BY JENN SAMSEL
Special to the Monitor
On Saturday, February 22, the First Annual AMVETS 22-Mile Suicide Prevention Walk took place.
The group started at Bardin Trail at 7:15 A.M. and ended at the AMVETS post in Keystone Heights at 4:07 P.M.
Veteran suicide has been rising over the past decade. On average, it is estimated that about 8,030 service members die by suicide each year, whether while serving or as retired veterans.
Keri Judge, President of the Ladies Auxiliary and First Vice of the Riders, said, “Today, we walked 22 miles for Veteran Suicide Awareness.”
“We lost one of our own to suicide here at our helm, and that’s back on December 13, Billy Hall, a Veteran, who was very dear and one of ours. We’re getting ready to present his wife, does not know; we are surprising her and the family by presenting her with his casket flag, so we’re gonna do a little ceremony for her and the family, Judge said.
“During the ceremony at the AMVETS post, the room stood still, quiet while people were crying. Judge dedicated a powerful poem.
“No soldier is ever forgotten,” she said.
AMVETS sponsored the event and is a large advocate for Veteran Suicide Prevention Awareness.
Jennifer Danek lost her son, Tony Danek (25), who died by suicide while serving on active duty in the U.S. Navy. Today, she dedicates her efforts to raising awareness about suicide after losing her son seven years ago.
Judge said, “So if somebody calls us in crisis, we are ready to jump in and assist and let them know it’s okay. We will go to the person and help and support them.”
AMVETS looks forward to the Second Annual 22-mile walk next year and plans to continue this tradition yearly.
If you need help, there is a support group. Contact Richard Judge at 352-260-3508 for assistance with suicide prevention or mental health.
