It’s the Holiday Season again – an undeniably dangerous time of year for anyone battling depression, grief, or PTS. With a devastatingly frequent rate, we are losing active duty and veteran service members to suicide. The children, parents, widow(er)s, and parents of our fallen military members are also at enhanced risk during what used to be a joyous time of year for them.
American Snippets wants to make sure these people know they are not alone.
It has been less than one year since we launched American Snippets. In that time we have shared stories of people and organizations whose mission it is to help military families overcome these life-threatening challenges. It seems fitting to share these stories again now, as a reminder that there is help and hope and happiness within your reach – no matter how dark or painful the place is that you are in right now.
Below is a list of people and organizations that we have personal experience with.
We encourage any active duty, veterans, or family members looking for help finding a new path through pain and into hope, to reach out to them today.
Micah Fink, Heroes and Horses:
We shared Micah’s story this past June. Since then, the former Navy SEAL’s work with Heroes and Horses has grown even stronger. Micah and his team have helped combat veterans and wild mustangs find new purpose in their lives through his unique program. Check out his story to learn about this organization and how it can help you, or someone you love, realize that it is the struggle that gives life value. Learn More
Killian and Sean Duclay, Sail Ahead:
There is nothing about the Duclay brothers that is not impressive. What we love most about them is the very real, lasting impact they continue to make on the lives of veterans and their families, as well as families of those lost to suicide. The Duclays blend their love of the sea and sailing with their passion for helping these families confront their struggles and find new joy. While they are based in New York, their programs take place across the country. Check out their story and learn about their organization here. Learn More
David Lionheart, Play For Your Freedom:
First he lost his own brother. Then he realized a close friend of his, returned from combat, was in danger of being lost as well. That’s when David Lionheart stepped forward to do his part in ending the cycle of depression and PTS before it becomes strong enough to steal more lives. Learn how he uses camaraderie and a wide range of physical activities for all levels of abilities to help veterans break free from that lethal cycle. From VA hospitals to community events, David’s program is a national opportunity to change lives. Learn More
Annie Nelson, The American Soldier Network:
Annie’s story is one of resilience and hope. She invests her own time, energy, and resources to stem the flow of veterans lost to suicide. For the past 10 years, and going strong Annie has dedicated her life to spreading Patriotism across the United States by raising awareness for the needs of our veterans, our injured soldiers, their families and the challenges they all face during the reintegration process when they return from military deployment. Discover “I Choose to Live” oath. Share it everywhere. Take it yourself and post it online to encourage others to do the same. Learn more
David Vobora, Adaptive Training Foundation:
He’s no stranger to struggle. After rising from “Mr. Irrelevant” to a star player, David Vobora’s world crashed right back down underneath an addiction to prescription pain pills. Read his story to see how he’s used his own recovery and triumph to help wounded veterans work right alongside civilians, as they all confront their personal battles to reclaim lives shattered by trauma and injury. You may have seen him on Ellen, and now you can catch him again right here on American Snippets. Learn More
While there is an abundance of people and organizations professing to help veterans and military families, the ones we shared here are those we personally know.
Here are a few more that we have not yet shared, but will soon…
Andy Baldwin, The Got Your Back Network:
Dr. Andrew Baldwin, or Andy as we know him, is a US Navy Lieutenant Commander who created this organization to help families of fallen service members. The Got Your Back Network is one we personally know very well. From occasional events to immediate support, the Got Your Back Network throws itself into fulfilling its mission whenever called upon – including sponsoring American Snippets’ first event to help women who lost someone in military service. Website
Bonnie Carrol: Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS)
Bonnie is in many senses the trailblazer for all military widows, proving that it is possible to turn tragedy into triumph. Her organization TAPS offers an enormous range of resources, from a 4 hour helpline, to organized healing events, to crisis assistance – if you have lost any family member who served in the military, TAPS is an invaluable resource. Website
We took this directly from the VA Site:
Veterans, Service members, and their loved ones can call 1-800-273-8255 and Press 1, send a text message to 838255, or chat online to receive free, confidential support 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year, even if they are not registered with VA or enrolled in VA health care.
The responders at the Veterans Crisis Line are specially trained and experienced in helping Veterans of all ages and circumstances — from those coping with mental health issues that were never addressed to recent Veterans dealing with relationships or the transition back to civilian life.
We are grateful to all of our military, law enforccement, and first responders and their families for their tremendous service to this country and their communities.
Thank you, and much love to all in this Holiday Season.
Barb and Dave, American Snippets
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