Dear Mr. Trump,
As I compose this letter, I find myself in an unusual position — I actually concur with a point you made recently. During a forum in Herndon, Virginia, on October 3, you spoke with retired veterans and addressed the pressing need for better support for those grappling with PTSD and other mental health challenges. You rightly stated that the Department of Veterans Affairs is in dire need of reform and that veterans deserve more assistance. However, that is where our agreement ends.
You went further in your comments, suggesting that when soldiers return from combat, some are strong enough to cope, while others who struggle might lack that strength, referring to those with mental health issues who consider taking their own lives. This assertion is not only misguided but also extremely harmful. Linking mental health struggles to a deficiency in personal strength only serves to reinforce the stigma that we have fought against tirelessly.
As a veteran with firsthand experience of living with mental illness, I can attest to the profound battle that those suffering from these conditions face. I served my country 15 years ago and have dealt with persistent depression and anxiety throughout my life, never having seen combat. Now, consider the reality for today’s soldiers, who have known nothing but life in war zones.
Since 9/11, our military personnel have been thrust into perilous situations time and again, often deployed for 12 to 18 months, only to return briefly before being sent back into the fray. They witness horrors that most can hardly fathom and endure the loss of comrades. Their ability to carry on amidst such adversity is a true testament to their strength.
One would expect someone vying for the highest office in the nation to be aware of these realities and to choose their words with greater care. If elected, you would not only be the President but also the Commander in Chief of the very individuals you seem to dismiss.
While I’m not surprised by your remarks about veterans, your history of derogatory comments about our military is alarming. You have made derogatory statements about decorated soldier and POW John McCain, mocked the Khan family, and trivialized the Purple Heart. You’ve even suggested that American soldiers have engaged in theft during their service. Despite having never served yourself and benefiting from numerous deferments, you claim to have the expertise to lead our military.
Mr. Trump, PTSD and other mental health issues are not indicators of weakness. These conditions exploit vulnerabilities, leading individuals to feel defeated and hopeless. Your rhetoric mirrors the tactics of fear and division that you have employed throughout your campaign, creating a narrative that is harmful to those you wish to lead.
While I agree that veterans require more support and the VA must be improved, you are not the right person for this critical task. Your campaign has been characterized by attacks on women, minorities, individuals of different faiths, and even the military. The brave men and women of our armed forces are among the strongest individuals I’ve encountered; they should not have to endure the divisiveness you promote.
In conclusion, I urge you to reconsider your approach and to recognize the strength inherent in those who have served. They deserve better than to be treated as pawns in a political game.
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Summary
In this letter, a veteran addresses Donald Trump’s misconceptions about military personnel and mental health. While acknowledging the need for improved support for veterans, the author criticizes Trump’s harmful rhetoric and lack of understanding regarding PTSD and mental illness, emphasizing the true strength of those who serve.