Meet Charlie Timp — 2016 Veteran
My name is Charlie Timp. I'm a 66 yr old Vietnam vet. I served in 1968-69 with the 9th infantry div 2/47 infantry battalion. Upon my return from Vietnam I didn't tell many people I'd been there. The war wasn't popular and we were despised by many who protested the war. I drank heavily for 8 years following my service time. I went through rehab in 1978 and have been sober nearly 38 years.
I struggled in my jobs. I was a transportation manager for many companies. I've been married 4 times and now have a woman who understands PTSD. I had counseling in the mid 1990s which helped but I always felt like a square peg in a round hole.
In 2003 a fellow vet encouraged me to get evaluated by the VA. I was eventually rated at 60%. I also came to find out why I felt so different. I have difficulty feeling emotional. I have occasional flashbacks and panic attacks, for which I now have meds. I think of Vietnam every day.
I am retired and work in a fishing shop for fun. Fishing and exercise keep me on track. I had a black lab (Lady) who passed 2 years ago. She was nearly 14 and my buddy. My wife has told me I haven't been the same since. She left a big gap in my life. I have 5 kids and 12 grandkids.
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Jeff Anderson
CEO/Founder, Rebuilding Warriors
