The Army reported a record number of 38 potential suicides in July, the highest number since the service component began reporting monthly totals in 2009.

A Thursday Pentagon release said 26 active-duty soldiers died during the month with one confirmed as a suicide and 25 under investigation. Another 12 from the Army National Guard and Army Reserve also died with one confirmed as a suicide and 11 under investigation.

In 2012, the Army has reported 116 potential active duty suicides and 71 among the Army's reserve components.

"Suicide is the toughest enemy I have faced in my 37 years in the Army," Gen. Lloyd Austin III, vice chief of staff, is quoted in the Pentagon statement.

"It's an enemy that's killing not just soldiers but tens of thousands of Americans every year," Austin continued. "That said, I do believe suicide is preventable. To combat it effectively will require sophisticated solutions aimed at helping individuals build resiliency and strengthen their life coping skills."

The Air Force has reported 55 potential suicides, including 36 by active-duty airmen. Robins Air Force Base has reported one suicide this year by a civilian employee.