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To: 11th Commandment

I am of the opinion that there needs to be a study on how to improve the mental health of combatants in basic training. In essence, better equipment the combat arms with how to deal with the stresses of combat prior to being deployed. Further, require more time to decompress as a unit when returning from combat.

A week in country to “process the paperwork”. Then perhaps a week on an ocean transport (like WWII). Then another week of barracks restrictions upon return home to station, prior to being returned to normal operations. During this time, units and individuals can be counseled to help reduce the impact or duration of PTSD. It would also be useful to identify the most vulnerable and get them additional help.

I can remember the stress of returning stateside after 4 years in Germany during peace time. I know that does not compare but even simple things can take a bit of time to get used to. I can still remember my shock of seeing a round door not and having to think as to how to open the door. The shock of moving from a foreign battle field to back to normal has GOT to be far more shocking and likely could use an adjustment period.


5 posted on 06/04/2015 10:57:51 AM PDT by taxcontrol
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To: taxcontrol
there needs to be a study on how to improve the mental health of combatants in basic training.
Not that it isn't a worthwhile suggestion, but there's no way to tell in boot camp who's going into combat.
Marines leaving Vietnam went to Okinawa for 5 days to get our uniforms and paper work squared away ... or so they told us.
In fact, it was 5 days to get decompressed from the living hell we had just been through.
8 posted on 06/04/2015 12:37:52 PM PDT by oh8eleven (RVN '67-'68)
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