I have served in the Armed forces so I have seen first hand what these brave men and women have to go through. Through unfortunate events they have to face a big majority of them now suffer from PTSD. This is an illness that is not recognised enough. When you see somebody drunk and living on the streets begging for money the natural response what most people think is down and out. This is not totally true I once seen somebody begging on the streets all he wanted was a hot drink and some food. I looked at this man closely and thought I recognise that man when I talked to him I found that I had actually served with him. This touched my heart he was once a Royal Marine Commando one of the most elite in our armed forces and he is reduced to living on the streets and probably suffering mental illness. I want to offer my support to try and stop this from happening and make a change for these veterans they deserve our support after all they did serve our country and they was there when we needed them, so we should be there when they need us.

Richard Oldfield (ex soldier 15 years service)