LUNA PIER, Mich. — A group of American flags assembled outside of a Luna Pier home is far more than just a decoration; it's an effort to raise awareness for Veterans Suicide Awareness Month, which is recognized in September.
"Other people are starting to share it and seeing what it's doing; it's kind of brought a lot of awareness to people here in town," said Jodi Loewenstein, the homeowner with the flag display.
Loewenstein is the president of American Legion Post #193 and decided to take part in the honorary recognition based on a voluntary effort done by 'The Cost of War,' a research project based out of Brown University that tracks costs of U.S.-involved wars in the Middle East since 9/11 that encourages people to arrange 30 rows of 22 American flags.
"Starting on day one, where we just had one row, to this morning, we had people here putting the last row in," Loewenstein said.
Twenty-two represents the number of veterans who die by suicide each day in the U.S., according to a 2012 report from the Department of Veterans Affairs. As of the latest VA report in 2021, approximately 17 veterans die by suicide daily.
Legion member Amey Hart has felt this pain.
"It's overwhelming to know that this many families are heartbroken," Hart said.
Seven years ago, Hart's son, Sgt. Richard Van Horn II, died by suicide on Sept. 16, 2017, after serving two tours in Afghanistan.
"He really wouldn't say much about what went on over there," Hart said. "The most I got from him is how bad the smell was over there."
Since the awareness month has started, Loewenstein says Hart and numerous others have helped place flags in the yard each day.
"There's a lot of other people behind it than just me and my husband (Steve)," Loewenstein said.
Loewenstein added that the simple yet powerful project will be hard to tear down.
"It's hard to say because Amy, she's dealt with this, and by talking we've learned a lot more," she said.
But even when the grass is empty as October rolls in, Hart always wants others to be there for veterans.
"I don't think enough people reach out and say thank you and just listen to what someone might have to say," Hart said. "They may just want someone to listen to one of those stories."
If you are a veteran in need of assistance, the VA encourages you to call the National 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline, which provides free and confidential support for anyone in distress and resources for anyone who may need help. By dialing 988, you can be connected with a local crisis center 24/7 for help. You can also chat online at 988lifeline.org.
The VA also says you can text the number "838255" for help.