By RENE DE LA CRUZ & MIKE LAMB, STAFF WRITERS
HESPERIA — Carrying a large American flag, Army veteran Eric Peters stopped in the High Desert last week during his walk across America to bring awareness about veterans who are suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder or traumatic brain injuries.
On Wednesday, the veteran, who was awarded a Purple Heart for injuries suffered on battlefield, had arrived in Hesperia after leaving Barstow the day before.
“After I left Barstow, I stayed at the Orenda Home in Apple Valley and now I’ll be making my way out to San Bernardino,” said Peters, 23, who was injured while serving in Afghanistan. “My final goal is to spread awareness of PTSD and TBI. My final destination is Santa Monica, but not before I spend some time in L.A. trying to promote awareness.”
Peters, who started his walk in New Jersey on June 20 and travels about 50 miles per day, said he’s struggled with PTSD and TBI since leaving the military in October 2013. The veteran said most people don’t understand combat veterans dealing with his condition.
“Many of those veterans who are suffering with PTSD and TBi just don’t fit in with civilian life. Many are angry, afraid, irritable and just lost,” Peters said. “These veterans lose their appetites, their friends and any hope of recovering. Every night, they wake up in a cold sweat after having another nightmare.”
Peters said during his walk, he’s been able to help homeless veterans with jobs, food, service dogs, clothes and other basic necessities. He’s also had the chance to meet some “great people,” such as the stars from the TV show Pawn Stars, community leaders, families and other wounded veterans.
Before he arrives in Santa Monica, Peters said he would like to organize a large concert with big name musicians and celebrities, such as Tom Hanks.
The veteran from Clark, New Jersey, also said he’s using his “No Veteran Walks Alone” Facebook page to spread his message and to update his followers on his progress.
“These combat vets should be going through counseling and rehab, and not writing us off or giving us medication as guinea pigs,” Peters said. “I’ve spoken with senators, governors and other veterans who are all backing me up on this. The Wounded Warriors Project is also backing me on this.”
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