In the heart of Caroline County, Maryland, the Board of County Commissioners convened on June 10, 2025, to address pressing community issues, highlighting both mental health awareness and local economic development. The meeting opened with a poignant proclamation declaring June as Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) Awareness Month, particularly focusing on the needs of veterans.

Commissioner Travis Breeding read the proclamation, emphasizing the profound impact of PTSD on millions of Americans, including veterans and civilians alike. The declaration aimed to destigmatize the condition and encourage those affected to seek help. “The brave men and women of the United States Armed Forces deserve every possible resource for their well-being,” Breeding stated, underscoring the importance of mental health support for all individuals suffering from trauma.

The discussion also touched on the need for a veterans court in Kent County, which would provide essential legal support for veterans facing challenges related to PTSD. Currently, veterans in Caroline County must travel to Dorchester County for such services, highlighting a gap in local resources. The commissioners expressed their commitment to improving access to mental health services, with plans to collaborate on establishing a veterans court in the region.

In a related note, Commissioner Glenn Cook advocated for the inclusion of first responders in the conversation about PTSD, recognizing that they too face traumatic experiences daily. “While it’s a little different than the military, they see bad things every day,” he remarked, suggesting that a separate initiative might be necessary to address their unique challenges.

Transitioning from mental health to economic growth, the meeting also celebrated the graduation of participants from the Caroline County Economic Edge Business Academy. Director Robert Zimmerhalt recognized the hard work of local entrepreneurs who completed the program, which included intensive courses on business management and financial planning. “These graduates put an awful lot of effort into this class,” Zimmerhalt noted, highlighting their dedication despite juggling full-time jobs and entrepreneurial pursuits.

As the meeting concluded, the commissioners reaffirmed their commitment to both mental health awareness and economic development, recognizing that the well-being of their community hinges on addressing these critical issues. The discussions not only shed light on the challenges faced by veterans and first responders but also celebrated the resilience and ambition of local business owners, leaving attendees with a sense of hope and determination for the future.