Veterans Support Group Coming To Toms River

Although they're far away from the front lines, many veterans still carry their wounds on the inside. Sometimes, the emotional scars our soldiers suffer could be just as debilitating as the physical. That's why a special support group is starting up this week in Toms River to help those in need.

The first session is Thursday night and will be offered to Vietnam Vets, suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. Future meetings will deal with other conflicts including Iraq and Afghanistan. Vietnam Veteran John Dorrity, who also serves as the liaison to veterans services in Ocean County, is hosting it as a volunteer.

Dorrity says normally, they don't segregate the battles. But for this "we felt it was important considering the change in technologies. While the strategies have been the same since the Jericho days, a lot of these soldiers have been carrying this pain around for 40 years. We want to help open them up to talking about it."

Post Traumatic Stress Disorder, or PTSD, doesn't just affect the veteran. It can also shape relationships and cause a strain on family life and everyday living.

The group will meet from 7 to 9 p.m. at VFW Post 6063 on Courthouse Lane in Toms River.