The speaker describes the chaos and destruction during the Iraq War, with the image of a "crazy apocalyptic fireworks show."
The speaker reflects on how her father's behavior, particularly his habit of discarding his military memorabilia, underscores the long-term trauma he suffered as a result of his service in Vietnam.
Soldiers are angered by the public's lack of knowledge and understanding of the grotesque injuries they witness on the battlefield, including being struck by parts of their friends' bodies. This lack of understanding also makes it difficult for veterans to share their experiences with those who didn't serve in the military.
The Vietnam War had a significant impact on veterans, shaping their personalities and behaviors both during and after the war. Many returned home with a distinct "Vietnam vet personality," characterized by heavy drinking, smoking, and outbursts, but despite this, they were still considered good guys by those who knew them.
The book "Tribe" by Sebastian younger explores why soldiers likely suffer from PTSD at a higher rate than any other soldiers in history, delving into the topic of Elite Panic and how elites tend to view human nature.