Veterans cope with PTSD with fireworks on the Fourth of July

The Fourth of July brings the excitement of fireworks, barbecues, and celebration.

For many of the nations veterans, the fireworks bring a haunting reminder.

“There was actually a time where we had a mortar round that actually flew right over my head as I was jumping into the foxhole,” said Shane Herndon.

Herndon first realized fireworks could be a problem while visiting Disneyland with his family.

“Even though I knew it was going to happen, they always set off fireworks there, my wife said that said she was watching me, and pretty much every explosion of the fireworks I was jumping,” said Herndon.

Even now, the explosions on the Fourth of July still trigger a reaction for Herndon.

“Even though I’m aware people are going to do fireworks just the noise kind of puts me back to that anxiety to feel what I felt when I was there in Afghanistan,” said Herndon.

Trauma therapist Susan Boudreaux said fireworks set off on the Fourth of July, will affect every veteran differently.

“They could have nightmares, they could curl up in the fetal position and rock until they can calm themselves down,” said Boudreaux.

Boudreaux also said some veterans will even avoid fireworks altogether.

“The Fourth of July we celebrate our birthday and the people who kept us free, yet they kind of have to sit back and watch from the inside of their home,” said Boudreaux.

Herndon is still able to participate in the fun.

“I love fireworks,” said Herndon.

Herndon said he still enjoys the fireworks, and wants people to continue celebrating in the traditional way.

“I really hope that everyone has some fun out there for this special Fourth of July weekend,” Herndon said, “But please try to be supportive, kind and courteous towards others around you, because you never know if someone is there who just might be having a harder time.”