Duty and honor are what veterans uphold for us to live in a free country. It comes at a cost where some have given the ultimate sacrifice. Meanwhile, other veterans face a daily struggle.
"Every few minutes a veteran commits suicide, around the clock, 24 hours a day, every day," said Brian Burke who is with the Vietnam Legacy Vets Club.
Burke along with hundreds of other vets, and civilians alike, came out to a fundraising event at Veterans Lake in Ramsey for Operation Zero Minnesota. Their mission: to get the number of veterans who commit suicide down to zero.
"What Operation Zero Veterans attempt suicide is, is a ground roots effort to be able to get in contact with vets, anytime day or night, and get them care anytime day or night free of charge," Burke said.
All of the money raised at the event, 100% of the proceeds go to the help Minnesota vets in crisis. Operation Zero's message to veterans out there who may be struggling is to never quit on life.
If you or someone you know is struggling with mental illness and needs help, there's someone available, 24/7. Just call or text to 988, and you will connect to a mental health professional.