Are We Failing Our Fighting Men and Women When They Come Home?
"This Week" exclusive: Army Vice Chief of Staff General Peter Chiarelli.
WASHINGTON, Dec 21, 2010— -- This Sunday, during the holiday season, we honor the service and the sacrifice of the U.S. military and their families. "This Week" anchor Christiane Amanpour focuses on the unique challenges facing service members returning home from the frontlines.
Bob Woodruff begins our coverage with a special report on the growing number of veterans returning from Iraq and Afghanistan who find themselves homeless. According to the Veterans' Administration there are more than 9,000 men and women just back from fighting America's wars who find themselves homeless. Bob tells the stories of a decorated veteran who served two tours in Iraq and was homeless three days after leaving the military, and a single mom who also served two tours in Iraq and resorted to sleeping in cars when she became homeless.
Then, Christiane asks her exclusive guest, the Army Vice Chief of Staff, General Peter Chiarelli, how this can be happening in America? Christiane will explore with General Chiarelli the stresses and strains on our fighting men and women and the long-term consequences of their repeated deployments as they transition back to the civilian world.
Also, a call to action from first lady Michelle Obama and second lady Jill Biden. What all Americans can do to support military families.
Then, the incredible story of New York Times war reporter David Rohde, held hostage by the Taliban in Afghanistan for seven months until his daring escape while his captors slept. During his ordeal his wife, Kristen Mulvihill waged a quiet and stealthy struggle to secure his freedom. They have a new book out, "Rope and a Prayer," and they come to "This Week" on Sunday to tell the incredible inside story of their shared ordeal.
And an inspiring tale of hope: ABC Nightline anchor Terry Moran profiles an Israeli and a Palestinian who through their deep loss are trying to bridge the gap that has defined the most intractable war.
Stories of sacrifice and hope this Sunday on "This Week."
