Airman received award for going above and beyond to help others heal PTSD

Air Force Honors New Milford Airman For Anti-Suicide Work Among Vets, Responders

Daily Voice
Jerry DeMarco
07/23/2019

Through his "no-matter-what attitude and generosity,” the Air Force citation says, Connors was “responsible for saving the lives of an untold number of returning Warriors and [helping ease the effect on] their families.”

U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. James P. Connors of New Milford (center). Photo Credit: COURTESY: USAF Tech Sgt. James P. Connors

U.S. Air Force Technical Sgt. James P. Connors of New Milford has dedicated himself to combating suicide among the military and first responders -- from police to firefighters.

For that reason, the force recently awarded the retired Teaneck firefighter its Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Connors distinguished himself through “leadership, ceaseless efforts and dedication” to the Save a Warrior program, which aims to reduce suicide among returning veterans, active service members and first responders with post-traumatic stress, the Air Force said in awarding him an Outstanding Volunteer Service Medal.

Connors completed seven tours over the Middle East, including Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Afghanistan.

He then became a “lead shepherd,” supporting and mentoring 400 of his fellow servicemen and servicewomen, many of whom had drug or emotional problems.

According to the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, PTSD has killed more military members and first responders than the 9/11 attacks and the Afghanistan and Iraq wars combined -- nearly 7,500 a year. Nearly a half-million reportedly have sought treatment for it.
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