While I recognize that the military is a unique institution with its own codes of conduct and ethos, this policy, tacit though it may be, of stigmatizing mental illness has got to end.

Perhaps, like his stance on gay marriage, President Obama's stance on soldier suicides can "evolve" into the only humane and thoughtful position -- that of sending condolences to the families of all troops who commit suicide.

Obama should use the bully pulpit to urge troops and veterans to seek help if they are depressed, suffering from PTSD or suicidal. He should also trumpet legislation to fund more mental-health counselors for the armed forces and for veterans.

Perhaps the time will come when President Obama and Senator McCain, two patriots, will work together to improve the mental-health care of our veterans. Until then, the stigma persists.

Part of the solution should be acknowledging that mental illness in the form of suicidal behavior can be brought about or exacerbated by the rigors of military service. When this results in the death of one of our soldiers, their loved ones deserve our sympathy and understanding.

Last August, Gregg Keesling was at home watching President Obama's speech to the Veterans of Foreign Wars in which the president stated that one of hi...