RICHMOND, Ky. (LEX 18) — And they're off! Each Memorial Day, a group participates in a 22-mile ruck walk to bring awareness to veteran suicide.
This year, over two dozen people are walking from White Hall State Historic Site in Richmond to the VFW chapter in Winchester while carrying 22 pound rucks.
The 22-mile walk means something different to each person in this group but the common goal is to help veterans who are battling PTSD.
"Three people that I've served with have taken their own life," said Army veteran Benjamin Joynt.
On this Memorial Day, more than 2 dozen people are walking 22 miles from Richmond to Winchester, raising awareness about veteran suicide. Full story tonight @LEX18News pic.twitter.com/ngxhO9SfKB
— Evelyn Schultz (@EvelynSchultzTV) May 30, 2022
"It's gonna get tougher as we go on. But again we'll just keep talking amongst ourselves about why we're here and make the most of it," said Brandon Fairchild.
According to the Military Veteran Project, 22 veterans commit suicide per day, which is almost one every hour.
"Really it's about creating that awareness, it's one thing to talk about suicide. it's another to start the conversation before there's an issue," said Tiffany Walker.
The National Suicide Prevention Lifeline is available at 800-273-8255.
