Waking Up from War: A Better Way Home for Veterans and Nations [Hardcover]

Voices and stories of veterans, their families, and their care providers, reveal what is necessary for postwar healing

This book argues that the elements that contribute to healing war trauma—including safety, connection, community, dialogue, mutual respect, diversity, and compassion—can help build a stronger nation. But this message comes with a warning and a challenge not just for caregivers, veterans service organizations, governmental departments, Congress, and the White House, but for all Americans. War creates incalculable suffering—not only among those on the front lines, but also among those left behind. For every soldier killed or injured on the battlefield, countless others are affected—particularly relatives and friends—often in isolation and silence. As a nation, the U.S. must do everything it can to repair the injuries caused by war, whether physical, emotional, or moral, both for those who served in Iraq, Afghanistan, and elsewhere, and for the country itself. Only after the nation provides the top-quality care our veterans have earned will we be able to begin to end our reliance on war and truly build a durable peace.

"Dr. Joe Bobrow is a true American hero. He's worked tirelessly to support our community through the hardest times and the toughest spots. He overflows with wisdom and has been a real leader. His dedication, innovative approach, and compassion serve as an example and an inspiration to people worldwide. His words should be a wake-up call for anyone who cares about the future of our country." —Paul Rieckhoff, founder and CEO, Iraq and Afghanistan Veterans of America; author, Chasing Ghosts

"Read this book and begin to understand a great deal about how we are neglecting our men and women veterans, about what is wrong today in America, and most vitally, about how to change for the better both situations." —Lawrence Wilkersl"