Veterans in Guam face funding cuts amid limited care options

In the U.S. territory of Guam, military veterans are facing significant challenges regarding mental health and support services. With a population of approximately 170,000 residents, about 24,000 are military veterans. Despite these numbers, the only available VA clinic on the island is small and lacks adequate resources, with only one psychologist to provide care for all veterans. This shortage of mental health services has prompted Roy Gamboa, a ten-year Marine Corps veteran, to start the group known as "GOT YOUR 671," which serves as a vital support network for veterans who are dealing with physical and psychological wounds from their time in combat. The group meets weekly to allow veterans to share their experiences and support one another. They also run a suicide prevention hotline, manned by Donovan Santos, who himself battles PTSD and depression. Santos emphasizes the critical importance of this group, stating that without the support, he might not have survived. The meetings serve not only as a source of healing but also as a necessary outlet for the veterans, who often feel isolated in their struggles. However, the future of the group is uncertain due to proposed cuts to the Department of Veterans Affairs. Gamboa has expressed concern about the termination of funding and contracts, fearing that his group may be next to lose financial support as the VA conducts budget audits. This situation has left veterans worried about the sustainability of their support system, especially given the limited resources already available to them on the island. Despite the looming threats, Gamboa remains determined to continue the fight for his fellow veterans, believing that their sacrifices in combat should be honored with adequate care and support in their civilian lives. The veterans in the group echo this sentiment, recognizing the critical support they provide to each other in overcoming the challenges they face post-service.