Tanner Wilde, a U.S. Army veteran, has turned his personal struggles with mental health into a mission to help fellow veterans. After facing significant challenges following his military service, Wilde is now dedicated to providing support and hope to others in the veteran community.
Wilde enlisted in the U.S. Army through the delayed entry program while still in high school, seeking adventure and a purpose. Deployed to Afghanistan at age 20, he served with Bravo Company, 1st Battalion, 36th Infantry Regiment as a paratrooper, eventually becoming a special operations civil affairs team sergeant and medical sergeant. After completing his service in 2021, which included deployments to Afghanistan, Syria, and Bangladesh, Wilde found himself grappling with depression and a sense of lost purpose.
“I was searching for what my purpose was because the military is all I ever knew,” Wilde stated, reflecting on his transition to civilian life. He experienced severe mental health challenges, including depression and suicidal thoughts. “Things came to a head in 2023, and I was starting to go down the path toward suicide,” he said. With support from his wife and various veteran organizations, Wilde was able to seek help.
Finding Purpose Through Service
Today, Wilde channels his experiences into veteran outreach, collaborating with organizations such as Veterans Affairs and volunteering with groups like Nodens Outdoors and Believet Canine Service Partners. Nodens Outdoors offers bowhunting therapy for veterans, while Believet provides service animals to those dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries.
Wilde finds profound satisfaction in helping veterans who are transitioning out of the military. “It may not be what I was doing in the military, but being able to currently have a role in helping veterans find hope where hope doesn’t seem present is beyond rewarding,” he remarked. His service dog, Taz, plays a crucial role in his healing journey and serves as a symbol of resilience.
This Veterans Day, Wilde and Taz volunteered with Believet Canine Service Partners to raise awareness about invisible wounds and the therapeutic benefits of service animals. “They’re trying to continue to provide service animals for veterans, but they do cost thousands of dollars,” he explained. “Speaking about them and their benefits is essential to expand availability.”
Support and Community Impact
Wilde emphasizes the importance of reaching out for help, stating, “It’s OK to not be OK.” He encourages veterans to talk about their struggles and seek assistance, highlighting the availability of the 988 Suicide and Crisis Lifeline for those in need. “As hard as it is, there will be somebody that will listen,” he added.
On a significant note, Wilde received a new high-efficiency furnace for his home in Mounds View, courtesy of The Snelling Company and Auer Steel. This gesture is a token of gratitude for his service and commitment to the community. Phil Krinkie, president of The Snelling Company, expressed, “He served our country, fought his own battles, and now fights for others. This is just one way we can give back and thank him for his service.”
Wilde’s journey reflects the resilience of veterans and the vital support systems available. After moving 14 times during his military career, he now finds stability and community in Mounds View. “This is a home we don’t want to have to pick up again,” he said, emphasizing the importance of belonging and support.
For those seeking help, immediate emotional or mental health support is available through the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988lifeline.org. Further resources for veterans can be found at mentalhealth.va.gov/suicide_prevention.
