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Back to To the Point

To the Point

The Joys and Sorrows of Coming Home

America's combat role in Iraq has ended, and tens of thousands of returning troops are repopulating military bases and nearby towns all over the country. But history shows that many joyous welcomes are bound to go sour with marital problems, crime and suicide likely to increase in the months to come.

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By Warren Olney • May 12, 2014 • 1 min read

America's combat role in Iraq has ended, and tens of thousands of returning troops are repopulating military bases and nearby towns all over the country. But history shows that many joyous welcomes are bound to go sour with marital problems, crime and suicide likely to increase in the months to come. Are the military services and the Veterans' Administration ready to help so many people recover from wounds and shake off the mental burdens of combat? Will civilians recognize their sacrifice? Will ongoing controversy over the war itself tarnish the rewards of coming home?

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    Warren Olney

    former KCRW broadcaster

  • KCRW placeholder

    Katie Cooper

    Producer, 'One year Later'

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    Darrell Satzman

    Producer

  • KCRW placeholder

    James Dao

    New York Times

  • KCRW placeholder

    Charles Engel

    Director, Deployment Health Clinical Center

  • KCRW placeholder

    Willy Berry

    Veteran, US Army Reserves

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