RAPID CITY, S.D. – This week is Veteran Buddy Check Week, a nationwide effort encouraging people to reach out to veterans in their lives and strengthen connections within the veteran community.
Advocates say staying connected is especially important, as suicide remains a leading cause of death among veterans under 45. Millions of veterans seek mental health support each year, and organizers say a simple phone call, text message, or visit can make a meaningful difference.
Eric Lewis of VFW Post 3442 says many veterans miss the camaraderie they experienced during military service and can benefit from reconnecting with fellow veterans and local support organizations.
Veteran Buddy Check Week runs through Friday, September 25. Veterans in crisis, or those concerned about a veteran, can contact the Veterans Crisis Line 24 hours a day by calling 988 and pressing 1.
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