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It’s impossible to imagine what our lives would be like to day without the service of our nation’s veterans. No doubt, things would be much different for each one of us. That’s why Veterans Day is so important. It provides us an opportunity to recognize the sacrifices of these men and women and to show them that we appreciate their service to our nation.

Whether serving during the best of times, or the worst of times, those who serve in our armed forces deserve our gratitude as well as the opportunity to lead fulfilling lives after transitioning to civilian life. A program held this week by the Covington Veterans Foundation and LBW Community College was a reminder that we as a nation are failing our veterans.

A total of 141 flags were placed on the LBW campus; one for each veteran who ended their lives by suicide in 2023. Nationwide, it has been determined that suicide is the second leading cause of death for veterans under the age of 45. According to the Veterans Administration, 40 to 44 veterans take their life each day. An ongoing study by America’s Warrior Partnership, working with the University of Alabama and Duke University, indicates the VA’s numbers on veteran suicides are likely too low.

Among the leading causes for today’s veteran suicide crisis include depression, post-traumatic stress, substance abuse disorders, anxiety, insomnia, and symptoms of traumatic brain injury.

The time has come to face this crisis at a community level. We can help by supporting groups like Wounded Warrior Project, Mission 22, The Gary Sinise Foundation and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention.

According to Mission Roll Call, positive community relationships go a long way to impact mental and physical health. It has concluded that with each generation, veterans have had fewer connections to positive relationships upon transitioning to civilian life. Simply taking the time to get to know a veteran and helping them get involved in their community can make a big difference.

This Veterans Day, let us all thank our veterans. But, let us also commit to ending the veteran suicide crisis.

Veterans struggling with depression or suicide should call 988, then press 1. You do not need VA benefits or health insurance to call.

— Robert Blankenship is the publisher of the Andalusia Star-News. He may be contacted at robert.blankenship@andalusiastarnews.com.