The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) is observing National Suicide Prevention Month in September with the Veteran Suicide Awareness Ruck Hike at 16 Texas State Parks. The annual hike seeks to shed light on suicide, which affects many veterans and their loved ones.

According to an August 7 press release issued by TPWD, the event is organized by the organization’s Veteran’s Liaison Nicole Mechler with the intent to give families, friends, and veterans an opportunity to network and build a support system and bring awareness to veteran-specific mental health issues.

Sixteen Texas State Parks will participate in the second annual Ruck Hike.

Mechler said in the release that TPWD is excited to have more parks involved in the initiative, calling on veterans from around Texas to take part in these events.

The following parks will host events throughout September: Hueco Tanks State Park and Historic Site on September 7; Balmorhea State Park, Atlanta State Park, Brazos Bend State Park, Cedar Hill State Park, Eisenhower State Park, and Purtis Creek State Park on September 21; Dinosaur Valley State Park on September 22; Abilene State Park, Cooper Lake State Park, Daingerfield State Park, Garner State Park, and McKinney Falls State Park on September 28; Government Canyon State Natural Area and Inks Lake State Park on September 29; and Lake Bob Sandlin State Park on September 30.