I know SHV is supposed to be about a soldier who has to fight his demons upon returning. Well, unfortunately sometimes good people really do have horrible demons they can't get rid of. Here's a sad, but very true tale (definitely WORTH reading):

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/military_the_enemy_within

No matter how bad we have it with the economy and whatnot, we're still very lucky. Also, as I've said before, if you want to help you can contact/support the DAV.

http://www.dav.org/

-avatar!

Very sad story.  The very people who praised him as a hero, turned their backs on him when he needed help.   I'd have to think there was a history of mental illness, or underlying problem.  Notwithstanding, when you overstress a person or animal, beyond what they're capable of handling, expect some long term implications...

Av - you are absolutely right, our problems seem quite minimal when compared.  As they say 'Freedom Isn't Free'  I sympathize for his family, and friends.

re: Post Traumtic Stress Syndrom - as this is an all too common story, I think this song is very fitting

Out of Harms Way:

http://www.stormedheaven.com/outofharmsway.mp3

God f---ing dammit . . .

Thanks for posting this, Ava. A very interesting read..