BISMARCK, ND ( KXNET ) — For Chris Smith, a veteran service officer at Job Service North Dakota, 9/11 comes with more meaning than just memorials.

As someone who served in the United States military for 20 years stateside and overseas, to Smith, 9/11 is as much about remembering the September 11 attacks as it is about the service members’ sacrifices during the operations that followed after. However, it is also a time to remember the veterans who do make it home, and the struggles they face when they return to civilian life.

“My guys that were transitioning out,” Smith recalls. “A lot of them were trying to find that camaraderie, brotherhood, and a sense of purpose and meaning when they were out.”

According to a 2020 study, suicide rates are two and half times higher amongst veterans within their first year of separation from active duty. One of the main reasons for this is the difficulty that comes with readjusting back to civilian life — with many often missing the fraternity of the armed forces. In fact, according to Veterans Affairs, close to half of all veterans, including Smith, experience this difficulty.

“Transitioning back from military service… it was hard,” he confirms.

What saved Smith was connecting to veteran agencies that helped make reintegration into society easier — however, very few veterans know about these programs. At Job Service North Dakota, veterans are provided a priority of services. They are matched with Smith to learn about programs that will help them find jobs, network, and more… but it all starts with asking for help.

“Be open-minded,” Smith advises. “Ask the questions. Seek the help. If you don’t know where to go, come to Job Service North Dakota, or go to your local Amvets or DAV. We’re here to help.”

Smith says he’s noticed an uptick in the number of veterans seeking help in recent years, and has welcomed veterans from all 50 states through his doors.

“They’re not alone,” he concludes. “Whatever they’re going through, others are going through it, and we’re here to help. All veterans will help a veteran as long as they’re seeking services. They can get all the help they need.”

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