 Hello, I'm Lloyd Austin, Secretary of Defense. And I'm Dennis McDonough, Secretary of Veterans Affairs. September is Suicide Prevention Awareness Month, and suicide is a national public health issue that impacts Americans from all walks of life. You know, this is a problem that I take personally, and we've got to do all that we can to prevent these tragic losses. It's important to remember that there is hope. Suicide prevention is possible. And we have made great strides in veteran suicide prevention and intervention, but we still have a lot of work to do. That's why suicide prevention is a top priority for all of us. Let's be clear. Mental health is health period. And it's on all of us to end the stigma of asking for help and support We or someone we know is feeling distressed or anxious or isolated. And if you're hurting, support is within reach. And reaching out can be hard. But if you're in crisis, please know that you are not alone. If you're having thoughts of suicide, or if someone you know is having those thoughts, contact a military and veterans crisis line 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year for free, confidential support and crisis intervention. Just dial 988, then press 1. Or you can text at 838-255. The Department of Defense is deeply committed to working with our friends at the Department of Veterans Affairs on life-saving efforts this month and all year long. But we need your help. Together we can overcome the challenges we face in life. Stay safe, be well, and thank you for your courageous service and for taking care of each other.