Interview with Tom Neven: On the Frontline

One of my journalism students, a retired military officer, wrote a glowing review of the book, On the Frontline by Tom Neven. A month later at a luncheon in Colorado Springs, I ended up sitting next to the author. So I asked if I could interview him about his work, which is, as its subtitle says, “a guidebook for the physical, emotional and spiritual challenges of military life.”

What drove you to write On the Frontline?

I served seven years in the Marine Corps at the end of the Vietnam era, and I’ve had a special place in my heart for the military ever since. I understand the pressures our soldiers, sailors, airmen, Marines and Coast Guardsmen face. I wanted to be able to give a bit of perspective to people immersed in this culture from someone who was once there, too.

What is your main message?

If only one message emerges from this book, I want it to be Semper Fidelis. Yes, this is the Marine Corps’ motto, but its meaning—Always Faithful—describes God perfectly. He is true to His word and his promises as found in Scripture. Lean on this aspect of God; it helps a lot when the pressure’s on.

What are some of the problems those returning from war face? Why?

The great hidden problem, the one many don’t want to admit or talk about, is depression. I’m not talking about PTSD (post-traumatic stress disorder), which is a big problem in itself. I’m talking about the day-in, day-out, low-grade depression that feels like a bag of wet cement weighing down your very being. Its causes are many: stress, long hours, anger, grief and fear. Did I mention stress? The problem is compounded by a military culture in which some are not willing to admit to hurting from something that can’t be “seen” or “touched.” There’s no shame in admitting to suffering depression and seeking help from a chaplain or medical officer.

Second is the strain on marriages. The divorce rate has skyrocketed among the military, this from an already high rate before Iraq and Afghanistan. Long deployments are tough on marriages, and the strains of combat, fatigue, and depression add to the stress.

How can the average person help?

First and foremost, pray. Even if you don’t personally know someone serving in uniform, pray. Soldiers and Marines have told me they take great comfort from knowing that people they might never know or meet are still interceding for them.

Next: send care packages! Hard candy, toothpaste, reading material, Bibles, music CDs, DVDs, shaving cream, baby wipes (it’s sometimes a long time between showers!), razors—all these are greatly appreciated.

Thanks, Tom.

For info on care packages, click here. And consider including a copy of Tom's book.