Who better than another veteran to help our recent veterans deal with the stress of war? That is what the American Combat Veterans of War (ACVOW is all about. This non-profit organization is doing such a good job, that they are working in partnership with the San Diego VA Healthcare System. At Camp Pendleton they have become an important part of the Marine Corps' Warrior Transition program.
“Camp Pendleton - One generation helps another cope with PTSD or combat stress. Not all wounds suffered in combat are easily seen or understood. Bill Rider, President and founder of the non-profit organization, American Combat Veterans of War (ACVOW), are part of a growing trend inside and outside the military to treat the mental toll that war takes on its participants. Their mission involves older combat veterans encouraging recent combat veterans to get help for the psychological effects of war.” http://www.acvow.org/Page_1.html
“The term "Common Language" is key. It is based upon those experiences which have been encountered only by the combat veteran, which can lead to PTSD or combat stress. No other experience is so intense, emotional and life threatening over a long duration as that of sustained combat. No other experience requires that you "stuff" those emotions in order to get on with the mission; to preserve your life and the lives of those around you. To falter in this regard means spiritual, psychological and /or physical death.”
http://www.acvow.org/Page_2.html
Contact Information
American Combat Veterans of War
Veterans Affairs Healthcare System
3350 La Jolla Drive, Rm 1580
San Diego, CA 92161
(858) 552-7501
U.S. Marine Corps Base
Marine & Family Services
SOI/San Onofre, Attn: ACVOW
Building 555020, Box 520512
Camp Pendleton, CA 92055-5020
(760) 763-3968, or 468-7790
I encourage you to check out their website if you or somebody you know might be suffering from PTSD. There are some good resources listed here and a lot of information to help you spot the warning signs of PTSD. I have listed contact information above for your use. If in doubt, seek out help! The military has changed the way it views its service members who go in for help with PTSD. It no longer has the stigma attached to it. One of the hardest things a veteran has to battle is himself when it comes to seeking out or accepting help of any kind.
There is one final thing I would like to add regarding the ACVOW. I have gone over every single inch of their website and nowhere to be found is a request for donations! They mention on their home page that they are a non-profit, and that is as close as you get. In this day and age, I find that a pretty remarkable fact!
Copyright 2008 MsMarti. All rights reserved.
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