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© The Raw Story
An Iraq War veteran who suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder became the first person to legally buy recreational marijuana under a new Colorado law that went into effect New Year's Day.

Sean Azzarti, of Denver, who helped campaign for Amendment 64, a voter-approved measure that permits anyone over 21 to buy or consume marijuana, purchased an eighth of an ounce of Bubba Kush marijuana and a pot-infused truffle for $59 from one of the two dozen stores that started selling up to an ounce of the drug Wednesday morning.

"I feel amazing. This is a huge step forward for veterans," said Azzarti, who was unable to purchase medical marijuana under his diagnosis. "Now I get to use recreational cannabis to alleviate my PTSD."

Long lines began forming outside the stores later in the morning, and at least one shop raised prices for an eighth of an ounce - from $25 to $45 - as demand soared.

Police reported no problems in the first day of legal sales in spite of the large crowds.

"What I love about it is the peacefulness of the crowd ... and the diversity," said Denver City Councilman Albus Brooks.

At least 37 shops across the state are fully licensed to sell marijuana for any purpose, according to the Denver Post.

"Prohibition has ended," said grandmother Michelle Wold, of Colorado. "This is groundbreaking."

Ohio resident Brandon Harris said he drove 20 hours to be in Colorado for the open of legal pot sales, and he said he's not planning to leave.

"We're going to become residents," Harris said.

Lucas DaSilva said he drove all night from Georgia to buy 6 grams of African Queen, Acapulco Gold and Bubble Gum herb for $180, along with some edible treats.

"I'm at a loss for words. Happy New Year!" DaSilva said. "This is history I just made. I can't believe it. Such a blessing."