Weaver, AL – Robert Luna’s remarkable journey, a cross-country walk aimed at raising awareness for veteran mental health, is nearing its final stretch. With just 16 days left, Luna is expected to complete his walk at the Coast Guard Base in Los Angeles on October 17th, marking the end of an inspiring and emotional trek that began in Weaver, Alabama.
Luna, a retired Coast Guard Chief Petty Officer, began this mission to advocate for mental health awareness among veterans and their families. His walk, spanning the entire length of the United States, has been a journey of both personal growth and widespread connection. As he approaches the final days of his journey, Luna reflects on the emotions that have accompanied him.
“The end has been something I have dreaded for some time now,” Luna shared. “Every time I think about walking through the gates of Coast Guard Base LA/LB, I am overcome with a wave of emotions. Sadness, happiness, and guilt come to mind. I’m sad that I’m done with this part of my journey and all the amazing people I’ve met and left behind, with only hope and promises that I will fight for them to make things better. The happiness comes when I think about all the thousands of people I’ve connected with and the lifelong friendships I’ve created. And the guilt comes from knowing that, at one point, I thought taking my own life was the answer.”
Luna’s reflection is a powerful reminder of the mental health struggles that veterans face and the importance of the support systems they need. He added, “If I had taken that final step, my parents would have had to bury another son. I would have missed out on football games, soccer games, pool days, and birthdays, all because of a weak moment in my life.”
Luna’s journey, which began in Weaver, Alabama, serves as a beacon of hope for others. A native of Weaver, Luna’s early life was shaped by his father’s service in the Marine Corps, and it wasn’t long before he, too, felt the call to serve. He enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard in 1995 after graduating from Weaver High School, where he dedicated two decades to search and rescue missions.
Now, as he nears the end of his walk across America, Luna continues to spread his message of resilience, community, and mental health awareness for veterans. Thousands of people have followed his journey, and many have been inspired to embark on their own paths of personal growth and understanding.
For more information about Robert Luna’s cross-country journey, or to find out how to offer support, visit his website at https://al2la.us. Join Luna in his mission, and help create a brighter future for veterans and their families.
