As U.S. forces withdraw from Afghanistan we want to acknowledge veterans in the Pittsburgh area for their service there.
Many were in the National Guard, like the woman who posted a picture of her Air National Guard hat on social media, saying the reality of what was gained and lost hit her hard this week, but she’s wearing her hat with pride.
We feel the same.
Proud of service members who did their jobs, sacrificing time with family and spouses during deployments in a dangerous war zone.
Many deployed more than once. Some returned with injuries.
Many deal with PTSD, depression, anxiety, other problems such as alcohol abuse and thoughts of suicide.
44% say they’ve had problems readjusting after their return.
94 soldiers from Pennsylvania gave their lives.
No matter the outcome in Afghanistan, our veterans did not fail us and we can never sufficiently thank them for their service to the nation.