Green alerts introduced in Indiana to report when a veteran is missing and in danger

FARMERSBURG, Ind. (WTWO/WAWV) – Indiana now has a new alert system to help protect at-risk veterans.

Emmy Hildebrand, CEO of Helping Veterans and Families, explains what a green alert is.

“It’s an added protection for veterans who are in crisis,” she said. “It will function similarly to an Amber Alert in that it will notify law enforcement and the public that a veteran in their area is in crisis.”

She said since suicide is the leading cause of death among veterans, Green Alerts could be a life-saving addition.

“This is really important because we know that veterans commit suicide at higher rates than non-veterans,” Hildebrand said. “In fact, suicide is the leading cause of death among veterans, especially younger veterans. If we can make law enforcement aware that a mental health professional is needed, I think we can help prevent catastrophic situations for our veterans.”

Sergeant Matt Ames of the Indiana State Police said this addition is necessary because some at-risk veterans may not ask for help.

“Veterans are often very proud of having served their country or lived abroad,” Ames said. “Sometimes their pride prevents them from asking for help or asking for help. By not doing that, lawmakers believed this was a tool they could be found by.”

Hildebrand said this is something we can give them in return for keeping our country safe.

“With this warning, we recognize that we have asked these men and women to do extraordinary things for us and that they may face difficulties when they return home,” she said. “Knowing that we have safety precautions in place that could potentially save their lives, I think, is really important.”

For confidential, 24/7 crisis assistance, veterans or their loved ones can dial 988 and then press 1.