As National Suicide Awareness Week unfolds, a crucial voice in the veteran community remains glaringly absent from Washington’s discussions: Retired Sergeant Eric Donoho, a US Army Paratrooper who served with distinction in the 3rd Battalion 509th Infantry Airborne Scout/Sniper platoon. His new book, “Canyon of Hope: From Darkness to Dawn; Embracing the Light Within,” tackles the often-overlooked issue of moral injury and the essential role faith plays in healing these profound wounds.
Despite considerable backing from influential figures, including retired 4-star general Michael A. Garrett, Donoho’s contributions are being overlooked in national conversations about veteran suicide. This exclusion is particularly concerning given Donoho’s extensive track record as a national veteran advocate and his significant role in shaping veteran legislation.
Over the past six years, Donoho has been a pivotal force behind major legislative efforts, including the landmark 988 Suicide Hotline, which provides immediate support to veterans in crisis, and the PACT Act, which enhances healthcare and benefits for veterans exposed to toxic substances. His dedication to veteran welfare was honored when he was invited to the White House for the signing of The PACT Act.
“We’ve invested over a trillion dollars in veteran services since 9/11, yet according to the most recent National Veteran Suicide Prevention Annual Report, 17 veterans still take their lives each day. The problem persists because we’re neglecting moral injury, a deep spiritual wound many veterans carry,” says Donoho. “The issue is compounded by the fact that faith, a crucial element in healing, is largely ignored in national discussions and veteran support programs.”
Research supports Donoho’s concerns. Studies from the VA indicate that moral injury, particularly when combined with PTSD, is a significant predictor of suicide risk among veterans. However, faith-based approaches, which could address these issues, are notably absent from government and Veteran Service Organization (VSO) initiatives. According to the Heritage Foundation, over the past decade, the Department of Defense and VA have rolled out more than 1,100 programs, yet none have incorporated faith-based interventions, leaving the veteran suicide rate largely unchanged.
“I saw many combat troops turn to faith before heading into missions,” Donoho recalls. “But when we return home, faith is often excluded from the recovery process. Ignoring this leaves a moral wound that can push veterans into despair and hopelessness — key factors leading to suicide. Faith provides hope and a pathway to healing.”
Despite his invaluable contributions and the strong support for his book, Donoho finds himself sidelined. “I was a key resource until I wrote a book about how faith helped me heal,” Donoho laments. “Since publishing ‘Canyon of Hope,’ I’ve been effectively ghosted.”
Retired General Michael A. Garrett praises Donoho’s work, stating, “Eric is, and always will be, a Spartan warrior to the core. His story is a must-read for anyone who feels their challenges are insurmountable.”
As National Suicide Awareness Week progresses, Donoho’s exclusion from critical conversations raises important questions about which perspectives are being missed and the potential cost to the veterans who could benefit from a more comprehensive approach to their healing.
Eric Donoho’s life is a testament to resilience and purpose. A retired US Army Sergeant with numerous honors, including the Purple Heart and the Combat Infantry Badge, Donoho’s journey from military service to advocacy exemplifies overcoming adversity. His post-military efforts include founding Hand Up LLC and collaborating with various Veteran Service Organizations to pass significant veterans’ legislation.
By: Montana Newsroom staff
