Defending our country can be an emotionally challenging experience. While soldiers rightfully feel proud of their accomplishments, events on the battlefield can sometimes leave them traumatized for life, at times resulting in addictions or serious mental conditions. When they return, a lack of experience may also limit a veteran’s opportunities in the job market. These challenges and unfortunate repercussions of military service can leave the soldiers unable to work. A Georgia veteran, a former B-52 crew chief in Vietnam, is now fighting hard to rebuild his life.
He had been stationed at Anderson air base during the Vietnam War, doing his best to serve the country. There were times when he was near death, and his flight crew once counted more than 100 bullet holes in their plane. However, upon his return to the United States, such traumatic experiences were just the beginning of his challenges. Drug and alcohol addiction, depression over his mother’s death, and a degenerative disease led him to financial difficulty. Unable to support himself, the veteran is now homeless.
However, the Old Savannah City Mission in Georgia has been helping him get back on track. It provides a place for homeless people to stay, and for those inclined, it also offers a safe environment to study and brush up on job skills. The Vietnam veteran says he has not received any disability benefits from the government.
Veterans often come home facing addiction, emotional trauma and other challenges. When these problems or others render them unable to work, Social Security disability benefits may be an option. Experienced Georgia attorneys understand how important disability benefits can be for someone who cannot work. Strong cases can be built to obtain benefits or appeal a denied claim.
Source: WSAV, “Supporting Homeless Veterans,” Tina Tyus-Shaw, 30 May 2011
