Tag: Mental Health

Marine Veteran & PTSD Advocate Clay Hunt Died by Suicide in Texas Home; Death Prompted the Passage of the Clay Hunt SAV Act (March 31, 2011)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, In Their Name, Military Policy, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Suicide, USMC, VeteransLeave a comment

A profile of Clay Hunt, a Marine who recently took his own life while waiting for upgraded benefits from the VA. (May 31, 2011)

“Clay had the world at his fingertips,” a friend recalls. Why did the Marine combat vet take his own life? -CBS News (March 3, 2013)

President Obama makes remarks before signing the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. -CBSN (February 12, 2015)

On February 12, 2015, President Obama signed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act into law at the White House. -The Obama White House (February 12, 2015)

President Obama signed the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act. -C-Span (February 12, 2015)

The Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act is law tonight. -WGAL TV (February 12, 2015)

Deep Forrest Custom Effect refined
Clay Hunt, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

Marine and veteran advocate Clay Hunt died by suicide in his Sugar Land, Texas home on March 31, 2011. Clay Hunt was open about his journey with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder from combat and used his advocacy to help other service members and veterans struggling with the invisible battle. His unexpected death prompted his family to speak out and they shared that his perceived ill treatment by the Department of Veterans Affairs was part of the reason he took his own life. In their quest to get justice for their son, they were able to inspire the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention Act for Veterans passed by Congress and signed by President Barack Obama on February 12, 2015. According to President Obama’s website, the bill would require annual third-party evaluations of VA’s mental health care and suicide prevention programs; create a centralized website with resources and information for veterans about the range of mental health services available from the VA; and require collaboration on suicide prevention efforts between VA and non-profit mental health organizations. On March 13, 2019, AMVETS published a press release revealing their outrage with the Department of Veterans Affairs Clay Hunt Report. They requested a new report from the Veterans Affairs immediately, one that utilizes an outcomes based approach.

Related Links:
Veteran Suicide and Clay Hunt
The life and death of Clay Hunt
Obama: Stigma surrounding veterans and mental health “has to end”
President Obama signs Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act (C-SPAN)
President Obama Signs the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
Obama signs veteran suicide prevention bill into law
Clay Warren Hunt Obituary – Houston, TX – Dignity Memorial
Clay W. Hunt, veterans’ advocate, dead of self-inflicted wound
Ex-Marine, veteran’s advocate kills himself
Veteran Loses Battle With Depression After Helping Others With Their Own
One Marine’s Journey: War, Activism, Then Tragedy
One big question haunts Marine’s suicide: Why?
Survivor’s Guilt Haunting the Military
The life and death of Clay Hunt | 60 Minutes | CBS News
Ms. Selke, Mother of Clay Hunt, Testifies Before Congress on Veteran Suicide & Mental Health Access
Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans
Parents of Veterans Who Died by Suicide Criticize VA’s Mental Health Care
The legacy of Clay Hunt: Marine recalled in new suicide legislation
Military moms: Suicides prove VA must improve services
Clay Hunt Veteran Suicide Bill Blocked in Senate by Coburn
Coburn Has Gone Too Far Blocking Veterans Suicide Bill
Vet Suicide Bill On the Move | AFSA
Clay Hunt veteran suicide bill returns in new Congress
APA Urges Senate Action After House Passes Clay Hunt SAV Act Legislation Would Improve Access to Care for Veterans
This Bill Could Help Veterans With Mental Health
The Other American Sniper: The Tragic Suicide of Former Marine Clay Hunt
Veterans March on Capitol Hill to Bring Suicide Prevention Bill to Floor
Whistle-blowers: VA still endangering suicidal vets
A soldier’s suicide, our second chance
Clay Hunt is a hero — then, now and always
Walz and co-sponsors reintroduce Clay Hunt SAV Act to address veteran suicide
H.R.203 – 114th Congress (2015-2016): Clay Hunt SAV Act
Senate Report 114-34 – Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for America Veterans Act
Senate to pass first vets bill of 2015 honoring Texas sniper Clay Hunt
The legacy of Clay Hunt: Marine recalled in new suicide legislation
The Clay Hunt Act: What President Barack Obama Just Signed (February 12, 2015)
The Clay Hunt Act: What the President Just Signed
Pelosi Statement on President Obama Signing Bipartisan Law to Prevent Veteran Suicide
Obama signs Walz’s veterans suicide prevention bill
President Signs Clay Hunt Act, Says ‘Stigma Has to End’
Years after his death, Houston vet recognized with law to help prevent suicide
Bill to prevent vets’ suicides raises questions about funding
Blumenthal wins on veteran suicide prevention bill
WWP Applauds Passage of Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
The Fight To Stop Veteran Suicides
Bill requiring VA study of female veterans’ suicide prevention programs heads to President Obama
What Congress Is Doing to Help Lower The Number of Veteran Suicides
The Number 22: Is There A ‘False Narrative’ For Vet Suicide?
Veteran Suicide Prevention: By the Numbers
Clay Hunt Act Serves To Prevent Veteran Suicide
“Call to Action” on Veteran Suicide Yields Policy Shifts
The VA’s Faltering Battle Against Veteran Suicide
Veteran-suicide epidemic has many causes
Remembering Clay Hunt: The Marine, Advocate, And Friend
Hundreds of veterans ride to honor U.S. Marine Corps sniper, Clay Hunt
Campaign to Combat Suicide: Clay Hunt SAV Act Update
President Trump signs bill allocating government funds for veterans’ private medical care
Clay Hunt SAV Act Update | IAVA (2018)
Brown Applauds Executive Order to Reduce Veteran Suicide, Improve Transition from Military Life
Joint Action Plan – Veterans Affairs
VA to award contract for Clay Hunt Act OMH Reporting
AMVETS Outraged by Clay Hunt Report, Calls for Immediate Outcomes Based Approach
This VA report touts ‘positive outcomes’ from its suicide prevention programs — but veteran suicide rates haven’t slowed
VA Grapples With Issue of Veteran Suicide
Serving Those Who Serve: Upstream Intervention And The Uphill Battle Of Veteran Suicide Prevention In The US
Anguish into action on veteran suicide
Timeline of Veteran Suicides, Legislative Efforts, and Nationwide Negligence at the Department of Veterans Affairs

Military Rape Survivor Army Sgt. Amanda Sheldon Died by Suicide After Suffering With Depression; Family Hopes Her Death May Spark Change (October 7, 2010)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, In Their Name, Military Policy, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Sexual Assault, Suicide10 Comments
Sgt Amanda Sheldon, US Army (2010)
Sgt. Amanda Sheldon, U.S. Army

Army Sgt. Amanda Sheldon, 24, took her own life while stationed with the 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg in North Carolina. Sgt. Sheldon was found unresponsive at her off-post home in Fayetteville and was pronounced dead at the local hospital on October 7, 2010. Sgt. Sheldon’s mom, Renee Orcatt, went public with Amanda’s story in an effort to raise awareness, change policy, and save lives. Renee told the local media that Amanda was a victim of rape in the military at the hands of a superior officer. Amanda reported the crime to the Army and informed them she had been drugged and raped. As a result, the suspect was criminally convicted and discharged from the Army. Initially, Amanda sought help from military counselors and the family reported that she was getting better, yet still struggled with depression. Amanda wanted to deal with it and move on to serve her country as she had originally intended to do.

Unfortunately, according to Renee, this wasn’t the last time Amanda would have to confront her past while serving in the Army. When Amanda was up for promotion, she was asked why she was going to counseling. She would go on to get her promotion, but this line of questioning was something she never wanted to experience again. After making the realization that her past and seeking help was not confidential, counseling was out of the question in her future if she wanted to preserve her career. Sgt. Sheldon felt judged for seeking treatment for military sexual trauma. Her mom reported that Amanda recognized she needed counseling again and was planning on getting out of the military. When she died, she was serving out her final year of enlistment, had plans to go to college, and wanted to start a new life outside the military, with her new love. But her unit got tasked with a deployment to Afghanistan and she set about making plans to go to Afghanistan with her unit before she was discharged from the Army.

Amanda would learn that in order to accomplish this, she would need to re-enlist for two more years. Amanda didn’t want to stay in for two more years and made the devastating decision to stay back. She felt like no matter what decision she made, she was letting someone down. Renee observed that Amanda never came to grips with this decision and entered into depression. Amanda’s mom begged her to get counseling but to Amanda that was no longer an option. Sgt. Sheldon was attached to the 18th Fires Brigade, 82nd Airborne Division at Fort Bragg. She joined the Army in October 2005 and was assigned to Fort Bragg in February 2010. The family of Sgt. Amanda Sheldon hopes the circumstances surrounding her untimely death will spark military-wide change. In 2010, the Department of Defense was concerned about the increase in active duty suicides and since then the number of suicides in the military has increased.

Editor’s Note: CNN reported the suicide rates among active-duty Marines and the Navy are at a 10-year high on January 28, 2019. Task and Purpose reported Army suicides reached a five-year high on January 31, 2019. Military.com reported Active-Duty military suicides are at Record Highs in 2018. 

“Just like any other soldier, whether she died in combat or some other way, she’s still a fallen soldier. She served her country and she served it well.” -Renee Orcatt (Amanda Sheldon’s mom)

Source: Soldier’s Mom speaks out on suicide, WOOD TV8 (October 14, 2010)

The family of Sgt. Amanda Sheldon hopes her death may spark change. The 2004 Belding graduate’s body will return to West Michigan on Thursday night, about one week after Sheldon took her own life while serving at a Fort Bragg, N.C., military base. -WOOD TV8 (October 14, 2010)

Related Links:
Sgt Amanda Ann “Mandy” Sheldon | Find a Grave
Grand Rapids soldier Sgt. Amanda Sheldon, 24, dies in N.C. hospital
Female soldier dies at Fayetteville hospital
Police, family say Belding area soldier took her own life
Soldier’s mom speaks out on suicide (YouTube)
Ada family of soldier who died off-base in North Carolina says death was not suspicious
The family of Sgt. Amanda Sheldon hopes her death may spark change
Army Sgt. Amanda Sheldon’s Mom Speaks Out on Suicide; Family Hopes to Inspire Military-Wide Change (October 14, 2010)
The Challenge and the Promise: Strengthening the Force, Preventing Suicide and Saving Lives (2011)
Air Force TSgt. Jennifer Norris Testified Before the House Armed Services Committee in Washington DC (January 23, 2013)
Retired Marine Stephanie Schroeder Fights for Servicemember’s Rights at the United Nation’s Geneva Conventions (November 11, 2014)
Ali and Josh Hobson: Sexual Assault and Retaliation in the US Air Force (2015)
62 Percent of Military Sex Assault Reports Result in Retaliation (2015)
Highlights of Lt Col Teresa James, Army National Guard, Military Sexual Assault and Retaliation Case (2015)
Heath Phillips, Active Duty Military & Veterans Advocate, a Voice for Male Victims of Crime (2016)
Military Policy and Legislation Considerations for the Investigations of Non Combat Death, Homicide, and Suicide of US Service Members (2016)
What Happens When a Rape is Reported in the Military? (2017)
How do we stop the retaliation from happening so victims of crimes in the military feel safe to report? (2017)
Dignified transfer performed for Fort Carson soldier who died on post (2018)
Failing Private Burnham: How the Army Did Not Protect a Minnesota Soldier after a Sexual Assault (2018)
Tribute to a Fallen Soldier | Amanda Sheldon
In Loving Memory of Amanda Ann Sheldon | Facebook

Marine Corps Veteran Carri Goodwin Died of Alcohol Poisoning in Alliance, Ohio; Dad Finds Evidence of Military Rape & Suicidal Thoughts in Journals (February 28, 2009)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Felony Crime, In Their Name, Medical, Military Policy, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Sexual Assault, Stateside Death, USMC, Veterans1 Comment
Carri Goodwin
Carri Leigh Goodwin, U.S. Marine Corps Veteran

My original efforts were inspired by Carri Leigh Goodwin, LaVena Johnson, and the many other servicemembers who did not survive as a result of their service to this country. In honor of these men and women, we pledge to fight for justice on their behalf, amplify their voices, and support the families who deserve to know the truth.

In August 2007 at the age of eighteen (18), Carri Leigh Goodwin of Alliance, Ohio enlisted in the United States Marine Corps to make her Marine Corps veteran father proud. During her short time in the Marine Corps, Carri was sexually assaulted by two different men while serving, reported the crimes, and instead of being taking seriously was discharged with a mental health diagnosis and misconduct discharge. Like most rape survivors, Carri had acute Post Traumatic Stress (PTSD) from the brutal assaults she endured. Carri Leigh Goodwin died on February 28, 2009 from alcohol poisoning only a few days after being discharged from the U.S. Marine Corps. Gary Noling wants to honor her and all the families who have lost their child to the sexual assault and violence epidemic in the U.S. military. Gary wrote about his experience with the tragic loss of his daughter in the New York Times in August 2016: What the Military Owes Rape Survivors Like My Daughter.

Related Links:
Carri Leigh Goodwin (1989 – 2009)
Carri Leigh Goodwin MST
More charges in court brawl
Speaking Out: US Military Sexual Violence and Trauma Against Women
In Harm’s Way: Non-combat deaths of Ohio soldiers raise questions about U.S. military’s treatment of female members
The Tragic Case of Maria Lauterbach
Military Sexual Trauma: Is this how we treat women in the military?
Military Sexual Trauma: The Women’s War
Sexual Assault Prevention & Response Services: The Invisible War
Military Fails to Protect Service Members from Rape— Class Action Lawsuit filed against the Pentagon
Why suicide rate among veterans may be more than 22 a day
Tammi Sue Goodwin-Smith Obituary
What the Military Owes Rape Survivors Like My Daughter | NY Times
What the Military Owes Rape Survivors Like My Daughter | SOFREP
Petition: Support Victims Of Military Sexual Assault
RAPE & SEXUAL ASSAULT are Dirty Little Secrets for the Military, Especially the US Navy
‘Military Sexual Trauma’: the victims behind allegations of abuse in the U.S. Armed Forces
Carri Leigh Goodwin | Wikipedia

Deadly Women Premiered ‘Twisted Minds’ on ID: Sylvia Seegrist aka Ms. Rambo Went on Shooting Spree at Pennsylvania Mall (October 23, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, True Crime, VeteransLeave a comment

HISTORY – Twisted Philly – Episode 14: PART 1 – Ms. Rambo

To recap part one, Sylvia Seegrist was a resident of Springfield, Pennsylvania, a suburb about 10 miles outside the city… -Ms. Rambo, Twisted Philly 

Editor’s note: With a cable subscription, you can download the free ID Go app and watch Investigation Discovery programming at your convenience. And for those who do not have cable, you can watch “unlocked” episodes on the ID Go app including the latest premieres. For those who prefer commercial free programming during your binge session, Prime Video has an ID channel: ‘True Crime Files by Investigation Discovery” available for $3.99 a month. It’s a compilation of older seasons but totally worth the cost if you are a true crime addict. Download the ID Go app or purchase ID True Crime Files & binge away.

Related Links:
Miss Rambo: The True Story of Spree Killer Sylvia Seegrist
Twisted Minds | Deadly Women | Investigation Discovery (S2,E3)
Twisted Minds | Deadly Women | Investigation Discovery (website)
Twisted Minds | Deadly Women | Investigation Discovery (Amazon)
Twisted Minds | Deadly Women | Investigation Discovery (Hulu)
Sylvia Seegrist | Episode 51 | Misconduct, A True Crime Podcast
HISTORY – Twisted Philly – Episode 14: PART 1 – Ms. Rambo
HISTORY – Twisted Philly – Episode 15: PART 2 – Ms. Rambo
Sylvia Seegrist Went on Shooting Spree at Shopping Mall Killing Recife Cosmen, Ernest Trout & Augusto Ferrara; Sentenced to Life in Prison (October 30, 1985)
Deadly Women: 30 Military and Veteran Homicide Cases Featured on Investigation Discovery

The Denver Post Published ‘Waging Internal War’: An Examination of the Army’s Tendency to Deploy Soldiers Who Need Medication Management (August 26, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, In Their Name, Military Policy, Navy, Non Combat Death, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Suicide, USAF, USCG, USMCLeave a comment

An event on the Auraria campus aimed to help community members understand mental health issues in returning veterans. -The Denver Post (November 17, 2011)

“Chad Barrett’s war on terror started in the hours after the Sept. 11, 2001, attacks, when he was called to help dig bodies out of a smoking Pentagon. It ended Feb. 2, 2008, in Mosul, Iraq, when his roommate awoke to find him gasping and gurgling, with foam coming from his mouth. Barrett had been cleared for a third combat tour in Iraq despite a recent suicide attempt, crushing headaches and a mental illness treated with medication for anxiety and depression. Two months after he arrived, he killed himself by swallowing an unknown number of pills. He was the sixth soldier from Fort Carson to commit suicide in Iraq. At least 10 others have killed themselves in the U.S., nine after returning from the war.” -David Olinger & Erin Emery, The Denver Post (August 26, 2008)

An analysis of the information showed that:

• Army suicides in Iraq tripled in three years, from 10 in 2004 to 32 in 2007.

• In 2006 and 2007, 20 of the 59 soldiers who killed themselves in Iraq were deployed from a single base — Fort Hood in Texas.

• Fourteen of the soldiers who killed themselves in Iraq were 19 years old. Nearly half were 23 or younger.

Read more ‘Waging Internal War’ from The Denver Post here.

Related Links:
Understanding Mental Health in Veterans
Waging internal war – The Denver Post

HOR Oversight Subcommittee on National Security & Foreign Affairs Held a Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military (July 31, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, Child Abuse, Domestic Violence, Felony Crime, Homicide, In Their Name, Military Policy, Navy, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Scandals, Sexual Assault, USAF, USCG, USMCLeave a comment

The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Here Subcommittee Chairman John Tierney gives opening remarks. -Nancy Pelosi

The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Panel one is Reps. Louise Slaughter (NY-28) and Jane Harman (CA-36). -Nancy Pelosi


The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Panel one is Reps. Louise Slaughter (NY-28) and Jane Harman (CA-36). -Nancy Pelosi

The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Panel two is Ingrid Torres, MSW, CSW and Mary Lauterbach, Mother of Lance Cpl. Maria Lauterbach. -Nancy Pelosi

The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Panel two is Ingrid Torres, MSW, CSW and Mary Lauterbach, Mother of Lance Cpl. Maria Lauterbach. -Nancy Pelosi

The Oversight Subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs holds a hearing, “Sexual Assault in the Military.” Panel three includes representatives of the Defense Department, the Army, and the GAO. -Nancy Pelosi

***********************************************************

In the News:

The Other PTSD – Sexual Abuse of Women in the Military -NBC Nightly News with Brian Williams (May 4, 2007)

Congress takes on the Department of Defense in the first oversight hearing held this year by the subcommittee on National Security and Foreign Affairs on sexual assault in the military. Some House members are accusing the DOD of a cover up. -American News Project (August 2, 2008)

According to recent GAO survey, a female soldier is more likely to be raped by a fellow soldier than die by enemy fire in Iraq. David Martin reports on this startling increase. -CBS Evening News (October 28, 2008)

MST: Military Sexual Trauma -CBS Evening News (October 28, 2008)

Katie Couric investigates an alarming trend in the U.S. military, as more and more female soldiers have come forward with tales of sexual abuse at the hands of male soldiers and superior officers. -CBS News (March 17, 2009)

Women and men from all branches of the US military spoke out in Washington Tuesday about sexual assault in the ranks. They were all military sexual assault survivors — appearing at a summit held to call attention to the issue. The US military has announced new efforts to combat these crimes. VOA’s Carolyn Presutti brings us the issue through the eyes of two women, both survivors of alleged sexual attacks. -VOA News (May 8, 2012)

DAYTON – The military is fighting another battle, an “invisible war” on sexual assault. Today, Congressman Mike Turner talked about an award-winning documentary that sheds light on that very topic. -WKEF/WRGT (September 5, 2012)

New provisions handed down from the Department of Defense are giving sexual assault victims in the military rights they never had before.It’s all thanks to the fight from Congressman Mike Turner and a local mother. -WKEF/WRGT (August 15, 2013)

A major hurdle cleared for sexual assault victims in the military.Congress passed a bill that would give victims rights and protection they never had before.The push came after the tragic murder of local marine Maria Lauterbach and her unborn son.Maria’s mother, Mary, was thrilled when she heard the news that the bill had passed the Senate. -WKEFandWRGT (December 20, 2013)

Sexual assault in the military is being reported more and more everyday.But our military is now learning how to protect themselves and teaching civilians the same thing. -WKEF/WRGT (March 10, 2014)

DAYTON — Today, Congressman Michael Turner (R-OH), Chairman of the House Armed Services Subcommittee on Tactical Air and Land Forces, hosted Congresswoman Niki Tsongas (D-MA), at Wright-Patterson Air Force Base. Turner says he and Tsongas have worked together since 2007 to eliminate sexual assault from the U.S. military. Bother co-chair the Military Sexual Assault Prevention Caucus. -WKEF/WRGT (September 9, 2014)

It is Sexual Assault Awareness Month and Congressman Mike Turner was in town to talk about ways to cut down on sex assault in the military. Turner led a meeting with top brass from Wright-Patterson Air Force Base and Wright State University in hopes of continuing open conversations about the issue. The objective is to educate everyone on how to prevent sexual assaults from happening in the first place. -WKEF/WRGT (April 21, 2015)

Law protecting military victims of sexual assault discussed -WDTN TV (May 1, 2018)

Congressman Mike Turner changed the laws to make women serving in the military safer. -Mike Turner (August 20, 2018)

Video Links:
The Other PTSD – Sexual Abuse of Women in the Military | NBC Nightly News
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Tierney Opening
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Rep. Harman
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Rep. Slaughter
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Torres
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Lauterbach
Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military – Contempt for DOD
Rape in the Military: Congress Charges Cover-Up
Harassment In The Military | CBS News
MST: Military Sexual Trauma | CBS News
Sex Abuse And Female Soldiers | CBS News
Military Sexual Assault Victims Heal, Discuss Policy
DAI Offers Screening of Documentary on Sexual Assault in Military
Dept. of Defense Gives New Provisions to Military’s Victims of Sexual Assault
Major Hurdle Cleared for Victims of Sexual Assault in the Military
Defense Against Sexual Assault Class for WPAFB and Wright State University
Reps. Turner, Tsongas Talk Sexual Assault
Military Sexual Assault Awareness Month
Law protecting military victims of sexual assault discussed
Mary Lauterbach | Representative Mike Turner (Ohio)

Related Links:
Camp Lejeune Marine Maria Lauterbach & Unborn Child Murdered, Remains Discovered in Fellow Marine’s Backyard; Cesar Laurean Sentenced to Life in Prison, No Parole (December 15, 2007)
Lauterbach’s family questions handling of case
Rep. Mike Turner: Marine Corps Response Shows Lack Of Urgency For Maria Lauterbach
The hunt for the missing Marine | Dateline NBC
Raping America’s female soldiers
Mary Lauterbach To Testify At Congressional Hearing
HOR Sexual Assault in the Military Hearings (July 31, 2008)
Oversight Hearing on Sexual Assault in the Military | Nancy Pelosi
House panel blasts DOD over response to sexual assault claims
Sex Assaults Against Women in Military ‘Epidemic’
Sexual assault in military ‘jaw-dropping,’ lawmaker says
Tierney Holds Hearing on Sex Assault in Military
Tierney’s subcommittee looking into sexual assaults in the military
Sexual Assault in the Military: A DoD Cover-Up?
Rape in the military: Congress charges cover-up
Rep. Turner Demands Answers from DoD on Status of Maria Lauterbach Investigation
Front and Center: Sexual Violence in U.S. Military Law | Elizabeth L. Hillman (2009)
Laurean convicted in pregnant Marine’s death
Camp Lejeune’s Statement
Mike Turner’s Military Sexual Assault Protections Approved by House Armed Services Committee
Did the Marines Leave Two Bodies on the Field?*
Mary Lauterbach leads training sessions on sexual assault cases
Sexual Assault in the Military Part IV: Are We Making Progress?
Review of Matters Related to the Sexual Assault of Lance Corporal Maria Lauterbach, U.S. Marine Corps | DoD IG (October 18, 2011)
Carry That Weight: Victim Privacy Within the Military Sexual Assault Reporting Methods, 28 J. Marshall Computer & Info. L. 551 (2011)
Bureaucracy has blossomed in military’s war on rape
At summit, sexual assault survivors share trauma, seek change
‘A Marine’s Story’ highlights importance of preventing sexual assault
Sexual Assault in the Military: Ethical Dilemma or National Security Issue? | Georgetown University (2012)
STATE of North Carolina v. Ceasar Armando LAUREAN (May 1, 2012)
Continuing to Battle Sexual Assault within the Ranks of Our Military
Ohio congressman’s bill ensures punishment for sexual assaults in military
Lawmakers outraged over sexual assault case aim to change military justice system
Department of Defense Annual Report on Sexual Assault in the Military (2013)
For Tsongas and GOP colleague, a long fight on military sexual assault
Marine mother shares tragic story of daughter’s sexual assault, murder
Recalling the case that changed military sex assault laws
Mother of slain local Marine Maria Lauterbach to be honored for ‘survivorship, resilience’
Focus on Military Sexual Assault Continues in House
Sexual Assault in the Military | Quantum Units Education
A farewell to arms: Misogyny wrapped in camouflage
No Place in the Military: The Judiciary’s Failure to Compensate Victims of Military Sexual Assault and a Suggested Path Forward Using Lessons from the Prison Context
The Politics of Sex Abuse in Sacred Hierarchies: a Comparative Study of the Catholic Church and the Military in the United States 1
􏰀􏰁􏰂􏰃􏰄􏰅 􏰇

Senator Patty Murray Calls for Changes at the Department of Veterans Affairs in Wake of Suicides (May 1, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, In Their Name, Military Policy, National Guard, Navy, Non Combat Death, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Scandals, Stateside Death, Suicide, Suspicious Deaths, USAF, USCG, USMC, VeteransLeave a comment

Despite recent efforts by the Veterans Administration to prevent veteran suicide, seven have committed suicide in the Inland Northwest in the last four months and US Senator Patty Murray is calling the situation unacceptable. -4 News Now (May 1, 2008)

Related Links:
Mental Health and Suicide Prevention
Veterans – United States Senator Patty Murray
“Epidemic” of military suicides investigated
Veterans and Suicide | CBS (November 13, 2007)
President Bush Signed the Joshua Omvig Veterans Suicide Prevention Act Into Law
Army National Guardsman Spc. Timothy Juneman Died by Suicide; Family Shares Imminent Redeployment to Iraq ‘Major Stressor’ (March 5, 2008)
CBS News: Veteran Suicides An Epidemic (March 20, 2008)
Seven Veterans Under VA’s Care Commit Suicide
Murray calls for changes in VA in wake of veteran suicides
Murray Assails Top VA Official over Vets Suicide Cover-Up
Rural Veterans Access to Care Act, VA’s ‘Strength of a Warrior’ Campaign, Sen. Patty Murray Calls for More to Be Done for Suicidal Vets
Murray’s visit to Vancouver puts focus on veterans issues
New data reveals high death rates for Iraq, Afghanistan vets
Investigation blasts VA over wait times for mental health care
Senator Patty Murray: Veteran’s suicide prevention bill passes Senate
Murray Reiterates Mental Health Challenges Facing Veterans
U.S. military veteran suicides rise, one dies every 65 minutes
Mental Health and Suicide Among Veterans (Senate Hearing)
Waiting At VA Hospitals: A Matter Of Life And Death
Sen. Murray: VA system needs change now, not another report
Spokane Veterans Affairs hospital brings budget concerns to Sen. Patty Murray
Senator Patty Murray Urges DEA to Get Right on Pot
Sen. Murray Urges Greater Accountability, Assistance for Veteran Suicide Prevention at Senate Hearing
As Senate Prepares to Vote on Sweeping Legislation to Improve Veteran Access to Care, Senator Murray Highlights a Provision of the Bill That She Wrote, Which Would Finally Expand VA’s Caregiver Support Program
Senator Murray Continues to Fight for Veterans and their Families, Urges Support for Bill to Reduce Medical Costs for Veterans with Newborns
Timeline of Veteran Suicides, Legislative Efforts, and Nationwide Negligence at the Department of Veterans Affairs

CBS News: Veteran Suicides An Epidemic (March 20, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, In Their Name, Military Policy, National Guard, Navy, Non Combat Death, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Scandals, Stateside Death, Suicide, Suspicious Deaths, USAF, USCG, USMC, VeteransLeave a comment

CBS News first reported on the staggering number of veteran suicides in a report last year. Now, newly-released data shows that vets who get help from the VA are still at risk. Armen Keteyian reports. -CBS News (March 20, 2008)

Related Links:
Veteran Suicides An Epidemic (CBS News)
Suicides Seen Among Vets Treated By VA
Eye to Eye with Katie Couric on CBS News: Veterans and Suicide (November 13, 2007)
Timeline of Veteran Suicides, Legislative Efforts, and Nationwide Negligence at the Department of Veterans Affairs
Wounded Warrior Project
Home Base Program, Veteran & Family Care
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
American Federation of Suicide Prevention
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
320 Changes Direction – The Campaign to Change Direction
Give an Hour: Department of Veteran’s Affairs Partnership
US Department of Veterans Affairs
VA MISSION Act

Army National Guardsman Spc. Timothy Juneman Died by Suicide; Family Shares Imminent Redeployment to Iraq ‘Major Stressor’ (March 5, 2008)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, In Their Name, Military Policy, National Guard, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Stateside Death, SuicideLeave a comment
Timothy Juneman
Spc. Timothy Juneman, Washington Army National Guard (Screenshot from DVIDS)

“The identity of one other veteran who killed himself this year became public when his family wrote U.S. Sen. Patty Murray in April about concerns with VA mental health care. Spc. Timothy Juneman, 25, a National Guardsman and former [Fort Lewis] Stryker Brigade soldier who was injured in a roadside explosion in Iraq, died March 5, 2008…Juneman’s body was found in his Pullman home March 25, nearly three weeks after he had hanged himself. He had missed several appointments at the Spokane VA. In records obtained by Juneman before his death, Brown wrote that imminent redeployment to Iraq with the National Guard was a ‘major stressor’ contributing to Juneman’s condition, his mother said.” Read more from The Spokesman here.

In the News:

CBS News first reported on the staggering number of veteran suicides in a report last year. Now, newly-released data shows that vets who get help from the VA are still at risk. -CBS News (March 20, 2008)

They served their country honorably but after risking their life in combat abroad, coping with coming home was too much. In the last three months seven servicemen being treated by Spokane’s VA Hospital have committed suicide. -4 News Now (April 29, 2008)

Despite recent efforts by the Veterans Administration to prevent veteran suicide, seven have committed suicide in the Inland Northwest in the last four months and US Senator Patty Murray is calling the situation unacceptable. -4 News Now (May 1, 2008)

Related Links:
Timothy Dean Juneman | Find A Grave
Timothy D. Juneman | Time of Remembrance
Interview with SPC Timothy Juneman | DVIDS
Lives lost at home | The Spokeman-Review
Apr. 29, More Suicide News: Seven Veterans Under VA Care in Washington Commit Suicide
US: Veteran turned away from military hospital commits suicide
Distress Signal | The American Prospect
Local veteran’s suicide reflects troubling trend
Suicide Watch | The New Republic
Soldiers’ emotional battle scars put doctors in dilemma
Veteran Suicides An Epidemic (CBS News)
Seven veterans under VA’s care commit suicide
Murray calls for changes in VA in wake of veteran suicides
Timeline of Veteran Suicides, Legislative Efforts, and Nationwide Negligence at the Department of Veterans Affairs

Eye to Eye with Katie Couric on CBS News: Veterans and Suicide (November 13, 2007)

On By AdministratorIn Armed Forces, Army, In Their Name, Military Policy, National Guard, Navy, Non Combat Death, PTSD, TBI, Mental Illness, Scandals, Stateside Death, Suicide, Suspicious Deaths, USAF, USCG, USMC, VeteransLeave a comment

Paul Sullivan of Veterans for Common Sense tells Armen Keteyian that the No. 1 problem facing vets of Afghanistan and Iraq will be mental health. -CBS News (November 13, 2007)

Related Links:
Eye To Eye: Vets And Suicide (CBS News)
The Veteran Suicide “Epidemic” (CBS News)
Nov. 13: CBS News Interviews VCS About Epidemic of Iraq War Veteran Suicides
CBS News: Veteran Suicides An Epidemic (March 20, 2008)
Timeline of Veteran Suicides, Legislative Efforts, and Nationwide Negligence at the Department of Veterans Affairs
Wounded Warrior Project
Home Base Program, Veteran & Family Care
National Suicide Prevention Lifeline
American Federation of Suicide Prevention
NAMI: National Alliance on Mental Illness
320 Changes Direction – The Campaign to Change Direction
Give an Hour: Department of Veteran’s Affairs Partnership
US Department of Veterans Affairs
VA MISSION Act