I've been in Iraq for 8 months now. I am starting to see lot's of soldier's in my unit
being treated for combat stress , including myself. After months of being in a combat environment , it really takes a toll on you. After seeing someone you know getting killed or seeing someone's leg come off from shrapnel. It can be devastating to the mind. Right now I have problems falling asleep. I have nightmares. When I hear loud noises , I jump and I'm ready to shoot anything. Any quick movements make me jump also. Everyday is a struggle to survive. When driving out there on the road we are constantly getting attacked by small arms fire , sniper fire , I.E.D.'s ( Inprovised Explosive Device) , Mortar Fire , and R.P.G.'s ( Rocket Propelled Grenade) I went through the same thing when I was in Desert Storm. It's normal for soldier's to go through this when being exposed to combat. The only thing that worries me is , when I go home on R&R leave next month. Will I have a flashback in front of my wife and kids ? How will they react ? Will they think I'm crazy ? Desert Storm was different because I was single , so it was just me. Are there any vets out there with any good advice . How was it for you when you returned home from a combat environment ? Keep in mind I'm just going home on leave. I will go home for good in a few months.
While I am a vet of the first Gulf War, I did not see any actual combat. I served at an air base far back from the lines, supporting KC-10s and B-52s. I would think that there are some excellent forums and mailing lists designed specifically for veterans, where you can find more specific information. Either send me a PM, or I can give you my email, and send you to one in particular that I know of, that is made up mostly of SOF folks. If anyone would have the knowledge and experience you are looking for, they would.
I will definitely look into this site. I also deleted all my old messages , so you can send me a PM now.