It is only after the passing of my veteran father and publishing his wartime letters, that I now as a mature woman at 62 years of age appreciate both the greatness of my father and the silent struggles he battled.
His letters have allowed me to offer greater love and compassion to others impacted by what is now known as post traumatic stress disorder or PTSD. I don’t like the term “disorder” and wish we could refer to this as post traumatic distress instead. The term “disorder” suggests that there is something wrong with these men and women returning from war, when in fact, they have suffered a deep hurt that needs time, nurturing and healing.
My brother and Vietnam veteran ex-husband each presented similar traits upon their return from military service, traits that I now understand. Such has become the impetus for my advocacy in helping with PTSD and my next project which will encompass stories from veterans of all wars to reveal the common thread of war that all soldiers share, the invisible scars of war. The photo shows me and Dad in 1992, when he was just beginning to open up about his war experiences, much of what came about resulting from a newspaper interview for an upcoming D-Day remembrance.
The following is a beautiful posting that I would like to share with you:
“I am amazed by the number of us children of WWII Veterans who really have no idea what our parents lived through–we are in our 60’s plus.
At least I am and my siblings are 60 plus!! I cannot wait to read your book. My dad would tell us stories of his adventures in Germany, France, Japan and so many other countries. During this time he would beam with enormous pride for our country!! To this day I can hear his voice in excitement telling some of his stories–many times embellished to cause youngsters imaginations to run wild.
We were fortunate, I guess, because we didn’t experience the horror of PTSD through the eyes of our dad. “Comes A Soldiers’ Whisper” is much anticipated by me and my children.
Thank you so much for your passion and dedication.”
~ Pat Jones
Comes A Soldier’s Whisper remembering our history and veterans, one day at a time.
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