HAMPTON ROADS, Va. - Veterans told News 3 they love to celebrate the 4th of July every year as they remember their service and recognize their freedom.
Jason Redman was shot in the face during a tour of duty in Iraq and now suffers from PTSD but says he has never had an issue with fireworks. He asked his veteran friends if they do and many said they enjoy the blast and lights of the festivity.
Redman's PTSD manifests itself in anxiety in large crowds, but not when he's observing fireworks.
On the other hand, Hugh Davis, a retired Army Col., who has suffered from PTSD for a few years said he has to know fireworks are happening or the sudden sound can trigger traumatic experiences. He said he attends displays and mentally prepares before doing so, but if they catch him off guard sometimes he shuts down.
Davis warns citizens to recognize that anyone living near you could have PTSD and sounds like that in their neighborhood can have a negative effect.
