.png){kind=logo}
I am seeing a lot of posts about “being aware of veterans around you during the 4th of July.” I agree that if you are aware of a veteran with PTSD in your vicinity, you should not aggravate them by shooting off illegal fireworks. Well, you shouldn’t be using illegal (airborne) fireworks anyway!
Only 1%
However, the reality is that only 1% of people in the U.S. are in the military and not all of that number has seen combat. The country is not going to stop fireworks displays for 1%. Nor should they. Independence Day is a BIG day for our country and has been traditionally celebrated for centuries. The Star Spangled Banner was written while watching a battle “The rockets’ red glare, the bombs bursting in air…” The celebrations of Independence Day will continue.
Duck & Cover
Unfortunately, the people in the neighborhood that shoot off illegal airborne fireworks will also continue. I remember the first Independence Day after my son had come back from deployment. We were on vacation at my in-laws and someone set off an airborne firework. Oh MY, I had never seen him move so fast. He was in duck and cover mode. He said the sound reminded him of an RPG. Well! My mother-in-law marched herself over to the neighbors, told them the situation, and asked them to stop. I thought – people drinking and being obnoxious… this isn’t going to end well. I was surprised that they stopped. We were lucky, not all people will be that accommodating.
The purpose for sharing is this:
I think the key is not in asking people to stop putting off fireworks, (although they should be considerate of combat veterans in the neighborhood) but in the veteran, and their family having a plan for the day.
If you know fireworks are a trigger, don’t go to them.
Find a nice remote picnic area or campground for the day
Celebrate with parades and fun town activities, but watch “A Capitol Fourth” on your big screen TV, for the fireworks.
If your family wants to go, and you’d like to join them:
Explain that you may need to leave early
Hang out near an easy exit.
Wear noise cancelling headphones
Listen to a ball game, or relaxing music
Take two vehicles
Don't like surprises:
Perhaps you are good when you know loud noises and explosions will be going off, but it is that unexpected loud noise that gets you.
Hang out with family and friends who know your situation
Duck and cover is an okay response, but have a plan for coming out of it, knowing you are safe.
If things get too intense call for help! The Veterans Crisis Line is 1800-273-8255 X1.
It’s almost July 4th. Be prepared and be safe!
* If you live in a neighborhood and intend to set off fireworks, it would be kind to let your neighbors know ahead of time. That way any combat veterans can be prepared.