“I served in the US Navy from 1973 to 1979, which included the final days of the Vietnam War (the evacuation of Saigon and the Mayaguez rescue). When I returned to the US, I really wasn’t welcomed like those who served before me. For many years after being incarcerated for my crime I had no sense of purpose. But in the late 80s, this changed when veterans groups were allowed to be formed within prisons. I’ve been involved ever since. For the most part, incarcerated veterans are forgotten — out of sight, out of mind. For those of us who served our country in the military in one form or another, we deserve to be recognized for that service. So today I feel good when men in here thank me for my service, and I will always try to help my fellow veterans however I can.”
