Suicide prevention messages shown at concert

A special concert highlighting suicide prevention messages is being viewed by Veterans throughout VA medical centers on VA’s own internal broadcast system, VNN.

VNN is a television channel developed for Veterans, largely by Veterans. The channel is currently being used by 53 VA medical centers to help improve the Veteran experience

As part of its ongoing partnership, VA and America Salutes You presented “America Salutes You – Live” from Battleship Iowa. The concert was hosted by Paul Shaffer and featured music greats Four Tops, Robby Krieger of the Doors, Debbie Gibson, John McFee and John Cowan of the Doobie Brothers, and many others.

Partners for suicide prevention messaging

“It is an honor to partner again this year with VA to help share their messaging on Veteran mental wellness and suicide prevention,” said Bob Okun, CEO of America Salutes You. “America Salutes You continues to raise awareness and funds for a broad range of nonprofits annually assisting our men and women in uniform, our Veterans, our first responders and, of course, their families.”

America Salutes You

VA produced videos played throughout the live performance highlighting mental health resources and safe firearm storage messages. Readjustment Counseling (Vet Centers) also supported the event by providing Veteran Outreach Program Specialists (VOPS) James Richardson from the North Orange County Vet Center  and VOPS Mark Parker from the Corona Vet Center.

The Mobile Vet Center, provided by the Corona Vet Center, was able to provide confidential counseling and outreach to Veterans who attended the live event. Vet Centers provide a wide range of services to eligible Veterans, active duty service members, including National Guard and Reserve components, and their families.

Second concert collaboration

This was the second concert collaboration between VA and America Salutes You. The first concert, “Guitar Legends 4,” featured artists Kenny Loggins, Julio Iglesias Jr., Keb Mo and others.

Ensuring care is there when needed

The health and well-being of our nation’s Veterans and former service members is VA’s highest priority. VA is working with partners, Veterans’ family members and friends, and the community to ensure that Veterans get the right care whenever they need it.

Learn about suicide prevention resources available for Veterans here.

If you or someone you know is having thoughts of suicide, contact the Veterans Crisis Line to receive free, confidential support and crisis intervention available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year. Dial 988 and press 1, text to 838255 or chat online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.