In Memoriam of Memorial Day

Ye have slept on the ground before,

And started to your feet

At the cannon’s sudden roar,

Or the drum’s redoubling beat. 

But in this camp of Death

No sound your slumber breaks;

Here is no fevered breath, 

No wound that bleeds and aches. 

These two stanzas from Henry Wadsworth Longfellow’s poem “Decoration Day” strikes me. Although it was written in the 1800’s, it still captures unchanged sacrifice of those who serve. Memorial Day has always helped me remember two things: the 1.1 million service members who have died fighting for the United States, and those who are serving today that we must fight for. Today is specifically for those lost to the perils of war, and I want to share how we can help those who fight battles for their lives once they return home. 

1-800-273-8255 Press 1

This is the Veterans Crisis Line. You can also text at 838255 or chat online. Program it in your phone. Right now. Have it at your fingertips. This crisis line is 24/7 and any Veteran or family member of a Veteran in crisis can call. He/she can request to speak to who they feel comfortable with on the other side if it helps (gender, service in military, etc). The Veteran can remain completely anonymous although help is best provided if he/she gives a name.  He/she can call if having suicidal thoughts but also for help on any other time that feels like a crisis. Many service member call when feeling anxious or alone. The line doesn’t hang up and stays with you as long as needed. You may get connected to services if you’re willing. 

Maketheconnection.org This site can be truly life-changing. Veterans andfamilies can watch videos of service members telling their stories. Filter by era, gender, branch, and combat experience. Stories are also told by their family and what impact this had on them. Veterans can find help with homelessness, job support, retirement/aging, spirituality and more. Learn about signs and symptoms like difficulty concentrating, gambling, nightmares, isolation, and more. Look up trusted information on specific diagnoses like schizophrenia, PTSD, traumatic brain injuries, and problems with alcohol or drugs. Learn what can help and what is available. Even if you are not a Veteran or a family member of one, knowing this information yourself will help someday. I promise. 

May we honor today by honoring Veterans every day. I again turn to the words of Longfellow: 

Rest, comrades, rest and sleep! 

The thoughts of men shall be

As sentinels to keep 

Your rest from danger free. 

Your silent tents of green

We deck with fragrant flowers; 

Yours has the suffering been, 

The memory shall be ours.