Never Relieved of My Military Duty Would Do It All Over Again
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This is the second in a iv-office serial most Afghanistan Veterans and how they can get help through VA. Read the other parts:
Function ane: Afghanistan: How Veterans tin can reconcile service
Part iii: Afghanistan: How spouses, caregivers tin can back up Veterans with PTSD
Part 4: Transitional islamic state of afghanistan: Resource available for PTSD
The second function of this series focuses on how those who served in Afghanistan can learn from those who served in Vietnam.
While the conflicts are different, there are parallels.
Each operation had U.S. interest for about ii decades. Both countries had a depression initial corporeality of forces. Both subsequently had a surge in forces. U.S. forces in both theaters fought an enemy that hid among the people. The U.South. participation in the Vietnam War started catastrophe in 1973 with the signing of the Paris Peace Accords. The U.South. withdrew, leaving the country to determine a path ahead. In Afghanistan, the U.S. withdrawal will leave Afghans to determine their ain future.
Emotions on Afghanistan
When the proclamation came that U.South. forces would go out Transitional islamic state of afghanistan this year, it triggered a complicated wave of emotions through those who served in the country. Air Force Veteran Scott Watson is one of them.
Watson spent a year in Afghanistan from July 2009 to July 2010. He worked for Combined Security Transition Control – Afghanistan as the Afghan National Regular army fuels officer, the top level of the supply chain when it came to fuel. He spent a year separated from his daughter.
"Information technology was a mix of thwarting and relief," Watson said about hearing the news. "I'm disappointed that nosotros're leaving, and I don't feel like we're done preparation the Afghan security forces. At the same time, I'm relieved that I don't e'er take to go run across names of people that I know redeploying to this identify where it's just Groundhog Day every day."
Vet Centers assist Veterans and service members who deployed to areas of hostility or who experience sure types of trauma while serving, likewise as their families.
Veterans meeting
The withdrawals are an feel that Transitional islamic state of afghanistan and Vietnam Veterans share.
1 of the means Transitional islamic state of afghanistan and Vietnam Veterans come up together is through Vet Centers. Vet Centers operate outside of the traditional medical model, where eligible Veterans, service members and their families can come together to find meaning in their service. Talking through these shared experiences helps, and there'due south no time limit or additional price for services.
"I've got Vietnam Veterans who are still coming hither, non considering nosotros failed to resolve any issue in their life, but considering they constitute a dwelling in the customs," said Joe Lasky, managing director of the Las Vegas Vet Center. "They institute friendships and a mode to come talk and deal with problems that may have started in Vietnam, but now affect their current wellness. Considering Vet Centers are readjustment counseling, that'southward defined by every Veteran who comes in hither."
Lasky tin can run into the bonds because he's an Afghanistan Veteran himself. He served on active duty in the 1st Ranger Battalion for iv years, and so joined the National Guard.
Vet Centers provide help
It was the Vietnam Veterans who created those first grass roots Vet Centers, as early as the 1970's, because of a lack of trust that their service and trauma could exist understood, as well as a seemingly limited access to VA benefits and services. Today, Vet Centers help Veterans and service members who deployed to areas of hostility or who feel sure types of trauma while serving, as well as their families. In doing so, professional counselors and outreach staff work with individuals from all generations. Counselors help to identify goals and work to create support structures to accomplish those goals and overall aid in the readjustment of those who served. That ranges from assisting in referrals for VA benefits like GI Pecker or VA home loans to more than traditional counseling. Counseling can include individual, group, couples and family unit counseling, tackling symptoms associated with anger management or improving relationships.
Vietnam Veterans created grass roots Vet Centers as early as the 1970s.
Lasky said Vet Centers also try to become Veterans together for activity-based groups based on the local needs and desires of the community the Vet Center is in. These may include activities ranging from outdoor recreational trips, yoga classes, gardening groups to music, art and writing groups. During these engagements, the goal is for Veterans and service members to open up upwards about their experiences.
"I've seen a willingness to effort to do a lot of mentoring from the Vietnam Veterans," Lasky said. Since the Vietnam Veterans are decades removed from conflict, many, he said, will offer up advice to younger Veterans to not repeat whatever mistakes they might have made.
Linking up Veterans
Lasky said when he was the Vet Center director in Yuma, Arizona, Vietnam Veterans would link up with Marines from Marine Corps Air Station Yuma. During trips, sometimes washed with line-fishing poles in hand, the older Veterans would help talk through difficult problems.
"The Vietnam Vets really liked it because they like to be able to say, 'We understand, nosotros've been dealing with this for years, then let's talk about,'" Lasky said.
Many times, Vietnam Veterans would pass along guidance of focusing on the personal level of service. They would focus on "Did I do my chore to the best of my ability and back up my brothers and sisters to the all-time of my power?" Lasky added.
"What came out of that was friendships and bonding and experiences that have united the generations," he said. "Two generations from dissever eras, but they have that shared conflict. They were there at different times and a different space, but they back up each other.
Now he hopes the Afghanistan Veterans will come up in to bail with their fellow warriors.
"Allow's only remove the era and exist Veterans of conflict together, and see what we tin can talk about, recognize and resolve," he said. "A lot of them are on the same path, maybe a little further down the road. Peradventure in that location's a bonding we tin learn from."
Parallels and lessons
Because of the parallels, by lessons from Vietnam Veterans tin help Afghanistan Veterans.
"It is likely that part of why Vietnam Veterans have struggled is because of their homecoming. That may have made it harder time finding pregnant when that conflict ended," said Dr. Sonya Norman, manager of the National Center for PTSD Consultation Program.
A 2022 study in the Journal of Nervous and Mental Affliction said Vietnam Veterans had low homecoming back up. Another periodical report said negative homecoming experiences predicted warzone-related PTSD symptoms upward to xl years post-deployment.
Closure is necessary
Closure is a necessary function of managing PTSD symptoms, said Dr. Jennifer Vasterling, the chief of psychology at the VA Boston Healthcare Organisation and affiliated investigator with the National Center for PTSD.
"The closure helps people demarcate how people feel most things," Vasterling said. "Without closure, at that place'due south just a lot more room for ambiguity."
Veterans may take problem adjusting because the conflict is not ending with victory parades, but with an announcement.
"People are looking for meaning," Norman said. "What did it mean that I went there, what did it mean that I risked my life, what does it mean that I saw other people lose their life? In some ways, the celebration gives it some pregnant, gives it a lens to look through for that experience. If y'all don't have that, you lot're left to figure it out on your own."
Considering of the similarities in the U.S. end to the conflict, Norman said Veterans need to address their PTSD issues.
"With this more cryptic conflict where we had some successes, we're leaving with things still uncertain, in that location's a lot more room for people to have interpretations that tin have very big impacts and long-term consequences for their mental wellness," Norman said.
Learn more:
Vet Centers are customs-based counseling centers that provide a wide range of social and psychological services, including professional readjustment counseling to eligible Veterans, service members – including National Guard and Reserve components – and their families.
Readjustment counseling is offered to make a successful transition from armed forces to noncombatant life or afterwards a traumatic upshot experienced in the military. Individual, group, matrimony and family counseling is offered in addition to referral and connection to other VA or community benefits and services. Vet Centre counselors and outreach staff, many of whom are Veterans themselves, are experienced and prepared to discuss the tragedies of war, loss, grief and transition after trauma.
Larn more: https://world wide web.vetcenter.va.gov/
Find a Vet Middle: https://www.va.gov/find-locations/?facilityType=vet_center
Phone call the Vet Center call center: 1-877- 927-8387
Peer support
Other helpful options are peer support specialists and peer support groups. Veterans interested in participating in peer support need a referral from their Mental Health Service provider. Peer support specialists are a group who draw on by experiences to assistance bridge the gap betwixt Veteran and provider. Peer support groups are a identify where Veterans tin can discuss day-to-day issues with other people who accept been through trauma. Support groups have not been shown to reduce PTSD symptoms, but they can help Veterans feel amend in other ways.
"They've all served, deployed and at present gone through treatment," Norman said. "They're now sort of in this bridge role between the Veteran and the clinician."
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Source: https://blogs.va.gov/VAntage/92731/afghanistan-how-veterans-can-learn-from-vietnam-veterans/
I call back younger vets can figure out how to get screwed past the VA without whatever advice from Vietnam Veterans.
In 1979, when more than ane half of Vietnam Combat veterans had already been home for better than a decade, the VA pulled together an interesting mix of VA employees and mostly non VA employee veterans who were so involved in diverse "self assist" veteran service centers from effectually the nation, I was privileged to be 1 of those who gathered in St. Louis to create what was afterwards chosen the VA Vet Center program. In 1981, when newly elected President Reagan tried to eliminate the Vet Center program, once again our community stepped up to politically salvage the Vet Centers from the cutting block as proposed by OMB. However today, the Vet Center programme remains a vital resource for the home coming of thousands of veterans and their families. Welcome dwelling house veterans.
I read with great interest the excellent warfighting, concrete
and mental skills, that were common
to American Soldiers, Marines, Sailors, and all Airedales.
My war was Vietnam; mine might accept
had a slight advantage nosotros had no cellphones and laptops. I don't know how you folks proceed from having an emotional breakup after hanging upward on Sugar and little Herbie the 6 year quondam.
Sug says "how did your day go, Dearest?" Hon who has 4chevrons with six rockers says, " 'bout the same Sug, did a chopper insertion. On the way, door gunner was hit then I took his gun. I shot up about a 60 enemy patrol, couple bombers, and 7 trucks. We took some hits and lost an engine. I was able to get information technology back to the field, and every ane will be Okay." Just a regular 101 day."
"How'd yer twenty-four hours go Sug?" "Well, Hon,
the radiator overheated taking the kids to school. You sis Marybelle is letting us use her auto. The radiator guy wants you lot should talk to him, can you remember?" Ohh, and that atrocious older boy chosen our boy a 'fucker'. The Principal heard information technology and wants you lot and his Dad in the function, as soon every bit you can wing in." And, allow'south see, the Parents and Teachers want you to exercise a talk on the war, but don't bore them like last year, Okay? Sure Sug, talk to you earlier tomorrow." 'kay Hon, kiss, osculation." "Nite, Sug, smackers.
Am I the merely one who sees the irony of Biden taking credit for getting the states out of Afghanistan. His senate votes were what got united states into that mess(as well every bit Iraq).
Thank you BROTHERS AND SISTERS FOR YOUR SERVICE TO OUR Land. I was in Viet Nam 70-71. Noncombat. I fixed radios at Long Bien.
For some the demons follow yous home. Virtually of mine were waiting for me when I got back. Divorce , depression , etc. You didn't let anyone know y'all served in Nam. I never did drugs but I abused my liver rather desperately.
I felt guilty considering I believed I was feeling sorry for myself. That may be partly truthful but the truth is I was pissed off. I don't want this to exist a "poor
me, I am a Viet Nam vet story." But wanted you to know you lot have a right to be angry. Our country has failed u.s. over again.
GOD Bless ALL OF OUR MILITARY AND VETERANS.
After graduating from Mechanic's School in Aberdeen Proving Grounds Maryland, in 1965. Some of our class went to Frg and Vietnam, and Republic of korea, and the Canal zone. I was sent to Republic of korea, Not much activeness going on there, about boring. I had no problem with it, No 1 was shooting at me, or was trying to blow me upwardly, and I did not see any snakes. The atmospheric condition was balmy the 13 months I was at that place. They did ask for Volunteers for Vietnam. IF I remember right quite a few did volunteer, because they had a meliorate run a risk of getting promoted? I did not volunteer. I stayed in Korea and it worked out fine for me, and I made E-5 at xviii months. My dad was in the Regular army during WW-2 and he made P.F.C. and he was Torpedo past the Germans, was in the h2o, but was picked up within v min. The only advice he gave me was , "DON'T VOLUNTEER"! for annihilation! That little chip of cognition, has served me well. OF Course today's Ground forces is a lot unlike then what information technology was so.
Except for WW-2 Nosotros or US have lost every war since including Korea, Vietnam, Iraq, and now Afghanistan, All considering of 1 man. OUR COMMANDER IN Primary! The U.S. spent over 2 TRILLION DOLLARS on the Afghanistan WAR, and gives it's on denizen's a STIMULUS check for $1200.00? Truman Lost Korea, Nixon lost Vietnam, Bush, lost Iraq, and at present Trump and Biden BOTH LOST Afghanistan!
IF Truman would of allow MACARTHUR nuke North korea, I practise not retrieve we would of lost any more wars, considering their would of not been whatever! And then at present we accept to worry about Democratic people's republic of korea nuking us?
Sad, simply I disagree. Vietnam was lost way earlier Nixon came into office. I know, considering I served there.
The Gulf State of war (Deserts Shield/Storm) was a success. State of kuwait was liberated quickly because of excellent leadership from the Vietnam time. Nosotros got in, accomplished our mission, and got out.
I served in Viet Nam (69 – lxx), and like many of my brothers and sisters who served in that location I returned to an America that called us names and spat on us. Considering of that, whenever I see a person in a military uniform I thank them for their service. Unfortunately, I had a bad feeling that Afghanistan would terminate the same was every bit Viet Nam did. Equally some take already expressed, in that location were many similarities between the two wars, including leaving many of the locals who helped u.s.a. behind to face the ruthless enemy alone. The only difference is that nosotros were in Viet Nam for 10 years before we pulled out, while it took u.s. twenty years earlier we pulled out of Afghanistan. We should have learned a lesson from our attempts to defeat the Viet Nam guerilla fighters (Viet Cong) and Chinese-backed North Army, and the Russians' failed 1979 attempt to support the communist Afghan government against the Afghan guerilla fighters. To those who criticize our President's determination, I believe that he made a very difficult decision, but that information technology was the correct i considering information technology was an unwinnable war. I practise not believe his decision was for political proceeds…information technology was considering we had been there style too long and nosotros had met our original goal of driving al-Qaeda out of Afghanistan and bringing those who planned and attacked us on 9/11/2001 to justice. To those who served one or more tours in Transitional islamic state of afghanistan I say "Give thanks you for your dedicated service and heroism nether very difficult circumstances, and welcome dwelling. God bless America.
I served from 1978-2010… I did not serve in Viet Nam merely watched my relatives and neighbors who did. I Enlisted in the infantry and served all 32.5 years in the infantry. Fortunately when we returned from OIF and OEF we were received with open arms. We had reintegration sessions and offered assist. In spite of all of that, every one of us faced emotional challenges. Nosotros grew up knowing WWII, Korea, Viet Nam, and veterans of other conflicts. They talked footling well-nigh their emotional scars and many did not focus on the "woe exist me" and "never should have been there" attribute that I hear some hanging their lid on. Instead they taught my generation nearly the importance of freedoms. Freedoms not just for our citizens but also for others. They taught us correct from incorrect and how to work difficult and how to lead.
My sons served in Iraq and Afghanistan … in the infantry. They also have some baggage and nosotros try to talk about it… because nosotros understand each other and experienced the similar things. We have figured out that spending fourth dimension together and talking about our experiences helps a lot. Nosotros take figured out that information technology is important to await forward and not dwell on the past… brand things better and not make excuses. Continue in affect with our close buddies and help them with the same.
I encourage every one of y'all to do the aforementioned… think positively and focus on the next generation. Weather condition y'all agree with our countries leaders or not… make a difference at the local level. Modify what is wrong at the footing level. Rebuild a culture of pride that nosotros saw in our forefathers.
Nosotros tried to brand a difference and I am confident nosotros did. But we tin can not change the civilization of other countries… they have to practise that.
Love Comrades of Afghanistan – Welcome Habitation. I served in the VietNam War, notwithstanding, serving State-Side, not In -State. Our country has the VietNam Wall to remind united states of america of the ultimate sacrifices made past over 58,000 men and women who went to state of war with a mission to continue to keep America Rubber and Free and with the ultimate purpose to keep the Ruddy, White and Blue – Our Flag intact and forever waving that beautiful "Hello!." Although we never were welcomed home, we are forever impacted by what did happen when we arrived land-side. Hence, nosotros begin each day looking for that flag. It gives credence to the mission we completed.
With Afghanistan, the world was/is a different era and would I dare say a different mission? You lot veterans served just as the VietNam Veterans served and coming abode for both was something we did not expect. Afghanistan'due south mission/ role changed. Was the destruction of the number one man supposed to end America's involvement in Afghanistan?
Welcome Home – Veterans of Afghanistan! Equally veterans, we are all Comrades-In-Arms, we are all Family, a unlike kind of family only those who have served will e'er know. Nosotros are here to help each other – we don't know you need help unless you ask – anytime- anywhere- any place. Just pick up the phone and dial us. We will be in that location. You know our military training lasts a lifetime. Thank you for doing a part to keep freedom for America. What we do today prepares the veterans of tomorrow. As long as nosotros proceed to exercise that, in that location will exist freedom for America. God Anoint America!
Cheers.
Welcome Home, Comrades. Although I served in the VietNam War and served State-side and not In-State, we are all Comrades-In-Arms. We all served with a purpose – for the Red, White and Blue. We had a mission to preserve freedom for America. The Vietnam Wall is a daily reminder of the sacrifices made – every day we say a daily prayer and thank them. And they are always in our thoughts. Afghanistan is another mission similar to VietNam. Many of us thought taking out the "Number 1 Man" would put an end for American soldiers to serve in Transitional islamic state of afghanistan. That didn't happen. I will say no more on that. Welcome Home from Transitional islamic state of afghanistan. Be bodacious we all served our state, for our flag. Nosotros all supported our Comrades-In-Arms. We did our best. All veterans are ane huge family unit. Fellow veterans are here to offer our back up for all of you lot. Please reach out to united states. That may be the best determination you will have fabricated today. God Bless America !
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I served with the 11th Armored Cav (Blackhorse) 1966-67 in a largely non-combat role. Our basecamp was a few miles from Xuan Loc. I call up sitting in the American Legion throwing down shots of whiskey in 1975 watching the ARVNs on TV making their last stand up at Xuan Loc. After Xuan Loc fell, Saigon (never say Ho Chi Minh City to me) gave up with little fighting. I came home a bitter aroused drunk. It took a long time, and a failed union to get me on the right rails. I am at present remarried and retired and haven't had a beverage in 35 years, Some things to call back: for the Afghan vets. If you did the best you could , in that location is nothing more you could have done. Nothing yous did would have changed the outcome. Lots of Americans volition not capeesh you — that's their problem, not yours. I hope you have improve luck with jobs than many of usa did, but don't expect undying gratitude from American businesses. If somebody tries to put you lot down, simply look at the source and ignore them. Taking drugs and alcohol is probably the wrong mode to go. If you lot tin can use alcohol properly, good for you. I couldn't. Take a great life. You lot deserve information technology.
Acquire that the war was a scam to make money for people who were already rich. Our guys died for nothing.
My comments are besides not being posted past the VA. Pitiful for beingness then honest. Only sure opinions are immune, eh?
Aforementioned here. Apparently the gov't simply listens to good news. That'southward how we got stuck over in that location in the first place!
The regime screwed Viet Nam Vets then, their going to screw you now!!
The VA is non going to post what I accept written because its the truth. If you lot do non want the truth then stop making this bulletin board available, RATS!
Hello, they keep removing my comments as well. Honesty is something our regime and Military don't completely appreciate, specially from those of u.s.a. that served.
I served in Viet Nam (1969-1970). I volunteered to enter the service and saw the Russians while in Deutschland invade Czechkoslavkia and and then off to Viet Nam where the Communist Chinese pushed into the country. My tour of duty is an exemplar of how things went wrong: let's showtime with General Westmoreland a slap-up patriot and Commander. The mission under Westmoreland was " search and destroy" and we did that with valor, Then cometh the Demon Richard Nixon who reappointed the control position with General Abrams whose mission was " win their hearts and minds" Chieu Hoi, don't shoot at the enemy and treat them well (1970). I personally received a copy of the Nixon memo in the field mark the end for me of what I thought might be a military career. Now Abrams comes from a long line of military people who served in prior conflicts and from what I tin can come across they served honorably which does non sit well with me. I reject the cowardice of Richard Nixon and the criminal intent of the political elite, the screw tops who follow in their shoes and the medical tyranny that is at present upon us by the same people who starting time all the other conflicts around the earth.
The result today iz not new, the Chinese are behind much of what is happening in Afghanistan and Joe Biden ids helping them the same way Richard Nixon helped them take S. Viet Nam.
Wake up people , nosotros are existence sold out again and victimized past the same group of people that would send your kid off to die.
Our issues are with the Chinese Han Clan and we have this problem at present because we failed to deal with them in Viet Nam. Plain and simple, nosotros know who the enemy is and Americans who have the side of Mainland china and their allies clearly are our enemy. Nixon sold us down the river to the Chinese and ade Mr New World Order George Bush China Ambassador ( gee, what a coincidence) and George Bush brought us the subordinated America to this crap of a kinder gentler nation. Become existent people and recognize the liars for what they are.
I saved a copy of this post for legal purposes.
I served in Vietnam during the Easter Offensive of 1972 and was there when the cease fire took effect at 0800, 28 January, 1973. The images of the eventual fall of Saigon and the ensuing chaos of the evacuation of U.Southward. and Vietnamese personnel were widely televised in 1975 and became iconic symbols of our failed state building efforts in that country. Nearly 50-years afterward and history is repeating itself in an eerily similar way.
Hardly a solar day passes when I don't recollect nigh shipmates and comrades, some of whom did not return home, and the ultimate futility of their sacrifices. Information technology is tough believing that what you lot did, and what they did was all in vain. Simply similar a deep wound, fourth dimension heals, the intense hurting subsides, and all that remains is a scar and a reminder of what was.
Afghan veterans: Don't let the folly of politicians asperse your laurels. Yous served and performed your duty, as soldiers are called to exercise. And these were non your wars nor mine to win or lose. Peace be with you, brothers and sisters.
I served in 65-67 and knew nothing was to be gained by our troops occupying Nam. In Afghanistan: ii,372 U.s. Armed services casualties, 20.000+ servicemen wounded. It is time to go home. I am very proud of our president to have the backbone to pull us out of some other immoral occupation. If the Transitional islamic state of afghanistan authorities and it's people are unable to pull together after 20 years of US assistance, it's time for us to leave. Ask yourself: What was lost? What was gained? Thank you to all my brothers and sisters who served so honorably. Welcome habitation!
Why are y'all proud of the President? His senate votes in 2001 were what got united states of america into that mess.
Learn from Viet Vets?? I thought the United states was supposed to accept learned from Viet Nam? Guess we didn't. It is little wonder why vets are becoming so eager and apt to turn their fighting skills against the government that sent them into these hellholes. I wonder if another 'Agent Orange-similar substance volition be discovered? I wonder how long it volition be debated before vets get any kind of benefits. Information technology would seem equally if the entire military feel is producing more and more collateral harm. Much of it stress-related. Many of us are dealing with prostate cancer but are not able to take a convenient target like A.O. My hearing is finally happening later on 2/3 plus years. I have no boots on the ground, only memories of using motor pool by-products to keep weeds downwards in our fall-out expanse, and parking lot expanse. Also, I don't recollect many men asking their 1st Sgt or C.O. most what kind of materials/solvents nosotros were using. The bunkers I guarded had no billboards posted with a listing of harmful contents. kapmson12
I had it easy; temporary duty running radar on a mountain top. Some evenings, I could go outside and watch the C-130 miniguns from a distance when the air moving picture wasn't in my confront on the radar screen. It was towards the cease in 69 when Viet Nam was all winding down. When I returned to Clark AB, I got orders to go Stateside as Nixon more or less disbanded 5th TAC. Some of my all-time friends weren't so lucky. They had gotten temporary duty one after the other. I learned Washington authorized that and underhandedly didn't remember they had to count "Temporary Duty" as numbers of soldiers deployed to Viet Nam. Politicians got to tell the United states of america public what they wanted to hear; there were less numbers of soldiers in the war. Trust is a funny matter. While in Viet Nam I "sorta" trusted a Viet Nam barber on base to cut my hair. He used a straight edge to trim the sideburns and back of my neck. I smiled a little to myself when I left the shop and asked myself "Was I a piffling uneasy about that"? Humor is e'er a skillful companion in whatsoever war or stressful situation. I heard 2 weeks later, he was found floating in the bay with HIS throat slit! Was he the Enemy; a Collaborator? Who knows! But some of my war machine acquaintances of the "Temporary Duty kind", ended up with some PTSD. Today they're doing fine. Merely they're angry with the military; mistrusting it, One stood his ground when he thought he was treated wrongly then got demoted for it, And I'one thousand guessing he doesn't agree with my love for the U.s. Military. Someone with an extreme amount of brilliance once said, "War Is Hell" ! When I signed up for the military machine, I asked for nothing in render. I do then admire those who accept made vast efforts through this program and others; helping those soldiers in need, I understand that effort! I am the happiest of old soldiers giving back through the VA Volunteer Program and hope to continue as long as I'g able. I highly recommend it to others. When the middle feels really good, the encephalon goes forth with information technology. God Bless America!!!
I'm a Vietnam era veteran, and I want to remind all of those who served in Republic of iraq and Afghanistan, that you were successful in your mission of keeping our homeland safety.
Despite all the recent disruptive and upsetting news, YOUR SERVICE WAS FOR A PURPOSE. Don't forget that.
ALL Americans are thankful.
As a beau veteran (Gulf War) I cry for your suffering, and for all the suffering in war. We don't all serve for the same reason, but nosotros all do our duty.
My faith in Jesus Christ gives me hope for a final justice for all. In the mean time I weep for y'all and me, and pray for peace, merely i know information technology will not come until He returns with justice in his hand. May God grant you peace in your inward human being, and patience as we wait for the redemption of our souls.
Alas. It's like Deja vu! Politics vs lives.: 1972- 2.five meg U.s.a. & 1 million S. Vietnamese. 2008-xxx,000 US & 300,000 Afghan.. Aforementioned outcome. Difference? They threw garbage at us when nosotros got home. Called us baby killers! I hid my army background & was depressed.
Today, people finish & thank me for my service. Information technology was freaky, just I felt an awakening. I hope my comrades in arms tin observe solace that we ALL support & love them.
I had a hard time as Viet Nam roughshod in '75. I had a worse time when Viet Nam almost savage during the '72 "Easter Offensive" while on my second tour equally a helicopter airplane pilot. I experience nifty pain, and respect for Afghan vets, and especially their families. "Was it worth it?" will forever exist with them.
As a society, nosotros build monuments to our war dead. But nothing to honor the mentally and physically wounded (vets AND families), and certainly nothing for those who work trying to prevent needless and/or needlessly long wars. We now all have a lifetime to work at making the "Afghan State of war" worth it by not repeating the thinking that created it. Welcome dwelling house. And may you observe, and piece of work for peace.
I was on an MSO, later a PG and then Functioning Endsweep in the Bound of '73. We relied on each other and our extended Navy family.Even though we were non so respected, we learned and America learned, that the sailors, marines, airmen and soldiers did a great job and are not responsible for what their elected leaders do,
And it took the North well-nigh 2 years to overrun the South subsequently nosotros pulled out of Viet Nam, and might not take happened so if congress had kept supporting the South.
Southward.O.S. – translates to the Same Old Due south… I am beginning to believe a Constitutional Amendment is needed requiring every Congressman, federal judge, and definitely the President of the United states to be a veteran -serving at least two years agile duty. I think in that location should be term limits to every U.S. Representative of 8-years and out, the aforementioned applies to Senators, two-half-dozen yr terms and repeal the 17th Amendment and allow the land legislatures to appoint the U.S. Senators, every bit originally written in Constitution. To me the best and biggest repeal would be the 16th Amendment. Past repealing it, Congress wouldn't have the coin for strange adventures that simply exit u.s. enemies effectually the world plus broken mentally and physically military machine personnel. The American taxpayers have been bilked untold amounts of money and a national debt across anything our Founding Fathers could have imagined. This would help reduce, if not eliminate big government, big business, and big labor to more reasonable sizes. If there should be a corporate tax, make it loftier plenty, where only those corporations that ship jobs oversees and import foreign manufactured goods, pay it. Repealing the 16th and 17th Amendments would reduce, if not eliminate lobbyists and large corporations, and hopefully outside coin to support depression-life politicians.
I am a Vietnam veteran who fabricated two tours, aboard the U.Southward.S. Hepburn (DE-1055) and did reserve duty aboard the U.s.South. Tripoli, an LPH, in February 1976, where information technology served during the 1975 American surrender of Vietnam. The photographs of infants, without parents who stayed behind, the shoved over helicopters, the whole mess, of American cut and run evacuation was sadistic, sickening, and Satanic.
Well, it's not that anyone trusted us (The USA) all that much earlier but after leaving the countries (two) that were trusting u.s. to salve them, nosotros deserted them and left all the militarty equipment the enemies needed to retakeover these ii countrys. The creditability of the USA is shot in the barrel and most likely will never be trusted again. Who can blame whatever country to non trust us? We're similar sharks waiting to see who we can devour and if nosotros can't gain annihilation from OUR ORDEALS well we just get out them to wind to solve their own problems at long last! If I were of service age I would tell the United states of america to stuff it where the dominicus don't shine in referance to e'er joining the U.s. Military. I served in Viet Nam as a gainsay medic. I wonder now if this country is yet worth defending. Be conscientious how you lot treat your "Friends." Remember how 'karma" has a way of coming dorsum around and biting yous in the butt!.
I was with the 180th Helicopter company. I was only xviii. I wondered to myself, what the hell are we doing here. You couldn't trust any of the locals. I defenseless our Vietnam lady stealing supplies to take to the Vietnam Con. I turned her over to her people and was executed correct in forepart of me. I flew some missions equally a door gunner. I was a supply specialist. I was an skillful with the M16 and paw to hand combat.
The return home was a nightmare. At the airport I was was called a baby killer and I was spit on. What a way to come home. And it withal continues to this twenty-four hours. I am proud to take served my land. And those people who spit on me can go to hell.
I was drafted and served in Vietnam as a Gainsay Infantryman with the Recon Platoon, Echo Company, fifth BN/7th Cav, 1st Air Cav from 1970-1971. The first thing Iraq and Afghan veterans need to remember is that the U.s. has not won a state of war since WW Two – 80 years ago. Why? Because politicians get us into wars with no clear plans about the goal of the war or any plans for ending and getting out of the war.. During the war armed services officers in the chain of control conducting the war ignore the reality on the basis and lie about the condition of the war to the American public, congress and the President. And what do we do ? Nosotros carry on and do our assigned tasks to the best of our power and hope that we and our comrades in arms get home alive and unharmed. That's the way it is. Those that came home harmed from Vietnam got no sympathy and little care. Republic of iraq and Afghan vets should seek out and apply the help they take available. Call back the song by Edwin Starr: State of war, what is it good for, admittedly goose egg.
I concord with with most of what you said and I am also a Vietnam vet with the 173rd and I tin't believe it is happening one time again. I knew the collapse of Vietnam was going to happen as I fought with the Vietnamese army and knew that they wouldn't fight without usa and knew my Purple Heart was for cipher. I truly believe it is fourth dimension for the U.s.a. should never and I mean never get involved with some other country'south political system. I tin can also know how deplorable I am for the Afghan vets and desire to thank them for their service. If they need to talk to someone in that location is plenty of aid at V.A. Hospitals and it certain help me. I knew the army would fail but it was faster than I thought and it was great the teliban who took over this country without a single shoot being fired. They also take all of the equipment that we left backside.
I don't know why I read this today but Vietnam was one word for me and has nothing to do with respect delight don't insult me. Many South of the southward who worked on the bases were murdered within ii months of divergence. and as for this country abandoning me in that location is no forgiveness for them. When you in it you are engulfed not to a higher place. 50 years changes zip except for the frauds, the posers, and the traitors. When I Look at someone my age I know who did not serve I know some how they were privileged. To bad the best died and I am left with the pieces. Not a complaint just an observation. They hung us out to dry or tryied to shut usa up with multitudes of drugs, but some of united states of america weren't buying it. have a fun twenty-four hours.
Can't believe we've done information technology again. I could've spent 70-74 with my life dorsum home. It really hurts to see us repeat the mistakes of the past. At least I came dorsum to an ungrateful nation with all my external parts intact. I tin can't imagine the confusion of today's troop due south after two, 3,, four tours to watch it melt. When volition nosotros commit to winning or stay the hell out?
Those taking over Transitional islamic state of afghanistan will slaughter thousands and thousands of ALL those who helped us in any way. Public Executions will be all over the news if the media don't hide it to protect this administration's failure, every bit it has already done over and over. This is a sickening reality of the evil existing in the Taliban.
We Vets Practice NOT need another bird brain in the white house, who does not have the mental toughness to lead! it is my opinion that Biden is brain dead.
Now AFghans will be shot dead in the street because Biden just doesnt intendance . Afterward all He maybe getting PAID by the Taliban to merely allow go!
The Afghan generation that got to grow under US protection didn't get a vocalization in their future besides we didn't requite the negotiations fourth dimension between the Afghan government and Taliban. Likewise to secure our time to come security against aggression from People's republic of china, Russian federation and Iran a permanent installation is now no longer possible.
I served during the Vietnam State of war, but not IN Vietnam. This, to me, is 1975 all over over again, America's
ignominous retreat and a slap in the faces of all who served at that place, and to the surviving family members of all who made the ultimate sacrifice.
Our authorities has failed the brave women and men who fought advertizing sacrificed for our country. the leadership of this country is now at an all time depression with stupidity running the country or stupidity telling the leaders what to do. I'm so stressed out correct now knowing what i went through in Vietnam that I feel helpless and defeated. How could i ever ship a grandkid to fight for this country with a clear mind. i intend to speak with a psych once again to assist me encounter the meaning in it all.
God Bless and welcome domicile. You all served proudly and honorably and your sacrifices accept saved so many lives . What happens now is the responsibility of one homo, and we all know who that is. Stupidity and cowardice should not get unpunished only sadly volition. All religious groups will now be slaughtered and thousands of others will meet like fates.. merely permit all know yous take saved so many over the years because of your bravery and dedication. This is but another war where our leader lacked the testicular fortitude to practise the correct matter, the right way. God Anoint all of you and thanks for your selfless service.
Like united states of america, they tin acquire to exist bitter besides…
Welcome dorsum all those who so bravely gave of themselves. Y'all take sacrificed for those who could non defend themselves from the murderous scum, Who believe killing others in the name of religion is what their god approves. Any happens now is the direct responsibility of i person, and anybody knows who that is. He and his ilk are loathsome and too dumb to know it. God Bless all of y'all and thank you for your honorable service.
And then what the hell was all this FOR.!!!! This is just another blackened middle on the world stage for the US, Korea, VietNam Afghanistan, Iraq. Nosotros never finish annihilation, I've been questioning everything since ISIS in Iraq, wow my heart goes out to all the aureate star families my heart goes out to all the wounded and my brothers and sisters who paid the ultimate sacrifice. 1st Cav hooah.
Sadly, the meaning of Afghanistan is the same equally the meaning of Viet Nam (2 words, not one; we should have some respect).
Every bit nosotros said in Viet Nam, "Don't mean nothin'".
My brothers and sisters suffer because nosotros were sent to fight wars that never should accept been fought. If we find meaning and purpose, it was in doing the best we could to protect human life, especially the lives of our brothers and sisters. I was fortunate in Viet Nam in many ways. Most importantly, I saved more than lives than I took. That offers some solace, simply 50 years after my render, the wounds withal are fresh. And for what?
I feel deeply for those who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. I promise they receive better help than we received; and 50 years later they are not tormented by their wounds–physical, mental and emotional.
Yes Transitional islamic state of afghanistan, just another Viet Nam. The Industrial Military Circuitous that the just five star general, and president warned usa about, would non only leave those who helped united states backside. It would of left our soldiers backside as it does with the weapons, and equipment it supplied. Simply look at the Taliban riding effectually in Hum V's. with our weapons. At to the lowest degree nosotros have the V.A. for some help in repairing our ain casualty'due south. it has helped my PTSD, along with other Nam Vet's and those who returned from other military deportment.
Same thing on the kit Carson'south ( Iii corp / 1969 and 1970 25 infantry division .
Welcome Home to all Veterans and Thank you for serving !!
Vet Centers were slow to become out of the chute in many communities, due to country and federal oversight withal…information technology improved.
Our local communities offering support to all campaigns and their analogue Era armed forces personnel,
Independent and entrada oriented organizations are thankfully growing and truly an asset for our Veteran Brothers and Sisters, reintegration is and will go on to exist a claiming.
Remember that never once again, will a veteran accept to exist unrepresented.
Be aware and cautious however still, walk in piece of cake and connect, a neighboring elder Veteran will have your half dozen or guide you to betoken.
Where does it go out Gulf State of war vets? What's the indicate of staying over there where our troops get injure and killed?
That heroes' welcome back to u.s.a. in 1997 is just a difficult reminder of some groovy folks who didn't come dwelling. You tin't erase the memory or the grief, although the evidence of support was very generous and thoughtful.
I feel that certain campaign veterans but get swept nether the rug, specially when there's no forseeable positive outcome to us having been at that place.
Very nice to run into a picture of some of the important clinicians from the first few years of the Vet Center. I was trained by some of them afterwards graduate school. We implemented what worked for treatments with state of war trauma, many of which are still used today. We had to fight the politicians to proceed the program open for state of war vets who would not go to VA mental health. After Reagan left office our plan was less attacked and started slowly to go accustomed past the mainstream VA mental health clinicians and administrators. Continue up the good work folks.
I am a veteran who served in Vietnam in 1969-70. The withdrawal from Afghanistan reminds me of our withdrawal from Vietnam. I am concerned nigh the civilians who supported usa in Afghanistan and hope that they will be better treated than the Chieu Hoi (Kit Carson) scouts that I worked with in Iii Corps.
I agree completely. We cannot refuse to help those men and women who helped American forces at risk of their own safe. If nosotros don't go on our promises to them, who will trust u.s. in the future?
Welcome abode Brother. We were there at the same time. I was in Iii Corps also, as an advisor to a company of the ARVN Airborne.
Similar you, I am very concerned, once over again, the U.S. will abandon many/virtually of those who worked for us. Once the war ended, our South Viet Namese compatriots were not treated kindly by the Due north Viet Namese. But I fear Afghans and their families will exist treated much worse by the Taliban.