I hate writing these blogs, I spend countless hours trying to come up with something that is interesting and relevant. It’s hard to do, especially when you are wrapped around the everyday workings of a career and family.
I thought about writing about my favorite TV show, The Big Bang Theory, and how some of its episodes relate to leadership such as Shelton rewarding Penny for good behavior with chocolate, then being spraying her with a water bottle for bad behavior, but something more serious came up this weekend.
22 a Day
This refers to the number of Soldiers, Marines, Sailors and Airmen who take their own life each day. The number is horrendous to me. These warriors are suffering from wounds that most cannot see or understand. The horrors of war, the brutality they have seen, the choice between kill or be killed. It haunts many who try to return to a normal life. Simple things such as cars backfiring, fireworks and even smells can create stress that eats away at their inner most being. Most of us who have experienced this type of trauma have developed coping techniques that help ease stress, but many have not. PTSD is not imaginary; it affects thousands of current and former service members from all walks of life. It doesn’t know the difference between rich or poor, and fame has nothing to do with it. Audie Murphy, the actor and Medal of Honor recipient, suffered from PTSD and so did Jimmy Stewart.
I am a member of the American Legion’s Each One Calls One organization. We meet monthly, usually around a fire, have a beer, smoke cigars and then spend some time calling friends to ensure that they are doing okay. We invite them to our gatherings and let them know that they are not alone and forgotten.
There are other organizations available as well, the local Veterans Affair Hospital has counselors and peer groups for veterans. Operation Restored Warrior is also available for veterans and their website is https://operationrestoredwarrior.org.
Please remember, the time between separation from the service or event does not matter. If you see changes in moods, increased alcohol/drug use, distancing themselves from friends and family, these are signs of PTSD that we cannot ignore. Call someone for help.
22 a Day is too many.
SFC(Ret) Al Conrad,
JROTC Instructor