Addie McCluskey
Elmore Autauga News
The Elmore County Commission recognizes National Suicide Prevention Month by declaring September as Veterans Suicide Awareness Month during their work session meeting, Sept. 8, 2025, at the Elmore County Courthouse.
For veterans, risks of suicide often emerge during reintegration into society. This transition can present challenges, including difficulty finding employment. The loss of a mission, identity, and the camaraderie of a unit can result in feelings of isolation. Service-connected health conditions like physical injuries, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and traumatic brain injury (TBI) also play a role.
“This issue is devastating, not only to veterans themselves, but to their families and the community around them,” said Jessica Senteno, Veterans Service Officer for Elmore County. “To put it into perspective, the state of Alabama lost 139 veterans to suicide in 2024, and this year, we lost one right here in Elmore County.”
Nicholas Turner, a proud Marine veteran who served with honor overseas, returned home carrying invisible wounds. On April 14, 2025, Turner died by suicide, leaving behind his wife, Gracie Turner, who shared her story with commissioners.
“More needs to be done to help our soldiers, especially those who come back from war,” said Turner. “War is not natural; it changed him.”
Turner explained that there were things she wishes she had done differently. Her primary regret was not forcing her husband to seek the help he needed, realizing that he viewed treatment as a sign of weakness.
“Please take care of your loved ones, and please learn the signs, so you can get them the help they need,” said Turner.
If you or a veteran you know is in crisis, call the Veterans Crisis Line immediately. You can call or text 988 and then press 1, or you can chat online. This service is available 24/7.
For more resources, visit https://www.va.gov/health-care/health-needs-conditions/mental-health/suicide-prevention/.
