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After Action Review

I returned to the United States in October of 2008 after having served on a Police Transition Team whose sole mission was getting the Iraq Police up to speed on how to enforce law. We left the country during a time of freewheeling adjustable rate mortgages and a housing boom only to return to the beginning of an economic collapse. Being a National Guard soldier it is imperative that you return to a somewhat recognizable situation after war, we are citizen soldiers after all. I returned to a broken economy where even with a Pre-Law Political Science degree and military service I could not find sustainable employment or suitable services for Post Traumatic Stress Disorder or PTSD. I needed a break so I booked a flight to Greece and headed out the day after my arrival back in the states. I traveled from Crete to Belgium, Holland, and Germany finding what I was searching for in each location. 

People were enjoying life to the extent of their means. Sidewalk cafes were buzzing, friends were laughing and drinks were being had. This is what a struggle for democracy is for, so that people may enjoy the life they are given, free from tyranny and oppression. I had seen too much killing, death and destruction and I needed an affirmation of life. I returned to the United States to find a job and find my happiness therein.  

Months upon months I searched and searched for employment while bills continued to go unpaid due to lack of income. In my frustration I decided to turn to the internet and take a chance. I found that chance in Germany where friends from five years ago encouraged me to come and live and work. In one week I found an apartment of my own, a job, and a group of warm hearted individuals willing to welcome me back with open arms. I have decided to take that chance and have purchased a ticket to Munich. I don’t know what I will find in Germany but hopefully I will find myself and get past the images of war. 

The downside I find in this is that after serving my country I had to look outside of it to find a place that would employ me and ensure that I will survive. I look at the current situation and can’t help but think back to Vietnam veterans and why so many of them are homeless. After we fight the war and the flags have been waved at our return we are all but forgotten. Maybe one day our society will get it right and remember us.