America’s top enlisted military leader just showed what leading from the front truly means
Max Hauptman - Yesterday 4:10 PM
On Monday, the senior enlisted advisor to the Joint Chiefs of Staff made a point to address mental health concerns in the military.
“Most see a smile on one’s face, but do not know the turmoil inside one’s head,” wrote Chief Master Sgt. Ramón Colón-López. “Most see the accolades on one’s chest, but do not know the price paid to earn them.”
Colón-López has enjoyed a long career as pararescueman in the Air Force’s special operations community. He is also the most senior enlisted service member in the armed forces, representing all enlisted and non-commissioned officers when it comes to advising the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff Gen. Mark Milley, so what he chooses to highlight carries some weight.
“PTS awareness is not a monthly celebration, but a daily task to ensure we are taking care of one another,” Colón-López wrote in the post about post-traumatic stress. “20 years in combat, unfortunate events, and life in general can throw many challenges at us. Remember, we have each other to rely on. Talk about it, seek help, and know that this teammate is here for you to navigate this minefield called PTS.
His post is also part of a growing trend of senior military leaders choosing to be more open about post-traumatic stress and mental health.
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