back on NBC Palm Springs: decorated Navy fighter pilot and Top Gun graduate Matthew “Wiz” Buckley.
Buckley, founder of the nonprofit No Fallen Heroes Foundation, is committed to addressing the national crisis of veteran suicide. On average, 22 veterans take their lives every day—though some experts believe the real number may be higher due to underreporting.
Wiz shared that his organization provides healing grants for veterans to receive psychedelic-assisted therapy. “These medicines aren’t for everyone,” Buckley said, “but radical trauma might need radical therapy.” Since its founding, No Fallen Heroes has helped nearly 75 veterans, first responders, and family members undergo transformational healing.
Buckley also discussed a recent breakthrough: during a cabinet meeting, President Trump publicly addressed veteran suicide, with the VA secretary responding that they’re now exploring psychedelics as a potential treatment option. Buckley called the moment historic and shared that he’s flying to Washington, D.C. to meet with VA officials.
While federal funding has yet to match the urgency of the crisis—only $1.5 million has been allocated over five years—Buckley says the conversation is finally shifting. Still, he believes more immediate action is needed, such as providing vouchers to veterans who pay out of pocket for psychedelic therapy.
Reflecting on the 16 aviation brothers he lost during his career—including four to suicide—Buckley urged anyone who knows a struggling veteran to reach out. “Healing is possible. There is a way out,” he said. “Send them to NoFallenHeroes.com.”
As the foundation grows, Buckley’s message remains clear: America must go beyond “thank you for your service” and take bold, compassionate action to support its veterans.
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By: Fred Roggin
May 7, 2025
