“Gil started one-on-one counselations. He was also with Homeland ing,” said Perez (right), “and realized Security in 2003, securing Army that he missed a lot by not working bases in New Jersey. with the VA and making use of the Sleepless nights, being withdrawn services they offer.” and solitary were among his PTSD Today, Collazo and his wife symptoms. “The mortar attacks in Ubelina have two sons, Joseph, 18, Iraq affected me,” Perez said. and Joshua, 16. Along with helping Collazo was there for him. returning veterans, he also speaks to “Gil was like an angel coming to young people considering the milithe DPW,” Perez said. “He said, ‘Altary. One is Perez’s son, Matthew, 20. berto, you got to get help. You have “Use the service as a vehicle,” to see a doctor.’” Today, Perez also Collazo advised Matthew, “and do a gets VA counseling in Bloomfield as job that you can use in civilian life well as with a private therapist. when you return.” Another way to clear his head Matthew now wants to be- “We call it vets helping vets,” is to ride his 2005 Kawasaki Vulcome a Clifton firefighter and 1600 Classic. “Throttle thersaid Perez, “We’re a bunch can is considering joining the U.S. apy is what we call it,” he said. Air Force Reserves and pursuPerez and Collazo are serious of guys who continue to ing firefighting as his military about helping other vets. Acts of help each other out.” career. charity and compassion are key His father Alberto’s soldier’s to their own recovery. “We call it story is also one of sacrifice, service and, unfortunately, ‘vets helping vets,’” said Perez. “We’re a bunch of guys PTSD. A 1979 graduate of Passaic High, Perez served 29 who continue to help each other out.” years in the National Guard and ran a prison during OpAre you a vet that needs to talk? Call Gil Collazo at eration Iraqi Freedom during 2008-09 in detainee oper201-598-2143 or Alberto Perez at 973-768-2488.
6
November 2019 • Cliftonmagazine.com