Disgruntled Vet
By ~Karma~
We all know the number. 22 Veteran suicides per day.
Let's look at that number for a minute. Where did it
come from? The VA did a study and gathered data
reported by only 21 states from 1999 through 2011.
Some of the larger states like California, Texas and
Illinois did not make data available.
Who didn't get added in this report?
TBI so getting help is acceptable. We must stand united to voice our concerns to get adequate treatment and
therapy.
If we don't step up who will?
If we don't combat this threat to our community this
country will continue to lose the best and brightest.
We will lose our bravest and strongest.
Homeless that couldn't be identified as a Veteran.
Those that intentionally crashed their car or overdosed We cannot fail. Our duty is to protect those to our left
without leaving a note may have been ruled acci- and right. We are our brother's keeper. Step up! Don't
dental. "Suicide by Cop" was not counted.
accept the fake smile.—
So what does this mean? Simple. The number of 22
per day is low. The VA acknowledged "significant
limitations" in its data. Why do I bring this up? Because it's time we step up.
Veteran suicide is unacceptable. There is no excuse
why one of our brothers or sisters should complete
suicide. Check on your Battle Buddy/Shipmate. Don't
accept the fake smile and "I'm fine." You know it's
BS.
There is a threat to our community. It's called loneliness and hopelessness. We must engage this threat by
checking on and listening to our brothers and sisters.
We must educate others to rid the stigma of PTSD/
The Warrior Heart November 2014 - 33