Frank Larkin: Support our Pa. troops and veterans

Pennsylvania ranks in the top 10 for military veterans, meaning that the multifaceted and unique challenges that face these men and women are especially present in the Keystone State. Most glaring is the understood yet still lingering tragedy that the suicide rate among veterans is significantly higher than the civilian population, including in Pennsylvania.

Undergirding this alarming trend is a loneliness phenomenon, a sense of isolation felt by many vets. Case in point: Two-thirds of veterans who die by suicide in the U.S. have had no contact with support services like the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA).

There is no single solution to improve outcomes. Needed measures range from better VA care, to increased resources for veteran service organizations so often on the front lines at the grassroots level, to better screening of brain injuries. But as simple as it sounds, connection driven by peers and Americans everywhere can help, too. And that can be as simple as a regular phone call to a man or woman who served this great nation.

“After sending service members to war, we have the responsibility to care for our veterans,” Sen. Bob Casey recently said. Indeed, alongside Sen. John Fetterman, Pennsylvania’s senators are helping lead the charge for a grassroots campaign called Warrior Call, which urges Americans to reach out to veterans and service members, connect with them and provide support if needed. The measure maintains the support of leading veteran organizations, all living former VA secretaries, Medal of Honor recipients and more. Through a resolution sponsored by the Keystone State leaders to mark Nov. 12, 2023 as National Warrior Call Day, the idea is that for at least one day only, right on the heels of Veterans Day, more veterans and troops know Americans have their backs and care for them.

Such actions should happen in August as much as they do in November, but the stake in the ground in November may help create a groundswell of activity, too. The people of Pennsylvania can play a vital role through simple yet meaningful action. One call can have a profound impact, and this reality has been experienced by veteran advocates across the nation.

We can follow the lead of Casey and Fetterman and join the Warrior Call campaign to make a difference. By reaching out to veterans, assessing their well-being and connecting them with resources like Vets 4 Warriors or the 988 hotline, we can potentially save lives.

Apart from post-traumatic stress, many veterans suffer from invisible wounds linked to traumatic brain injuries, which can manifest as various mental health conditions and lead to isolation and suicidal thoughts. The moral injury experienced by those who have witnessed death and destruction up close can also take a toll on their mental well-being.

Troublingly, the suicide rate for veterans in Pennsylvania and elsewhere may be higher than reported due to various factors, including the way deaths are classified and societal challenges like alcohol and opioid addiction. A national study revealed significant disparities between state and VA data, indicating a higher suicide rate among veterans than what the VA reports.

Let’s rally behind Casey and Fetterman. Together, we can ensure that no veteran or service member feels alone in their struggle, and together, we can make a positive impact on their lives. The power to save lives lies in our hands, and it is time to act. Let’s show our gratitude and support for those who have served our nation with valor and dedication.

Frank Larkin is chief operating officer of Troops First Foundation and chair of Warrior Call.