Fort Hood soldier found dead

As stated here before, war is not a movie. U.S. troops are often portrayed in the movies as either invincible battlefield heroes or bloodthirsty lunatics. The reality, of course, is neither. The men and women who serve our country are all human beings with feelings, and the reaction to the tremendous stress placed on our troops since the 9/11 attacks is dynamic and unpredictable.

We don't know why Spc. Jonathan Hughey took his own life just a few hours into 2010. KTVK-TV in Phoenix reports he was found by his mother with a self-inflicted gunshot wound. KWTX-TV in Texas reports that Hughey was stationed at Fort Hood, and served in Afghanistan from April 2008 to July 2009.

While it is important not to speculate on the circumstances of the soldier's apparent suicide, the violence in Afghanistan and the terrorist attack at Fort Hood could not have been easy on Hughey or any other soldier with similar experiences. This is precisely why "support our troops" is not an empty slogan, like some cynics who derisively mock those who put the magnets on their cars want you to believe. It's critical for everyone on the homefront to try to do something during this war effort, whether it is volunteering your time or contributing to a reputable military-related charity. No American servicemember or veteran should ever feel alone.

Image courtesy: Fort Hood