leon E. Panetta directed commanders to take action to stem the trend. “Leaders throughout the chain of command must actively promote a constructive command climate that fosters cohesion and encourages individuals to reach out for help when needed,” Panetta stated in a May 10 internal memo. Panetta wants the Defense Suicide Prevention Office, which was established in 2009, to step up collaborative efforts with other military and civilian agencies, and the Department of Veterans Affairs.
