22 Vets commit suicide every day. What are YOU doing to help your brothers?

SPC Jesse Bruno — Fri, 10 Apr 2015 19:30:54 -0400

I personally have lost two brothers from my squad. the first just weeks after out 18 month deployment in 05-06 with pills and jack. the second a few years ago with an ar in front of the Dayton Ohio va. both were dismissed by the mental health community with no where to turn so they thought.
I do my best to keep communication with my brothers and do what i can to get help for those that need it. raising money and awareness isnt always going to help. it takes You as leaders and brothers/sisters to be their for each other.

Response by CMSgt Mark Schubert made Jul 14 at 2015 3:44 PM

CMSgt Mark Schubert — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 15:44:20 -0400

Sorry to hear that - there is a wealth of resources out there and available - the trouble is most with suicidal thoughts are not interested in getting (asking for) help. You are correct - they need the people closest to them to LISTEN for the clues and take appropriate action to GET them help. Continue to be a Wingman, leader, warrior - take care of our brothers and sisters!

Oh, and to answer your question directly, I volunteer for Pets for Vets - GA Chapter - I'm the lead trainer!

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Jul 14 at 2015 4:38 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 16:38:21 -0400

I am VERY, VERY sorry to hear all of that; SPC Jesse Bruno.
I have a group on Facebook:
http://facebook.com/groupforsuicidalactivedutyandforsuicidalveterans
Anyone can click on the above web address; and go straight to my: Group for Suicidal Active Duty and for Suicidal Veterans.

Response by MAJ Ken Landgren made Jul 14 at 2015 5:29 PM

MAJ Ken Landgren — Tue, 14 Jul 2015 17:29:58 -0400

When I go the VA Hospital, I talk to Veterans to see how they are doing, and whether we are doing enough for them. Often the Veteran, especially if they are experiencing acute mental emotions, will not know the full extent of their entitlements from the government.

Response by SFC Joseph James made Jul 16 at 2015 1:32 PM

SFC Joseph James — Thu, 16 Jul 2015 13:32:40 -0400

I heard a story about a boy who was on a beach after a terrible storm came through. The boy saw hundreds of starfish washed up on the beach. He heart was moved for the dying star fish he grabbed one and threw it back into the water. He then did it for the next he came to. Well at the same time there was an old man watching the boys futile attempt to save all those star fish. It would take an Army! So he calls to the boy and says "You can't save them all! You're not even making a difference!" Well the boy looked to the man, bent over and grabbed another star fish and threw him in the ocean and said "Yes sir you're right. I can't save all of them but I sure made a difference to his life! " point of this long story... You may not be able to help every veteran but you can make a difference in a couple lives if you just start to try. Thanks!