Camp Pendleton occupants were treated to a free screening of a special movie about suicide prevention at the base theater, Aug. 24. It is titled, “To Save a Life,” and is the story of a popular high school student who is deeply affected by the suicide of a childhood friend. The movie’s presentation on base was in accordance with Base Order 1700.2A that was recently published in regards to suicide prevention in the Marine Corps. The order emphasizes the implementation of various programs to help combat suicide.

Photo by Courtesy Illustration

Base brings suicide prevention to the big screen

26 Aug 2010 | Lance Cpl. John Robbart III Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton

MARINE CORPS BASE CAMP PENDLETON, Calif. -- Camp Pendleton occupants were treated to a free screening of a special movie about suicide prevention at the base theater, Aug. 24.

The film titled, “To Save a Life,” is the story of Jake Taylor, a popular high school senior who has everything going for him. The other side of the story is Roger Dawson, a student who seems to live a life opposite of Jake’s. Roger and Jake were close friends in middle school, but as time went on, they grew apart. Roger experiences tough times throughout his high school years, and it becomes apparent that he can’t handle his life anymore; driving him to bring a loaded gun to school and taking his own life.

The tragedy causes Jake to reevaluate what is really important in life, and through the guidance of a youth group at a local church, decides to make a better effort to stay connected with those considered as outcasts.

“We decided to show the movie on base to give an example of how faith can be used to combat suicide,” said Navy Capt. Ollis J. Mozon, base chaplain who sponsored the base’s screening of the film.

The movie’s presentation on base was in response to Base Order 1700.2A that was recently published in regards to suicide prevention. The order emphasizes the implementation and recognition of various programs to help combat suicide.

“It is important that we use all the resources we have available to help prevent suicide,” said Seaman Devon L. Glear, religious program specialist, Marine Corps Base Camp Pendleton.

There are a number of resources available for anyone going through tough times. They include unit chaplains, Marine Corps Community Services counseling services, the Navy-Marine Corps Relief Society and Military One Source, said Glear.

While Aug. 25 was the only showing of the movie on base, the base chaplain will soon have two copies of the movie available for units to check out and show their troops.

“The movie was really good,” said Lance Cpl. Jorge A. Ortiz, combat lithographer, Headquarters and Support Battalion, 1st Marine Division. “I feel inspired to help those around me.”

For more information on suicide prevention, contact the base chaplain at (760) 725-5322 or 725-5667.