Air Force Airman First Class Richard Andrew “Drew” Winkler, of Crestview, Florida, died on Memorial Day, after losing his long 5 year battle with PTSD.
He took his life after being unable to continue fighting “these demons in my head every day and they are winning”. He was just 1 of 22 Veterans suffering from PTSD each day who take their own lives when they can fight no more.
Most importantly, Drew was a loving father, caring son, loyal and trusted brother, and selfless friend. His was a life lost far too soon.
He was preceded in death by his grandparents, Billy and Mary Jane Winkler, and grandfather, Paul Bramble.
Drew is survived by his parents, Rick and Rebecca Winkler; sons, Christian and Caydan; friend, love and children’s mother, Jamie Custer; brothers, Corey Winkler (wife, Irmma), and Craig Winkler (girlfriend, Anissa Thompson); and numerous aunts, uncles and cousins.
A1C Richard Andrew “Drew” Winkler lost his battle with PTSD on Memorial Day, May 30, 2016. He was 26 years old.
“An Amazing Man! If love could have saved him, he would have been immortal.”
Veteran with PTSD posts “1 of 22 per day…” just before taking his life:
‘Maybe they’ll listen now that he’s dead’: Crestview family grieves the loss of Drew:
Family of Veteran reaches out to PTSD sufferers:
Reality Check: Why is the Veteran suicide rate so high:
Crestview family spreads awareness of PTSD after loss of son:
Think of you everyday. Fly high we love you
Yesterday a Project Zero group in Valdosta Ga hiked 22 miles to help bring awareness to Veteran suicide and the emotional battles they battles fight. A close friend and I (both Air Force Veterans) carried a brick with us that just said A1C Winkler US Air Force. So today I googled and found this site. Although I do not know them, I am touched personally by all veteran suicides because they are all my brothers and sisters. I pray that we can find all vets the help that need when they need it the most. God bless A1C Winkler and his family❤️??
Even though I never met him there is a hole in my heart for him, pray daily for his loved ones left behind to remember him with every breath they take. God has you wrapped in his arms.
WE MUST NEVER FORGET ANY OF THEM! I remember climbing STONE MOUNTAIN a few years back. I WILL be doing a 2,222 mile Cross country drive. Not sure when it will happen due to the COVID 19. God bless you all for your service