His head was hung down to his knees, with a blanket draped over the layers of clothing covering his hunched frame. A shopping cart fully loaded with his possessions rested next to the park bench, where he spends most of his days. His wounds, had they been external, would have healed years ago. He is wounded inside and that has not healed. He feeds himself and self-medicates with whatever change he can muster during the course of the day. Veterans like this man are finding life back home nearly as challenging as the battlefield, maybe even more in some cases. I talk with men like this in every town I visit. The suicidal temptation that can accompany the isolation and loneliness veterans experience is far too common. Eighteen veterans are taking their lives every day of the year. Drastic measures need to be taken to end this tragedy. Help all you can in every way possible. Look for volunteer opportunities at www.va.gov

These Veterans, who defended our country in far away lands are now mostly forgotten. Lend a hand up or have a caring conversation when you see someone who is in such a bad way. It is the duty of all of us. Your actions and caring words may save a life. Volunteer at a homeless shelter or a soup kitchen this upcoming Thanksgiving week. Your caring heart is needed in a very big way. Interact with Veterans as if every day is Veterans Day…because, it is.