This qualitative study examined the use of writing as a means of exposing and addressing what troubles war veterans. Analyzed data included extended responses from standardized, open-ended interviews of eight veteran writers representing four major wars: World War II, Korean War, Vietnam, and the Iraq and Afghanistan War. The published work of several participants was also used as collaborative data. Qualitative analysis of data revealed several major themes and numerous sub-themes, with respect to combat trauma, mental health issues, readjustment and reintegration issues, and the usefulness of writing to expose and address these issues. Study results endorsed writing and self-narrative as a powerful tool for exposing and addressing the issues that typically disturb returning combat veterans. The results support the use of writing as a viable, therapeutic approach to treatment of war trauma.
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