Flags are flying at half mast today in Massachusetts in honor of  SSG Michael J. Mantenuto, HHC- 1st Special Forces Group – Fort Lewis, WA, of Holliston, Massachusetts. It is heartbreaking that this young man reached the point where he had no hope and could find no reason to continue living, and so took his own life.

Does anyone else feel that it sends a wrong message for a State to honor someone who kills themself? No matter how loved or what good they might have done in their life, flying flags at half mast across the state to honor someone who committed suicide just sends a wrong message, especially to young people who might themselves be contemplating suicide. It sends the message: not only is it ok to commit suicide, it is worthy of respect and honor.