VFW Auxiliary 7383 Cary

June is PTS(D) Awareness Month.

While post-traumatic stress does not solely affect veterans, veterans are statistically more likely than the general public to suffer the effects of PTS(D), with a documented 6% of male veterans and 13% of female veterans experiencing it in their lifetimes (though actual numbers may be substantially higher, as many of those who struggle with post-traumatic stress do not seek diagnosis or treatment). The number of veterans diagnosed with PTS(D) is higher among those who've served in recent conflicts (for example, up to 29% of Iraqi Freedom veterans) than those who served nearly a century ago (3% of WWII and Korean War veterans) but it is important to remember that what we now know as PTS(D) was known by a number of other names in the past: "Shell Shock," "Battle Fatigue," "Soldier's Heart," "Combat Stress Reaction" and even the misleading "Nostalgia."

“Asking for support is not waving a white flag, it is a tactical decision to stay in the fight for your family, your future and your life,” said VFW National Commander Carol Whitmore.

As a VFW Auxiliary members, you can help by knowing the signs, memorizing the Veterans Crisis Line number and sharing resources with those in need. Use the linked articles below to get started.

The VFW is shining a spotlight on PTS(D) this June. Read their article here: https://www.vfw.org/media-and-events/latest-releases/archives/2026/6/vfw-highlights-importance-of-mental-health-this-national-ptsd-awareness-month

The VA shares the basics of PTS(D), including signs:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/understand/what/ptsd_basics.asp

The VA also has linked resources for those who need help:
https://www.ptsd.va.gov/

For those having suicidal thoughts or feelings, or feelings of hopelessness, the Veterans Crisis Line is available 24/7.
Just dial 988, then press 1.

For a brief history on the usage of PTSD versus older terms like shell shock, see this History Channel article:
https://www.history.com/articles/history-of-ptsd-and-shell-shock

VFW Post 7383 and Auxiliary members getting ready for the First Responders dinner. A Buddy Poppy was added to each silverware bundle.

VFW Post 7383 and Auxiliary went to Hillcrest and Ephesus Baptist Church Cemeteries to place flags and flowers on the Graves of Post namesakes PFC Carl E. Franklin and SGT William P. Sloan. Flags were then placed on Veteran Graves at Ephesus Baptist Church. A flag retirement ceremony followed at the Post.

Patriotic Art contest winner and family visited VFW Post 7383 to receive her award presented by VFW Post 7383 Auxiliary Art contest chairman Laura Verdon along with VFW Post 7383 Auxiliary President Donna Wright. The art also won at the Department level and has been sent on to the National Auxiliary for judging.

National President Lois Callahan's May Greeting VFW Auxiliary National President 2025-2026 Lois Callahan's May mess...

Help veterans and service members in your community!

The VFW Auxiliary wants YOU to join us as honor of the sacrifices and commitment of every man and woman who has served in uniform. If you’re the relative of those who served in overseas combat, we invite you to learn more about what we do and how we help veterans, service members, their families and our communities.

Click on the link below or in our bio to find out more about the VFW Auxiliary today!
www.vfwauxiliary.org/join-us

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Today is MALTA Monday!

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