My truth was unveiled while serving in Vietnam, where nothing short of unbelievable became my reality. This war was so unreal that it seemed like a dream, but the nightmares are still overwhelming. The combat trials that took place can only be understood by another veteran of the war, both past and present.
Like all war survivors, many of whom are young men and women, they find themselves trying to fit into a society that wasn’t very welcoming. Many returning veterans who have survived death or some other physical dependency also find themselves yielding to people who don’t care. Unfortunately, they all search for ways to lessen their pain and the graphic images of so much horror. As I sought many years to fight these nightmares and become whole again, those lingering images remain and often haunt me even today.
Fifty years later, I find that the struggles that I experienced are still present, and that thought is daunting. For many, futures are bleak, and the American dream has nearly been decimated, at least for some. Furthering education through financial assistance and finding housing opportunities and jobs are now more questionable than ever. The chance to acquire these things diminishes due to the lack of cooperation and biases from those in a position to help. I further contend that the help needed seems to fall on deaf ears, and detached are those with the visual acuity to see the right and dispel the wrongs. However, these decision-makers are still trying to take away veterans’ benefits with their blood and sweat. So, my story was written to inspire all to persevere and continue to fight for what is rightfully yours, just as I have chosen to fight despite my disappointments. I am now home, but I’m still not free to move about as a man of means without the perverse scrutiny laid at the feet of a struggling race. The therapy that I now receive came 40 plus years later through the Veterans Administration, made available by President Obama and Michele’s lovely wife. If not for these two individuals, my psychological struggles would still be crippling, leaving me with shallow dreams and little hope. So, for now, I am healing, and for that, I am thankful!
Semper Fi!
This Article was Last Updated On: September 13, 2021