The Total Army Sponsorship Program (TASP) is a powerful tool to proactively bring Soldiers, DA Civilians, and their family members into our formations while in transition; whether they are in-processing, out-processing from one unit to another, coming off active duty, and/or coming from the IRR. When properly used, TASP can also be utilized as a tool to identify and reduce risk factors for suicide.
MG McQueen and leaders at all levels value each Soldier, Civilian, and Family Member in our formations and as such, it is the CG’s initiative to ensure we take every opportunity to identify risk factors as soon as possible. When Sponsorship is used proactively it has been shown to reduce suicidal tendencies. The current Command Sponsorship Policy is under revision and once completed will required that all Soldiers identified as sponsors complete suicide prevention training prior to sponsorship appointment.
The first contact with the newly assigned personnel is typically a Welcome Letter followed by the assigned Sponsor making contact. This is often the first impression Soldiers, DA Civilians, and their Family members have of our formations and our first opportunity to start learning about new members of our team. Leaders should ensure that every effort be made to contact the newly assigned Soldier/civilian prior to their arrival and maintain contact throughout the entire sponsorship process. Fortunately, the automated TASP module, managed within the Army Career Tracker at https://actnow.army.mil/, provides an easy tool for Commanders to managing their TASP to the fullest extent. Remember, suicides can be prevented and TASP is another tool to assist Commander’s in identifying potential “red flags”.
Admitting a need for help is a sign of courage. If you need help, please talk with someone in your chain of command, a Chaplain, a Behavioral Healthcare Professional or one of the resources listed below. If you know someone who needs help, please refer them to the resources mentioned here. If needed, escort the individual to the nearest emergency room/medical treatment facility or Behavioral Healthcare center in the area for treatment. In an extreme emergency, please contact 911 for assistance.
Shoulder to shoulder we are stronger together!
Crisis Intervention and Other Resources
- Emergency – 911
- National Suicide Prevention Lifeline – 1-800-273-TALK (8255) – Press 1 for the Military Crisis Line (Text to 838255)
- Fort Family – 1-866-345-8248
- Military One Source – 1-800-342-9647
- The Defense Center of Excellence (DCoE) – 1-866-966-1020
- Wounded Soldier and Family Hotline – 1-800-984-8523