Veterans fighting the enemy within – It seems a pity that during months of mid-term campaigning marked by heated battles over the size of government, there was no mention of the staggering costs, fiscal and otherwise, of two enduring wars. Nor any talk of doing more for those who come home in need of help.
The VA reports that in the 12-month period ending in September 2009, there were 1,868 suicide attempts — and 98 deaths — among men and women who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Among active duty personnel, a recent Department of Defense report found, an average of one active duty member committed suicide every 36 hours between 2005 and 2009.
The VA also reports that the suicide rate is lower for those in treatment.
Veterans Day is this Thursday. Read the rest of this article at the link.
Regards,
Jim
Andy Hailey