Veteran suicide prevention program set Nov. 7 in Lewes
American Legion Post 17 will host a community program about veteran suicide prevention at 7:15 p.m., Thursday, Nov. 7, at 113 American Legion Road, Lewes
Guest speaker Branden Zeitler is the local coordinator for Irreverent Warriors, which brings together a community of veterans through therapeutic events designed to combat one of the biggest challenges veterans face: isolation.
Irreverent Warriors is known for collaborating with other veteran organizations to provide critical services such as job placement, housing, service dogs, training and more.
“Whether active duty, reserve, disabled or retired, the mission may change, but veterans still stand together and have each other’s backs,” said Zeitner.
A former E4 with eight years of service in the U.S. Army Reserve as a 25C radio operator maintainer with the 203rd Transportation Detachment, Zeitner is well aware of the challenges many veterans face when returning to civilian life. Although he never saw combat, Zeitner has been steadfastly by the side of those who did, offering support and understanding.
“I believe our brothers and sisters who fought for freedom and love for our country deal with demons that many cannot imagine,” Zeitler said. “No matter what era of combat someone has served in, the battle often remains fresh in their mind every day. When we come together, have those hard conversations and support each other, we build the compassion and understanding veterans need. Events like these hikes show that our fellow warriors are not alone, and they are not forgotten.”
Through humor and camaraderie, Irreverent Warriors creates a unique and supportive environment to improve mental health and prevent veteran suicide. Zeitler emphasizes that IW’s mission is a direct response to these alarming statistics:
• Veterans are at 72% higher risk of suicide than those who have not served
• Female veterans face nearly double the suicide rate of non-veteran women
• The suicide rate for veterans aged 35-54 has increased by 10.7%
• Suicide is the second-leading cause of death for post-9/11 veterans.
In 2021, over 50% of veteran suicides occurred outside the Veterans Health Administration system. Recognizing the need for widespread intervention, the American Legion is leading the Be the One campaign, aiming to eliminate the stigma around mental health treatment and empower veterans, their families and civilians to act when they recognize a veteran in crisis. Anyone may be the one who saves a life by simply showing up, listening and caring.
For more information, email Michele Williams at American Legion Post 17, michele@micheleawilliams.com.
