Cold War Veterans Blog

America’s New Homeless Veterans

December 15, 2009 - 3:12 PM | by: Claudia Cowan

For America's men and women returning home from Iraq and Afghanistan, transitioning back to civilian life is often a struggle.

The stress of multiple deployments, a down economy and a brutal job market create a perfect storm for re-adjustment...as 4-year Navy vet, Steve Moody, knows all too well.

Moody told us the worst moment was waking up and realizing he’s 28, and homeless. After leaving the service, Steve struggled with anxiety and depression. He turned to alcohol, wound up in jail, and then, on the street. He's found temporary housing at a Veterans Administration facility near San Jose, one of many shelters helping those returning from the front lines.

With the Pentagon preparing 30-thousand more troops for Afghanistan, support organizations are concerned about the future.

Michael Blecker runs Swords to Plowshares, a non-profit in San Francisco that helps veterans find work and a place to live. The Salvation Army also offers units that come with double-paned windows that block out sirens and other loud street noises that could trigger traumatic memories. But for every veteran from Iraq and Afghanistan who seeks help, the V-A says there are four more at risk. Now, the agency is implementing a $3.2 billion plan to help those thousands of returning service members get the help they need.

Experts say more veterans are suffering from post traumatic stress and serious brain injuries than in previous conflicts. That has veterans aid agencies working overtime to see to it the men and women who have served their country so ably, can return to civilian life with the same dignity and respect they earned in uniform.

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