Our heroes need our help. Four signs a first responder may be struggling
Fox News
We count on our heroes. Being a first responder takes a huge toll on them -- alcoholism, Post Traumatic Stress and loneliness. Here are four signs they may need your help.
What I can say without a shred of doubt is that this cycle comes at a heavy price for our nation’s heroes. Alcoholism, Post Traumatic Stress, anger, withdrawal and loneliness are all words synonymous with responders. A life of service requires a special dedication far beyond what people might imagine. These career paths are what many might describe as a calling or purpose-driven life of service. Sounds pretty good right? Michael Marotta is the Warriors Heart Virginia executive director, a former law enforcement officer, United States Air Force Veteran, husband and father. His 68th Airlift Squadron supported Operation Enduring Freedom and Operation Iraqi Freedom. And while serving in the San Antonio Police Department, Marotta was a patrol officer, downtown bike patrol officer, crisis negotiator, mental health officer and wellness program coordinator.
It was 8:16 a.m. on a day that started like it usually does. Roll call at 8:00 a.m., and then briefing my sergeant on special assignments for the day. Suddenly my phone rang. I looked at the caller ID, and thought, that’s odd, he never calls.