Local veteran reacts to Executive Order
On the same day President Barack Obama spoke to Fort Bliss troops on post, he also signed an Executive Order.
The measure is said to improve access for veterans, active military members and their family members to mental illness health care.
David Nevarez served in the U.S. Marine Corps for 10 years.
He said additional services for soldiers dealing with post-traumatic stress disorder and mental illness are long overdue.
“I served my country and I’m just asking for what’s rightfully mine,” said Nevarez.
He said he has never dealt with mental illness issues, but does support fellow veterans coping with PTSD.
The Desert Storm veteran said he’s dealt with a backlog of services from the Veteran’s Affairs Office.
The Executive Order states 800 peer counselors and 1,600 health professionals will be hired nationwide by the Veteran’s Affairs Office.
