Earlier today, I attended our annual Memorial Day gathering with fellow veterans who served in the United States military, just as I did...
My years of service were from June 1971 to June 1974 where I received an Honorable Discharge once my 3-year enlistment was finished.
There were about fifteen men present. We had our usual introductions along with a short opening ceremony as our large American flag was raised. This was followed by allowing the group several minutes of silent reflection for the men and women who gave their lives for our nation. I found this humbling.
Afterwards, began a time for individuals to come to the podium to provide us with their own stories of life in the military. One inmate served with the U. S. Special Forces in Vietnam. He's had serious mental health issues since, he said. While a couple of the guys shared their experiences in Afghanistan.
I believe many would be surprised to learn that our nation has a fairly high percentage of incarcerated veterans, but it shouldn't be a surprise. After all, it's been well covered in the media about the high rate of suicides among both active and former military personnel. Even President Obama has frequently commented on this problem. Also, well covered is the high rates of addiction to alcohol and other drugs by veterans, and the high rates of homelessness, as well.
For the veterans of Sullivan Correctional Facility, it was a day of remembrance as well as a time to come together for mutual support. The event was from 8:30 to 3 P.M. I'm thankful to have been able to attend.
D.B.
There were about fifteen men present. We had our usual introductions along with a short opening ceremony as our large American flag was raised. This was followed by allowing the group several minutes of silent reflection for the men and women who gave their lives for our nation. I found this humbling.
Afterwards, began a time for individuals to come to the podium to provide us with their own stories of life in the military. One inmate served with the U. S. Special Forces in Vietnam. He's had serious mental health issues since, he said. While a couple of the guys shared their experiences in Afghanistan.
I believe many would be surprised to learn that our nation has a fairly high percentage of incarcerated veterans, but it shouldn't be a surprise. After all, it's been well covered in the media about the high rate of suicides among both active and former military personnel. Even President Obama has frequently commented on this problem. Also, well covered is the high rates of addiction to alcohol and other drugs by veterans, and the high rates of homelessness, as well.
For the veterans of Sullivan Correctional Facility, it was a day of remembrance as well as a time to come together for mutual support. The event was from 8:30 to 3 P.M. I'm thankful to have been able to attend.
D.B.
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