CHESTERFIELD COUNTY, Va. — A former Chesterfield firefighter continues his mission of ensuring first responders appropriately address their mental health — both inside and outside the yellow tape — and is asking community members to join him.
Kenny Mitchell worked in the fire service for more than 20 years, but started the organization Operation Yellow Tape four years ago when his close friend and fellow fighter Tom took his own life.
“In 2020, he and I met off Interstate 95, and we talked for five hours. I had so much on my chest I wanted to say to him. I wanted to tell him that I was struggling, but I didn’t,” Mitchell said. “I didn’t tell him, and he went north and I went south, and then 17 days later, he took his life.”
Dozens of first responders from around the country will attend Operation Yellow Tape’s third annual conference Saturday at the Beulah Rec Center in Chesterfield. There will be live music, food, networking, discussion and workshops on the importance of recognizing and accepting mental health struggles.