SCR 154: Green Star Veterans and Families Day.

WHEREAS, Veterans of the United States Armed Forces served our country with honor, courage, and unwavering commitment to protecting our freedoms and securing our national defense; and

WHEREAS, Many veterans who have bravely served continue to face significant mental health challenges upon returning home, including invisible wounds that can profoundly impact their daily lives; and

WHEREAS, Mental health conditions, including post-traumatic stress disorder, depression, and traumatic brain injury, often intensify over time and, without adequate support, can increase the risk of suicide; and

WHEREAS, An estimated 22 veterans are tragically lost to suicide every day, 6,407 veterans took their lives in 2022, and over 140,000 veterans have died by suicide since September 11, 2001; and

WHEREAS, Despite these alarming numbers, Green Star Veterans, veterans who have lost their lives to suicide in connection with their military service, are not formally recognized in our state; and

WHEREAS, Every veteran whose life ends as a result of their service deserves to be honored with the same dignity; and

WHEREAS, The families of veterans lost to suicide deserve the assurance that their loved ones’ service, sacrifice, and memory will be respectfully preserved and recognized; and

WHEREAS, Green Star Families serve an essential role in sharing their loved ones’ stories, spreading public awareness of the toll service-related mental health challenges have on a veteran, and advocating for stronger prevention and support initiatives to protect future veterans and their families; and

WHEREAS, The Green Star Service Banner serves as a symbol to honor our veterans who have lost their lives to suicide in connection with their military service and should be recognized in our state; now, therefore, be it

Resolved by the Senate of the State of California, the Assembly thereof concurring, That the Legislature designates May 4, 2026, as “Green Star Veterans and Families Day” in California; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature officially recognizes the Green Star Service Banner; and be it further

Resolved, That the Legislature honors veterans whose lives were lost to suicide to recognize the resilience and dedication of the families they leave behind and to raise awareness of the ongoing mental health and suicide crisis affecting those who have served; and be it further

Resolved, That the Secretary of the Senate transmit copies of this resolution to the author for appropriate distribution.