UPDATE: After this series originally aired in late 2016, more than 12,000 people signed a petition calling for Congress to pass the Fairness for Veterans provision. The provision was included in the National Defense Authorization Act, and signed into law in by then-President Obama in late 2016. These stories remain a testament to the struggles faced by veterans every day.
The VA estimates 20 veterans die by suicide every day. That’s one veteran every 72 minutes.
In the military, suicide usually falls into one of two categories: silence or successful completion. But, tough military culture is only partly to blame. Society as a whole turns away from discussing issues of mental health, and essentially avoids the topic of suicide all together.
For every one service member lost to suicide, the military estimates there are 10 more who attempt it. While service members who attempt suicide and survive get a second chance at life, it comes at cost. Military law considers attempted suicide a criminal offense punishable by courts martial or even jail time.
Sometimes survival means losing everything, including your freedom.
Watch part 4 (of 5) above.
If you feel moved to act, tell your lawmaker to support Fairness for Vets by signing the petition below. Let your voice be heard on social media by tweeting your Senators and Representatives.