Hampton Roads Morning of Hope
On September 9th, the Hampton Roads Morning of Hope brought civilian and military communities together at Mt. Trashmore to raise awareness of depression as a treatable disease and suicide as a preventable tragedy. Fifteen clinically licensed counselors were available on site to answer questions, hand out information, and assist with a depression inventory. An informative and moving program which was emceed by WAVY-TV 10 anchor, Tom Schaad. Captain Chad Vincelette, Major General Malcolm Frost, and other local military leaders also participated, with Chaplain Daniel Karanja, the Deputy Command Chaplain of Langley, offering a prayer of compassion and hope. For more information on suicide prevention, contact Chris Gilchrist, LCSW (757) 483-5111.
The starting point for walking was behind a curtain of 1,000 cranes: a symbol of peace, healing and hope.
The colored ribbons signified the diffferent family members. This individual has three ribbons; she’s lost a sibling, an extended family member, and a parent to the tragedy of suicide. (Survivors of suicide are five times more likely for suicide themselves.)
Major General Malcolm Frost is on the right carrying the banner which is leading the crowd.
The moving and informative program was opened with a Joint Service Color Guard and the singing of the National Anthem.
Captain Chad Vincelette, Executive Officer and future Commanding Officer of Naval Air Station Oceana stated that suicide awareness and prevention are top priorities for the military.
Major General Malcolm Frost discussed the importance of identifying and getting help for depression.
