It’s a crucial endeavor.
Lawmakers from Long Island, alongside Marines, are gearing up to shed light on the alarming suicide rates among veterans. They’ll be walking 66 miles from Suffolk County over the span of 26 hours—and you’re welcome to join.
“We have lost more veterans by suicide than we have during the last two decades of conflicts in Iraq, Afghanistan, Yemen, and Somalia,” explained Republican Chad Lennon.
“There’s no comparison. A couple of years don’t equate to just a few minutes.”
Lennon, who endured an IED explosion while serving in Afghanistan 15 years ago, is set to kick off his walk from his local fire station at 9 a.m. on Saturday in Orient. He’s aiming to reach the Suffolk County Government Agency in Houpoge by 11 a.m. on Sunday.
Upon arriving at the military plaza, he’ll raise a flag symbolizing suicide awareness, honoring Marine CPL. Keith Anthony Miller, a Suffolk County soldier who tragically lost his life a decade ago.
“This issue is right here in our community. It’s ongoing. We have the highest veteran population in New York, right here in Suffolk County,” shared Lennon, a Purple Heart recipient.
The courageous walk is intentionally set for September 22nd, recognized as National Army and Veterans Suicide Awareness Day.
Lennon emphasized that many service members struggle with a “Spartan mentality,” often viewing emotional trauma as a weakness. He opened up about his own challenges in grappling with the effects of concussions from that fateful day in Afghanistan.
“When you’re at war, that’s the mindset you adopt,” said Lennon, who was promoted to lieutenant colonel in July.
“But it’s okay to acknowledge, ‘Hey, I have an issue.’”
Strength in Numbers
Unlike many fundraising runs, Lennon is inviting the nation to unite in solidarity for those who are hurting.
“Just like in the military, we need people to complete this mission. Too many friends and colleagues of mine have taken their lives,” he noted.
“Our goal is to halt this trend.”
This overnight walk will feature various checkpoints, making it easy for people to participate in smaller portions, showcasing the collective strength as Lennon traverses towns along the route.
He anticipates that the brief pauses will come with physical strain, especially while carrying the flag, and he admits he hasn’t had much preparation for this monumental task.
But Lennon and his fellow Marines are aware of what they’ve signed up for.
“It is what it is. Pain is part of the experience,” he remarked. “That physical suffering can resonate with mental pain for many.”
Lennon particularly encourages community members to gather at the final stop—Dunkin’ Donuts at the intersection of Routes 111 and 347, just two miles away from the finish line.
“We need to show solidarity. ‘You’re hurting, and I’m here with you,’” he urged.
Just as civilians supported troops during past wars through various means, Lennon believes there’s a vital role for everyone to play now.
“I’m challenging people to check in on 22 individuals a month to see how they’re doing,” he said. “Reach out to loved ones, whether they’re military or not. Just make sure they’re alright.”
