Together, We Can Face the Fight
Supporting Veterans Beyond Service: Lockheed Martin's Commitment to Economic Security and Mental Well-Being
Veterans and military families are integral to our team, with nearly one in five employees having a military background. This strong connection to service shapes our culture and drives our commitment to supporting those who have served.
Lockheed Martin has joined Face the Fight™, a coalition of over 200 organizations dedicated to raising awareness and preventing veteran suicide. This issue is deeply personal for many of our employees, as highlighted during our Military Veteran Business Resource Group’s annual Leadership Forum. The event featured powerful discussions, including a testimonial from a Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) client and peer mentor who shared about the loss of her brother, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran, to suicide.
For many at Lockheed Martin, like Army veteran Michael, the fight against veteran suicide is personal. Michael has set up a support network with his former team to check in on each other regularly, providing honest accountability and a lifeline when needed. The discussions at the forum reinforced his pride in working for a company that goes beyond words, taking action through initiatives like Face the Fight.
Michael pictured with fellow Lockheed Martin Missiles and Fire Control teammates during the Military Veterans Leadership Forum.
Face the Fight takes a drastically different approach by uncovering the root causes, not just a single reason, for the rising number of soldier suicides. I was impressed by their commitment to getting the 'full picture' before offering solutions or funding, unlike any approach I've seen before.
Michael
Air Force veterans Anthony and Ray also found the discussions impactful, with Anthony gaining new insights into the rising suicide rates in his community, and Ray participating in a veteran listening session to ensure every story is heard.
Knowledge is power, and I want to be prepared to help if someone is considering suicide. I've learned that you don't need to solve their problem—simply being there, asking questions, and talking can be enough to prevent it.
Anthony
Anthony (pictured) had the opportunity to participate in the Military Veterans Leadership Forum as a virtual attendee.
Ray received the Space Military and Veterans Outreach Award from his leadership team at the Military Veterans Leadership Forum.
Lockheed Martin hosting this session is a great step forward, helping raise awareness about self-healing. Open discussions like this, driven by our employer, show unmatched compassion and empathy, which strengthens my loyalty and commitment.
Ray
At Lockheed Martin, we are committed to supporting our nation’s service members and veterans, not just through words, but with meaningful action and initiatives that make a difference.
It’s time to break the stigma: How can you help?
Veteran Suicide is not inevitable, it is preventable.
· Start the Conversation: Talking openly about suicide can be a powerful first step in making a difference. Don’t shy away from engaging in these important discussions.
· Leverage Prevention Resources: Take advantage of available training programs and build supportive communities to reach out and provide help before a tragedy occurs.
· Get Involved: Visit wefacethefight.org to learn more, join the fight, access no-cost resources, get involved, or seek help. Together, we can make a difference.
In recognition of Suicide Prevention Day on September 10, we honor the challenges many veterans face during and after their service.
Facing the reality of Veteran Suicide is challenging, but when we face the fight together, there is hope.
If you or someone you know is struggling, remember you don’t have to Face the Fight alone. Support is available, and we stand with you every step of the way.
