Dear Mr. Trump,
As I pen this letter, I find myself in an unusual position—I actually concur with you on a specific point. On October 3, during a forum in Herndon, Virginia, you addressed a gathering of retired veterans. When asked about enhancing support for veterans grappling with PTSD and other mental health issues, you acknowledged that the Department of Veterans Affairs is flawed and in need of reform, and you rightly emphasized the necessity for increased support for our veterans. I agree with that sentiment. However, our alignment ends there because of your subsequent comments, which are far more concerning.
In your remarks, you suggested that returning soldiers can be divided into those who are strong enough to cope and those who are not—referring to veterans suffering from PTSD who may contemplate or even commit suicide. This perspective is not only misguided but also profoundly dangerous. Associating one’s mental health struggles with a lack of strength perpetuates stigma and stereotypes that the mental health community has long fought against.
As a veteran myself, I have a unique viewpoint on this matter. I served my country over 15 years ago and have battled severe depression and anxiety throughout my life, without ever experiencing combat. Now, consider the reality for soldiers today who have known nothing but a life filled with conflict.
Since the events of September 11, 2001, our courageous service members have been thrust into perilous situations and mentally exhausting environments. Upon returning home, many receive little to no support. According to MentalHealthFirstAid.org, approximately 30% of active duty and reserve military personnel deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan—around 730,000 individuals—suffer from mental health conditions that require treatment, yet fewer than 50% of those in need actually receive help.
These brave men and women are repeatedly deployed for 12 to 18 months, returning home for mere months before heading back into the fray. They bear witness to unimaginable atrocities and often see their comrades fall, yet they continue to serve. That’s true strength.
I would expect someone aspiring to the highest office in the nation to understand these facts and choose their words more thoughtfully. As potential president, you would also be the commander in chief of the very individuals you claim may not be strong enough.
Regrettably, I am not surprised by your dismissive attitude toward our veterans. Throughout your campaign, you have insulted, demeaned, and exploited veterans as political tools in your strategy of fear-mongering. Here are just a few examples of your derogatory comments about the military you profess to want to lead:
- You stated that decorated soldier, POW, and senator, John McCain, was not a war hero. When questioned, you added, “He’s a war hero because he was captured. I like people that weren’t captured, OK?”
- You ridiculed the Khan family, a Gold Star family, due to their Muslim faith and their criticism of your inflammatory rhetoric.
- You trivialized the significance of the Purple Heart when a supporter presented you with a replica, claiming, “I always wanted to get one of these. This was much easier.”
- You accused American soldiers of stealing money during their service in the Middle East.
- You profess to have the best understanding of military operations, yet you have never served a day in uniform and received multiple deferments for a supposedly injured foot.
Mental illness, including PTSD, has nothing to do with a lack of strength. It preys on one’s mind, insecurities, and fears, whispering falsehoods that one is weak and failing. This internal struggle often leads to thoughts of surrender or defeat. Does this resonate with you, Mr. Trump? It sounds similar to the narrative you often use about this country you wish to lead and the tactics you employ to achieve your goals.
While I agree: Veterans do need better support and reforms to the VA are essential, you are not the right person to effect this change. Your campaign has been characterized by insults directed at anyone who disagrees with you—women, minorities, individuals of varying faiths, the disabled, and even the military you claim to want to lead.
The courageous men and women of our armed forces are some of the strongest individuals I have ever known. They are resilient; they shouldn’t have to endure the burden of your words and actions.
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In summary, it’s vital to recognize the true strength of our veterans and to ensure they receive the support they deserve, rather than facing harmful rhetoric that undermines their sacrifices.
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