After the cheers, soldiers need support

By The Gazette Editorial Board

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By early August, about 2,800 Iowa Army National Guard soldiers will have returned from duty in Afghanistan. Welcoming ceremonies all over Iowa are conveying appreciation to the Iowa Guard's largest deployment since World War II. Emotion flows as families and friends reunite - and recall four comrades who died in the line of duty.

Welcome home, soldiers. No celebration can quite recognize all of the sacrifice and worry endured by these soldiers and their families. And after the last cheers at the last homecoming event fade away, it will be vital that support for these men and women who served in harm's way is readily available and communicated.

Iowa soldiers and other troops returning as U.S. operations in Afghanistan and Iraq wind down face challenges that, for many, could last years. Rehabilitation from injuries. Coping with mental health problems, especially traumatic brain injury (TBI) and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). Finding a job. Paying for education.

Employees at the Veterans Affairs Medical Center in Iowa City have been looking at ways they can improve care. A recent meeting, for example, focused on caring for soldiers who may be reluctant to talk about mental health issues or seek treatment.

Said Army Lt. Col. Brent Cummings: “Don't give up on providing the information about where people can go for help. They (the soldiers) might say they don't want to take advice or don't want to listen, but at some point they will.”

While the VA and the military must do whatever they can to help, Iowans can offer support by volunteering or donating to organizations that support veterans and their families. Learn about PTSD and opportunities to help by contacting your county Veterans Affairs office, or going online at www.ptsd.va.gov and www.vetcenter.va.gov.

Our soldiers and their families have given much. They deserve the best post-service support this nation can give.

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