Since the terrorist attacks of Sept.

Wildwood Crest - Since the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001, more than 140,000 vets have lost their lives to suicide nationwide, according to the VA, vastly more than the roughly 7,000 U.S. service members who died in the wars in Afghanistan and Iraq. The system that serves these veterans is now bracing for much more significant cuts. “The real pain is coming,” said one VA official who spoke on the condition of anonymity out of fear of retaliation. “If we can’t provide the care in these rural communities, there isn’t another option, especially for mental health.”