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Open Letter to Mr. Johnson
Dear Mr. Johnson,
I find myself in a rather unusual situation as I put pen to paper. Surprisingly, I actually find common ground with you on one particular issue. During a recent forum in Springfield, you addressed a group of retired service members and discussed the critical need for enhanced support for veterans grappling with PTSD and other mental health challenges. You rightly pointed out that the Department of Veterans Affairs requires significant reform and that veterans deserve more comprehensive assistance. I completely agree with you on that point.
However, our shared understanding ends there because your subsequent comments were deeply concerning. You suggested that returning soldiers fall into two categories: those who are strong enough to cope and those who aren’t—implying that the latter group, which includes individuals who struggle with PTSD, lacks strength. Mr. Johnson, this statement is not only misguided and uninformed but also poses a serious risk to the mental health dialogue we desperately need.
As a veteran and someone who has battled mental illness for years, I have a perspective that might offer you some insight. I served my country 15 years ago and have faced challenges with anxiety and depression my whole life, despite never seeing combat. Now, consider the current soldiers who have known nothing but a life filled with constant combat and danger.
Our military personnel have faced extraordinary and perilous circumstances nearly two decades post-9/11, yet when they return home, they often receive minimal support. Research indicates that approximately 30% of those deployed to Iraq and Afghanistan—around 730,000 individuals—struggle with mental health issues that require treatment. Alarmingly, less than half of these veterans actually receive the help they need.
These courageous men and women are repeatedly deployed for extended periods, enduring harrowing experiences that most of us cannot fathom. They witness unimaginable horrors and suffer the loss of comrades, yet they continue to serve and protect. That is true strength.
I would expect someone aspiring to the highest office in this land to be well-informed and choose their words with care, especially when addressing those who have sacrificed so much. If you were to be elected, you would not only lead this nation but also serve as the commander-in-chief for the very individuals you so casually label as weak.
Unfortunately, your track record has shown a tendency to disrespect and demean veterans. Throughout your campaign, you have made disparaging remarks about our military, which you claim to respect. For instance, you dismissed decorated veteran John McCain’s service by stating, “He’s a war hero because he was captured. I like people that weren’t captured, OK?” Additionally, your comments regarding the Khan family, a Gold Star family, and your flippant attitude towards the significance of the Purple Heart are just a few examples of your dismissive approach.
Let’s be clear: PTSD and other mental health challenges do not stem from a lack of strength. They are complex conditions that can affect anyone, regardless of their courage or character. Mental illness can distort thoughts, creating feelings of inadequacy and hopelessness—much like the tactics you have used in your campaign to instill fear and division.
While I acknowledge the need for improved support for veterans and reforms at the VA, I must say that you are not the right person to lead this change. Your campaign has been marked by insults towards various groups, including women, minorities, and even the military itself. Our veterans are some of the most resilient individuals I’ve ever known; they should not have to navigate their challenges while dealing with your rhetoric.
In conclusion, it’s essential to have open and honest conversations about the needs of our veterans. If you’d like to learn more about how to better support them, consider checking out this insightful article on mental health resources at Healthline. For additional information on fertility and related topics, Make a Mom provides valuable insights. Engaging with these resources can foster a better understanding of the issues at hand.