U.S. Army Says Soldier Suicide on the Rise

WASHINGTON – The Army says suicide among soldiers appears to be rising again this year, after setting a record in 2007.

So far this year, there are 62 confirmed suicides among active duty soldiers and Guard and Reserve troops called to active duty. Another 31 deaths appear to be suicides but are still being investigated.

Officials say that if all are confirmed, that means that the number of suicides in 2008 could surpass those of last year, when there were 115 — the highest on record.

Army leaders say they are redoubling their efforts against the problem — continuing to bolster prevention programs, issuing a new interactive video and adding an additional program to basic training starting in January.