San Diego’s weather is perfect to celebrate Memorial Day – especially for those who choose to relax on one of San Diego’s gorgeous beaches or barbeque with friends. Hopefully, though, the purpose of Memorial Day will not be forgotten.
Memorial Day is about those who gave their lives to protect ours. But sadly, way too many of those precious military brothers and sisters who are now vets are hurting. And thousands end up living on the streets.
As our own Michael Turko of KUSI News would say, “It ain’t right!”
Right or not, it’s a hard fact. Many vets serve their country, face indescribable hardships (often not understanding the purpose of their fight) only to return home with severe trauma and dysfunctional syndromes.
San Diego has a soft-spot for military and vets because of Camp Pendleton.
According to former Sgt. Jastin DeMeo, a vet from the US Marine Corps previously based at Camp Pendleton and who now lives in Oceanside, the adjustments or returning to America after being in a war-zone are huge. “It’s hard to come back from a 7-month adrenalin fix and find your place. It’s like watching a powerful movie. When you first watch it, you’re deeply affected. But if you keep watching, it becomes the norm; you become numb to it. When you come back to a bland society, it’s tough. Some people face serious anxiety, depression, loss of purpose . . . depending on what they went through.“
May God help us not to forget those beloved vets. They didn't forget us when it came to laying down their lives for our freedom.
Barbeques are fine. Beaches are awesome. But one thing's for sure: Memorial Day is a great opportunity to pray for those who have given their lives for America. It is a time to reflect on the freedom we cherish (and which is fast slipping away from us) and to thank God and all those who served to protect us.
Janey DeMeo M.A.
Copyright © May 2011
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