UMaine Students Quoted in BDN Article on Maine Veteran Groups
Veterans and University of Maine students Ashley Wilson and Joseph Miller were quoted in a Bangor Daily News article about decreasing membership of veteran groups in Maine. Wilson, who retired from the Navy in January 2012 after eight years and two tours in Iraq, is a member of the Veterans of Foreign Wars Post No. 3381 in Old Town. “Everyone has the same mindset,” she said. “You have that common ground and that common ground connects you.” Retired Army Ranger Joseph Miller, who served three tours in Iraq, said he sees the value of joining a military club for the camaraderie, but hasn’t found one that fits his needs. “It takes you a few years to realize you need a community,” Miller said. “When we get out we’re thinking education, getting a job.” The article also mentioned a recent UMaine talk by Dr. Jonathan Shay, a psychiatrist who specializes in treating combat veterans. Shay, who was the keynote speaker at the Maine Military and Community Network’s conference, said community plays a huge role in a successful homecoming. The Sun Journal also published the BDN article.