Reach out for help

I am writing to say thank you to all members in good standing of the U.S. military – past, present and future. These incredible heroes have, do, and will continue to keep our country safe.

Because of the scholarly research done by my grandfather, I know the names, units and engagements of my family’s patriot ancestors who served, fought and bled for over 200 years from the American Revolution until today.

Each and every person who answers the call of our country is a hero. Indeed all first responders, no matter the occupation (fire, linemen, law enforcement, medical, military), are heroes. God bless each and every one of you!

However, right now there is a devastating epidemic of suicides throughout our military. I simply wanted to say that each and every one of you matter. Too many of you have seen and experienced the worst of mankind. You did your best. You did your duty. None of us is super-human. You could not have done more. As horrific as your memories are, you could not have changed the outcomes. Stop beating yourselves up.

So I am asking you to please reach out for help. Just in the last 24 hours, I have become aware of two different ways to find help. There is a brand new, free app developed by the brother of a veteran who committed suicide. It is called Sound Off. It is encrypted for complete anonymity. Sound Off has already been credited in saving the lives of 200 veterans who were on the edge of completing their suicide. The other program is called Home Base and is funded by the Wounded Warrior Project.

So please, reach out for help. You are loved. You are needed. Seek out the help that you deserve. We care.

Christina Granrud, Kalispell