American Legion fighting to combat veteran suicide rates

The American Legion breakfast on March 13 was full with Legionnaires young and old, there to greet the Western Region’s National Department Commander and Vice Commander. 

“My job is to come through my 15 departments and make sure they know that we’re here for them, and see what they’re doing,” said Vice Commander Ben Headen. “I get to learn and see the struggles for Colorado.” 

The visiting Legionnaires have traveled all over the Western slope, laughing at the fact that at the end of their Colorado journey, they’ll have driven over nine mountain passes. 

The American Legion post in Gunnison, which just renewed their 100-year lease last month, is one of the most remote locations in the United States. They’re also the only hub for veterans in our valley. 

The purpose of the Commanders’ journey is to connect the posts and collaborate, but most importantly, it’s to spread the message of their newest mission “Be the One.” The campaign was taken on 3 years ago to help combat the veteran suicide rate, which had risen to over 22 veterans per day. 

“That will continue to be our mission until we can get that number down to zero,” said Headen. “One is too many suicides. The mystique and the taboo out there is that you’re weak to ask for help, you’re weak if you think there’s something wrong with you. We really want to stress that you’re a stronger individual if you’re willing to ask for that help.” 

The American Legion provides veterans and their families with countless resources to improve their quality of life that all go back to their four pillars: national security, Americanism, children and youth and veteran rehabilitation. 

“Be the one that talks to a veteran, reaches out and listens,” said Nelson. 

“Be the one that just takes that one minute,” added Headen. 

Not only are the commanders hoping to spread the message, but they are training veterans and their family members on how to see the signs of depression, and who to call when you see it. 

“Not saying that we’re all going to become councilors, but we’re going to be the one that reaches out and sees that that veteran is struggling, and gets him on the path to the people who can help him,” said Headen. 

The Gunnison High School’s American Legion Club attended the breakfast, presenting to the visiting and local Legionnaires the efforts they’re making to make a difference in their community. The teens have started building flag holders in their woodshop courses and donating them to the Legion, as well as cleaning headstones in local cemeteries while supporting veterans and those on active duty. 

Legionnaires wiped tears from their eyes as the children spoke, proud to see younger generations still invested in community service and care. 

“We have a strong belief in our children and youth,” said Headen, mentioning the Legion’s sponsorship of youth baseball, veteran children foundation scholarships, scouting and more, along with academic scholarships for children of veterans. “Our youth is our future.”