My name is Samantha Bassett, My late husband, Mitchell Allen Bassett Jr., served honorably in the United States Marine Corps from 2007 to 2014. In 2012, while deployed in Afghanistan, he sustained injuries that ultimately led to his transition to the Wounded Warrior Battalion. He was medically retired in 2014 due to permanent physical disabilities.

From 2014 until his tragic passing in November 2024, Mitchell faced numerous challenges related to his physical disabilities, which were compounded by mental health issues such as PTSD, depression, moral injury, and struggles with alcohol. Despite these difficulties, Mitchell was a remarkable individual whose generosity and kindness touched the lives of everyone around him.

On Thanksgiving 2024, Mitchell made the heartbreaking decision to take his own life. While this chapter of his life has come to an end, I believe that his story—and the courage and strength he embodied—will continue to inspire change. His legacy will not be one of despair but rather a call to action.

I have developed an earnest and growing commitment to advocate for veterans, particularly in addressing the staggering statistic of 22 lives lost to suicide each day. Mitchell may have departed from this world, but his spirit and the impact of his life will never be forgotten. Together, we can work towards solutions that honor his memory and support our veterans in their time of need.