[JJretired]

I will answer for my very active 95 year old father who was a medic in WWII, and served in the Battle of the Bulge. Five years ago he was diagnosed with PTSD, which wasn’t known about years ago. But the affects of the war had troubled him for a lifetime. The country rallied around those who served in WWII, and they all became heroes, which became a stronger focal point for them, instead of the emotional damage done. Korea and Vietnam soldiers fought and served valiantly, but we’re scarred emotionally and physically, and I believe were more alone with their experiences. They did not receive the same public support for their efforts, and had to internalize many of their feelings. PTSD is real. And you can’t just ‘get over’ the past. Nightmares and daily living are more difficult, a constant in their lives. That’s why here in The Villages we honor everyone who has served our country in the military. I hope that Veterans feel loved and appreciated here. Those of us who never went to war should always show honor and great appreciation to these men and women. To all of our veterans, we say “Thank you for your sacrifices and service.” Your lives have made a great difference to us! Michele Uss, Virginia Trace