Each day, 22 U.S. military veterans die by suicide, according to the 2012 VA Suicide Data Report.
To raise awareness of this public health crisis, Cal U ROTC and the Veterans Club will meet on the Quad at 11:22 a.m. weekdays, from Jan. 22-Feb. 20, and perform 22 pushups each.
You can join them! It takes just a few minutes to complete 22 pushups. As the group on the Quad grows larger, awareness of this issue also expands.
Each time a participant completes 22 pushups, he or she will be registered for a drawing. The winner will be selected at the end of the 22-day event.
Why meet at 11:22 a.m. (EST)?
The Great War (World War I) ended at the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month — a date we observe as Veterans Day on Nov. 11 each year. Meeting at 22 minutes past the 11th hour recalls the 22 veterans who die by suicide each day.
How long will this continue?
The event continues on weekdays from Jan. 22 through Feb. 20. That’s seven weekdays in January and 15 in February — 22 days in all.
Why do pushups?
Pushups are a familiar component of military training — and almost everyone can do them. This event is a creative way to incorporate physical activity into your day while raising awareness of rising suicide rates among veterans and military members.
Who can participate?
The event is open to the entire campus community, as well as the general public. In particular, student veterans, military members and their dependents are encouraged to attend.
How does Cal U assist veterans?
The Office of Veterans Affairs at Cal U provides information and support for veterans, military members and their families. Learn more at www. calu.edu/veterans.