Mid City Times

Published on June 15, 2024

Last week, Mayor Mattie Parker presented the American Warrior Association (AWA) with a City of Fort Worth Proclamation to mark June 11 as Moral Injury Awareness Day.

Three months ago, the AWA, alongside the City of Fort Worth, Fort Worth Police Department and Fort Worth Fire Department launched R3-Respond, Restore, Resolve. This comprehensive approach addresses moral injury, which is defined as the damage done to one’s conscience or moral compass when a person perpetrates, witnesses or fails to prevent acts that transgress one’s own moral beliefs, values or ethical codes of conduct.

“It is my honor to present this City of Fort Worth proclamation marking June 11 as Moral Injury Awareness Day. We hope this recognition of moral injury builds momentum across the country in years to come as we support our first responders and encourage conversation around mental wellness,” Parker said.

R3 offers benefits that extend across all fronts. First responders gain access to crucial tools and resources enabling them to address moral injury, ultimately fostering resilience and well-being. For departments and agencies, the program promotes a healthier workforce, leading to reduced absenteeism and improved overall performance and morale. These efforts will directly benefit the community by enhancing officers’ mental strength to de-escalate situations and strengthening relationships between first responders and the communities they serve.

“We are humbled by the continued support of Fort Worth’s mayor and City Council to assure the conversation around first responder mental wellness stays relevant and top of mind,” said AWA Managing Director Anna Heil. “It is an honor to support the men and women who serve our country and our communities every day and it is our hope that R3-Respond, Restore and Resolve continues to erode the stigma around talking about mental health.”

The AWA’s dedication to supporting military members, veterans and first responders is foundational for R3. By providing a spectrum of support programs, the AWA champions their well-being aligning with R3’s mission for comprehensive holistic support. Additional partner organizations will be reviewed through the R3 Partner Vetting Committee within the Police and Fire departments Wellness Unit housing the R3 Program.

Police Chief Neil Noakes and Fire Chief Jim Davis joined Mayor Mattie Parker in presenting a proclamation declaring June 11 Moral Injury Awareness Day.

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