Dear Mr. Taylor,
As I sit down to pen this letter, I find myself in an unexpected position—I actually agree with you on something. During your October 3rd discussion with veterans in Herndon, Virginia, you touched upon the need for improved support for veterans battling PTSD and mental health challenges. You rightfully stated that the Department of Veterans Affairs is in dire need of reform. I couldn’t agree more. However, that’s where our alignment ends because your subsequent comments were, quite frankly, alarming.
You mentioned that returning soldiers fall into two categories: those who are strong enough to cope with their experiences and those who cannot. This assertion, Mr. Taylor, is not only misguided but also perilously damaging. Linking one’s strength or weakness to the tragic reality of suicide among veterans only serves to deepen the stigma surrounding mental health, something we have been actively fighting against.
I bring a unique perspective to this issue as both a veteran and someone who has personally battled mental illness. Having served my country 15 years ago without experiencing combat, I can only imagine the immense challenges faced by today’s soldiers, who often know nothing but the chaos of war.
Since 9/11, our brave service members have been thrust into perilous situations, facing unimaginable stress and trauma. According to MentalHealthFirstAid.org, approximately 30% of active duty and reserve personnel deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan—around 730,000 individuals—struggle with mental health issues that require treatment. Alarmingly, fewer than half of these veterans receive the help they need.
These servicemen and women endure lengthy deployments, often witnessing unspeakable horrors and losing comrades along the way. Their resilience is what true strength looks like.
One would expect that a person vying for the highest office in the land would be more informed and considerate in their statements. If you do ascend to the presidency, you will also assume the role of commander-in-chief over these very individuals whom you have deemed “weak.”
However, I must admit, I’m not surprised by your choice of words regarding veterans. Throughout your campaign, you have insulted and demeaned those who have served, using them as mere political props to further your agenda. Here are just a few examples of your comments that belittle the military:
- You dismissed the valor of decorated soldier and POW, John McCain, saying, “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, because of their Muslim faith and their criticism of your rhetoric.
- You trivialized the significance of the Purple Heart by joking about its value when a supporter presented you with a replica.
- You suggested that American soldiers engaged in theft while deployed overseas.
- You claim to know best how to run the military, yet you have never served and received multiple deferments due to an alleged foot injury.
Mr. Taylor, PTSD and other mental health issues are not indicators of weakness. They are complex conditions that prey upon one’s mind, feeding insecurities and fears. It’s a struggle that can make anyone feel defeated. Does this sound familiar, Mr. Taylor? It mirrors the tone you often adopt when discussing this nation and the tactics you employ to garner support.
Yes, I concur: veterans require more assistance, and the VA must be reformed. But you are not the right individual to lead this charge. Throughout your campaign, you have consistently attacked various groups—women, minorities, those of different faiths, and even the military you profess to respect.
The men and women of our armed forces are among the strongest people I’ve ever known. They can handle anything—except perhaps the likes of you.
In conclusion, it’s imperative to acknowledge that the brave individuals who serve our country deserve far better than the rhetoric you’ve offered.
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