There many different problems in today’s world but, personally, the most important problem Congress should face is the unemployed veterans in the United States.

Veterans of all ages have struggled with the fight to come back to everyday life and to find full-time employment. There are close to one million unemployed veterans in the United States and it’s important to recognize the challenges of those returning home.

According to the Council of Economic Advisers, the unemployment rate for recent veterans has remained at all-time highs (around 10 percent). This number is higher than non-veterans in the same age group.

New York is know for its annual Veterans Day parade, but a lot of veterans need more than a pat on the back and a thank-you. Many veterans struggle with addictions, getting employment and finding a home.

According to the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs, approximately 31 percent of Vietnam veterans developed PTSD and had trouble separating war from reality.

Some people may argue that all they need is therapy, but after supplying free counseling sessions to war vets it still may not be enough.

We, as a country, need to wake up to reality and help our war veterans. They put their lives on the line to secure the safety of our people. Now it is time to return the favor.

Joshua Pelletier