Every day 22 American servicemen and women die of self-inflicted harm. The statistics are staggering.

The number of combat-related deaths since 2003 is around 5,600.The number of service-related suicides for that same period is over 100,000.On Tuesday evening, Vocal Veterans held a vigil for victims of post-traumatic stress disorder at the Valor House at the old Hotel Jonas.“We did not know our son was suffering from PTSD,” said Sarah Wargo, mother of Army Specialist Michael Wargo. “Michael lived with it for eight years. He was a functioning biology teacher. We didn’t find out until the day he died.”Post-traumatic stress disorder is often silent, but it can be deadly. Vocal Veterans, a group out of Scranton, gives a voice to those suffering with PTSD. The group holds candlelight vigils monthly throughout the area to bring awareness and healing to veterans, their families and anyone interested in taking the time to hear the message.Vocal Veteran coordinator David Ragan said he attempted suicide twice. “Let me tell you, I meant to die,” Ragan said.“It wasn’t until I went through a long period of inpatient treatment that I realized that I had something to live for. Being a part of this organization has given me purpose. My children are the most important thing in my life, but this group comes a very close second.”Vocal Veterans invited local families who had lost someone to PTSD to be present at the vigil and to speak.Anna Rodriguez’s son, Marine Lance Corporal Nicholas Rodriguez had only been home from Afghanistan for a few months before taking his own life in his room on base.“That had been the happiest time, when I knew he was home safe,” she said. “I haven’t been happy once since that day in March of 2011.”Rodriguez spoke of her own struggles with depression since Nicholas’ death.She credits other mothers who have lost their children to PTSD to helping her find the strength to go on.Brian Smith said his son, Marine Color Sgt. Joshua Smith, had a saying that he used all the time when people complained about things.“Get a straw and suck it up, that’s what Josh would say,” Smith said of his son.“Joshua tried to get help through the VA, but it just didn’t work.”Vocal Veterans’ mission is to invite everyone out to raise awareness of not only suicide, but of its long-term, long-reaching effect on families and friends of the victims.“There is a huge need for awareness and prevention,” said Ragan.“If we save one person a day, just one, we are making a difference. Together we will save lives.”For more information on Vocal Veterans and for information on upcoming events you can follow them on Facebook at Facebook.com/VocalVeterans.If you are in crisis call 800-273-TALK and press 1.Ragan also said that if you are concerned about anyone, seek out help for them.“It is better to lose a friend because you called 911 for help, than to lose a friend to suicide.”