Kathmandu

"As an only child, my dad was controlling and domineering, unable to relate to me (particularly as a girl), nor interact socially....As an adult, I find I cannot sustain relationships, I am quick tempered and controlling, regimental in my expectations and organisation of everyone and everything and suffer from depression, insomnia and severe anxiety."

The fact that you and your father share character traits and suffer many of the same problems is as much likely to be genetic as it is environmental. The Vietnam experience has no doubt compounded your father's problems but it may not be the only contributor.

The following website was a useful starting point for me in overcoming problems relating to depression, insomnia and anxiety and may be of use to you too. http://www.hypoglycemia.asn.au/ Finding a good naturopath was also critical.

Hi there BRONWYN...

I totally support your assertion that the many difficulties and impediments associated with the successful interaction between the father and his siblings, can be as much genetic as environmental.

I know of some Vets who tend to blame all their misfortunes (both physical, mental and emotional health) on their service in Vietnam.
From 'falling arches' to dandruff? Far be it for me to say their claims are not caused by their war service! Though I reckon some do draw a pretty long bow, nevertheless.

That aside BRONWYN, your thread was most pragmatic, rational and appropriate in my humble opinion. Though the dispair and sadness expressed by KATHMANDU is palpable, whatever the reasons are.

o sung wu, I am a most Politically incorrect person, but I will be PC and say that in order to understand better your replies could you please "align" yourself

the screen name is not Bazza McKenzie but it may not be your name [mine is not]

I think you said you were "involved" in Nam and that you were not conscripted

but were you on Oz side, South Viet side, N Viet side or other??

did you get Oz War Service Loan?

thanks

o sung wu is probably a veteran who looks down upon anyone who didn't actually get sent overseas. i don't think he quite understands the fate that befell those who were conscripted, but not assigned.

well yes, and seems he has gone silent

Good evening to you D.DOC & STEEL...

You wish me to 'align myself' in order that you may better understand my thread/s ? Myself, I'm a pretty ordinary bloke really. At a push I might even describe myself as rather unremarkable, even somewhat banal.

I'm an Aussie, served in the Regular Army, in most South East Asian postings including, Malaysia, Borneo and South Vietnam.

To preserve my anonymity, like most folk who enjoy posting 'threads', I use a nom de plume (o sung wu) which believe it or not does have a strong connection to an event involving moi, in Sth East Asia.

As a veteran, I have availed myself of the War Service Home Loan Scheme, which was raised from $15,000 to $25,000, and administered and funded by the Westpac Bank on behalf of the Defence Forces Home Loan Service/Scheme ? The interest rate was reasonably low (7.5%)and was pegged. Notwithstanding the normal movement of fiscal rates in the market. My memory is relatively poor now, so I can't be sure or precise with respect to all the more finite details of the scheme, unfortunately.

STEEL...I remember well your persistent assertions of massacres allegedly committed by troops (US) in South Vietnam. You quoted much written material by those who claim they have empirical evidence that these crimes did in fact, happen.

I sincerely trust I've answered your questions satisfactorily gentleman. Oh, before I forget...I've NEVER EVER looked down on any soldier, irrespective of where he or she served !

A true story...I had occasion to speak with a Rwandan Veteran recently. He did four months in country, as a UN (Aussie Army) Peace Keeper. He told me, he NEVER fired a shot in anger, the entire time they were there. Yet he and his mates had to idly standby and witness thousands of men, women and children slaughtered, right before their eyes !! Yet, they could do absolutely nothing!

I just couldn't imagine that - and yes, he's entitled to the War Service Home loan. Provided he has sufficient sanity left, to apply for it.