An increasing number of chronic schizophrenic veterans is being discharged through various community placement programs. Because of years of separation from the social changes that have occurred in the society they once knew, these veterans need to be reoriented to community living. This study describes the responses of four chronic schizophrenic veterans who participated in a program of intensive reorientation. After exposure to this program, the veterans' ability to show empathy for one another was more eventful than their accomplishment of specific skills. Follow-up evaluations indicated that the veterans had gained social interest and competence and demonstrated less pathology.