David Nasaw, a historian and Pulitzer Prize finalist, explores the unseen consequences of war in his new book, “The Wounded Generation.” This term refers to the World War II soldiers, often hailed as “The Greatest Generation,” who returned home carrying invisible mental scars. These scars include conditions like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), which went largely unrecognized for decades.
The Invisible Scars of War
Nasaw asserts that while these veterans played a significant role in liberating Europe, their psychological wounds were often overlooked. He mentions that PTSD was not diagnosed until 40 years later. A notable piece of evidence Nasaw presents is the iconic photo from VJ Day 1945, showing a sailor kissing a nurse. This moment, he argues, illustrates deeper issues, including assault and the emotional struggles many veterans faced.
Personal Reflections on Trauma
Drawing from his own life, Nasaw recalls how his father, a World War II veteran, returned changed due to his experiences. His father struggled with alcoholism and health problems attributable to his service, leading Nasaw to seek a broader understanding of the challenges faced by this generation.
Government Response and Societal Impact
Nasaw’s extensive research included reviewing newspapers, government records, and films like “The Best Years of Our Lives.” He found that officials were aware that returning soldiers would not be the same individuals who left for war. Families were often advised to manage the veterans’ behavioral changes without adequate support from healthcare systems.
- Wives and families were instructed to help veterans cope with anger and other symptoms.
- Some veterans underwent radical treatments, including electroshock therapy and lobotomy, as traditional therapies proved ineffective.
The government, recognizing the economic necessity of easing veterans’ reintegration, introduced programs like the GI Bill. This bill provided:
- Unemployment compensation for one year.
- Tuition assistance for vocational schools and colleges.
- Mortgage guarantees to assist veterans in purchasing homes.
By the end of 1955, the financial resources spent on these benefits totaled around $24.5 billion, equivalent to approximately $435 billion today. However, not all veterans benefitted equally, particularly Black veterans who faced systemic discrimination when seeking mortgages, hindering their ability to join the emerging middle class.
A Lasting Legacy of Disparity
Many Black veterans returned to a society rife with violence and prejudice, particularly in the South. Their use of uniforms as a means of pride often resulted in violent responses from white citizens.
At the National WWII Museum, Nasaw reflects on his father’s hidden Purple Heart, symbolizing unshared stories and the personal losses that mark the lives of veterans. His research sheds light on the ongoing struggles faced by veterans across generations, from World War II to present-day conflicts.
Nasaw concludes that the psychological impact of war is universal and does not discriminate based on the conflict’s public perception. Understanding and addressing these invisible scars remain crucial for supporting all veterans.
