Memorial Day, an essential, somber remembrance, but there is hope and healing at Home Base Florida

Memorial Day, an essential, somber remembrance, but there is hope and healing at Home Base Florida

Memorial Day stands as one of the most solemn days of the year, a time when we honor the brave souls who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our nation. When I reflect on my time in Iraq as an 18-year-old from Naples, FL, turned US Marine and the losses we endured, I am reminded of the importance of this observance.

Weeks into my first deployment, an ambush and murders of four American contractors changed our orders from Stability and Support to offensive operations. April 4, 2004, we embarked upon the First Battle of Fallujah. We lost eight men throughout that deployment and another 13 in the Fallujah deployment in 2005.

This year marks the 20th anniversary of the First Battle of Fallujah, a sobering milestone that, for me, brings into sharp focus the sacrifices made by so many. Each of their names is forever etched into the legacy of the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines, and serves as a stark reminder of the cost of our freedom.

But the number of lives lost on the battlefield pales in comparison to those lost to the war that wages on long after returning home. The transition from military to civilian life is a culture shock many grapple with.

COOPER

When we think of predictors of suicide — loss of identity, social isolation, loss of purpose — it is no wonder why veterans struggle with post-service life. For the Marines in my battalion, the suicide rate was four times higher than that of young male veterans and 14 times higher than the general population, highlighting the severe impact of these invisible wounds.

The weight of this sacrifice is not borne by the fallen alone. It is a heavy burden carried by their families and comrades who live with the daily memories and loss. At Home Base Florida, we are committed to supporting Veteran families. We address the invisible wounds of service — PTSD, TBI, anxiety, and depression — ensuring that no one walks this path alone.

Reflecting on my own experiences and the bonds forged in service, I am reminded of the unspoken promises made among Soldiers, Sailors, Airmen, and Marines: to look after one another and our families. This promise extends beyond the battlefield. It is a commitment we uphold every day through Home Base programs and services.

My time in the military fuels my passion and dedication to our mission. The memories of my brothers in arms and the promises we made to one another drive me to ensure that our veterans and their families receive the care and support they need. By addressing the unique physical and mental challenges our veterans face, we honor the fallen by healing the living.

As a nation, we owe it to those who gave their lives in service to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten. We must support their families, stand by their comrades, and uphold the values for which they fought. This is the true meaning of Memorial Day.

Amid this solemn remembrance, there is hope. At Home Base, we witness the transformative power of care and support. We see families reunited and veterans finding new purpose and joy. We help families understand and manage symptoms, allowing them to rebuild stronger, more resilient bonds. Each success story is a testament to our community’s enduring veteran spirit and unwavering support.

By supporting Home Base Florida, you can honor our nation’s heroes. Together, we can build a future filled with hope and healing. Learn more at HomeBase.org/Florida.

Semper Fidelus. ¦

— Jason Cooper is a decorated US Marine Corps veteran who served two combat deployments in Iraq as tactical air control in the 2nd Battalion, 7th Marines. He retired as a Staff Sergeant with over 100+ combat missions. After earning his Bachelor of Science from Florida Gulf Coast University, he now continues to serve his fellow Veterans as the Home Base Florida Associate Director of Development.

The post Memorial Day, an essential, somber remembrance, but there is hope and healing at Home Base Florida first appeared on Bonita Springs Florida Weekly .