Dear Mr. Taylor,
As I sit down to write this letter, I find myself in a perplexing position: I actually find common ground with you on a particular issue. During a recent forum in Herndon, Virginia, you addressed a group of retired veterans, and when the topic of support for veterans grappling with PTSD and other mental health challenges arose, you identified the need for improvement within the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). I agree with that sentiment wholeheartedly. However, my agreement ends there, as your subsequent comments were troubling and warrant further discussion.
You suggested that returning soldiers comprise two categories: those who are strong enough to cope and those who are not. This oversimplification not only reflects a lack of understanding but also perpetuates harmful stigmas surrounding mental health. Such statements can be dangerous, implying that weakness is to blame for conditions like PTSD, which often lead to tragic outcomes, including suicide.
As a veteran who has faced mental health challenges myself, I understand the complexities involved. I served my country faithfully 15 years ago, and although I did not experience combat, I have battled significant depression and anxiety throughout my life. Consider the plight of today’s soldiers, who often know nothing but a life of combat.
Since the events of 9/11, our military personnel have faced unimaginable horrors, and they return home only to find inadequate support. According to MentalHealthFirstAid.org, approximately 30% of active duty and reserve members deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan—around 730,000 individuals—suffer from mental health conditions requiring treatment. Alarmingly, less than half of these veterans receive the help they need.
These brave individuals endure prolonged deployments under intense stress, witnessing traumatic events that would challenge anyone’s mental resilience. This is true strength. A leader aspiring to the highest office should be well-informed about these realities and choose their words with careful consideration—especially when speaking about those who serve in the military.
Your history of making disparaging remarks about veterans further complicates this discussion. For instance, you have publicly questioned the heroism of decorated soldier and former Senator John McCain, dismissed the grief of the Khan family, and trivialized the significance of military honors like the Purple Heart. Such comments not only undermine the sacrifices made by service members but also reflect poorly on your understanding of the military community you wish to represent.
Mental health struggles have no correlation with strength or resilience. They can ensnare anyone, leading to feelings of inadequacy and despair. This is akin to the mentality that you foster in your rhetoric about our nation—a narrative that focuses on division and fear rather than unity and support.
While I agree that veterans require more assistance and that the VA needs reform, I do not believe you are the right person to lead this charge. Your campaign has been marked by insults directed at various groups, including women, minorities, and the very military you claim to admire. The courageous men and women of our armed forces are among the strongest people I have encountered, and they should not have to endure the leadership of someone who disrespects them.
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In conclusion, it is essential to approach discussions about mental health with sensitivity and awareness. We owe it to the veterans who have served our country to speak thoughtfully about their experiences and challenges.
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