Suicide Prevention Network
This year’s Remembrance Day holds new significance for the Copper Coast Suicide Prevention Network, with members set to participate in local RSL ceremonies for the first time.
Network members will be laying unique white commemorative wreaths at ceremonies at Kadina, Moonta and Wallaroo, in honour of returned Australian Defence Force personnel who have taken their own lives due to the horrors of war.
“There are many men and women defence force personnel who return home from war changed forever, unable to cope with all they have seen and experienced on the frontlines”, said Chairman of Stamp Out Suicide (SOS) Copper Coast, David Boots.
“It is our hope that laying the white wreaths as a sign of respect for these brave men and women will break down the stigma around suicide in the forces, and encourage others to seek help.
“Suicide Prevention Networks around the State are laying the white wreaths which will all have attached to them a memorial poem written by the mother of a veteran whose scars of war were too deep, and who suffered in silence before taking his own life. We thank the local RSL club for allowing us to participate in their ceremonies in this special way,” David said.