Side effects of war lingers for generations

When a stone is dropped in a puddle, ripples make their way across to bounce back and into each other in an endless multiplicity of collisions, ceasing long after the energy of the falling pebble has been expended.

Chai Vang, son of a Hmong general, came to us as a refugee from Laos and the war in Vietnam that had spilled over its borders, killing and displacing millions. In 2004, in a Wisconsin forest, six hunters were shot and killed by Vang.

Consequences from the disaster in Vietnam continue to ripple across the world. In the states, many of our veterans have been treated for symptoms of mental illness stemming from even brief exposures to our 25-year experience in that war. Effects on the children of Vietnam vets began to manifest immediately.

Grandchildren of Vietnam vets now share stories of substance abuse and family violence resulting from the American military experience there.

If there is still a United States in 25 years, its citizens (including our grandchildren) will be paying for our government’s current adventures in the Middle East. For those who cannot imagine this, try dropping a pebble into water and watching until the ripples die.

James Quinn
Greensboro