I saw that Rep. Ryan Mackenzie invited Michael Wargo to President Donald Trump’s address to Congress, and I found it really moving. The Wargos lost their son to PTSD, and instead of staying quiet, they’ve dedicated themselves to helping other veterans and families going through the same pain. Their story is heartbreaking, but also incredibly inspiring.

Veteran suicide is a huge issue, but it doesn’t get talked about nearly enough. Carbon County has the highest veteran suicide rate in the state, yet so many people don’t even realize how bad the problem is. It’s great to see our congressman bringing attention to it.

I’m grateful to Mackenzie for highlighting this and standing with families like the Wargos. We owe it to our veterans to do better, and I hope more people start paying attention.

Mario Pasquariello

Lehighton