For some, 22 push-ups may seem like just a tiring workout but for others it’s a way to honor our nation’s military.
In 2013, the social movement “22Kill” took the country by storm with thousands of videos being uploaded online— showing members of organizations, state patrols, ROTC groups, and many more doing 22 push-ups.
But why 22 push-ups?
The 22Kill campaign was launched by Honor Courage Commitment Inc., a non-profit aimed at “bridging the gap between veterans and civilians to build a community of support.” The idea is to raise awareness about suicide and educate the public on mental health issues such as post traumatic stress disorder. The movement’s namesake comes from a staggering and very real statistic: About 22 military veterans take their own lives every day, according to a 2012 study by the Department of Veteran Affairs; one push up for every veteran.
Law enforcement agencies around the country are challenging each other to take part in this movement- including the Washington State Patrol (WSP).
Corporal Mitchell T. Bauer explains the WSP was challenged by another law enforcement agency about a week ago. He says, “Officers Cpl. Macaluso and myself are both veterans and so are 15 of 40, 106th TBTC Cadets (which is 38% of the class). We also have many veterans on the staff at the academy. When we received this challenge it was an easy decision. The class was also eager to join in and help make more people aware of the cause. Cadet Pease who was very instrumental in setting this up for the 106th class. The WSP has a very rich history and tradition which is based off the military. Plus everyone knows a veteran, it maybe your mother, father, neighbor, co-worker or even you. The struggles that they may face are real, and often go unnoticed until it is too late. We want to assist in making the support system stronger.”
So, on April 19th, Trooper Cadets from class 106 dropped to the challenge completing a total of #726PushUps for #22Kill!
The Washington State Patrol is proud to support our nation’s military and help bring awareness to this cause.
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