Today is an Anniversary for me!
It is not one I celebrate,but one I reflect on. It is 43 years ago today my life changed! I was a Marine in Viet Nam we were getting ready to move out after an all night and part of the morning fire fight. We had just left our fight holes when three mortars landed blowing many of us into the air. I never heard them coming. When I hit the ground I tried to get up,I could not hear the smell of gun powder filled my nose and mouth. I could not stand my legs were broken my boots were full of blood. I felt no pain. there were many of my Marines wounded or dying. Two were already dead. The corpsman got to me when he could,he said it wasn't that bad. He lied. After several operations aboard the hospital shop I was medivact home. I would spend the next two and a half years in the Great Lakes Naval Hospital.
It a time ago! Life was not easy in the following years. Four marriages, a fight with alcoholism. But I will soon be 65,sober 27 years and very close with my children.
My life did not turn out the way I planned that is because what planned wasn't supposed to be my life!
Thank for listening!
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...but, glad you made it back, both from Nam and your own hell. You've fought a lot of battles. Congratulations on your strength, courage and the love of your children! 
I'm glad you're home and congrats on the 27 years sober. You are a brave brave man in every sense of the word!
Welcome home! And Semper Fi from an Army Infantry vet (101st Abn., RVN '69-'70).
I'm sorry for what you and your buddies went through. You were just 21. Way too young to suffer the pain and losses that nobody should ever have to suffer at any age.
Good for you for getting through the dark times--I'm so happy for the wonderful life you have now!
to be and now you have a lifetime of wisdom and experiences behind you. I am proud of you to reach this part of your journey. 
that are beyond words.
