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By Chad Layne, manager, event-driven architecture

Here in Central Ohio, the leaves are changing color, the morning temperatures are brisk, and college football is in full swing. Fall is finally here. And with that comes the 11th hour of the 11th day of the 11th month, commonly known as Veterans Day.

This day traces its origins to the end of World War I, when on November 11, 1918, the Allied nations and Germany signed an armistice, effectively ending the hostilities of the Great War. Initially commemorated as Armistice Day in 1919, it was dedicated to honoring the soldiers who fought and died in World War I. The first Armistice Day was celebrated with parades, public gatherings, and a brief pause in business activities at 11 a.m. to mark the exact time the armistice took effect. Then in 1954, following the experiences of World War II and the Korean War, the U.S. Congress renamed the holiday Veterans Day to honor all American veterans, regardless of the war or conflict in which they served.

Earlier this year, I wrote about celebrating Memorial Day, explaining that both Memorial Day and Veterans Day honor the military but serve different purposes. Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday in May, is dedicated to remembering and honoring those who have died in military service. While both holidays are significant, Veterans Day focuses on celebrating our living heroes, all who have served in the U.S. Armed Forces, whether in times of war or peace. It is not just a holiday; it is a heartfelt tribute to those who have given so much for our country. I remember growing up attending Veterans Day events, parades and ceremonies with my family, feeling a deep sense of pride and gratitude for the men and women who served our country. Experiencing this outpouring of patriotism and knowing my family’s deep history of service drove me to join and serve this great nation.

Veterans Day is a time of joy and celebration. It is an opportunity for communities to come together and express their gratitude. Parades featuring veterans, military bands, and patriotic floats create a festive atmosphere. Schools and organizations host events where veterans share their stories, allowing younger generations to learn about the sacrifices made for their freedom. These celebrations foster a sense of unity and pride, reminding us of the strength and resilience of our veterans.

However, this day is also a time for solemn reflections, to acknowledge the hardships and sacrifices faced by veterans. Moments of silence, wreath-laying ceremonies, and visits to veterans’ memorials are somber reminders of the cost of freedom. These acts of remembrance ensure that we never forget the price paid by our veterans.

Many veterans carry the physical and emotional scars of their service. For many, the acknowledgment of their service and sacrifices is deeply meaningful. It can boost their morale and provide a sense of validation. Programs and initiatives that support veterans’ transition to civilian life, such as job fairs, counseling services, and educational opportunities, are often highlighted during Veterans Day events. These efforts help veterans reintegrate into society and lead fulfilling lives. Stories of resilience and strength among veterans serve as an inspiration to all, demonstrating the enduring spirit of those who have served.

During the time leading up to and following Veterans Day, I reflect upon my time in service. I remember good times spent with incredible Americans, some of whom were true heroes in every sense of the word. I remember the laughs that were shared, cold winter nights that never seemed to end (they always did), and the heat of summers in deserts far from home. I also remember friends who are no longer here, some taken too soon by enemies we knew, and some from enemies we didn’t recognize – the traumas that lived within service men and women and followed them home.

Typically, active military service lasts only a brief number of years, but its impact on mental well-being can last much longer. Each year, about 200,000 men and women transition from active-duty service and to civilian life. These transitions can mean changes in employment, finances, housing and more – changes that are challenging to anyone. According to the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration (SAMHSA), studies show that 44-72% of those transitioning from military to civilian life experience high levels of stress.

An estimated 41% of veterans are in need of mental healthcare programs every year, according to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Mental health experts tell us that these conditions can be treated, but stigma, financial barriers and lack of services can prevent some veterans from getting the care that they need. SAMHSA reports that more than half of veterans with such issues have not received treatment within the past year. The consequences of going without treatment can be dire: About 17 veterans die by suicide every day, according to a 2022 report from the VA.

As a leader within our own Veterans and Military Advocates (VMA) employee resource group, I freely admit that I’ve experienced survivor’s remorse, wondering how I was different and why I was one of the lucky ones who made it home, and why I didn’t struggle myself with mental health issues. At Cardinal Health, we speak often about it being okay to not be okay and normalizing and addressing mental health concerns. Within the veteran community, it is even more vital to knock down these stigmas and stand together with one another. You never know when one of our brothers and sisters in arms is suffering through a personal crisis.

Veterans Day allows us a very special time to reach out to those who have served, whether you are a veteran, an ally or an advocate. If you served, pick up the phone, send someone a text, check in with your battle buddy, wingman, shipmate, or just a veteran that you know. Because sometimes the best support you can offer a veteran is connection. With that in mind, please consider becoming an advocate. At Cardinal Health, ANY employee can become a member of the VMA. All that’s required is a passion to support our service members and their families. I invite all Cardinal Health employees who read this article to join us and help celebrate our proud and inclusive veterans, active service members, spouses, and their allies.

But wherever you live and work, you can be an advocate and offer connection to veterans close to home. You can volunteer at a local Veterans Affairs (VA) medical facility or hospital. (Use this VA link to find a facility near you.) You can send a thank you note to a veteran you know. And, if you don’t know a veteran, consider sending a card via Operation Gratitude, which delivers letters, cards, and care packages to veterans and military personnel.

If you or someone you know is in crisis, please know there are numerous resources to help. I’ve listed a few national resources here.

National veteran-specific mental health resources

• SAMHSA Veterans Crisis Line: Call 988 and press 1, text 838255, or chat online for confidential support available 24/7.
• VA Mental Health Services: Access a range of mental health services through your local VA medical center or Vet Center. Visit VA Mental Health for more information.
• Military OneSource: Provides resources and support for veterans and their families.
• National Center for Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD): Offers resources and support for veterans dealing with PTSD.
• SAMHSA’s national helpline for mental health and substance use disorders: Call 1-800-662-HELP (4357).

Through these resources, veterans can find the support they need to navigate the challenges they may face.

I wish you all a very happy Veterans Day, and encourage you to continue to honor, support and advocate for our veterans, not just this Veterans Day, but every day.

Chad Layne leads a team of senior engineers, software developers and analysts who drive data integration solutions at Cardinal Health. He joined the company in 2017, after leaving active duty in the Ohio National Guard. He also serves as the volunteer co-leader of Cardinal Health’s employee resource group (ERG)  for veterans and military advocates, which helps build community within Cardinal Health and provides programs and training to help advance members’ careers. In 2015, he was awarded the Order of St. Maurice – Centurion from the National Infantry Association for his outstanding service to the Infantry community.