Veterans have suggestions for VA ad campaign

Veterans have suggestions for VA ad campaign

By Rick Maze - Staff writer
Posted : Tuesday Sep 23, 2008 17:34:40 EDT

Three Iraq war veterans told a House subcommittee Tuesday that they like the idea of the government advertising available benefits to veterans, but they hope for a few changes.

Some changes they seek are complicated, like placing ads different places for maximum effect. Some changes are simpler, like increasing the size of the print on those ads so they are easier to read. The veterans spoke during a House Veterans’ Affairs subcommittee on oversight and investigations hearing about a new Veterans Affairs Department advertising program.

Carolyn Schapper, an Iraq war veteran testifying on behalf of Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America, said widely spreading the word about veterans’ programs — especially mental health counseling — could help people like her.

“When I came home I dealt with a wide range of adjustment issues/PTSD symptoms: rage, anger, seeking revenge, increased alcohol use, withdrawal from friends and family, depression, high anxiety, agitation, nightmares and hyper-vigilance. My symptoms altered and grew over time. I was not the person I used to be and I knew it,” said Schapper, who was a member of the Georgia National Guard.
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