Stories written by Ian Perry
![The author, Ian Perry.](https://www.datocms-assets.com/12810/1727370205-ian-perry.jpg?ar64=MTY6OQ&fill=blur&fit=fill&fm=webp&w=768)
As a Veteran, I Know the Importance of Suicide Prevention Efforts
A combat Veteran having served in the United States Marine Corps for nearly 14 years, Ian Perry was aware of fellow service members taking their own lives. Now, as a volunteer with AFSP's Michigan Chapter, Ian devotes much of his energy and focus to military and firearms outreach.
![Ian Perry standing with his arms crossed in front of an Out of the Darkness community walk poster](https://www.datocms-assets.com/12810/1650892652-ian-aa-walk-19.jpg?ar64=MTY6OQ&fill=blur&fit=fill&fm=webp&w=768)
Veteran Suicide and Project 2025: Reflecting and Finding Purpose on Memorial Day
The practice of honoring our fallen in the United States has been officially instituted since the Civil War, although before it was called Memorial Day, it was known as Decoration Day. It was scheduled for the end of May because the flowers would be in bloom across the nation.