[todaysdate]
By Joe Niemiec Jr.
I can remember coming home from Southeast Asia in February 1973. You had heard, through the grapevine, do not wear your uniform in public. We were treated like pariah, the war was winding down but the military personnel themselves, not the politicians were being blamed for the debacle. It was a tragic time in American history and I believe the belief in the government reached a low unknown in modern times.
Today we respect the military personnel, if not the war, and welcome them as heroes. Tonight at at 7 p.m. we have the opportunity to welcome home a special group of vets, a group that has suffered with post traumatic shock disorder, to varying degrees for varying lengths of time. They have been ensconced at the Immaculate Heart Retreat Center for four days moving through and sharing their terror, pain and hope.
As a community we have the opportunity to hear their stories and welcome them into our hearts and finally welcome them home from wars that have left deep scars on both their psyche and soul.
Join us at 7 p.m. at the Unitarian Universalist Church at 4340 W Fort George Wright Dr.
