Suicide in the military (Congressmen, soldier, Indiana, support)

[citizenkane2]

<H2>Do Soldier Suicides Deserve Condolence?

Though the White House provides full burial services to members of the military who have committed suicide, there's one thing they withhold: a letter of condolence from the president. Within the traditional mores of military code, suicide is still considered a sign of weakness. Last year's military suicides numbered 140, and this year is already on par with 2008. As suicides of armed servicemen rise, their families and lawmakers—including Indiana congressmen on both sides of the aisle—are rallying to get the archaic policy overturned in an effort to destigmatize mental-health issues. The administration has yet to respond to the call for change, except for saying that the policy was inherited from the Bush era. One White House spokesperson did say that they had begun an internal review of the matter.

Read it at The Wall Street Journal
</H2>



I guess this is a long standing policy. Do you think a soldier who committed suicide should get the same letter as a soldier who died in action?

[Wayland Woman]

Of course they should overturn that policy in my opinion. Mental health issues in military families has been swept under the table too long as it is. I see nothing wrong with having two types of letters to send out, one to cover suicides.

[Visvaldis]

To the OP. Yes to benefits.

This thread is tanking, but that should be expected, because the theme is soldier suicides. This country (especially those who shout Support The Troops) don't really give a damn about the troops.

[citizenkane2]

Who knows what can make a man snap? I think they should get all the respect as the others.

[Theliberalvoice]

He/she should get respect still.