Retired Marine stands for 24 hours straight to raise awareness about veteran suicide

On a concrete median at the corner of Constitution Avenue and 23rd Street Northwest stands retired marine Staff Sergeant Tim Chambers.

Chambers' wife Lorraine says her husband began his Memorial Day weekend tradition of saluting motorcyclists in 2002. "It's a very emotional time, very emotional," Lorraine stated.

This year, however, the 45-year-old San Diego county resident plans to stand for 24 hours straight to raise awareness about veteran suicide.

Chambers is even abstaining from water, food and bathroom breaks.

The retired Marine's demonstration is a part of his Saluting Marine Cares organization.

“Health, relationships, financial, those are the biggest things that contribute to suicide," said Sabrina Barella, who helps Chambers run Saluting Marine Cares.

The nonprofit organization pays for medical bills left uncovered by the U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs.