This week on The Decision Hour, we confront the reality of veteran suicide—and what each of us can do about it. Marine Corps veteran Jerry Shaffer, founder of the Red Star Foundation, joins us for a powerful, deeply human conversation about remembrance, stigma, and actionable hope.
Jerry lays out the hard numbers behind the veteran suicide crisis—not as statistics, but as stories of lives cut short and families forever changed. He introduces the Red Star banner and lapel pin, symbols that honor those lost to suicide while sparking the honest conversations that can prevent the next tragedy. We also hear how the Foundation’s Red Star Voices program literally saved a young airman’s life—proof that connection and storytelling can be life-saving interventions.
You’ll get an inside look at the Foundation’s growing impact, including collaborations with Gary Sinise & the Lieutenant Dan Band and potential projects with Orange County Choppers—partnerships designed to scale awareness and reach more veterans where they are. Most importantly, Jerry shares practical ways you can help right now—from volunteering and donating to simply checking in and sharing resources like 988 (press 1 for Veterans).
This episode is more than a conversation—it’s a call to action. If you’re a veteran, love a veteran, or care about those who’ve served, you’ll walk away with clarity, compassion, and concrete steps to make a difference today.
Key Takeaways
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The veteran suicide crisis: what the numbers mean—and why they matter.
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How the Red Star banner & pin honor the fallen and break stigma.
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A Red Star Voices story that saved an airman’s life.
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Why high-profile partnerships amplify awareness and access to help.
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Your role: simple actions that support veterans and families now.
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Crisis resource: Dial 988, then press 1 for veteran support.
https://www.RedStarFundation.org
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