JJ Millett Case: A Platoon Mate’s Perspective on Mental Health and Justice
In part four of my Oscar Mike Radio series on JJ Millett, I sit down with his former platoon mate, Chad Abbott, for a powerful and deeply personal conversation.
Chad served alongside JJ in the Vermont Army National Guard and describes him as a calm, kindhearted veteran who served honorably in Afghanistan. JJ always looked out for others. That’s why he was shocked when he learned about the domestic terrorism charges JJ now faces following a mental health crisis.
From Chad’s firsthand experience, he makes it clear: these charges don’t reflect the man he knows.
In this episode, we dig into serious concerns surrounding the veteran crisis line system, the impact of sudden medication changes on mental health, and the broader consequences of criminalizing veterans who are trying to get help. Chad speaks candidly about why he believes the charges are excessive, unjust, and potentially harmful not just for JJ, but for the entire veteran community.
This conversation is about more than one veteran.
It’s about how we respond when those who served raise their hand and ask for help. It’s about accountability, compassion, and ensuring that support systems work the way they’re intended to.
Chad calls for community support and for the charges against JJ to be dropped, significantly reduced, or dropped altogether, because the stakes extend far beyond a single case.
If you care about veterans, mental health, and doing what’s right, this is an episode you need to hear.
JJ, you are not alone.
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