The Citizens Commission on Human Rights (CCHR), an award-winning nonprofit dedicated to protecting mental health human rights, hosted an event to commemorate Purple Heart Day on August 3rd at the historic Fort Harrison in Clearwater, FL. The event aimed to honor U.S. military members and veterans who have received the Purple Heart Medal for their sacrifice and service, while also addressing the critical issue of veteran suicides.
This year's event saw hundreds of attendees, including veterans, active-duty military, civilians, and Purple Heart recipients. The proceedings began with a formal presentation by the MacDill Air Force Color Guard, setting a solemn and respectful tone for the event.
Key speakers included Robert Groover, president of the Florida Veterans Coalition, who led the Pledge of Allegiance; Father Bob Swick, Senior Chaplain for the Clearwater Police Department, who gave the invocation; and Commander Mal Clingan, a distinguished veteran and Purple Heart recipient, who spoke about the profound meaning behind the medal.
The featured speaker, Brian Halstead, President of the United States Army Ranger Association, emphasized the importance of community, purpose, and spirituality in ensuring a smooth transition to post-military life. Halstead highlighted the role of everyone in preventing veteran suicides, urging the audience to reach out to veterans. "Remember, being teammates puts an onus on you to try and make your buddies better. So, I implore you to reach out. You and your buddy will be glad you did," he said.
Diane Stein, president of the Florida chapter of CCHR, pointed out alarming statistics from the most recent Department of Defense Report, showing that suicide rates in the Air Force, Navy, and Marines in the first quarter of 2024 had surpassed those during the pandemic era. Stein criticized the prevalent use of psychiatric drugs as a solution for military and veteran suicides, noting that these medications have side effects including suicidal thoughts and attempts. "CCHR continues to fight for alternative solutions to assist our soldiers and veterans, and we are here today to make it known that as the Mental Health Watchdog, we will not sit idly by while those that gave so much for this country are subjected to abuse," Stein declared.
The event concluded with a moving rendition of Taps, followed by a group photo of the Purple Heart recipients. This gathering not only honored the bravery and sacrifices of Purple Heart recipients but also brought to light the urgent need for better mental health solutions for veterans to prevent suicides.
