The Department of Defense (DOD) released the DOD Annual Report on Suicide in the Military for 2021. In 2021, 519 service members died by suicide, marking a decrease compared to 2020. Although rates decreased this past year, there is still an upward trend. Young, enlisted males exhibited the highest suicide risk. Military family suicide data from 2020 also included in the report indicates 202 dependents died by suicide, and male spouses exhibited a higher rate than their civilian peers. Firearms were the most common suicide method for both service and family members.
Questions on Camp LeJeune Justice Act
Many veterans have reached out to the VFW regarding the Camp LeJeune provision (Section 804) of the recently passed PACT Act. Please be advised that there are currently many unknowns as we await implementation. Veterans are encouraged to speak to an accredited veterans service officer before signing any contracts with law firms as this could have an effect on VA benefits and health care based on final interpretation. VA regulations are expected in the coming months. For clarification on the impact to your current or future VA benefits, contact an accredited Service Officers near you.
TRICARE Open Enrollment Season Coming Soon
TRICARE Open Season will run Nov. 14 – Dec. 13, 2022. This is your chance to enroll or change your health care plan for the next year. If you are satisfied with your current plan, no action is necessary, and your coverage will continue automatically for 2023. It is important to note that new retirees have only one year to enroll for TRICARE Prime. Enrollment in TRICARE Prime or Select is not automatic for retirees.
Important Dates in November
The month of November is National Veterans & Military Month, Warrior Care Month, and National Family Caregivers Month.
Nov. 1-5: National Veterans Small Business Week
Nov. 6: Daylight Savings Time ends (fall back one hour)
Nov. 8: Election Day
Nov. 10: Marine Corp birthday (247 years)
Nov. 11: Veterans Day, also known as Armistice/Remembrance Day
Nov. 24: Thanksgiving
Till next week, praying for all service members.
– Charles Castelluccio
