Tanner Wilde, a veteran of the U.S. Army, has turned his personal struggles with mental health into a mission to support fellow veterans. After serving in Afghanistan, Syria, and Bangladesh, Wilde faced significant challenges in his transition to civilian life. Struggling with depression and traumatic brain injuries, he sought purpose and healing through community service.
Wilde initially joined the Army as a teenager, driven by a desire to serve others. “Ever since I was young, I always found a lot of satisfaction in being able to serve others and see their satisfaction from services provided,” he stated. His military career included roles as a paratrooper and special operations civil affairs team sergeant.
After ending his military service in 2021, Wilde experienced a profound identity crisis. “The military is all I ever knew,” he explained. By 2023, he faced a critical moment in his life, contemplating suicide. Fortunately, with support from his wife and various veteran organizations, he found the strength to seek help. “Through that persistence, I am where I am today, still alive, family better than it has ever been,” Wilde said.
Veteran Outreach and Community Support
Wilde’s commitment to service has led him to engage in veteran outreach initiatives. He collaborates with organizations such as Believet Canine Service Partners, which provides service animals to veterans grappling with post-traumatic stress disorder and traumatic brain injuries. Additionally, Wilde volunteers with Nodens Outdoors, an organization that offers bowhunting therapy programs for veterans.
“Being able to currently have a role in helping veterans find hope where hope doesn’t seem present is beyond rewarding,” he shared. This Veterans Day, Wilde and his service dog, Taz, participated in a volunteer event with Believet, raising awareness about the benefits of service animals for veterans.
Wilde emphasized the importance of addressing mental health openly. “It’s OK to not be OK,” he said, encouraging others to reach out for help. He highlighted the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline as a critical resource for veterans in need of support. “As hard as it is, there will be somebody that will listen,” he noted.
Community Recognition and Personal Milestones
In recognition of his service and commitment to the community, Wilde received a new furnace for his home in Mounds View on Veterans Day. The donation, provided by The Snelling Company and local distributor Auer Steel, aims to express gratitude for Wilde’s sacrifices and ongoing contributions to the veteran community. Phil Krinkie, president of The Snelling Company, stated, “He served our country, fought his own battles, and now fights for others.”
Wilde, who has moved 14 times due to his military service, expressed appreciation for the stability the new furnace represents. “This is a home we don’t want to have to pick up again. We’re in a wonderful community,” he said.
Through his journey, Tanner Wilde has emerged not only as a survivor but also as a beacon of hope for fellow veterans. His story highlights the resilience of those who serve and the importance of community support in overcoming challenges. For anyone seeking assistance, resources are available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline and the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs at mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention.
