Johnny,
First of all, I never considered that you would be one to portray a Vet if you weren't; I had no idea of your past or really even knew you.
You came to the thread, as many others have, and I was trying to offer a common line of conversation and a means of mutual understanding and respect.
After I now have learned more about you, I offer my full respect.
I served with many Viet Vets and can remember the experiences related to me. NONE were "pretty."
A little bit of my service....
I volunteered in High School as a Senior under the "Delayed Entry Program," meaning that as soon as I graduated, I belonged to Uncle Sam. I was finally processed in after the summer of working full time at a large printing company.
I was sent to Ft. McClellan, Alabama to attend a "OSUT" MP School.
During AIT, I excelled at the self paced curriculum and was frequently assigned to be a "peer instructor."
I still Graduated MP School ahead of schedule.
Upon Graduation, I was given a 30 day leave, (Christmas time) and was then sent to Germany. My choice because I speak German.
Many details of where I was sent and what my exact duties were, I cannot say as I was issued a fairly high security clearance.
It involved a NATO nuclear missile base and the threat of European terrorists in the late 70's.
I eventually received an Honorable Discharge with full benefits.
Like you, I have a collection of ex wives but never paid any alimony nor child support as I never had kids.
However, also like you, since my Service, I HAVE paid a price in issues frequently found in Veterans.
I have been lucky; I've kept myself out of jail, I was saved from numerous thoughts of suicide and I've always worked hard to keep on keeping on.
When I turned 50, I decided to go back to College to get a Degree with the intention to help. It worked out for me.
I made good grades, received multiple Scholarships and Graduated with a Degree in Psychology.
When I graduated, I had no student debt and owed NO ONE!
I also kept busy during the time that I attended College by Volunteering at different places.
One place that I volunteered at fixing wheelchairs and other medical equipment, I received the "Volunteer of the Year" award.
That's where I met my District Congressman and talked to him about my passion of helping Vets.
He mentioned "Veteran's Court," wrote the name of the Judge involved on his card and encouraged me to investigate the opportunity.
Through serendipity, I connected with the Veteran's Representative at the Georgia Department of Labor, and found out that he was the "point man" of connecting volunteer mentors with offenders in Veterans Court.
Just this past week, I became officially registered as a volunteer mentor and this Tuesday, during court, I will be assigned a Vet or two to mentor. My passion to continue to serve by helping a fellow Vet has now taken a step towards my goal.
My Friend, if you ever need to talk about anything, never hesitate to send me a PM.
ALL CORRESPONDENCE IS HELD IN STRICT CONFIDENCE.
I'm always there for my Brothers and Sisters.
Love you, my Brother!
Be Well.
Always my Best Wishes,
Scott
