VFW Warriors Host Poker Run to Raise Awareness for Veteran Suicide Prevention

Riders gathered at 11 a.m. in downtown Colorado Springs before making their way to VFW Post 6461 in Fountain. Christy Vigil, District Five VFW Senior Road Captain, noted, “We actually had a very great turnout. We had independent riders. We had riders from all over the state.”

Proceeds from the event support the initiative “In Country: The Battle At Home and the Veteran Foundation,” a national movement focused on veteran mental health and reducing suicide rates among former service members. This initiative features a 90-minute documentary, a weekly podcast, and various community events aimed at creating a national support network for veterans in need, all at no cost to them and their families.

Manny Monterrey, the creator of “In Country: The Battle At Home,” highlighted the urgent need for public attention on the challenges faced by veterans. He called for national unity resembling that seen during World War II and following the events of September 11, urging that this time, the focus should be on supporting veterans combating mental health issues. “We need to come together for our veterans, our brothers and sisters, America’s sons and daughters that are losing their battle to suicide in high numbers,” Monterrey stated.