ben-keen-fights-ptsd-stigma-memorial-day-veteran-story

Was talking with one with of my co-workers here at work about me getting my service dog in 2 weeks and he mentioned to me about his own battles with PTSD after his deployment. We then got to talking about how we are trying to help others and it reminded of this article I did on behalf of RallyPoint that was featured on People magazine's website. I joke around telling people that this was my warmup for when they name me the sexiest man alive but either way, the article is to highlight me, it's the highlight the issue. When I speak to groups, I tell them that I am but just one voice. My story is my story and not just unique to me. I tell them about the thousands of others that may not feel comfortable sharing their stories so publically. I know I didn't at first but the more I get out to speak, the more it reminds me that it truly takes a community.

I want to thank some of the people here on RallyPoint that have helped me personally to help keep me grounded.
SPC Brian Vavra, SGM Erik Marquez, PV2 (Join to see) LTC Kevin B. SFC James Baber SFC (Join to see) Col (Join to see) SFC Anthony Shaffer 1SG (Join to see) SFC Mark Merino LTC Jason Strickland SrA Edward Vong Col Val Finnell, MD, MPH CSM Charles Hayden SSG Carlos Madden SSG(P) James J. Palmer IV aka "JP4" CPT Aaron Kletzing