
Brett Bonner
Brett Bonner was a dedicated surfman in the U.S. Coast Guard for 21 years, known for his bravery in saving lives while confronting the relentless challenges of rough seas. Despite his heroic profession, he struggled with severe mental health issues, including anxiety and memory loss, which his family later suspected were linked to undiagnosed brain injuries from his time on rescue boats. Tragically, he took his own life in 2025, leaving behind a family grappling with the hidden toll of his service.
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Brett Bonner saved hundreds of lives during 21 years on rescue boats in the Coast Guard.
Rescue boat crews showed signs of brain injuries, but the US Coast Guard wasn’t lookingThe New Zealand Herald – country’s largest newspaper, est. 1863·
New Zealand· 2026-08-04






