That’s a great idea a nice start. I think more can be done, but that’s just a feeling I have with no answer to back it up. I talk to the homeless vets in my neighborhood. From Vietnam through the present. Some want help and some are too paranoid to get help.

It’s odd that the homeless vets I trust more than other groups of homeless. There is one out of all of them that I just know is going to make it somehow. He actually looks out for the others. (Sorry, short comments for a few more days…I went to bed Thursday night and woke up Saturday night with a high fever. I had the flu. But, I am getting better. It’s weird to sleep an extra day…well, not drug induced anyhow.)

Sandy

“I think it’s a cop out, to think they should be treated any different than the 100s of 1000s, that have gone before them.

My father served 33 years (June 6, 1944 -WWII to November 1977). that period of time cover sWWII, Korean conflict & Viet Nam. My dad did not come back and commit crimes, neither did the dads of my friends.

No one can say this was an easier time than being in Iraq or Afghanistan.
What percentage of these returning soldiers (that commit crimes) were ever actually in harms way. What percentage of these returning soldiers that commit crimes, had a police record to begin with? Those that commit crimes need to be punished, and quit with the excuses.

I know that some returning combat / infantry soldiers may suffer from PTSD.
These soldiers need to have mandated counseling. I’m sure this would help many, who may end up commiting a crime…and blaming their time in Iraq etc..or PTSD.

I am a veteran, and the son of a career soldier.”

“Subject: Great post

Diane,
The wounds from physical and mental perspective are far great than those in previous conflict – in some cases: especially Vietnam, the medical treatment has improved to a degree that wounds like these may not have offered survivial heretofore. The IEDs are the most tramatic to the troops – the mental PTSD is a nightmare that does not easily go away – we as a nation face another round of the lingering effects ala Vietnam vets for years to come. As the shift to allow Iraq forces to stand alone, our folks are in deeper danger than before.

These kids are the best and brightest of soldiers we have ever put in harm’s war. The reason for this is they are volunteers, unlike the services of thirty seven years ago. As one who is attempting raise money – more for the homeless vets and a Veterans Bill of Rights the response from the politicians is slim and none- the public wants to help but the economy is not allowing this.

I would urge you to go to any VA hospital and survey the damage first hand – I wouldn’t eat before and you probably won’t care to afterward – the saving grace from a visit is to see the spirit of the men and women.”