Episode 39: A Soldier's Story of Alcoholism, Depression, Hope, and Recovery

Col. Eric Kreitz spent a two-decade Army career silently suffering from depression and alcoholism. To the world he was thriving, successfully commanding a battalion on Fort Bragg and raising a family. Internally, he was plummeting deeper and deeper into darkness, unwilling to face his demons. A suicide attempt and subsequent hospitalization forced him out of command and into recovery. He's been on that glide path ever since.   Eric joined host Joe Buccino in the podcast studio to tell his story with courage and candor. It's an important story, one that every Soldier and leader should hear.    There is a great deal of value in this episode for all of us. We all want anyone who is suffering right now to get help. Military One Source (https://www.militaryonesource.mil/) is a 24/7 resource for all Soldiers and a trained specialist is always available at the National Suicide Prevention Hotline (800-273-8255).    This is a dark story, but it's an inspirational story, one filled with courage, love, and hope. One thing is clear: Eric's leadership never gave up on him, kept him in the Army, invested in his family, and put him on the road to recovery. There is so much to be learned from their example.