President Obama Expresses Condolences And Care In Clay Hunt SAV Speech And Signing At White House [Images]
On February 12, 2015, President Obama spoke to the nation about the incident with veteran Clay Hunt. Today, he’s agreed to sign the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act.
“Today, we honor a young man who isn’t here, but should be.” —President Obama on the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
As the president spoke, he talked about this topic as being one in which there were no sides. This means Republicans, Democrats, and all other parties have to see eye-to-eye on the matter. In a comical statement, he mentions how they’re all together, regardless of any differences.
“Clays parents are Texas republicans. They’re just not your run-of-the-mill republicans.”
President Obama seemed very sincere during his White House speech to the Hunt Family. Unfortunately, they lost their son after he came back from the Iraqi war. He exhibited issues many veterans encounter post-war. Clay needed help in resolving his issues. However, like fellow veterans, he often struggled when asking for that help.
“To anyone out there who’s hurting—it’s not a sign of weakness to ask for help. It’s a sign of strength.” —President Obama #HonoringVets
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
Addressing that issue, President Obama states, “There are a lot of incredible men and women across this country, like Clay, who love their country.”
“After 13 years, our combat mission in Afghanistan is over and a new generation of veterans is coming home.” —President Obama
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
Many of them have talked about their struggles with post-traumatic stress syndrome (PTSD). It’s a tough condition with which these veterans have to deal.
In a letter President Obama received from a young girl whose father has been affected by PTSD, she states as follows.
“I knew that my dad was still in there somewhere. He’s still my father and I’m still his little girl. Help my father to find his way back. Not my family, Mr. President. But other families out there. Don’t forget about them.”
The president said that this letter particularly touched him, not only as the president but also as a father.
“We will not will not be satisfied until every man and woman in uniform…gets the help they need to stay healthy and strong.” —Obama
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
Towards the end, Mr. President made this statement toward present and future veterans.
“If you are hurting, know this. You are not forgotten, you are not alone. We are here for you…We need you… You make our country better.”
After his speech, President Obama had Clay Hunt’s family join him on stage while he signed the Clay Hunt Act into law.
“Today, I will sign the Clay Hunt [Suicide Prevention for American Veterans] Act into law.” —President Obama #HonoringVets
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
President Obama signing the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act, while accompanied by the Hunt Family.
Watch live: President Obama speaks before signing the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act ? http://t.co/zpRdIUbWmn
— The White House (@WhiteHouse) February 12, 2015
President Obama finishes signing the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
First Lady Michelle Obama after signing of the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama leaving after signing of the Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
What are your thoughts on President Obama’s Clay Hunt speech?
The Conclusion of President Obama’s Clay Hunt Suicide Prevention for American Veterans Act
[Feature Image via the White House]
