SMYRNA, Ga. — Georgia veterans who struggle with post traumatic stress disorder have called for expanded access to medical cannabis ahead of the Fourth of July, nationwide a holiday filled with fireworks displays and celebrations.

For many veterans, one part of the July 4th patriotism can give way to painful flashbacks.

Army veteran Gary Herber takes a medical cannabis capsule in the morning, and a cannabis tincture--a liquid form--on certain afternoons.

“For whatever reason, this just keeps my mind from going in those dark places,” he says.

“Even a celebration as wonderful as a Fourth of July barbecue, with fireworks it can bring back a lot of memories and bring them back to a place they’d rather not be. And this medication is something that can help,” Herber says.

It has helped him through PTSD, the pain of a traumatic brain injury and addiction.

“It helped me get off of painkillers,” Herber said. “It helped me put my life back together.”

The Purple Heart recipient believes the safe, legal access to these products and learning the right regimen can help countless others through a range of conditions.

He has called on Georgia legislature to expand cannabis access for those who also are in pain, not just on holidays, but year ‘round.