A Letter to a Soldier

The following is a letter I wrote to a soldier who is struggling with Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). I'm sharing with the hope of encouraging others who are also dealing with the trauma caused by war.

"Thank you for your letter. It was interesting to read your thoughts about PTSD. I'm happy to know
you're a pastor, and I want to thank you as well for your service to our nation. God bless you...

"It is shocking to learn that many military personnel, and those who once served in the military, are
suffering from PTSD. I do agree with you that most probably struggle with this more on a mental health level, than a physical one... I pray regularly for those who have served, and still are.

"Yes, the public is probably very ignorant overall about the struggles faced when they return back to
the States. The media makes lots of war movies and TV shows, but these are probably less than reality.
That's the entertainment industry at work. And of course, they entertain the public with lots of
violence and killing, and bombs exploding all around the troops. But the shows end there.

"Yet I do, however, believe the public is becoming more aware of the reality of PTSD even with the
shallowness of movies and TV, which focus on adventure rather than the deeper after effects of war.

"I don't know what resources are available in your area. If you have a local veteran's chapter where
men and women could meet and talk, or if you can find a chatroom on the Internet where veterans can
find fellowship in shared experiences, or where you could get good advice. This may be good for you...
A support group where you can converse with those who have also experienced similar trauma...

"You also mentioned serial type crimes. I do not know nor do I care to know what the criteria are for
labeling certain crimes as serial cases. I do, however, believe you do not come under this classification.
Whatever you did during a time of war, you were a soldier who had his assignments. You're entire unit
had the same assignment, too. So you need not feel guilt (false guilt, in my opinion) or think of yourself
as a murderer and criminal... You served in the Army, and you did your job. You served during combat.
You're not a killer. You are a hero who could've lost his life in combat.

"I will keep you in my prayers. I hope that what I have shared in my letter will be helpful. Please don't
put yourself under a dark cloud of condemnation. Christ loves you. Live in His peace. God bless you!

Sincerely,

David B."

February 2020.