Maj. Gen. David Blackledge, unashamed to talk about his own battle with PTSD

This man is a true leader when it comes to talking about his own battle with PTSD. He is not ashamed and no one else should be of having a reaction to traumatic events in combat. For any other officer out there still trying to get rid of soldiers with PTSD, remember him the next time you are faced with helping them heal or getting them out. For soldiers out there thinking there is no hope of healing and having a better life, read his story and know nothing is impossible.

A general speaks out about his battle with PTSD

By John Ramsey
Staff writer

While everyone else danced at a New Year's celebration to start 2008, Maj. Gen. David Blackledge couldn't stop picturing a suicide bomber blowing up the ballroom.

After nearly losing his life twice during consecutive deployments, Blackledge rarely felt safe.

He couldn't shake the nightmares. He couldn't control his temper. He couldn't focus.

"I started to think, well, this is just the way it's going to be," Blackledge said.

But later that year, after his routine physical, he described his symptoms to a doctor.

Classic post traumatic stress disorder, the doctor said. He sent Blackledge to behavioral health, where he saw a psychiatrist and a psychologist.

They confirmed the diagnosis and told the general they could help.

Now Blackledge - commander of the Army's Civil Affairs and Psychological Operations Command - is speaking publicly about his invisible wounds to let other warriors know their reactions to combat are normal.
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A general speaks out about his battle with PTSD