S/Sgt. Norman Bussel served as a radio operator with the 447th Bomb Group. In April of 1944, his B-17, Mississippi Lady, was shot down during a mission to Berlin. Four of his crewmates were killed in action. Bussel spent the following year as a prisoner of war at Stalag Luft 4, enduring solitary confinement that left him with lifelong claustrophobia and PTSD.

PTSD occurs when someone witnesses or lives through a traumatic experience. It is a brain injury that impacts areas of the brain regulating memory, emotional control, and the fear response. Symptoms can include flashbacks, anxiety, and nightmares, and affects about 8 million people in the United States. If you are battling PTSD, recovery is possible with psychotherapy, and you are capable of living a fulfilling life.

Though it wasn't often discussed, the Greatest Generation was greatly affected by PTSD, as many are today. 

Like many of his peers, Bussel intensely struggled with PTSD and survivor's guilt, and eventually turned to alcohol to cope. Eventually he began therapy, got sober, and Bussel and his wife, Melanie, became fierce advocates for veterans and former POWs, working with the Veterans Administration to help families access government benefits. Bussel later published his memoir, My Private War, and spoke often about his experiences.

PTSD awareness matters, and by talking about it, we can ensure that those fighting their own internal battles, both military and civilian, know that they are not alone and can recover and have fulfilling lives.