3 minute read
Jan Scruggs - PTSD Survivor
Homeland Magazine recently had an opportunity to visit with Jan Scruggs, founder of The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall. Jan, a Purple Heart recipient, came home from Vietnam, not yet realizing that the challenges he was facing were post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). He went on to study PTSD at American University and became an expert in the disorder, even testifying before Congress on the topic.
What experience led to severe PTSD for you?
Months later, after my initial injury, On January 21, 1970, I was shaving at my mortar pit when an enormous explosion took place nearby. I grabbed a bandage and rushed to a burning truck with at least 100 more Mortar rounds ready to explode. But when I got there, I couldn’t believe my eyes. A dozen Americans were in a burning pile.
Troops ran to the scene with fire extinguishers. We were determined to save the wounded. None of us were afraid to die that morning. We did not care about anything except saving our friends. We were able to pull the troops out of danger, but every one of them died. My memory was tortured. Unlike being wounded in 1969, this PTSD would not go away.
How did you deal with your PTSD?
Not well. I returned home in 1970. I likely had undiagnosed depression and some substance abuse issues. I had PTSD, but PTSD was not officially recognized as a disorder. PTSD did not officially exist.
By 1972, I was tired of living. I was going to college part-time and also buffing floors. My life completely sucked. Why not shoot myself? One gloomy night, I pulled back the hammer on a loaded 38 Colt revolver. I walked to the bathroom mirror and placed my finger on the trigger. I stopped short of firing and instead eased the hammer back to its safe condition. Now, I marvel at the interesting life I would have missed out on if I had pulled the trigger.
How did you become an expert on PTSD?
A few years later, I was married and attending American University working on a master’s degree in Counseling. I became absorbed with the many Vietnam Veterans who were obviously suffering from a variety of issues. Divorces, substance abuse, and other problems they were having were significant. I knew something needed to be done. I did my own independent research which followed with articles in The Washington Post. I later testified before Congress on PTSD. I became nationally known as a PTSD expert.
When did you decide to create a Vietnam Veteran’s Memorial?
In 1979, after seeing the movie Deer Hunter, I stayed up all night. The movie really affected me. I decided that a national memorial was needed to help the veterans and the nation recover from the divisive Vietnam War. I knew displaying the names would help those suffering from PTSD to find peace.
We raised over eight million dollars and dedicated the Memorial on November 13, 1982. Memorials no longer move quite as quickly in Washington DC. The dedication was attended by perhaps 50,000 people who marched in a parade to the wall.
The improbable outcome of getting this now famous memorial built was astounding. Over five million people annually visit the Vietnam Veterans Memorial each year. I have devoted my life to The Wall which has stood the test of time. I still go there with frequency.
Jan is dedicated to improving the lives of veterans and elevating their status in society, which has been recognized and awarded by major veterans organizations. He’s written for publications such as The New York Times and Military Times.
Fell free to connect with Jan on his website,
