Written by Nicholas Vetrisek
On Saturday, several community leaders came together to raise awareness about veteran suicide. The event, ’22 for 22’, had each participant doing 22 pushups to signify the 22 veterans that commit suicide every day.
They gathered at the top of Mount Soledad, a fitting location given the plaques of military heroes that surround the location, one of which was dedicated to a participant in the event.
Brian Hiner, a retired Navy Seal officer that received the Bronze Star with “V” Device for combat valor, took part in the event, in addition to former Seattle Seahawks offensive lineman David DesRochers, California Coast Credit Union CEO Todd Lane, and former San Diego Rotary President David Oates. The event was organized by Kristie Bruce-Lane, who is running for Olivenhain Municipal Water – District 4.
“This is for our military and veterans suffering from trauma and mental illness while securing our freedom,” said Bruce-Lane. “Many of us have been performing 22 pushups for 22 days in recognition that an average of 22 active duty military service members and veterans commit suicide every day. In honor of our military, here we go!”
If you would like to support the participants’ efforts, you are encouraged to support Courage to Call, a non-profit organization that supports veterans and members of our military still currently serving through countywide outreach and a 24/7 peer line.
