By Bob Katzen

Gov. Maura Healey signed into law legislation designating September 22nd as Military Service Members and Veterans Suicide Awareness and Remembrance Day. The day acknowledges that suicide is an epidemic among service members and veterans and is designed to foster awareness and call for suicide prevention measures and support.

Supporters said that passage of this law follows years of advocacy, including the tireless contributions from the Partyka family, whose son, Sgt. Matthew Partyka, a U.S. Marine Corps Veteran from Hingham, died by suicide in 2022. Matthew’s family has been instrumental in raising awareness about veteran suicide and pushing for legislative change.

“We brought forward this legislation in direct response to the tragedies that have left holes in the fabric of our communities and in order to build awareness to prevent future tragedy,” said sponsor Rep. Joan Meschino (D-Hull). “[The bill] is an important step in offering support to both our active service members and veterans.”