Display raises awareness of veteran suicide
Banners and flags raising awareness of veteran suicide are erected in downtown Plains on Monday by members of the Joint Operations of Maripossa. (Erin Jusseaume photos/ Clark Fork Valley Press)
David Williams, left, and Ed Foste create a display and erect flags before a small ceremony on Monday.
The local Joint Operations of Mariposa group of Sanders County joined together Monday in Plains to remember fellow brothers- and sisters-in-arms who took their own life.
Ed Foste, who gave a speech on behalf of the group, was joined by board members David Williams, Wayne and Mary Egbert, along with Stanley Richardson and Adele Carter. They set up banners from Missoula-based River of Change along with flags to represent the 51 Montana veterans who have died by suicide since 2013.
“Sanders County has not been spared by those veterans that have committed suicide. So here we are recognizing them and their families,” said Foste at the gathering.
Foste explained that he along with the board founded the local organization to be a part of the answer to some of the issues facing veterans and their families.
“Sometimes it means having a coffee with a friend, or helping a veteran try to adjust back to civilian life. Other times it means sitting with a family that’s given everything and there are no more answers, just tears,” explained Foste at the small gathering.
The group sought permission from the Plains Mayor Danny Rowan to set up the small display.
“It can be hard for our veterans to return back to civilian life. So we hope that all those who have served, including those that are currently serving, know that the community is behind them and appreciates their commitment to their country,” said Rowan.
As the organization continues to grow with a range of services offered to veterans and their families, Foste hopes that the two-week display encourages the community to get behind their veterans and offer a shoulder or cup of tea.