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Chaplain, first responders help wayward Soldier

  • Published
  • By Airman 1st Class M. Ryan Throneberry
  • Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst Public Affairs
JOINT BASE MCGUIRE-DIX-LAEKHURST, N.J. --  Members of the 87th Security Force Squadron responded to a call from a community member warning of a possible suicidal individual in the Dix housing area April 16, 2013, here.

Chaplain (Capt.) Douglas Hess, 87th Air Base Wing chaplain, was also called to respond as the on-call chaplain.

"I was asked to respond to an individual that had suicidal intentions and was barricaded in his home on base," said Hess. "My wife, Amber, prayed for me, seeking God's help for the unexpected before I left."

The chaplain was briefed by on-site security force members and was asked to assist the negotiator who was en route.

The responders were also concerned the Soldier might be armed due to the call they received. The Soldier additionally threatened he would only come out, "in a body bag."

"I found out later, nearby families were evacuated," said Hess. "There were at least six other security force members on scene with all eyes trained on the front door. As I was speaking to the Soldier's supervisor about how best to handle the situation, he came out of the house unarmed."

Security forces then apprehended the Soldier and placed him in a squad car. Police Sgt. Ken Flannery, Joint Base Police Department, asked Hess if he would say a few words to the suspect while they prepared to leave.

"Through the next 20 minutes, I spoke to with him to provide comfort and hope; in light of the depression, bad choices, and frustration he was experiencing," said Hess. "I concluded the time by praying for him. I believe the conversation really helped him.

Thankfully the situation was resolved with not a single shot fired and a potential suicide alleviated. Kudos to the 87th SFS who handled a difficult situation safely, and my sweet wife, Amber, who helped prepare me for the task at hand."

Last year, the Army's suicide rate peaked to new levels, as the service reported more than 320 suicides. The increase in the number of reported suicides set off various alarms with the Army's senior leadership, and prompted the service to take a closer look at its suicide prevention program, according to an article published of Army.mil. The following are tips for those who would like to avoid suicidal urges.

-- Attend life skills or related training.

-- Seek out a mentor in which to confide.

-- Actively and frequently participate in unit activities.

-- Join social support groups, faith-based organizations, and self-help groups.

-- Recognize, accept, and face fears.

-- Nurture good relationships with family and close friends which may include counseling.

-- Learn to regulate your emotions and avoid impulsive behavior.

-- Maintain realistic optimism and believe in your ability to survive and function as a Soldier.

-- Recognize that no one has the resources to manage all personal problems alone, practice help seeking behavior as a sign of strength.

-- Commit to practices that maintain good physical and behavioral health.

-- Avoid isolation when faced with stressors.

-- Develop and maintain spiritual fitness.

"It is our belief that this individual's intension was 'suicide by cop,'" said Adam Weinstein, 87th SFS deputy director. "If not for the professional actions and great restraint shown by our security force members, we could have seen a much different outcome to this situation."