Milwaukee area veterans support available amid Afghanistan chaos
MILWAUKEE - Tragic images bring up painful memories for those who served in Afghanistan. Veterans are now working to help each other process what has happened.
The Milwaukee County War Memorial Center is hosting a discussion Monday, Aug. 30 called "We Grieve Together" – an opportunity for veterans to talk to each other and learn about resources.
There was a similar meeting on Aug. 23. Two of the veterans who were there said talking about it is an important part of the healing process.
As news broke Thursday, Aug. 26 that dozens were killed in a terrorist attack in Kabul, at least a dozen of them U.S. service members, veterans in the Milwaukee area were taken back to their time in Afghanistan.
"You can smell it. You can taste it. You know what they’re going through," said Army Veteran Matt McDonell.
SIGN UP TODAY: Get daily headlines, breaking news emails from FOX6 News
"For many, we’re seeing the stuff that’s unfolding right now and it is really rocking us to the core," said retired U.S. Army Capt. Jason Church.
Church saw the violence in Afghanistan firsthand.
"This is war, and it’s carnage. And it’s terrible. I have been involved with too many IED explosions myself," Church said. "I lost my legs as a result of one, and this is a very…It’s hell."
Retired U.S. Army Capt. Jason Church, Army Veteran Matt McDonell
McDonell also served and was injured in Afghanistan.
"I know what today is like for a lot of families. It’s the beginning of a long road for a lot of people, and it sucks," said McDonell.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.
Both veterans said they are turning to their families as they process the news, and they want to make sure other veterans have a support system.
"It’s a brotherhood, a sisterhood. We’re here for everyone, and there’s such a gamut of resources," said McDonell.
"If you are a person out in the community that knows a veteran, if you know somebody who has served in uniform, just reach out and say hey, love you, I’m here if you need me," Church said.
Monday's discussion at the War Memorial Center is an in-person meeting, but there is also an option to join via Zoom – register online.
Milwaukee County War Memorial Center
VA Crisis Hotline
If you or someone you know is a veteran in need of help, the Department of Veterans Affairs Crisis Hotline is free to call and is available 24 hours, seven days a week.
Call 1-800-273-8255. Press "1" after calling to speak to a VA staffer. Any type of support is available, even just to talk.
Additional resources are available on the VA website.
FREE DOWNLOAD: Get breaking news alerts in the FOX6 News app for iOS or Android.
Featured
Afghanistan chaos: Veterans mental health, national security concerns
As Afghanistan erupts in chaos, concerns of national security and mental health vulnerabilities arise.
Featured
Milwaukee police shooting near Sherman Park, suspect dead
Milwaukee police said a 33-year-old man was shot and killed by officers after a police pursuit on the city's north side on Thursday night, Aug. 26.