Experts Aid Marine Commanders in Suicide Prevention

Story by 1st Marine Division Public Affairs

Over cups of coffee and notepads, 1st Marine Division commanders and senior enlisted leaders gathered to receive training designed to protect those in their charge from the threat of suicide. 

The suicide prevention training occurred Oct. 11 aboard Marine Corps Air Ground Combat Center Twentynine Palms, and was conducted by civilian experts from the Barthwell Group. The curriculum consisted of a panel discussion moderated by retired Army Maj. Gen. Wallace Arnold, a lecture formulated by psychologist Dr. M. David Rudd and a workshop where leaders in small groups developed plans to successfully address and prevent issues among their Marines.

The training was designed to enable commanders to recognize the warning signs consistent with troubled Marines and remove the perceived stigma associated with reaching out for help.

“The simple fact is that the earlier we recognize the problem and intervene, the far more likely treatment is to be successful,” said Rudd, the Dean of the College of Social and Behavioral Science at the University of Utah. 

Reducing any stigma associated with reaching out for treatment will contribute to its efficacy, said Rudd.

Also taught was the concept of Marine engagement training, which “recognizes the importance of peers in identifying early signs of behavioral problems,” according to Rudd’s presentation. 

Following the brief, commanders and staff separated into discussion groups and brainstormed plans and initiatives to keep their Marines and sailors safe.

“The class stimulated a candid and invaluable group discussion that shared best practices from commanders and sergeants major throughout the division,” said Col. Joseph Russell, the commanding officer of Headquarters Battalion, 1st Marine Division. 

The workshop also presented subordinate unit commanders the opportunity to engage leaders within their commands directly in a freeform environment.

The training was organized by Maj. Gen. Ronald L. Bailey, the commanding general of 1st Marine Division, as part of a larger commander’s conference that spanned two days. The addition of civilian experts offered a unique perspective.

“They may see something we have missed or provide us with something to better take care of our Marines,” Bailey said. “I want to get commanders to look at it from another direction because when you are a leader you are responsible for the welfare of your Marines and sailors.”

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