When this happened I had a fallout with my girlfriend of 4 years and I almost lost her. I decided it was time to reach out to the crises line. They hooked me up with an outpatient clinic and I am now in therapy. It’s helping but still has not fixed any of my VA issues. I have gotten better at knowing what’s wrong. That’s where this letter is coming from. Upon telling people I am sorry for the past and asking forgiveness, I now found this need to speak out. At home, I never shut my mouth when I should so why should I not voice my opinion publicly? I saw on TV just last night there was a government employee explaining how military is not a “real” job and there is no real experience there or the candidate does not know how to lead. Who the hell is that guy? We, the people, voted for that?
So as I am reaching out and feeling better for doing so. I would hope that some things come to light for others as they have for me. Maybe the power of social media will work. Maybe I have told a story like the one you are facing. Maybe we can get together and figure it out. I am not seeking a handout. I don’t want to be put in front of the line over other veterans having problems. I want to know why it takes so long to process a “claim” as you call it. It’s more than a claim. It’s my life, liberty, and pursuit of happiness. It’s not just money or disability we are lacking. It’s the build up from the famous break down that is supposed to work so well.
I have given you a letter about who I am and how I feel. You can choose to use it or you can just put in line with the rest of them. Never the less and regardless of the outcome, I have come out happier then I was when I started and that’s my goal. So I will assume the position of CPL D***** and get back in formation but you should know that I am no longer afraid to break ranks. I build my own plan of attack from here on out and I will change the hand I have been dealt. Because all the war and PTSD that follows behind my experience, I am one lucky man with big hopes and strong family ties living the American dream that I fought for. The same dream my brothers died for. To those that took the time to read and process… Thank You. One day in return, I will be at a point in my life where I no longer have to write letters in hopes to help myself and others. I will have the business and backing to give you a place to go and get built back up.

Joshua P D*****
Veteran, USMC
Honorable



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