Today is a day to commemorate the sacrifices made by our nation’s heroes in protecting our country.
We are only able to enjoy our peaceful and democratic way of life because our veterans have bravely served our country in times of need.
Yet merely wearing a poppy and providing veterans with free bus rides for one day in a year is not enough. Over 100 veterans in the province of BC are currently homeless. Tens of thousands of veterans are still waiting for their financial-aid applications and disability claims to be approved.
We also need to do more to help veterans integrate back into civilian society. Some have spent over a decade in the military, constantly in a fight-or-flight state of mind so that they can dodge a flying bullet anytime, anywhere. A psychologist have said, ‘It’s difficult to fall asleep with a tiger in the room.’ Thus, upon returning to society, many develop PTSD and become frightful when they hear bullet-like sounds such as firecrackers.
Many veterans, with years of experience in the war zone and with little credentials, have found it difficult to impress employers in their search for work.
It’s time to show that we care about our heroes and their wellbeing.
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