"Welcome back"

[existentialist]

Today I happened to encounter a marine, the son of friends of mine, who is just back from his third tour in Iraq.

I know his parents' political persuasion reasonably well, and they are solidly Democratic, and think Bush is a disaster, but from previous discussions with these parents I also knew that their son the marine had at least originally very much believed in the war, and in his role in it there, although he has begun to have some doubts of late. So what should I say under the circumstances?

I just said "Welcome back." He seemed to appreciate it, and the showed me the scar on his hand from shrapnel related to a road side bomb, for which I do understand that he has received a purple heart. I also understand that his face was cut by glass from the same incident, but his face had healed well enough that no scars were readily apparent.

We talked about whether he might be sent back again, and he said not unless the war expanded to somewhere else and then the marines might invoke the stop/loss policy, but that barring that he was done. And he seemed very glad to be done. And he seemed glad that I had asked, and I believe that he knows full well my opinion of Bush, and the Republicans, and the war.

[hopeisaplace]

1. I think you said just the right thing for that moment

..you're kindness is good for him and good for you too. :)

[me b zola]

2. I agree with hope

Welcoming him home was the best that you could do. I would, though, talk to your friends (his parents) about possible warning signs of PTSD and how to seek help if it is needed. Be there for them, it may be a tough road ahead.

[unhappycamper]

3. You said the perfect thing.

When you see him again, please tell him a Viet Nam vet (moi) sez "Welcome home, Brother."