Last week, news stories reported that veterans with PTSD would be ineligible for the Purple Heart, setting off a storm of commentary about the “value” to the military of PTSD and other invisble wounds . More recently the military spokepersons assure us that all wounded vets are honored and treated. The Chicago Trib reports:
” The Pentagon on Thursday sought to assure troops that it takes post-traumatic stress seriously despite the recent decision not to award the Purple Heart to those with the disorder.
An advisory committee concluded that troops coming home from the wars with combat stress cases collectively known as post-traumatic stress disorder will not qualify for the prestigious medal awarded to service members wounded in action.
“I don’t think anybody should assume that that decision is in any way reflective on how seriously we take the problem of PTSD,” Defense Department press secretary Geoff Morrell said. He noted that the military is budgeting money for research, development, treatment and preventive measures. ” See full story here: