HILL AIR FORCE BASE, Utah — Members from Team Hill gathered at the Warrior Fitness Center track and field Sept. 25 to participate in a Suicide Awareness and Prevention Month 5K Ruck March/Run and candlelight vigil.

The ruck started with 22 push-ups honoring the 22-a-day mission, followed by a moment of silence. The event’s theme “Not all weight is visible” represents the burden we all carry through personal and professional stressors, for this reason there is no set ruck weight.

Flags were placed throughout the day on the field in remembrance of a family member, friend or coworker who died by suicide. A candlelight vigil culminated the day’s events at the field with military and civilian Airmen sharing personal stories of reflection.

“Often, people think that when we say seek help that means walking in the door of mental health and for some reason you hear, ‘there goes my career,’” said Julie Pinchak, “I want you to know and to really hear me when I say seeking help from any of the professionals available can save careers, save relationships, and most importantly lives.”

If you or someone you know is dealing with addiction, depression, or thoughts of self-harm, please contact the Suicide Prevention Lifeline at 800-273-8255 or text 741741. If it’s an emergency, dial 911.