Book Talk Explores Healing from Vietnam War Trauma Through Service and Storytelling

Veteran Navy Corpsman and VA Psychiatric Nurse John Kerr to Speak at Gallery 32.

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Gallery 32 will host a compelling and deeply personal book talk on 

February 15 from 2:00 to 3:30 PM.

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Featuring John Kerr, a former U.S. Navy corpsman and combat medic who served in Vietnam and later dedicated his career to helping fellow veterans as a psychiatric nurse

with the Veterans Administration.

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Drawing from his experiences on the battlefield and in hospital wards back home, the author will discuss his book’s exploration of combat trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), and the lifelong journey of healing. His story bridges two worlds — frontline military medicine and veteran mental health care — offering rare insight into both the immediate and long-term impacts of war.

During the talk, he will reflect on:

• Providing emergency medical care under combat conditions

• The emotional and psychological toll of war on service members

• His transition to psychiatric nursing with the VA

• Supporting other veterans while confronting his own trauma

• The role of storytelling in recovery and resilience​

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The event offers community members an opportunity to better understand the realities many veterans face and the importance of compassionate, informed support. A question-and-answer session will follow the presentation.

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“This book talk is not only about one man’s experience,” organizers note, “but about the shared challenges of trauma, the courage it takes to seek help, and the power of connection in healing.”

The program is free and open to the public. Veterans, family members, healthcare professionals, and anyone interested in military history, mental health, or personal narratives of resilience are encouraged to attend.

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Event Details
What:   Breaking Silences, Author Book Talk & Discussion 
Who:    John Kerr, Vietnam Navy Corpsman, Combat Medic, and Former VA Psychiatric Nurse
When:  February 15, 2:00–3:30 PM
Where: Gallery 32, 32 South Main Street, Canandaigua, NY 14424

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For more information about the event, please contact 

Diane Olivet, Gallery 32 Manager

14424gallery32@gmail.com