Why is it that in America, veterans from the Afghanistan and Iraq war can still find themselves on the streets doing drugs?

It takes weeks of training and years of indoctrination to turn a civilian into a killing machine, but only minutes to turn a killing machine into a civilian. Counseling is available to veterans, but if they don't go, or if they argue with their counselor, there's nothing that can be done. 

It's been a long time since Republicans have been supportive of funding programs that benefit our soldiers once they're off active duty. But, Democrats are in control now. And, Bernie Sanders is very pro vet. So, help is on the way. It will probably turn up this year in one of the three economic bills Democrats will be able to pass via Budget Reconciliation.

Everything you read in the New York Times should be verified they have a very poor reputation due to their political leanings.

Because some of them CHOOSE to drugs.  Blaming the government for peoples' poor choices is idiotic

Meh.  There are lots of programs to help vets.  The ones on the street are there because they want to be there.

Because they've seen some things, man.

you were the guy who wouldnt eat the food at diner cuz lady waitress passed gas on your food, 

sick pos you are..you bum , go watch your porn and get a life !!!

Because helping people is anti-capitalist.