January 1, 2012
01/02/12 Although Curtis Heydt spent some 33 years serving in the United States Army as a chaplain and pastor, he believes his work is not done. Beginning In January, Heydt will begin meeting with local veterans in a support group setting at the LifePlex in Plymouth.Heydt said, “It’s a chance to reach out to other people who are hurting.”
His own military service included serving in Korea and Iraq along with a number of assignments at bases including Fort Bragg, North Carolina; Fort Hood; Texas and Fort Campbell, Kentucky.
During his time in Iraq, he provided chaplain coverage for the largest Combat Air Force Theater Hospital in the country where he ministered to a multi-national medical staff and provided pastoral care to wounded or dying American and allied armed forces, and Iraqi men, women and children.
In response to the 911 attacks, Heydt coordinated chaplaincy support for the Army Special Operations Command with continued religious support for all on-going special operations actions in the Global War on Terrorism.
After his retirement from the Army in 2007, he relocated to the Plymouth area to accept a position with Culver Academies. He is not new to Indiana, however, having graduated from Ball State University in 1971.
Heydt said, “The group is not intended to provide therapy, but to offer understanding care and support for those veterans who are suffering with memories.” In his invitation to fellow veterans, Heydt said, “You have served your nation, and returned home. If memories are painful or difficult, come to our group at LifePlex and find the support of sharing with other veterans who can offer an understanding heart.”
The meetings scheduled for the second Tuesday of each month from 6:30-7:30 pm are open to anyone who has been deployed in the defense of our country. For more information on the “Home From War” support group, contact Heydt at (574) 540-2125.