By Tammy Kilby
For the Times
DARLINGTON — Chartered and incorporated by Congress in 1919, the American Legion is the nation’s longest running wartime veterans service organization, committed to their fellow service members and veterans. The American Legion’s “Be The One” campaign is a nationwide effort to eliminate the stigma related to mental health treatment, thus lowering the number of veterans who die by suicide every day. “Be The One” is considered the highest priority of the American Legion.
“Veterans that are struggling can call us to talk,” said Ronald Lumaye, Commander of the Darlington American Legion Post 214.
Hoping to form connections again with active members of the American Legion whom he hasn’t seen for a while, Commander Lumaye said he’s also interested in meeting new veterans in the area. He is keeping his hopes high that being around other veterans might help some feel the support they are seeking.
“Please reach out to us. We understand, and we are willing to listen,” said Gerald “Jerry” King, 2nd Vice Commander.
There are several options available to assist service men and women. Sometimes getting away for a weekend can help heal veterans, thus strengthening families through Camp American Legion. On the shores of Big Carr Lake is a haven for Wisconsin veterans, active-duty service members and their families who could use some time away from home to heal. Lumaye and the Vice Commanders of the Darlington American Legion can assist those eligible to sign up.
American Legion Post 214 is one of several posts in Lafayette County who take “Be The One” as a priority.
“Each veteran story is different, but worth the listen,” Lumaye said.
According to the American Legion website, a Veteran is 50% more likely to take his or her own life than that of a civilian. Since 9/11, the number of veterans who have taken their own life surpasses the number of American deaths during the Korean War, Vietnam War, Gulf War and the Global War on Terrorism combined. The mission of the American Legion is to prevent more loss of life.
The suicide and crisis line is 9-8-8 for those who wish to seek help anonymously. There is someone available 24 hours to assist veterans.
“Be The One”
Green County American Legion posts:
■ Monroe American Legion Post 84, 608-325-4244
■ Albany American Legion Post 144
■ New Glarus American Legion Post 141, 608-527-2911
■ Monticello American Legion Post 256, 608-938-1457
■ Belleville American Legion Post 460
■ Brooklyn American Legion Post 160, 608-835-5924
■ Brodhead American Legion Post 197, 608-214-3551
Lafayette County American Legion posts:
■ Darlington American Legion 214, 608-776-4041
■ Shullsburg VFW 10533 & American Legion Post 105, 608-214-2033
■ Belmont American Legion Post 453, 608-732-1090
■ Benton American Legion Post 290, 608-759-2722
■ Blanchardville American Legion Post 142, 862-824-5225
■ Cuba City American Legion Post 104, 608-744-3217
■ Hazel Green American Legion, 608-854-2303
■ Argyle American Legion Post 251, 608-290-7844
