Shaun Reightler: From Combat to Community Support
As a grunt, I mean there's nothing more raw and there's no more dedication than signing up to put yourself in harm's way. And I figured the infantry is where it is.
Imagine facing the intense challenges of war and then returning home to a whole new set of battles. In this episode of 'The Situation Report', host Adam Banotai sits down with Shaun Reightler, a U.S. Army veteran who served in Afghanistan. Shaun opens up about his decision to enlist, influenced by family traditions and friends who joined before him. As an infantryman, he aimed to make a significant impact on the front lines.
But the transition back to civilian life proved to be another war in itself. Shaun and Adam dive deep into the mental health struggles veterans often face, highlighting the gaps in support from the Department of Veterans Affairs. They discuss how One Fight Foundation is stepping in to bridge these gaps, offering peer-to-peer support and focusing on preventing veteran suicide. Shaun shares how his involvement with the foundation has been a crucial part of his healing journey.
This episode is not just informative but also deeply moving and supportive, shedding light on the real-life issues veterans encounter and the lifelines available to them. If you're looking for a heartfelt conversation that tackles tough topics with empathy and hope, this episode is a must-listen.