I, like many others was not welcomed home as our troops are today. I believe the one's coming home now get that Welcome because of my generation, we don't want them to go thru what we did. I didn't understand why we were treated that way and became ashamed to let people know I was a Viet Nam Vet, (2 tours). When I was released from the hospital in 69, my Dad, who was a medic in WW2, tried to talk me into getting help as did my wife of 43 years, who just passed away. I had tried many times a different VA centers but couldn't get anyone to listen, give up. Finally last year, as my wife was in the hospital, tried again at the Cheyenne VA, Thank God, they listened. I am now on my way to regaining my life as it should of been all these years.
It will not happen over night and I understand that, it will take time. I only wish I had listened 40 + years ago. If anyone out there knows of a Vet that's is having problems, please encourage them to ask for help, if they are as I was it may take more then one request. We always say " We are Okay" and continue to hide the pain and mental problem. It needs to be opened and faced. I am sorry I didn't do this sooner for my wife and our children, they deserved it.
I now wear a Viet Nam Vet ball cap with Pride and to Honor all those who didn't make it home.
Cheyenne, WY