For many veterans, the most difficult battles begin after they return home. The scars of war are not always visible, and for former Army Captain Will Coulter, the toll of combat has extended far beyond his three tours—two in Iraq and one in Afghanistan. His story is a poignant reminder of the ongoing challenges faced by service members after deployment, particularly in the face of veteran suicide and the struggle to find healing.

Post-deployment trauma is a reality that Coulter knows all too well. Although he was fortunate to bring all his soldiers home from combat, he later lost four of them to suicide—two while still serving and two after he had left the military. These losses left an indelible mark on him. "It feels great when you bring everybody home from a combat tour, right, that you don't lose any soldiers or service members there," Coulter shared. "But when you come back, a lot of people don't realize there's, there's a lot of scars that are still there. It may not be a physical scar. A lot of times it's a mental."

The emotional weight of these experiences has driven Coulter to take action. Determined to make a difference in the lives of fellow veterans, he has turned to music therapy as a path to healing. He is a strong advocate for Freedom Sings USA, a nonprofit organization that helps veterans process their experiences through songwriting and music. This form of therapy, which allows veterans to tell their stories in a creative and supportive environment, has gained attention for its ability to provide emotional relief and foster connection.

To support this cause, Coulter is organizing a golf tournament in Chattanooga, Tennessee. The event aims to raise funds for Freedom Sings USA so that more veterans can access its services. The tournament is not just about raising money—it is also about remembrance. Each year, the event will honor a different service member, keeping their memory alive while supporting those still struggling.

This year’s honoree is Sergeant Jeremy Smith, one of Coulter’s soldiers in Afghanistan. Smith was a decorated soldier, a double Purple Heart recipient with two awards for valor. Coulter credits Smith with potentially saving his life during one particularly dangerous moment overseas. Honoring Smith through this event is a deeply personal gesture for Coulter and a way to ensure that Smith’s bravery and sacrifice are not forgotten.

I found this detail striking: while Coulter’s professional achievements as a company commander were significant, it is his commitment to his soldiers after combat that truly stands out. His leadership did not end with his military service—it evolved into a mission to support mental health and healing for veterans. This kind of ongoing dedication speaks volumes about the bonds formed in service and the responsibilities many veterans feel long after their active duty ends.

Veteran mental health, music therapy for veterans, and support for military families are increasingly recognized as vital areas of need. With the United States engaged in conflict for two decades, the psychological effects on those who served are profound. Coulter’s efforts highlight the importance of community-based initiatives that provide veterans with tools to cope and connect. Events like the Chattanooga golf tournament not only raise awareness but also offer a tangible way for the public to engage with and support the veteran community.

Freedom Sings USA, the organization benefiting from the tournament, uses collaborative songwriting as a therapeutic tool. Veterans work with professional songwriters to craft songs that reflect their experiences, allowing them to process trauma and share their stories in a meaningful way. The program has been praised for its ability to foster emotional expression and reduce isolation, which are critical factors in suicide prevention.

Coulter’s belief in the power of music is rooted in a desire to help others avoid the pain he has experienced. His initiative serves as a beacon for those looking to make a difference in the lives of veterans. By combining his love of golf, his leadership skills, and his commitment to mental health, he is creating a space where healing can begin and memories can be honored.

As the tournament becomes an annual tradition, it will serve as both a fundraiser and a memorial. Each year, a new name will be remembered, and more veterans will be reached through the programs it supports. It is a powerful reminder that while the battles may be over, the responsibility to care for those who fought them continues.

In a world where the invisible wounds of war often go unnoticed, stories like Coulter’s highlight the importance of compassion, creativity, and community. His work underscores the need for ongoing support for veterans and offers a model for how individuals can transform personal loss into public service.

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