Veteran’s Corner 

Tom Krabbenhoft 

11btwk@gmail.com

September 22 at 9:22 a.m., Heroes Compass held its 2.2 Mile Walk for Veteran Suicide Awareness. Community members shared in a mission to honor the lives lost and to bring attention to the urgent issue of veteran suicide. The walk symbolizes the 22 veterans lost each day to suicide and serves as both a tribute to their memory and a call to action for prevention. Participants joined together to demonstrate that no one walks alone, taking meaningful steps toward connection, support, and healing.

The walk emphasized the importance of “buddy checks,” encouraging participants to reach out and check in on friends, family, and fellow heroes. At the finish line, Empty Nest Blooms of Page, North Dakota, donated flowers for participants to give to loved ones, adding a powerful reminder of connection and remembrance. Heroes Compass leaders stressed that this is more than just a walk—it is a moment to connect, to show that every step counts, and that every life matters. Recent statistics underscore the urgency of this effort: since 9/11, more than 30,000 U.S. veterans have died by suicide—over four times the number lost in combat. In 2022 alone, more than 6,400 veterans took their own lives. Events like this aim to raise awareness and inspire ambassadors to help advance Heroes Compass’s vision of zero suicides among our nation’s heroes.

Heroes Compass, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, is dedicated to empowering heroes within the community, including military veterans, police officers, firefighters, and first responders. Guided by its mission—We Serve Those Who Serve—and its vision of a world where every hero finds purpose, belonging, and mental well-being, Heroes Compass continues to provide support and outreach programs to prevent suicide and strengthen resilience. Thanks to Heroes Compass for the contribution and all the work you do.

Another group making a difference.

On September 11, 2025, the Fargo National Cemetery became the site of a powerful act of remembrance and service as volunteers gathered for the annual “Carry The Load” cemetery cleaning event. It was a day to honor the sacrifices of our nation’s military, veterans, first responders, and their families.

The heroes of 9/11 met unimaginable challenges with courage, embodying all that is good in America and in humanity. These American heroes, and the families who stood beside them, carried a heavy load for our generation and for generations to come. Today, it is our turn—our collective responsibility—to “Carry The Load” for them by honoring their service and safeguarding the freedoms they preserved.

The Fargo National Cemetery Volunteer Committee coordinated this local effort, joining with committees at 67 other National Cemeteries across the country. Together, thousands of volunteers cleaned headstones and beautified VA National Cemeteries nationwide to ensure that those who served our country are always remembered and honored.

Thanks FNC VC for this contribution and for all you do.