Veterans Connection 09/10/2025

September is Suicide Prevention Month, an annual observance dedicated to raising awareness about suicide, remembering those lost, and connecting those in need with resources and support. Mental health advocates, organizations, and community members worldwide use this month to unite and promote suicide prevention efforts.

Resources

• Veterans Crisis Line
• VA Suicide Prevention
• Wounded Warrior Project
• The Action Alliance

On August 20, friends, mentors, and graduates of the Montgomery County Veterans Treatment Court gathered at Cox Arboretum to celebrate the program’s impact and to honor the service of Judge Dennis Adkins. During the evening, Judge Adkins officially passed the gavel to the Honorable Judge Kimberly Melnick, who will continue leading this life-changing court.

The evening was filled with stories from staff, volunteers, mentors, and participants—each testimony a reminder of the program’s mission: supporting justice-involved veterans through accountability, structure, and treatment.

Veterans Treatment Court (VTC) was first established in Buffalo, New York, in 2008 under the Honorable Judge Robert Russell. Inspired by that model, Judge Adkins launched Montgomery County’s VTC in November 2013. The first graduates crossed the stage in October 2014, and since then, 121 veterans have completed the program. Each graduate represents a powerful story of resilience, recovery, and redemption.

Judge Adkins, appointed to the General Division bench in 2011, has been a champion for local veterans. His vision for the court created a supportive alternative to incarceration, addressing challenges such as substance use, mental health struggles, and trauma. His legacy will continue to inspire as Judge Melnick takes the helm.

Photo by Knack Creative

From Left to right, Commissioners Jim Dare (American Legion), Jerry Hays (DAV), Judge Dennis Adkins, Commissioners John Theobald (AMVETS), Bill Fried (Vietnam Veterans of America) and Michael Howley (VFW).

The Dayton VA Medical Center recently received a four-star rating from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services.

From the Dayton Daily News:

Such ratings are assigned on a 1-to-5 star scale, with hospitals being gauged on patient mortality, safety, readmissions, timely care and patient experience.

In a statement Monday, the Dayton VA said it has made a number of improvements.

“Through leadership commitment, a culture of safety and continuous process improvement, employees are empowered to improve the way care is delivered for veterans served at the Dayton VA Medical Center,” the center said.

Many veterans in Montgomery County depend on our local VA for health care, especially those who receive disability benefits. It's great to see that the Dayton VA continues to be a leader in veteran care.

Does Your Business Offer a Veteran Deal?

If your business offers a discount or special deal for veterans, let us know so we can promote it in our newsletter. Veteran deals get archived on our website, which will help to continue to promote your business.