Army Officer Survives Afghanistan But Fights New War at Home

Army veteran George Hayworth faced war in Afghanistan—but his toughest battle came after returning home. In this week’s episode of Urban Valor, we sit down with George, a former U.S. Army Artillery Officer, who opens up about his life before, during, and after combat. From his service with the 101st Airborne Division to struggling with identity, addiction, and nearly losing his marriage, George shares how the trauma of combat followed him into civilian life—and what it took to reclaim his family and rebuild himself from the inside out.

If you're searching for real stories about mental health, veteran struggles, addiction recovery, or military life beyond the battlefield, this is an episode you can’t miss. George’s transparency will resonate with anyone who has fought silent battles in the shadows.

👍 Like this video to support and show appreciation.

🗣️ Comment your support or ask any questions. Sometimes, our interviewees respond, and we at Urban Valor will do our best to respond as well!

✅ SUBSCRIBE to support Urban Valor and the courageous Veterans who tell their stories AND so you NEVER miss a weekly episode of our veteran stories. New stories every Sunday!

Your engagement greatly supports our mission to share authentic and impactful veteran stories.

Video Chapters: 
00:00 – Caught in Combat Without Optics  
00:31 – George's Early Life & Family Challenges  
02:08 – Parental Separation & Emotional Burden  
06:22 – Experiencing 9/11 as a Teen  
12:02 – Joining ROTC & Military Career Begins  
17:22 – Adrenaline, Ego, and Jumping from Planes  
22:44 – Field Artillery Training and Deployment  
30:48 – Failing Ranger School & Learning Humility  
36:12 – Assigned to Afghan Advisory Team  
44:56 – Leadership Lessons & Team Bonding  
49:59 – Operation Strong Eagle 5 Near Pakistan  
55:19 – Responsibility, Near Misses & Moral Weight  
58:21 – Transitioning Home and Identity Crisis  
1:03:54 – Marriage Breakdown & Emotional Spiral  
1:06:22 – On-Site Therapy & Owning the Truth  
1:09:35 – Addiction, Confession & Redemption  
1:17:31 – Reconnecting with Faith & Purpose  
1:23:34 – Emotional Regulation & Family Safety  
1:26:07 – Brotherhood vs. Drinking Buddies  
1:31:52 – Breaking Generational Cycles  
1:35:02 – Message to Men: Start Your Healing 

#military #warstories #urbanvalor #usarmy #veteranmentalhealth