Colorado Springs Veterans Transform Military Service into Life-Changing Community Programs
Two distinguished Colorado Springs veterans received special recognition Friday for their extraordinary contributions to the Pikes Peak region's military and first responder families. Their innovative programs are helping tackle some of the most pressing challenges facing our state's veteran and Gold Star communities.
At a ceremony outside City Hall, Joe Lewis and Robert McLaughlin were presented with the Spirit of Colorado Springs Flag Day Awards, highlighting how local veterans continue serving long after hanging up their uniforms.
From Personal Loss to Powerful Mission
Joe Lewis, a multi-branch veteran whose service spanned the Army, Marine Corps, and Air Force, turned personal tragedy into triumph by founding 'Angels of America's Fallen'. The Colorado Springs-based nonprofit addresses a critical need in military and first responder families.
"Two of my friends had kids on the way they never got to meet. It really impressed upon me that these kids have to go through their most crucial formative years without one of life's biggest mentors," Lewis shared during the ceremony.
His organization now provides vital support to thousands of Gold Star children nationwide, funding activities in sports, music, and arts - programs that according to Colorado Division of Veterans Affairs can be crucial for healing after loss.
Building a Veterans Support Hub in Colorado
Fellow honoree Robert McLaughlin, a 29-year Army veteran, has transformed veteran support services in Colorado through the Mt. Carmel Veterans Service Center. The center has become a cornerstone of veteran assistance in the Pikes Peak region, offering:
- Career transition services
- Mental health counseling
- Housing assistance programs
- Entrepreneurial support for veteran-owned businesses
According to data from the Suicide Prevention Collaborative of El Paso County, veteran support services are crucial in our community. McLaughlin's response was clear:
"The veteran suicide rate is way too high. We want to provide hope where someone might be spiraling."
"The veteran suicide rate is way too high. We want to provide hope where someone might be spiraling."
Impact on Colorado's Military Community
With five military installations in the Pikes Peak region and over 400,000 veterans calling Colorado home, these programs fill critical gaps in support services. The El Paso County Veterans Services reports growing demand for comprehensive veteran support programs.
For Colorado Springs families seeking to support these initiatives, both organizations welcome community involvement. As McLaughlin emphasized, "If you have a superpower or a skill that you want to use to help veterans, come and see us."
The recognition of these veteran leaders reflects Colorado Springs' ongoing commitment to supporting military families and showcases how local veterans continue making profound impacts in our community.
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