Tommy Tuberville

Mr. President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.

Mr. President, veterans' mental health is one of the most unspoken struggles our brave men and women in uniform endure after serving our country. Many struggle silently and alone, which is why suicide has become a leading cause of death among our veterans. Combating the mental health crisis for Alabama veterans has become the No. 1 mission of U.S. Army SPC Ashlie Combs of Rainbow City.

Ashlie enlisted in the Army in 2003 after graduating from Bay Minette High School. She grew up in a military family, so she knew the hardships of military life. But the September 11 attacks made Ashlie want to do her part to protect our great country. She deployed to Iraq in 2007, where her team carried out multiple search and rescue missions in order to make sure no soldier was left behind as the war was winding down.

Ashlie and her husband eventually relocated back to Alabama, where she realized there was a lot to be done in making sure veterans aren't left behind when it comes to their mental health. She got involved in various veterans' organizations from the American Legion to her local VFW post, where she connected with vets from all different walks of life. Along the way, she got involved in the local veterans treatment court, where she has spent countless hours helping set vets up for success. Ashlie goes to great lengths to see veterans through their treatment from start to finish.

She recently received her graduate degree in counseling from Auburn University so that she can do this kind of work full-time. Her goal is to bridge the gap between mental health care and affordability to receive care for those who truly need it. September is Suicide Prevention Month, and we are fortunate to have veterans like Ashlie who use their experience to help veterans struggling with their mental health. It is my honor to recognize Ashlie Combs as the September Veteran of the Month.

Madam President, I ask unanimous consent that the order for the quorum call be rescinded.