The “ASK A VETERAN 5 TIMES” rule for 2026

PRO BONO

November is a tough month for veterans. The Holidays in general. It’s also the NFL’s annual Salute to Service campaign. Sprinkle that in with Veteran’s Day today, and I have one ask of you. Check on your veterans today and ask them at least 5 times if “They’re OK.”

I’ve lost several friends I served with to suicide. I, too, was once suicidal. Those handful of people who CHECKED IN on me via phone made the difference in my story. Veterans, like NFL players, take great pride in their service. My pride almost cost me my life.

This is why you need to intentionally ask a veteran if “They’re OK” more than once. The Mental Health stigma is real among the “Department of War.” However, it’s actually a strength to “Ask 4 Help,” contrary to the popular culture of being mentally tough.

Today, we celebrate all Veterans who have served. Also, those currently serving without pay. Think about that before you “THANK A VETERAN” today, please. Would you work 40 days without pay and stay sane? I, too, experienced a shutdown or two in uniform.

I rode the “UNCLE SAM” float in the Rose Bowl Parade while a Navy Recruiter in Los Angeles, CA along with other members or each branch.

RESIDENT EXPERTS

I recently reached into my professional network and featured an “ANGEL” in a sense on Saturday. A mental health profesional also known as “DR M” with Culture Therapy in Los Angeles, CA. Watch the whole show on YouTube here.

This was to further the mental health discussion openly after Kneeland’s suicide. Men have feelings too, and it’s ok not to be ok. Never let anyone tell you any differently. When you call that family member who served to ‘THANK THEM’ today, ask about their mental health.

Phot Credit Seattle Times.

At least 5 times during that phone exchange, verbally. Text or DM is not efficient. Identify the root cause of the problem, if one exists. Too many humans are dying becuase of suicide. Let’s do our part together this Veterans Day. One suicide is too many.

I served active duty in the Navy for 23 years. I battled my demons and adjustment post-military thanks to the American Lake VA in Lakewood, WA. I called the crisis line twice and asked for help.

Im proof you’re worth more alive than you are dead. Call the crisis line and “Ask 4 Help.” All others make the call and ask at least five times. Thank you, signed, Navy Veteran.

24/7, confidential crisis support for Veterans and their loved ones. Contact the Veterans Crisis Line: Dial 988, then Press 1, chat online, or text 838255.