The Department of Defense recognized Electronic Attack Squadron 209 (VAQ-209) for its outstanding suicide prevention efforts during the 2025 DoD Suicide Prevention Recognition Ceremony at the Pentagon, Thursday, Sept. 4.

The event highlighted commands across the military that demonstrated innovation and leadership in supporting mental health and preventing suicide within the Services. Representing the Navy Reserve, VAQ-209, also known as the “Star Warriors,” was commended for its proactive approach to operational readiness, mental health awareness, and connectedness initiatives during Fiscal Year 2024.

“In a way, this work represents what ‘forged by the sea’ really means,” said Cmdr. Ravi DeSilva, Director of Psychological Health for Commander, Naval Air Force Reserve. “Everything around us can test us, but it also makes us stronger. What this team is doing is setting an example we can share across the fleet.”

VAQ-209’s accomplishments include launching a Green Ribbon team to provide peer-to-peer support, hosting safeTALK workshops that trained 75 Sailors and civilians, and developing innovative team-building initiatives like “What Piques Your Interest?” to strengthen trust and cohesion. Most notably, the squadron’s training and connectedness efforts directly saved a Sailor’s life in 2024 when a peer recognized warning signs and intervened.

“The Green Ribbon Program is a sailor-for-sailor outreach initiative,” said Chief Jessica Tucker, VAQ-209’s Suicide Prevention Program Manager. “I’d love to see this mirrored across the Navy, especially at remote duty stations where resources can feel limited.”

The recognition aligns with the DoD’s “Joining Your Fight: Connect to Protect” campaign, reinforcing the importance of reducing stigma, encouraging help-seeking, and unifying suicide prevention efforts across the force.