Suicide Prevention - Resources - The National Guard

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In crisis? Seeking support is a sign of strength.
24/7 support is available:

988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline: Call 988 or click here for live chat.

Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1; text 838255; or click here for live chat.

NGB Warrior Resilience and Fitness (WRF) Division facilitates the Joint Suicide Prevention Program. The program
enhances suicide prevention-related policies and training, advances data collection and analysis, expands access to
community resources, and conducts strategic communication outreach aimed at reducing suicidal behavior across the
Army and Air National Guard. To learn more about WRF resources, click here.

DoD/VA RESOURCES

Defense Suicide Prevention Office (DSPO)
DSPO Risks and Warning Signs
DSPO Lethal Means Safety Resources
DSPO Leaders Suicide Prevention Messaging Guide
Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) Lethal Means Safety Resources
VA Mental Health and Wellness Mobile Apps
VA Confidential Self-Check Quiz

NATIONAL PROGRAMS

Project Safeguard
NG Cares

GOVERNANCE

CNGBI
CNGB DTM 0300.00

NON-CRISIS COUNSELING AND SUPPORT

Military OneSource
Vet Center Call Center
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration National Helpline
Psychological Health Resource Center Live Chat
inTransition Live Chat
Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors
NG Family Assistance Centers
Vet Centers
Star Behavioral Health Providers
Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration FIND Treatment
More
Give an Hour
Cohen Veterans Network
Face the Fight
Avalon Action Alliance
PsychArmor
Operation Mend
Travis Manion Foundation
Directors of Psychological Health (CAC enabled)
More

Video by Joseph Bullinger, Chelsie Holloway, Alex Jackson

Technically Speaking Podcast - Episode 30 - Sending Messages on Laser Beams: Free Space Optical Communications and the Future of Fleet Connectivity

Naval Information Warfare Center Atlantic

July 11, 2025 | 26:57

Technically Speaking Podcast - Sending Messages on Laser Beams: Free Space Optical Communications & the Future of Fleet Connectivity (Ep. 30)

In this episode of Technically Speaking, hosts Chelsie Holloway and Alex Jackson take you inside NIWC Atlantic’s groundbreaking work on Free Space Optical Communications (FSOC)—a game-changing technology that uses laser beams to transmit secure data through the atmosphere. Dr. John Wells, Science and Technology Supervisor, joins us to explain why traditional radio frequency (RF) communications can leave warfighters vulnerable and how FSOC reduces the risk of detection by adversaries.

Dr. Wells breaks down how laser-based communications offer high-bandwidth, low-probability-of-intercept transmissions for missions ranging from ship-to-ship to ground-to-space. He also discusses how NIWC Atlantic is leveraging quantum technology to enhance cybersecurity and ensure the integrity of sensitive data. What sets our team apart is our direct connection to the warfighter—developing and refining solutions hand-in-hand with those who rely on them in the field.

Later in the episode, we sit down with Master Chief Robert Mendoza for a special Military Moment. He reflects on his 30-year Navy career, his transition from aviation to information warfare, and his recent deployment to Bahrain. Master Chief Mendoza shares powerful advice for those considering military service, emphasizes the importance of mentorship, and reflects on the pride and purpose he found throughout his decades of service.

Whether you're curious about optical physics or inspired by leadership, this episode showcases the people and technologies driving the Navy’s mission forward.

Produced by: NIWC Atlantic Public Affairs
Co-Hosts: Chelsie Holloway and Alex Jackson
Audio Technician: Joe Bullinger

Technically Speaking is an award-winning production of Naval Information Warfare Center (NIWC) Atlantic Public Affairs. Information presented in the podcast represents the views and opinions of the original content creators and their guests and does not necessarily represent the views and opinions of NIWC Atlantic, the U.S. Navy, Department of Defense or the U.S. government. Any mention of specific companies, products, services or content does not imply endorsement by NIWC Atlantic, the U.S. Navy, Department of Defense or the U.S. government.

Transcript:
https://www.niwcatlantic.navy.mil/Portals/94/Page-Content/Podcast/Transcripts/Ep30-Transcript.txt

Links:
https://www.niwcatlantic.navy.mil/

Social Media Links:
https://www.facebook.com/NavalInformationWarfareSystemsCommand
https://www.instagram.com/navwar_usnavy/
https://www.linkedin.com/company/navwar

Contact Us:
niwc_lant_ch_pao.fct@us.navy.mil