Mr. Bridge, you spend too much time watching Hollywood movies and television. Your statement about veterans with PTSD is a piece of crap.

Those with PTSD are most likely to suffer from alcohol and drug abuse and dependence, depression, generalized anxiety disorders, occupational instability, marital and familial conflicts and problems, antisocial behavior (which includes simply avoiding crowds and people) and more general health problems. These are far more likely than shooting up a bar or a shopping mall. Your average veteran with PTSD will shut him- or her- self away rather than "go nuts."

There are still those from the Vietnam War who live here in Idaho's back country because they can't cope with more than a small town, and that only periodically. There are also those from Gulf I, OIF, OEF, Korea, and World War II.

PTSD, as you obviously don't know, is triggered by many, many more things than combat. Earthquake, tsunami, vulcanism, fires, rapes and other crimes of violence and a host of other life-altering experiences can cause it. Being a firefighter or a policeman for several years, working in an emergency room or as an EMT, pulling pieces of people from car or other wrecks and similar things all can cause PTSD.

The good news is that those suffering from it can be helped. I know, because I have it and it's cost me dearly.

I suggest again that you stop getting your "facts" from such pieces of trash as "Apocalypse Now," "Combat Shock," and "Rambo" and try instead such places as ptsd.org.uk.