Back in 1995 a statistic read, “One-third of those living on the streets served in the Vietnam War.” Today, according to outreach workers who help the homeless- Gulf War, Iraq and Afghanistan War veterans who are homeless are rarely seen on the streets unlike the Vietnam War veterans. They are more likely to live in their cars, shelters, or “couch surf” with friends.
Joseph is a homeless Vietnam veteran living on the streets in Philadelphia. He speaks about his life today and the journey that led to his homelessness. It was an extremely cold day in December when we shot this footage. It is hard to imagine how anyone can survive living outdoors, especially in the winter months shielded only by a cardboard box.
Every Sunday morning, rain or shine, on the beach by Santa Monica pier in California, crosses are meticulously placed in the sand at “Arlington West” representing those who have lost their lives fighting the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.
JOE GALLOWAY is an award winning combat correspondent and co-author, with Lt. Gen. Hal Moore, of “We Were Soldiers Once … and Young,” a story of the battle at the Ia Drang Valley, the first major battle fought during the Vietnam war. The book was made into a movie, “We Were Soldiers.” Joe was portrayed in the movie by actor Barry Pepper.
Joe speaks about his experiences during Vietnam and shares his thoughts about our veterans sacrifices and America’s apathy.
Male and female veterans who served in WWII to present day conflicts appear in this film including a Tuskegee Airman and a WWII POW. The late, Charles Durning, acclaimed actor and WWII veteran, landed on Normandy beach on D-Day and he also fought in the Battle of the Bulge. We had the extremely fortunate opportunity to speak to him a few years ago about his service and his Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD).