One of the most significant struggles for Vietnam veterans was the battle for compensation and healthcare for the injuries they sustained, both physical and mental. Many had been exposed to Agent Orange, a toxic herbicide used by the U.S. military during the war. The chemical caused a range of health problems, including cancer, birth defects, and long-term disabilities. Yet, for years, the government failed to acknowledge the connection between Agent Orange exposure and these illnesses. Veterans who sought help were often met with indifference or outright denial.

Honor B. Cole, a Vietnam veteran, provides a powerful personal account of the struggles he faced when he returned home. In his upcoming book, My Floating Coffin: Mekong Delta, Vietnam, Cole recalls the challenges of adjusting to life after war, both physically and mentally. He writes about how he relied on alcohol to cope with the trauma and the anxiety that haunted him, saying, I relied on hard-liquor to reduce my anxiety level, and to promote sleep from my denial phase of my anxieties, of coming back to the oppression of the Jim Crow Laws.

As the years went on, veterans like Cole began to fight for their rights, demanding compensation for their injuries and recognition for their service. But the road to victory was not an easy one. Many veterans faced discrimination and hostility from the public and their own government. The struggle for benefits and acknowledgment became a long and painful journey, marked by frustration and a constant fight for justice.

Cole, like many others, found himself rejected not just by the government, but also by society. He recalls the racist attitudes and hostility he faced from both antiwar protestors and even his own community. He writes, They can take my freedom, money; aggravate my life as living hell under their Jim Crow's mentality. I have been tormented by American whites' anti-Vietnam protestors as a pig for this 'Capitalist-regime,' baby killer and a follower with War-mongers. These protestors saw Vietnam veterans as the enemy, blaming them for the war and its aftermath, even though they had no control over the decisions that led to the conflict.

Even more disturbing were the attacks from other African Americans, who, instead of offering support, condemned Cole and others like him. On the other hand, many Afro-Americans defame me as a fool for going to Vietnam the first time and a double fool going back to Vietnam, second times or more, Cole writes. They call me shell-shocked, slow and stupid. These personal attacks were as painful as any physical injury, leaving many veterans feeling utterly alone and rejected.

To learn more about Honor B. Coles journey and the struggles of Vietnam veterans, read My Floating Coffin: Mekong Delta, Vietnam. Its a powerful and eye-opening account of one mans experience during and after the war, and it sheds light on the broader fight for recognition and equality that many veterans continue to face. Coming soon on Amazon.

Contact: honorcole@sbcglobal.net

Eating healthy does not have to be confusing. MyPlate is a simple, visual guide created by the U.S. Department of Agriculture to help people build balanced meals. It replaces the old food pyramid and provides an easy way to see what a healthy plate should look like. By following MyPlate, you can make better food choices without overcomplicating your meals.

The Five Food Groups on Your Plate

A well-balanced meal includes five key food groups: fruits, vegetables, grains, protein, and dairy. Each plays an important role in keeping your body strong and healthy.

Fruits and Vegetables: Half Your Plate

Fruits and vegetables should make up half of your plate. They are packed with vitamins, minerals, and fiber that help your body function properly. Try to include a variety of colors on your plate, as different colors provide different nutrients. Fresh, frozen, or canned fruits and vegetables all count, but try to avoid added sugars and excessive salt.

Grains: A Quarter of Your Plate

Grains provide energy and essential nutrients. At least half of your grains should be whole grains, like brown rice, whole wheat bread, and quinoa. These are higher in fiber and keep you feeling full longer. Refined grains, like white bread and white rice, are lower in nutrients, so try to eat them less often.

Protein: A Quarter of Your Plate

Protein is essential for building and repairing muscles. Good protein sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, beans, lentils, tofu, nuts, and seeds. Try to choose lean proteins and plant-based options more often to support heart health.

Dairy: A Side of Your Plate

Dairy provides calcium and vitamin D, which are important for strong bones. Choose low-fat or fat-free options like milk, yogurt, and cheese. If you do not consume dairy, look for fortified plant-based alternatives like almond milk or soy milk.

Tips for Making Healthier Choices

Fill half your plate with colorful vegetables and fruits to get a variety of nutrients.

Choose whole grains over refined grains whenever possible.

Include lean proteins, such as fish, chicken, beans, or nuts, in your meals.

Select low-fat or non-dairy alternatives for calcium and vitamin D.

Drink water instead of sugary drinks to stay hydrated and support overall health.

Putting MyPlate Into Action

Eating balanced meals does not have to be complicated. Start by making small adjustments to your plate. Swap white rice for brown rice, add an extra serving of vegetables, or choose fresh fruit instead of dessert. Over time, these small changes add up to big health benefits.

Using MyPlate as a guide can help you create meals that nourish your body and support long-term wellness. What is one change you can make to your plate today?

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