Death of local soldier highlights mental health issues among military personnel

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Army Sergeant James Bernier died Monday, March 23, at Fort Carson, Colorado.

He was only 22 years old.

Bernier will join the U.S. Army’s storied tradition after completing basic training in 2023.

He is now one of a growing number of veterans who have died by suicide.

More than 6,000 veterans will die by suicide in 2023, according to the latest data from the Department of Veterans Affairs. This number remains stable every year.

“The most common issues we see in veterans who have served in a variety of roles are anxiety, depression, and often trauma and PTSD issues,” said Shannon Blouin, regional clinic director for Thriveworks.

The mental health battle can continue long after the mission is over and until service members return home.

“They’ve been taught a really different way of life, haven’t they?” Bruin said. “Often they live in another country and have different experiences that don’t have the same day-to-day stressors that we experience.”

Resources are available, but many say more needs to be done.

“If we can provide additional supports, we can make these processes more streamlined and get people into care in a more comprehensive way, where they feel all their needs are met and where they feel appreciated and supported and feel safe. If we can do those things, I think we can alleviate the mental health crisis that we’re seeing in this population,” Bruin said.

Bernier was one such soldier, but it is unclear exactly what he suffered from.

According to his obituary, he was deployed to both South Korea and assisting at the U.S. southern border.

He earned his Sergeant’s Chevron on February 1, 2026.

To his family, he was a son, a brother, an uncle, and so much more.

Bernier’s family witnessed the dignified transfer of his remains at Gerald R. Ford International Airport early Friday morning.

13 ON YOUR SIDE spoke to Bernier’s mother, Heather Bernier, ahead of the plane’s arrival.

Speaking about his life, she said he grew up in a military family, where he developed a strong spirit of service and dedication from an early age.

“I knew he was dealing with a little bit of grief,” Heather Bernier said.

“As you know, it was difficult to lose two of my grandparents in such a short period of time and not be able to return home. [years old] I’ve been away and been through a lot, but I never imagined it would be so difficult.”

She said the family established the James P. Bernier Memorial Scholarship in his honor.

“I actually started a scholarship through the Mason County Education Foundation, which will give $1,000 a year for 50 years to students going into the field of mental health.”

Heather Bernier continues her mission to raise awareness about veteran mental health by speaking to veteran groups and encouraging them to seek help if needed.

“Use your support system. Call, text, call 988. There are local groups, friends and family,” she said. “Never feel alone. There are many people out there who love each other and love our veterans. Reach out. Don’t go through anything alone.”

The funeral of Sgt. Funeral services for James P. Bernier will be held at 1 p.m. Saturday, April 4, at Grace Funeral Home, with visitation beginning at 11 a.m. at the funeral home.

If you or someone you know is facing a mental health crisis, know that there is help available. The Michigan Crisis Access Line provides support 24/7 and answers calls to 988. You can also text 988 for help.