I grew up, hoping to be one of two things. A cop or an Archeologist (thanks, Indiana Jones!), and these at first seemed attainable. Arguably the archeologist one still is. I even graduated from Northeastern University with a degree in Criminal Justice. After failing to drift right into a police job, I joined the military.
Spending four years in the army was no cake-walk. It also wasn’t too bad at times. The 16 months of combat took its toll on my mental stability and anger management. I went for disability and ended up walking away with 60%. The choice I made of admitting my problems and seeking disability has rendered my dreams of ever becoming a cop virtually nonexistent.
I started the art foundation in response. I’m no painter, but I love writing and film and appreciate all aspects of art. I’ve written films, screenplays, and even shopped around a screenplay (failing, I might add) since being home. This is my plan for the future. (may do one of those Archeology vacations and hopefully fight off Nazis)
The problem with disability (mentally and/or physically) and admitting you have them, resounds throughout your life. As a 60% vet, I cannot apply for police departments. The state has the highest, at 50 percent acceptance. Even then, I don’t think they’d allow me, with my depression and anxiety in. These issues will affect large numbers of veterans with problems. They have to balance their issues with job opportunities.
A large portion of combat vets seek jobs in law enforcement or the likes. Those jobs suite their needs and personality. If they admit their issues, then they’re basically out of luck. Finding other meaningful work, will be tough. That’s why I hope to at least help alleviate some stress with this foundation. There will be thousands of disenfranchised veterans with little motivation when dreams disappear before their very eyes. Something needs to change, whether it be laws or employment standards. To deny veterans jobs, is a crime.
Veterans Art Foundation's Blog 