Blake Thomas

The Missouri National Guard has developed a comprehensive strategy to prevent suicide among its members. This involves a proactive approach of gathering and analyzing data to identify at-risk demographics and trends related to relationship, financial, and substance abuse issues. The strategy includes enhanced resiliency training with courses on personal finance, employment transition, substance abuse, and positive psychology. It focuses on reducing stigma, promoting help-seeking behavior, and providing support through family assistance centers, chaplaincy, and the Yellow Ribbon Program for reintegration after deployment.

The meeting included a welcome for a new council member, reports on recent legislative activity affecting military retirees, and updates from various regional representatives on activities such as deployments, meetings, and community events. Financial reports were presented, including a donation to the 203rd Retiree Association. Discussions covered the elimination of the '40 mile rule' and the 'care giver support' program, upcoming events, and future planning for Retiree Assistance Days (RADs). The council also discussed the re-activation of the State Defense Force.

The council meeting involved discussions on social media utilization for improved outreach and communication, updates on veteran homes and legislative initiatives, regional reports highlighting various activities and challenges, and a report from the Retirement Services Officer covering TRICARE rates, office hours, and available spouse travel funds. A member resignation and subsequent replacement were also addressed.

The meeting covered various topics, including legislative updates on the resumption of congressional Freshman Day and the 100% tax-free status of 2024 active and inactive duty pay. Discussions included the October 2022 Retiree Appreciation Day (RAD), plans for future RAD events (statewide in April 2023 and a regional event in November 2023), and the upcoming MONGA conference. Regional updates were provided, highlighting activities and events from different regions. The council also addressed charter updates, standard operating procedure (SOP) modifications, and the creation of a retiree council event calendar. Finally, there was a discussion of RSO updates, including personnel changes.

The meeting covered region reports, highlighting flood impacts, upcoming retiree conferences, outreach efforts to veterans' organizations, and various projects such as land donation, totem pole refurbishment, and support for a VA facility. Discussions included updates on retirement processing, TRICARE costs, and the Missouri State Defense Force, along with plans for future activities and training. A proposal to revise the MONGRC map to align with SEMA/Highway Patrol Troops was also introduced.