Wilson Statement on New Suicide Information Released by the U.S. Army
January 19, 2011
U.S. Congressman Joe Wilson (R-S.C.), the chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Military Personnel, released the following statement today following the release of new data on suicides by the U.S. Army:
I continue to be extremely concerned with the number of suicides among the members of our armed forces. I applaud the aggressive steps the Army has taken to address this tragic problem, and I appreciate the transparency it has shown in regards to releasing the data.
"I remain cautiously optimistic that the Army's efforts are working for active duty soldiers. However, I am deeply saddened by the rise in suicides among National Guard soldiers and reservists, family members, and civilians.
"Having recently spoken with Army leaders on this important issue, I am committed to working with them to reverse this terrible trend."
I continue to be extremely concerned with the number of suicides among the members of our armed forces. I applaud the aggressive steps the Army has taken to address this tragic problem, and I appreciate the transparency it has shown in regards to releasing the data.
"I remain cautiously optimistic that the Army's efforts are working for active duty soldiers. However, I am deeply saddened by the rise in suicides among National Guard soldiers and reservists, family members, and civilians.
"Having recently spoken with Army leaders on this important issue, I am committed to working with them to reverse this terrible trend."