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Profiles American soldiers wounded in the Iraq War and their efforts to create a new life for themselves back in the United States. Challenges faced by the solders; Confusion as to what to do next; Loss of jobs and marriages; Impact of the pain and discomfort they feel; Discussion of the some of the wounds suffered and the impact on family and friends; Diagnoses of post-traumatic stress disorder; Focus on head injuries that are a frequent by-product of the Iraq War; Reflections of some of the solders on their wartime service; Reference to National Guard and Reserve units who never expected to see combat overseas but who make up 40 percent of the troops in Iraq. INSET: LIVES ALTERED BY INJURY.

Introduces a special section on American soldiers wounded during the Iraq War. Reference to the fact that vastly improved emergency medicine is saving an unprecedented number of lives; Focus on the challenges that face the system that cares for returning soldiers; Difference between saving the wounded and healing their wounds.

Considers the prevalence of post-traumatic stress disorder in American soldiers who served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Concern that those returning are not receiving proper medical treatment for their service-related psychological problems; Examples of the psychological threats encountered in Iraq; Stigma attached to seeking help; Focus on the transition from battlefield to civilian life.