ALBANY, Ga. (WALB) - On Monday morning, former service members in Albany took the time to remember their comrades who gave the ultimate sacrifice for our country.

The American Legion Post 30 held a breakfast and raised a flag at 7:45 a.m. in honor of the fallen. They also laid wreaths by the Veterans of the Vietnam War memorial in Veterans Park in downtown Albany.

“I get emotional thinking about those who died for our freedom. I appreciate those who gave up their lives for us and for our country to be where it’s at today,” said Air Force veteran Nukelia James.

James retired from the Air Force just two years ago and served as Monday’s keynote speaker for the American Legion Post 30 breakfast.

The Legion in Albany is focused on supporting veterans through their shared experiences, including the loss of friends and loved ones.

According to Resilience Behavioral Health of Georgia, an estimated 20% of Georgia vets suffer from PTSD. Dr. Brewer, the commander of American Legion Post 30, says he is one of them. He says the VA and the Georgia Department of Veterans Services do a great job offering support groups like the one he attends in Columbus.

“You know, it’s something that is better to be in a group to talk about it. A lot of these things that veterans experience, you can’t go talk to your spouse or your friends about it, because they don’t understand it,” said Dr. Brewer.

There are services that help veterans after their time in the military is over, including the Transition Assistance Program, or TAP.

“They talk about what the VA offers us, what the state offers as far as housing and education, mental health services, and health care, most importantly,” continued James.

However, there are still ways that South Georgians and local governments can support veterans, such as by providing employment and housing opportunities.

“They all served. They all deserve a little better life now because of their service. But, it’s a big deal and it’s hard to really solve those problems, but you work at is day after day,” continued Dr. Brewer.

This Memorial Day, American Legion Post 30 hopes people from across South Georgia will take a moment to reflect on those who gave their lives for our country.

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