In a policy dating to the Clinton era, the commander in chief sends letters of condolence to the families of troops who have died in combat, but not if they committed suicide. Gregg and Jannett Keesling felt that this policy is wrong and is working to get it changed.
Gregg Keesling wrote to Obama and Army Chief of Staff Gen. George W. Casey Jr., imploring them to rethink the policy. "The recognition of the president could have profound impact on the family of the suicide victim," Keesling wrote in his request to General Casey, Jr.
"The lack of acknowledgment and condolences from the President, who our family admires greatly, leaves us with an emotional vacuum and a feeling that we his family have somehow [made] less of a sacrifice," he wrote in another letter to Casey.
You can read the complete story of Spc. Keesling at CNN. I am sure that you will agree that he died in service to his country and that his families sacrifice is the same as if he died in combat.
Comments
This is preposterous! What kind of compassion is being shown for the time they were serving? In most cases of active duty suicide, it is related to their service. Just wrong!
I agree with Margie! This is wrong!!
They certainly should be shown some compassion.
Presidential acknowledgment would go a long way for these distressed families.
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