A group of local veterans continued their efforts to raise awareness for a troubling issue on Saturday as the Veteran Suicide Awareness group stopped by the Blue Earth Plaza to promote the Buddy Check 22 movement to the Manhattan community.
“To actually see people come out and smile or shake your hand, it makes you realize there are good people out there and those people have your back,” said event organizer Josh Kegley. “It’s kind of indescribable, but you get a sense of comfort.”
Normally the event is held on the 22nd of every month and encourages participants to take part by attempting 22 push-ups, but this time a new audience was reached by coming together on a different day and taking 2,200 steps.
“There’s been some talk about controversy of numbers and stats,” Kegley said. “But one suicide is one too many. So we picked a different date to get more people involved.”
Although veteran suicide is the primary focus at these events, those who know anyone struggling with suicidal behavior are encouraged to participate.
“Just check on each other,” Kegley said. “It doesn’t have to be a veteran. It could be a friend, it could be someone just walking down the street. Just acknowledge the fact that people are out there to help veterans and have their back.”
Kegley says the group plans to hold another event following Veterans Day.
You can follow the group by liking their Facebook page at: https://www.facebook.com/VeteranSuicideAwareness/?fref=ts