Veterans' stories: what they may have to tell us--a personal reflection.

It has been said that we learn much from war. Not only how to conduct it and to be successful, but we learn how the body works and how to assist in regaining function. Without our veterans, much of today's medical knowledge would not be nearly as complete. We have learned how to care for and celebrate our veterans when they return from the war. Vietnam veterans can share what it is like to come home to a country that is not only entirely different, but even antagonistic, to the veteran as a person. This article will consider the types of homecoming experiences veterans have encountered while also introducing examples of the medical knowledge that has been gained from the struggles of those who have fought, and often died, for our country.