The group of Iraq War veterans stood to introduce themselves. War is an exceptionally maturing experience, but they looked so very young. Articulate, patriotic, compassionate and wise beyond their years, they shared their war stories.

Ray joined the Marines at age 17, the week after 9/11. Jason did three tours in Iraq. Marine Capt. Marlisa served in Al Asad for one year. Jason, a 10-year Army veteran, was a medic in central Baghdad. Steve was a former Cavalry Scout in Iraq; Kris did a tour in Sadr City and was later stop-lossed.

Each told of their experiences in Iraq and how it changed their perspective of that war.

Since the beginning of August, these members of the Iraq Veterans Against the War have traveled in a rented RV to the eight most-deployed U.S. military bases. Camp Pendleton was the last stop of their State of the Union Base Tour 2008.

The IVAW delivers a simple message for the troops and veterans they meet: "You are not alone." "We know that there are a lot of active-duty personnel and veterans who have experienced the same things we have," Jason Hurd told the group. "We have seen the destruction our occupation has caused throughout Iraq."

They each joined the military to serve their country and enthusiastically offered their lives for that mission. Now, based on their experiences in Iraq, they are calling for the immediate and complete withdrawal of occupying forces from Iraq, reparations for the Iraqi people, and full benefits for veterans.

Their immediate focus is on what they can do now for other Iraq vets. Local IVAW chapters hold VA benefit workshops, give G.I. Bill of Rights counseling, explain the legal rights of those in the armed services, and most important, empower veterans to have a voice in their government.

What could civilians do to help?

Hurd explained that the IVAW is setting up a national support network of mental health professionals, lawyers and counselors who are willing to see veterans for free. "If you happen to have any friends or acquaintances in those areas, get them in touch with us," Hurd pleaded.

Help is indeed needed in San Diego. A recent VA study found that our local VA health system's three mental-health caseworkers each handle 120 war veterans, way above the VA standard of 25 to 30 cases. Each week, the system enrolls another 45. Sadly, the Pentagon reports that soldier suicides are increasing.

These young veterans didn't seem angry or bitter, and it's obvious they love their country. But they understand this war's side effects and want to help the warriors who come after them. They are asking for our help, too.

To quote George Washington, "The willingness with which our young people are likely to serve in any war … shall be directly proportional as to how they perceive the veterans of earlier wars were treated and appreciated by their nation."

Gail Chatfield can be reached at my500words@yahoo.com.