BETHALTO - Several area military veterans gathered Tuesday, Feb. 10, 2026, in Bethalto to raise awareness about veteran suicide, walking about 4 miles as part of an effort they said is aimed at honoring those who served and drawing attention to a daily death toll they want to reduce.
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Dustin Dixon of Lakeside Warriors of Missouri and Illinois teamed up with Brad Lafield in support of GWOT100, Nick Neidlinger of American Flag Mother Ruckers, and veterans Elliott Ferguson and Jordan Graham. Veteran Tim Brown followed along with “Betty 1,” a Humvee playing music.
“I do this in support of GWOTT 100, which is a global war on terror. It is to honor and remember all those who served and sacrificed during the global war on terror,” Lafield said.
Veterans Suicide Awareness Walk
The group cited a figure of around 22 veterans dying a day due to suicide and said their goal was to bring awareness in hopes of stopping it.
“I have all these guys behind me joining me today, it is an honor and a privilege to have them with me as we make this journey and take moments of silence as we walk down the pavement to remember what this is for,” Lafield said.
“It was an honor to join these other organizations to fight the good fight, like Brad said, the 22 a day has got to stop,” Dixon said.
If you or a veteran you know is struggling, help is available 24/7 - Dial 988, then press 1, Text 838255, or visit 988lifeline.org.
