Veterans who died of suicide remembered in Montgomery
A U.S. flag display is being set up to remember Alabama veterans who have lost their lives to suicide.
The Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs is setting up the “Operation We Remember” display at the Rotary Dog Park downtown.
This year, there will be 139 American flags to represent the 139 Alabama veterans who died of suicide in 2023 alone.
Operation We Remember is an annual statewide campaign that includes participation from various groups like colleges, high schools and more. Around 175 groups are participating this year.
“‘It’s something that takes diligence and patience and care and all of the things that we have to do with our veterans and our service members,” Brandon Miller, the director of outreach at the Alabama Department of Veterans Affairs told Action 8 News. “It’s not necessarily going to be a quick fix. It’s not going to be a task that you can just check off. This has to be a lifestyle and has to be something that’s established and maintained, and we have to intentional about it.”
“One of the big things is asking for the help,” Candida Peagler, program coordinator at the Council on Substance Abuse, said. “As veterans, sometimes, we’re a little stubborn and we are seen as weak if we are asking for the help, so ask for the help. Showing that strength, even with our organization with COSA, we’re always here to support. We’re here to be the backbone that you need as a veteran, active duty member or even your family members.”
The flags will remain at the Rotary Dog Park until early next week. The park is located at 62 Madison Avenue.
