WASHINGTON, D.C. – Last Friday, U.S. Representative Richard Hudson (R-NC) recognized the recent statement of support from 29 veterans organizations and seven former secretaries of the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs for National Warrior Call Day.
Earlier this year, Hudson joined 15 bipartisan co-sponsors to help introduce the Warrior Call Day Resolution, H. Res. 535, which would designate November 12, 2023, as National Warrior Call Day.
“The outpouring of support for National Warrior Call Day from leading veterans organizations and former VA leaders is incredible as we gain momentum in order to get this resolution across the finish line,” said Hudson in a press release. “Our nation loses too many veterans and service members to suicide every single day. We must address the challenges veterans face head-on, and I encourage folks to check in on someone they know, active-duty or veteran.”
An excerpt of the letter of support states: “Warrior Call is supported broadly, including on bipartisan and bicameral basis in the U.S. Congress (S. Res. 208; H. Res. 535). We are pleased to see continued engagement and communication from policymakers and commit to doing our part to advocate for increased communication with the brave men and women who served this nation.”
The establishment of National Warrior Call Day would encourage all Americans to contact someone who has served or is currently serving, and connect struggling veterans with mental health services. Last Congress, Rep. Hudson joined Senator Thom Tillis (R-NC) to highlight military and veteran suicides and encourage North Carolinians to participate in the national day of action.
The seven former secretaries of Veterans Affairs who expressed their support for National Warrior Call Day include Anthony Principi, Jim Nicholson, James Peake, Eric Shinseki, Bob McDonald, David Shulkin and Robert Wilkie.
If you or anyone you know is experiencing thoughts of suicide, please reach out for help immediately.
The Military Crisis Line can be reached by dialing 988 and then Press 1, via chat at www.MilitaryCrisisLine.net, or by texting 838255.
In the event of an emergency, dial 911 or your local emergency number immediately. An emergency is any situation that requires immediate assistance from the police, fire department or an ambulance.
To read the full letter of support or see the full list of 29 organizations that expressed their support for National Warrior Call Day, please visit https://hudson.house.gov/.