Rep. Jordan: Green Alert will help find missing, at-risk veterans

Tuesday, March 19, 2024 at 11:57 AM

News

Hoosiers are already familiar with the Amber Alert for missing children and the Silver Alert for missing seniors, and now the state is adding another critical notification.

State Representative Jack Jordan (R-Bremen) said in a release, “A new law I supported will create a Green Alert to notify the public that a veteran or military service member is reported missing and believed to be at risk of being hurt or hurting themselves.”

Unfortunately, veterans are more likely to die by suicide after going missing, and Indiana's veteran suicide rate is higher than the national average. In 2021, nearly 140 Hoosier veterans died by suicide, and over 6,000 nationwide, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.

Veterans in crisis can call 988 and press 1 for immediate, confidential help, or text 838255.

A Green Alert will be issued for veterans, active service members, and Indiana National Guard members and reservists who are missing or at risk.

Representative Jordan said, “Having classifications of alerts helps first responders so that they can be better prepared to offer targeted support. This law is a great way to let our former and current service members know that we support them, and that help is available.”