Janice R. Andrews
On New Year’s Day, decorated Green Beret Matthew Livelsberger, 37, tragically died by suicide in a Cybertruck explosion outside the Trump Hotel in Las Vegas. A five-time recipient of the Bronze Star, Livelsberger’s career in the Special Forces was marked by bravery and sacrifice. However, behind his military achievements was a man who struggled deeply with the psychological and physical scars of his service, especially after his deployment in Afghanistan.
A Career of Valor and Hidden Pain
Livelsberger’s distinguished service record, which included multiple Bronze Stars, spoke of a life dedicated to his country. He earned recognition for valor under fire, symbolizing his courageous actions on the frontlines. However, his time in Afghanistan came with a heavy emotional toll. Witnessing death and being required to take lives left invisible scars that he carried quietly for years.
While a proud father to a newborn born in 2023, Livelsberger’s military experiences weighed heavily on his mental and physical health. The burden of these experiences, including the loss of comrades and the trauma of war, began to take its toll.
A Confiding Friend
In 2018, Livelsberger found a confidant in Alicia Arritt, 39, a former Army nurse with experience treating traumatic brain injuries (TBI) at Landstuhl Regional Medical Center in Germany. Arritt recognized the signs of TBI in Livelsberger, as she had treated many soldiers with similar injuries caused by combat, such as explosions and roadside bombs.
Livelsberger’s symptoms of depression, memory issues, and emotional withdrawal became apparent early in their relationship. However, despite Arritt’s encouragement to seek help, Livelsberger hesitated, fearing the repercussions it could have on his military career.
Traumatic Brain Injury: An Invisible Wound
TBIs, often the result of concussions from explosions or blasts, can have long-lasting effects, but they are not always immediately apparent. Livelsberger initially downplayed his injuries, referring to them as “just some concussions” from his time in Helmand Province. Yet, his struggles with exhaustion, lack of sleep, and recurring thoughts of the violence he experienced began to emerge more clearly in conversations with Arritt.
In private messages, Livelsberger opened up about his overwhelming pain, describing his life as “a personal hell” after returning from deployment. He conveyed feelings of exhaustion, sleep deprivation, and vivid recollections of the violence he experienced in Afghanistan.
A Final Act with Meaning
On December 28, 2024, Livelsberger reached out to Arritt unexpectedly with upbeat messages, including videos of him driving his Tesla Cybertruck. However, these messages contrasted sharply with the events that unfolded shortly after. On New Year’s Day, he tragically took his life in front of the Trump Hotel, using the truck in a dramatic and calculated act.
Las Vegas law enforcement later confirmed that the act was intentional, with Livelsberger leaving behind notes describing his actions as a way to “cleanse the demons” he was carrying and as a “wake-up call” for others. There was no evidence suggesting political motivations, despite some initial speculations due to the location and vehicle involved. Arritt believes his actions were not impulsive, noting that Livelsberger was always thoughtful and deliberate in his decisions.
The Stigma of Mental Health in the Military
Arritt reflected on the stigma surrounding mental health issues within the military, particularly in elite units like the Special Forces. “In his unit, mental health was seen as a weakness,” she shared. This environment made it difficult for Livelsberger to seek the care he needed, even though he was deeply struggling with the psychological toll of his service.
Calls for Change
In the wake of Livelsberger’s death, the Pentagon has pledged to review his medical records and emphasized the importance of seeking mental health support. Pentagon deputy press secretary Sabrina Singh reiterated the message for service members facing mental health challenges to take advantage of the resources available to them. “If you need help, seek the services that are available,” Singh stated.
However, Arritt argues that more needs to be done to address the unique challenges faced by veterans, especially those in elite combat units like the Special Forces. “The military didn’t get him help when he needed it,” she said, calling for a cultural shift to eliminate the stigma surrounding mental health.
A Man Remembered for His Strength
While Livelsberger’s death was a tragic end to a life filled with bravery, those who knew him remember the man behind the uniform. “He had a deep well of inner strength and character,” Arritt recalled. Livelsberger was known for his integrity and kindness, qualities that made his struggles even more heartbreaking.
A Broader Conversation About Veteran Support
Livelsberger’s story underscores the importance of early intervention and support systems for veterans dealing with trauma. Military leaders, mental health experts, and lawmakers must take action to ensure that no veteran suffers in silence. Providing confidential support and reducing the stigma around mental health care are crucial steps toward preventing tragedies like this in the future.
A National Responsibility to Support Veterans
The loss of Matthew Livelsberger is a poignant reminder of the emotional and psychological toll that war can take on soldiers long after they return home. As a society, we must honor not only their service and sacrifice but also provide the support they need to heal from the invisible wounds of combat.
For veterans in crisis, help is available through the Veterans Crisis Line at 988, pressing 1, or by visiting VeteransCrisisLine.net.
