Day 11

Day 11: Jeff

Age: 30

Major: ("Right now or next week?") Fine Arts

Hometown: Houston

Connection to me: Printmaking

Me: Whats the story behind your tattoo?

Jeff: It represents my father who died when I was 16. I got it in when I was in the army in Korea because my dad was a 3rd degree black belt.

Me: How did he die?

Jeff: Cancer

Me: Are you happy you joined the army?

Jeff: Yes, though I wish I did it when I was younger- right out of high school. It was a great learning experience but I came home because I got hurt.

Me: Where were you?

Jeff: South Korea, Afghanistan and Pakistan.

Me: What was your job?

Jeff: I was a crew chief for a black hawk (helicopter).

Me: What is that?

Jeff: Basically the mechanic and gunner.

Me: How was it to come back?

Jeff: Culture shock. When I was there I missed my family but when I came back I missed the people I was with. I felt lost not having it in my life anymore and knowing that I can't go back.

Me: How long were you away for? 

Jeff: The longest time was for 16 months, a total of 6 and a half years.

Me: Tell me about PTSD.

Jeff: Its different for everyone. Some kids wake up in the middle of the night and think they are still there. I wake up often thinking I'm still there. Some people have it even when they are awake.

Me: When you were injured, did you ever fear loosing an arm or leg, or your life?

Jeff: No, I was more worried for everyone else in my unit.

Me: Would you promote joining the army?

Jeff: Its a strong decision to be made. I don't think people with spouses should go.

Me: I agree.