Hello everyone. This is my first post. My son just returned from a year in Afghanistan. This was his 5th deployment (first 4 were with the 3rd Ranger Battalion), and he is only 25.

The day after he arrived home for a 24 day block leave, he was arrested for DUI, put in jail for the night, and turned over to the military here at Ft. Jackson where he was held until I was called by his commanding officer from Ft. Bragg. His leave was immediately cancelled, his driver's license was taken, and he was ordered back to his duty station at Ft. Bragg. Since this event, the Army has arranged some counseling and alcohol abuse sessions that he will be attending. Also, I'm certain he will be severely reprimanded.

My son has retained a very good DUI attorney to represent him. After reviewing all of the evidence, the attorney feels that we should have my son evaluated for PTSD as soon as possible. I think this should be done by a clinical psychologist or psychiatrist who could serve as an expert witness in any future trial. This person would also be able to recommend or provide treatment as needed.

Do any of you have experience with PTSD evaluations, resources, etc.? We live in the Columbia, SC area and my son is stationed at Ft. Bragg near Fayetteville, NC. At this point, we are thinking this evaluation should be done in the private sector and not by the VA. Any thoughts or recommendations would be greatly appreciated.