ZIM
03-24-2003, 05:34 PM
Its obvious this war is none-too-popular in many parts of the world- thats fine: we're all democracies here, so keep arguing.
Thing is, last time there was this much protesting about a war going on in my country was probably 'Nam, and a lot of returning vets were treated very badly by the anti-war crowd.
Now, I'm not expecting this one will go on much longer, but the occupation and any fallout that occurs may take its toll after awhile. So I'm just taking the time to remind all that any blame goes to leaders, never troops.
Back to bad treatment: Some were unkind enough to greet vets with spitting and 'baby killer'- that led all too often to PTSD, mental illness, crime, and suicide- and in some ways, the US never recovered.
Others told the vets 'good job! you killed 'em all!' without a clue what the vet may have gone through- and they didn't listen, either. That CAN be just as bad.
God willing, many of our troops may be returning soon, and estimates in any conflict range up to 30% PTSD in vets. Take the time, if you can, to get informed, whatever 'side' you're on- it might go a long way.
Nat'l Ctr for PTSD (http://www.ncptsd.org/topics/war.html)
More info on psych casualties (http://www.killology.com/article_psychological.htm)
PS- I'm not thinking any of you are retards. Nor am I in fact equating 'Nam with Gulf II- they are very different. Just throwing this out there- repost, if you want. Thanks! :)
Thing is, last time there was this much protesting about a war going on in my country was probably 'Nam, and a lot of returning vets were treated very badly by the anti-war crowd.
Now, I'm not expecting this one will go on much longer, but the occupation and any fallout that occurs may take its toll after awhile. So I'm just taking the time to remind all that any blame goes to leaders, never troops.
Back to bad treatment: Some were unkind enough to greet vets with spitting and 'baby killer'- that led all too often to PTSD, mental illness, crime, and suicide- and in some ways, the US never recovered.
Others told the vets 'good job! you killed 'em all!' without a clue what the vet may have gone through- and they didn't listen, either. That CAN be just as bad.
God willing, many of our troops may be returning soon, and estimates in any conflict range up to 30% PTSD in vets. Take the time, if you can, to get informed, whatever 'side' you're on- it might go a long way.
Nat'l Ctr for PTSD (http://www.ncptsd.org/topics/war.html)
More info on psych casualties (http://www.killology.com/article_psychological.htm)
PS- I'm not thinking any of you are retards. Nor am I in fact equating 'Nam with Gulf II- they are very different. Just throwing this out there- repost, if you want. Thanks! :)