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Dale and Dave are both Vietnam Veterans. Like many Veterans, they walled off that part of their lives when they returned to civilian life. But behind the wall, powerful issues festered and grew. They were explosives waiting to go off. This is a similar theme for those who are transitioning out today. But what do you do when pills and alcohol don’t work? Lash out? End up on the street? Suicide? Most Veterans who commit suicide are over the age of 50, just like Dale and Dave.
Dale’s story:
I am the younger of two boys born in 1942 to a beautiful teenager who gave me a doorway into a world of potentials. She was the oldest of a dozen sisters and a couple of brothers. I never met my biological father as he had another path to follow that did not include raising children.
My mother felt that my brother and I needed male guidance. Her occupation as a waitress did not allow time and money so she placed both us in a Catholic military school which I attended for grade levels 1st, 2nd and 4th.
Highlights of my journey include:
• Great friendships and association with remarkable people who influenced my life