By: Richard Denne

Richard Denne — Thu, 15 May 2008 19:01:00 +0000

Dear Sir,
Thank you for your efforts on all fronts.
Is it too much to ask our government to help our combat veterans?
On December 20, 2004 the Department of Veterans Affairs, diagnosed me as having PTSD.
Actually I was diagnosed in April of 2001 however it took the VA another few years to put it in writing. Hurry and wait right? We know the drill.
The thing is, I sought help with the same symptoms while I was still in the military back in November of 1967. Well, it has been 41 years now and I am still waiting to see a psychiatrist.
Now I don’t want to go on a rant or anything but I thought that a combat paratrooper just might be allowed to cut in at the front of any line if medical attention is justified and needed.
My unit was awarded a Presidential Unit Citation for the battle of Trung Luong in June of 1966.
My outfit,” A Company” and the rest of 2/327 of the 101st Airborne spent more time hunting down the VC in more varieties of terrain than any other out fits of the war. Always in the boonies, as much as 57 days non- stop. More than other any combat veterans of the war. The 2nd Battalion 327th Infantry earned the reputation of an outstanding combat unit because of their “No Slack” fighting spirit. Operations of the battalion in the republic of Vietnam were conducted in Trung Luong, Dak To, An Khe, Phan Rang, and Ashau. Being selected as the last infantry unit of the division to leave Southeast Asia distinguished the battalion with the record for the longest continuous combat service in Vietnam of any infantry battalion in the United States Army. Am I becoming soft for seeking help after 41 years? Maybe it is time to cut some slack for a No Slacker? I have a unique story that should be told.
Please speak out for warriors still waiting for help for their service.
Richard Denne
818-389-8647

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By: Richard Denne