Comments on: SOLDIER’S STORIES

By: vessel sinks

vessel sinks — Sat, 13 Mar 2010 15:22:33 +0000

I'd love to ask you a few questions.based on on your's interview it is informative knowledge spreading.

By: dropzonemedic

dropzonemedic — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 18:00:38 +0000

Ashlie, the problem with that is there is a stigma that goes along with asking for help, even if it's just to talk about what you're going through. I know from personal experience. I served in the Army for 15 years as a combat medic. During my last tour in Iraq I was responsible for 44 soldiers, plus the medical care & supervision for close to 800 Infantry and support soldiers. I saw so many horrible things, and sad to say, did some horrible things, too. It came with the territory; war. I really needed someone to talk to, but as the senior leadership for my soldiers, I had nobody to turn to. In my mind, talking to someone meant showing weakness. My case is not isolated either; ask any combat arms soldier and he will tell you the same thing. If you ask for help, your unit will brand you a “shitbag” “pussy”…you name it. Doesn't matter how honorably you've served, how many lives you've saved, how many combat operations & missions you've gone on.
Well, here I am 4 years later, dealing with a case of severe chronic PTSD. I've been hospitalized 5 times due to it, I suffer from depression, mood swings, anger issues, nightmares almost every single night, memories that won't go away, and countless other issues. The pain is both emotional AND physical; depression hurts. Survivor's guilt HURTS.
Until the military climate changes and people who need help are no longer ostracized for asking for help, things like this will continue to happen. I wish it wasn't so, but the fact is, if you have mental health needs in the military, you are no longer useful.

By: ashliemcvickers

ashliemcvickers — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 00:10:52 +0000

I have suddenly had an urge to do something major in my life. I want to go to where the war is, and be there for people that need someone to talk to. I want to be there when someone who just can't take it any longer needs someone. I want to be there and give them the guidance they might need. Many people there are suffering from the physical and emotional pain, I wish that I could be able to come there and offer them that. The soldiers are always giving up their lives for us, and most poeple don't even offer a thank you.

By: medical uniforms

medical uniforms — Mon, 31 Aug 2009 07:49:38 +0000

soldier warrior type blog are awesome and quite braveful.

By: Wendy Barranco

Wendy Barranco — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 05:27:10 +0000

w3-we would really love it if you could make it to the event on sunday.

By: Wendy Barranco

Wendy Barranco — Sun, 09 Mar 2008 03:27:10 +0000

w3-we would really love it if you could make it to the event on sunday.

By: Dave Wielenga

Dave Wielenga — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 04:25:50 +0000

Hi Janet… Your approval means a lot.

By: janet wiscombe

janet wiscombe — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 04:13:03 +0000

To Dave and Steve and Will and anyone else who contributed to these interviews: Thank you. I am very moved by these stories. As you know, I am active in the peace movement and also am a member of First Congregationl Church. My stepson is an Army airborne medic in Afghanistan. Gratefully Yours, Janet Wiscombe P.S. This is a personal message, not meant for print or any kind of commentary.

By: Dave Wielenga

Dave Wielenga — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 01:25:50 +0000

Hi Janet… Your approval means a lot.

By: janet wiscombe

janet wiscombe — Fri, 07 Mar 2008 01:13:03 +0000