Marine Corps veteran and former San Diego mayoral candidate Nathan Fletcher on Monday accused Republican Presidential candidate Donald Trump of perpetuating a “stigma” in remarks about post traumatic stress syndrome.
Speaking to a veterans group in Virginia, Trump answered a question about help for those suffering from PTSD by saying “you’re strong and you can handle it — but a lot of people can’t handle it.” The remark was interpreted by many as disrespectful those with PTSD.
“Somebody running for President needs to understand the simple reality that a mental health injury suffered during combat is no different than a physical injury,” said Fletcher in a statement. “Unfortunately, Donald Trump’s statement today shows he is not only ignorant of the facts but continues to perpetuate a stigma that is taking the lives of 22 veterans a day. And that’s just wrong.”
Fletcher is chairman of the Three Wise Men Veterans Foundation, which seeks to help veterans suffering from PTSD and prevent suicides.
