Navy Vet's suicide note, plea to help others live with PTSD

Remembering John Bates, bringing awareness to PTSD
Sep 23, 2012
Written by
Lauren Scott

NORTH LITTLE ROCK Ark. (KTHV) -- A memorial service Sunday morning honored Petty Officer First Class John Bates' Bates. He was a member of the Navy before being medically discharged. He suffered from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder before taking his life.

Family, friends and the Patriot Guard came out to the USS Razorback to honor the serviceman. Before Bates lost his battle to PTSD, he left his father a note, requesting he raise awareness to help others.

Bates' father tells us he is honoring that request, starting with today's service. He says, "It's amazing that everyone showed up and showed the support that they are."

John Studdard is proud of his son's accomplishments. He tells us his son served in the Navy for nine years, before being medically discharged after damaging his lungs in Desert Storm. Once Bates came back to the U.S., he worked for Government Services for 14 years before taking his life.

Bates left a note behind, admitting he had Post Traumatic Stress Disorder and his last wish was to bring awareness so others don't battle with PTSD.
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