The Opioid Epidemic is now a Public Health Emergency, as a result of Donald Trump's declaration in October, which is a step forward considering the opioid crisis has officially killed more Americans than the Vietnam War. However, Opioid abuse amongst military veterans rarely receives headlines, despite vets being more prone to addiction compared to the American civilians they protect.

Listen to this episode of the Lima Charlie News Podcast, for a discussion on opioids with two characters at the center of this issue. First, Don Martinez--a retired Field Artillery Officer in the U.S. Army--describes his history of opioid dependency at the VA, and how he overcame his struggle. Then, we go to the VA Hospital in New York City to speak with Dr. Brian Sands, the Chief Medical Officer of the Opioid Treatment Program in the VA's Harbor Healthcare System.

This episode was produced and edited by James Fox, for Lima Charlie News.