Veteran Terry Walsh petitioning for better care, services

A military veteran who served in Afghanistan was petitioning door-to-door in St. John's on Saturday, as part of a national campaign to get better treatment for soldiers.

Terry Walsh, 33, said he saw some gruesome things when he served, and wants to make sure other military personnel get the care they need when the return home.

"We were clearing up to a convoy and the driver basically hit an IED and blew up and passed away instantly," said Walsh.

Walsh said he's fighting post traumatic stress disorder; when a bird flies overhead, it still sets his heart racing.

"It follows you, it doesn't stay over, over in Afghanistan. It comes back with you and haunts you."

Walsh said he's been surprised by the lack of services for veterans in Canada — and how difficult it is to avail of the services offered. 

On Saturday, he joined St. John's South MP Ryan Cleary on a door-to-door campaign organized by the federal NDP, in what the party has called a day of action in support of veterans.

"Most people think that the government is taking care of their soldiers, but it's not the case at all," said Walsh.

He added he's calling on all Canadians to honour veterans all year round, not just in November.