Mark Wills & USA Cares!

Radcliff, KY             Country music star Mark Wills, having just returned from his most recent trip to Iraq and Afghanistan, wanted to do more. When he became aware of USA Cares and what they were doing for service members, he saw a natural fit. 

When asked about his many visits to the war zones, Willis remarked “I have seen the very best in our men and women as they serve in places that most Americans couldn’t locate on a map, nor will ever see, and they do it willingly and courageously and we can’t forget them.” 

During a visit to the USA Cares headquarters on March 10^th, Executive Director Bill Nelson welcomed Mark and thanked him for his support. Nelson also explained the need to understand the challenges America’s newest veterans are facing. He stressed the need for private organization, government agencies and nonprofits to unite in an effort to overcome obstacles to getting much-deserved assistance to today’s veterans. “We are very proud of our accomplishments to date, keeping food on the table and, most importantly, providing real hope for those who are wounded and suffering from the effects of posttraumatic stress disorder, or PTSD,” said Nelson. 

Nelson went on to add “Mark understands the stress that combat has on our military personnel. He has seen the effects of roadside bombs when he visited military hospitals. Because of his awareness and experiences, Mark has offered his voice to USA Cares. He will speak out about programs that help our military families readjust to a normal life after the strains of surviving in a war zone.” 

A recent article in Air Force Times regarding the challenges that the Veterans Administration is facing said that among the 1.3 million who have served in Iraq or Afghanistan there are an estimated 338,000 who suffer from Posttraumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). PTSD can affect family life, job performance and has a role in the rising number of suicides among Veterans.  PTSD is an anxiety disorder that can occur after someone is exposed to a severe or life-threatening event.  Successful completion of treatment frequently helps veterans get their lives back on track and helps them deal with the lingering effects of service in combat zones.  USA Cares gives grants to support veterans and their families while they are undergoing treatment for this debilitating condition. 

“Mark has been a long time and very visible supporter of our troops and we know that his voice will be important not only in Nashville but also across America. We are very proud of his confidence and support of USA Cares and our mission. Of course some of us are big fans! So it is just wonderful to have his support.” remarked Pat Stradley who leads the USA Cares Advocacy Center.