As a combat veteran who struggled with PTSD and diagnosed with agent orange-related heart disease, “veteran” is one of the most important titles I carry on my resume. The sound of taps being played or the national anthem being sung always stirs up memories and tears. And the flag – the red, white and blue – there are no more beautiful colors on any piece of cloth anywhere.
May is Military Appreciation Month. Established by Congress in 1999, the month of May features key military related observances:
A veteran’s oath of office is “to support and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies foreign and domestic, and to bear true faith and allegiance to it. To obey the orders of the President and appointed officers according to regulations and the Uniform Code of Military Justice.” That oath has no expiration date.
In the 1700’s, a country’s flag was first used to cover the dead on the battlefield so both sides could properly identify their own fallen soldiers. That tradition has carried over to today.
For many years, when soldiers killed in action were returned home, their caskets were put on regular planes as cargo. In January 2007, the military began using dedicated contract flights to bring deceased service members home.
A deceased service member is returned to Dover Air Force Base for meticulous inspection and identification. They are prepared in a fresh military uniform of their branch of service and covered with our country’s flag for their final trip home. Of those killed in action, about 85 percent can be viewed by their family members prior to the casket being sealed.
Currently, there are 22 suicides each and every day by active duty and former service members. Common stressors include PTSD, depression, relationship issues, legal issues and financial strain rather than combat exposure alone.
We have also learned in recent years that military spouse trauma is a critical issue. It can manifest as secondary traumatic stress, anxiety, depression and hypervigilance caused by chronic stress of deployments, frequent moves, solo parenting and supporting a spouse with PTSD. The children are also significantly impacted.
During Military Appreciation Month, remember to thank a veteran. Honor those special days during the month of May. And don’t forget to put out the flag.
Dr. Pat Polis
Captain, US Army 1966-1974
General Manager, Joy Radio
Dr. Polis is a combat veteran (Korea and Vietnam), a member of Vietnam Veterans of America [VVA], the American Legion and the Veterans of Foreign Wars [VFW]. He serves as a board member for the East Tennessee Veterans Memorial Association and currently serves as President of the United Veterans Council best known for its work with Wreaths Across America and facilitation of veterans’ breakfasts spread out over every Saturday of the month.
When it’s time for children to return to school, our local churches shine. Donated backpacks,…
Planning the Church Calendar? Try a Triangle. When I consult with churches and pastors, one…
Created to Create Open the Joy Radio website or social media accounts on any given…