Mr. Speaker, the problem is that these people are not the ones who have been on the front line. We need people who have actually lived it, who understand the issue, who are able to provide services. Some people have gone there and have basically been told that they do not know anything about how to help them.
This quote was sent to me by one of my constituents, Ed Pigeau. He talks about a young man who just took his life:
“Just to let you know Ed, and thanks for passing information along to try to help him, however, he has just been found dead in his apartment…..couldn’t feel worse…..” (name withheld)
I am filled with regret and remorse. Another Afghanistan veteran has committed suicide. Another soul lost.
So my question to you and your fellow colleagues is this: How many have to die before something is done. Do you and your colleagues not feel the loss, do you not understand the sacrifice they have made and that you and I and all our colleagues, have failed this soldier at his time of greatest need.
When you dine tonight and every night does your hand shake when you raise each fork to your lips? Do you sleep peacefully? Do you rise in the morning looking forward to another day?
How lucky are we to live our lives in peace, pursuing our goals, praying to our gods, all in the peace and comfort of our homes....
They did not hesitate nor did they falter when we needed them.
Do something now, before they are all gone.