As Veterans Day comes upon us, this Wednesday, Nov. 11, should be a day of thankfulness and generosity. As of late, the news has highlighted many instances in which we do not honor our veterans as they deserve. Whether it is neglecting to provide them with the proper healthcare that they deserve, brushing off post-traumatic stress disorder, or even silently watching veterans become homeless, our veterans deserve some of the best opportunities and recognition after returning home. Monstrous: this word that truly captures the treatment that numerous veterans receive after serving America. It is sad to think that our distasteful and heartless treatment of veterans will mark our history.
Yet, it is important to ask ourselves why these injustices are so prevalent, and what role we play in these wrongs. Overall, America’s treatment of the mentally ill is rather disturbing in itself. Not offering enough accessible treatment centers, and a general lack of knowledge on how to handle a mental illness marks today’s society. Post-traumatic stress disorder affects countless veterans after seeing the horrors and realities of war. No, you can’t see it. It can’t be fixed by a surgery or by stitching-up a cut: it is internal, invisible, but nonetheless it requires attention. With proper programs to aid veterans integrating back into society, therapists readily available, and the proper opportunities for veterans after putting their lives on the line, our veterans would be better taken care of. These things are not adequately available, and veterans are left with flashbacks, nightmares, and seemingly nowhere to turn. Programs to help veterans access job opportunities that harness their unique leadership skills and attention to detail are a necessity and would help lessen the homelessness and hunger that veterans can experience. Unfortunately, some veterans with post-traumatic stress disorder that is untreated find it difficult to hold down a job. This type of mental injury when coupled with a lack of steady income has the potential to become a very vicious cycle.
I just cannot wrap my head around the public’s seemingly lack of attention to veterans. Whether it is donating to foundations such as the Wounded Warriors Project to help veterans get the funding necessary to cope with injuries, volunteering at a soup kitchen to help feed the homeless and hungry, seeking out veterans to fill job positions, or just showing veterans the respect that they deserve: there are so many ways that people can help. In honor of all veterans nationwide, and especially my Grandpa Gilbert who served in the Air Force after World War II and my Grandfather Jim who served in the Navy during the Korean War, I am hoping that we can bring back the essence of what Veterans Day embodies and celebrate what it truly represents, despite the past and present injustices towards our veterans.
Simply look at the history of Veterans Day, look at a relative, family friend, or someone in the community that is a veteran and give them a warm, loving thank you. For all Americans, past and present, Veterans Day has become a day to honor our veterans as well as celebrate our history. So let’s show the rightful respect towards veterans all over and celebrate their sacrifice to our beloved country.
