There are resources available for struggling veterans

Dear Annie: My son, who was in the U.S. Army for 13 years and became a major, took his own life. He was 35 years old, a stellar, exemplary soldier who spent more than two years of deployment in the Middle East (Iraq and Afghanistan). Despite many medals and so many accomplishments — he was promoted twice below the zone — our son felt life was not worth living and that the world would be better off without him. His death was so preventable and, now, so permanent.

After his death, we got so many letters from soldiers and civilians about special memories. All of them said what an impact he made on their lives and how they are better people because of him. Yet my son never realized how loved and respected he was.

I am healing, daily, and I have my faith, family and friends who have gotten me to this point with their unconditional love, support and prayers.

The number of military suicides is astronomical, and it needs to end now. There has to be a better plan for suicide prevention — not only for the military but for everyone. Please do not feel ashamed or afraid to get help, if you feel you are cornered and there is no solution. Ending your life is not the solution. You are not alone. You matter. Please visit the website 22toomany.com. There is a wonderful organization called Warriors and Quiet Waters, which offers a retreat for soldiers.

You survivors, all of you, you are here for a reason. Do not feel ashamed or hopeless.

Grieving Mom of a Vet

Dear Grieving Mom: I am sorry for your loss. A report earlier this year from the Department of Veterans Affairs found that at least 60,000 veterans committed suicide between 2008 and 2017. That is a shocking figure. I am honored to print your beautifully written plea in the hope it gets through to even one person who needs it. In addition to the resources you recommended, the

Veterans Crisis Line is available 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, for support and crisis intervention.

Call their trained responders at 800-273-8255 (press 1); text them at 838255; or chat with them online at VeteransCrisisLine.net/Chat.