Learn moreOperationel Stress
Provincial and Dominion Command Service Officers met at Charlottetown at the end of October, 1996 to address the issue of Post Traumatic Stress Disorder. As a result of advocacy by The Legion, PTSD was recognized as a pensionable condition in 2000.
One of the highlights of the conference was a presentation on Post Traumatic
Stress Disorder. Major General Romeo Dallaire, Chief of Staff, Assistant Deputy
Minister (Personnel) for the Canadian Forces gave the participants an intimate
look into the conditions facing our servicemen and women on peacekeeping
missions. It is abundantly clear that while Canada is at peace, members of the
Canadian Forces serve in Special Duty Areas in conditions of war.
In his description of the conditions in Rwanda where he commanded the UN
presence he eloquently informed those present of the horrors and the results of
the catastrophic events that took place. General Dallaire's presentation was
followed by an excellent session by Dr. James Lazowski, Psychiatrist and former
military Engineer and Military Doctor. Doctor Lazowski with wit and candor
provided the audience with an education as to the medical nature of PTSD.
As a result, RCL Service Officers and VAC adjudicators now have a much better
understanding of this disabling condition. One of the key aspects is that the
individual suffering from the disorder may not acknowledge its presence or its
effect. It will be only too readily apparent to those around them, however.
If you have any friend or a loved one who appears to be suffering from Post
Traumatic Stress Disorder whether it results from service in World War II, Korea
or from any of the many recent peacekeeping missions, you may wish to contact a
Service Officer of The Royal Canadian Legion or a Pension Officer of Veterans
Affairs Canada to pursue a disability claim. A successful claim not only
provides financial compensation and recognition of the sacrifice made but opens
the door for appropriate treatment and therapy to cope with a situation that is
as real as any physically disabling condition. The time to act is now.
Note of Caution to Branch Service
Officers: The Dominion Executive Council (DEC) approved mission for
Branch Service Officers is to act as referrals for Command Service Officers.
Their primary role should be to assist CF serving members, veterans and
dependants to fill out the green RCL Claim Form and forward this form to the
appropriate Command Service Officer. In dealing with individuals who appear to
be exhibiting symptoms of Operational Stress Injury / PTSD, they should do an
immediate referral to either a VAC representative at
