So, I was at a local American Legion post, and they asked post-9/11 veterans to share their stories on video for Congress and the entire country to see. Honestly, it was the last thing I wanted to do. I felt super nervous and vulnerable talking about stuff that happened 10+ years ago. I buried a lot of the pain and fear, and the last thing I wanted to do was show it off to the world. I was so nervous, I felt like I was going to pass out, even though I was sitting down. And when they asked if I ever saw combat, I wanted to run out of the room. But what kept me going was knowing that you’re only as sick as your secrets.
When you try to bury trauma, it only starts to bury you. That interview was my chance to take control and say what needed to be said. I’m so grateful to Sen. James Lankford and his office for giving me the opportunity to speak up and say what needed to be said, as veterans are struggling, and 22 veteran suicides a day is way too many. We need help, we’re struggling, and we’ll fight our way out of this if we have to.

God bless America and thank you so much, Abraham Lincoln.

Ret. Sgt. Besse Kyle R.
Veterans Advocate