New campaign encourages Americans to check on veteran loved ones 

JACKSONVILLE, Fla., Sept. 10, 2026 /PRNewswire/ — One conversation can save a life. That’s the message behind a new public service announcement (PSA) launched by Wounded Warrior Project^® (WWP). Released in recognition of Suicide Prevention Month, the PSA calls on Americans to check in on the veterans they know and start conversations that could save a life.  

According to the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA), approximately 17 veterans die by suicide each day. In the PSA, Air Force Capt. Tyshawn Jenkins walks past 17 empty chairs — each representing a veteran lost to suicide that day. At the 18^th chair sits Marine Corps veteran Phil Krabbe, who shares that he once came dangerously close to becoming one of those 17. Together, they deliver a simple but urgent message: No warrior should have to carry their battles alone.  

“It should not be harder to come home from serving this country than it is to go, but for many veterans it is,” said WWP® CEO Walt Piatt. “Wounded Warrior Project is working to end veteran suicide. If this campaign inspires one American to check in on a veteran family member, friend, or neighbor, it can save a life.”  

Krabbe’s story highlights a reality faced by many veterans living with unseen wounds. By encouraging meaningful conversations and early support, WWP hopes to raise awareness of veteran mental health challenges and connect veterans and their loved ones with resources that can help save lives.

“There was a time when I felt completely alone and didn’t know where to turn,” said Krabbe. “Looking back, I know how much it mattered when people reached out and reminded me I wasn’t fighting by myself. Sometimes a simple conversation can make all the difference.”

Why this PSA Matters
Too many veterans continue to struggle with isolation, mental health challenges, and barriers to seeking help. According to the most recent  WWP Warrior Survey: 

• More than 1 in 4 WWP warriors had suicidal thoughts within the past 12 months. 
• Nearly 4 in 5 warriors (79%) report feeling isolated sometimes or often.
• Warriors who report loneliness are three times more likely to experience suicidal thoughts than those who feel connected.

Connection with others can be a powerful protective factor for veterans facing life’s most difficult moments. More than 2 in 3 warriors (67%) say that talking to another veteran helps them cope with mental health concerns or stress. 

WWP creates opportunities for veterans and families to connect with peers, reduce isolation, and build community with others. Each and every conversation matters and has the power to change, and even save, a life. 

How WWP Supports Veteran Mental Health and Suicide Prevention 
Ending veteran suicide starts before a crisis occurs. WWP works to strengthen protective factors such as social support and a sense of purpose while helping veterans access care and resources when they need them most. 

Learn more about how WWP is working to end veteran suicide and how you can help.

For veterans living with unseen wounds, WWP also provides education and guidance on emerging and advanced therapies to help warriors make informed decisions with qualified healthcare providers. 

Because prevention requires a community-wide effort, WWP helps veterans build strong support networks, access effective care, and find hope long before a crisis occurs. 

“No warrior should ever carry their battles alone,” said Piatt. “In the hardest moments, a single check-in or conversation can be a lifeline. We will not stop fighting for every veteran who fought for us, until we end veteran suicide.” 

If you or someone you know needs support, immediate help is available 24/7. Call the Veteran Crisis Line at 988, then press 1 or text “HELP” to 838255. 

About Wounded Warrior Project Wounded Warrior Project® (WWP) is the nation’s leading veterans service organization, focused on the total well-being of veterans, service members, and their families. Our programs, advocacy, and awareness efforts help warriors thrive, provide essential lifelines to families and caregivers, and prevent veteran suicides. Learn more about Wounded Warrior Project.

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SOURCE Wounded Warrior Project