THE VETERAN Vietnam Veterans Against the War 50¢ Volume 36, Number 1 Spring 2006 Mobile to New Orleans: Resistance Defined in Epic Action Ward Reilly

Veterans leading the march through Mobile

Dave Cline of VVAW and Veterans but they know who they are and of Iraq, a country that did abso- radio shows around the country. If For Peace called me and a few oth- what we accomplished together. lutely nothing to the USA. And we there was one disappointment, it ers back in December and asked Veterans for Peace of Mobile, marched, and we rode on buses, was in our national press's failure what we thought about organizing Alabama (led by Paul Robinson) and we marched some more. Our to cover the march. But the good a march along the Katrina-affected put out the official call to march. message was simple enough: news is that we got killer inter- Gulf Coast to commemorate the We knew we were already late in “Let’s stop the war and rebuild national press; Aljazeera covered third anniversary of the war in Iraq, organizing an adventure of this our own nation now.” Our logo us for the last three days, and the in the mold (no pun intended) of scope, but we were determined. It was designed by Perry O’Brien of BBC, CNN, and a Japanese press the civil-rights marches of the six- was a great idea to tie the war in IVAW; it showed a combat soldier agent were with us. In other words, ties. We had been tossing around Iraq—and its staggering cost—to and a civilian woman walking side the people of Iraq and the rest of different ideas about what action the virtual abandonment of the by side into the sunset. the world got to see US veterans to take for the third anniversary of Gulf Coast and the city of New Or- Local press coverage was of the Iraq and Afghanistan wars the Iraq disaster ever since we had leans. If the Bush administration outstanding, with front-page speaking the truth about those marched together in Washington in had trillions of dollars to destroy photos and articles in every city wars, a major coup for us. There September 2005, and it was time and “rebuild” Iraq, why wasn’t we marched through. We were on to make a decision. The Veterans that same administration doing local television and on many live continued on page 16 Gulf March was born. We were everything possible to help the de- “Walkin’ to New Orleans”! stroyed cities in our own country? Stan Goff took the bull by the As the event T-shirts read, “Every horns and started putting together bomb dropped on Iraq explodes a team to organize this huge un- along the Gulf Coast.” This was dertaking, and in January we got based on Dr. Martin Luther King’s down to business. Goff, a retired words during the Vietnam War, Special Forces master sergeant when he said, “The bombs in PO Box 408594 and a member of VVAW, VFP, and Vietnam explode at home; they Chicago, IL 60640 Military Families Speak Out, put destroy the hopes and possibilities www.vvaw.org together a budget and supply list, for a decent America.” [email protected] and we got to work organizing. We We decided to start the 130- set up a website, started a series mile march on Tuesday, March of conference calls, and formed 14 and to end the march in New committees and a task force. The Orleans on March 19, the third an- team involved is too large to list, niversary of our nation’s invasion 2 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 From the National Office Barry Romo We keep hearing from the Re- for the next election. publicans how noble this war in On a similar note, remember Iraq is, and how necessary it is for Abu Ghraib? A nineteen-year-old public safety. If it’s so noble, why woman—yes, a teenager—dog is there no Bush family member leash in hand, got blamed for tor- serving there—or two, or twenty? ture. She came back to the good How come other people’s sons and old USA pregnant, and is now in daughters are supposed to make military prison. Iraq safe for democracy? The Bush Compare her fate with that family are never even asked why of a chief warrant officer, an older their kids and relatives aren’t in male (probably a lifer). He tortured harm’s way. to death an Iraqi prisoner of war. Hell, Baby Bush even has He got a letter of reprimand and twins; he could sacrifice one for no jail time, and he’s back at work the cause. If she were killed, they as an interrogator. would still have one who looked Believe what they do, not exactly like the other, so they what they say. wouldn’t miss her so much. And Well, Bush is now down to if she were blown up, they’d have a 27% approval rating, and the a model for the plastic surgeons to press and Congress act like he’s Barry Romo and Kathleen Cleaver. consult while remaking her face. not a lame duck. The problem is And hell, Brother Jeb in that he’s in charge, with his finger we support Iraq Veterans Against will be forty next year, and we’re Florida has a whole passel of kids. on the nukes. And he’s thinking the War in their efforts to organize planning a big bash in Chicago. Shit! They are taking forty- and Iran must be next, because God their brothers and sisters and to You’re all invited. This will be a fifty-year-olds and drug addicts, talks to him. Nixon, at this point make their case with the American good time with old friends (and so his drug-user daughter could in his presidency, was talking to people. new ones); it’ll be an event to be join the Marines; might even make paintings of Lincoln and pray- Everyone should check out remembered. History in the mak- a man out of her. Really, there ing to God, not talking to God. our website (www.vvaw.org) to ing, history remembered. Watch have got to be thirty or forty in These are dangerous times, as purchase a copy of the new DVD for further information on our the Bush family alone available Seymour Hersh points out in the version of Winter Soldier, with all website and in future issues of for combat. New Yorker. sorts of extras. Also, check your the Veteran. Along comes Hillary Clin- We in VVAW need to ratchet local area for showings of the ton, hitting Bush from the right on up our visibility in local and new documentary about the GI Iran. Well, goddamn it, she’s got a national activities. We need to and veteran movement during the Barry Romo is a VVAW national daughter too. Don’t be a hypocrite, remind people how we were trans- Vietnam War, Sir! No Sir! coordinator and a member of Hillary. Give up your child in time formed by our war, and show that Mark your calendars! VVAW the Chicago chapter.

Thanks to Jeff Danziger, Vietnam veteran and political cartoonist, for his generous contributions to this issue. Thanks also to Billy Cur- mano for Oxy, the Smart Bomb, and to John Grant, Marty Webster Jon Bjornson, Ward Reilly, John Zutz, Bill Branson, Claudia Lennhoff, Bill Perry, Dave Kettenhofen, Deborah Harse, Horace Coleman, and others for contributing photos. VVAW Merchandise • VVAW T-Shirt (L, XL, XXL) - $12.00 ______choose color (black, white, sand) • VVAW Hat - $12.00 ______

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Mail order and check to: Ship to: VVAW Merchandise Name ______PO Box 070391 Address ______Milwaukee, WI 53207 City, State, Zip ______Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 3 Vietnam Veterans Against the War, Inc. National Contact List For email addresses, go to our website at www.vvaw.org. If you need a speaker for an event or class visit or someone to interview, please contact the person nearest you. If there is nobody in your area, contact the National Office at (773) 276-4189 or email [email protected].

NATIONAL Northern CA Minnesota Columbus, OH COORDINATORS David Ewing Billy Curmano Mark Hartford Barry Romo (415) 781-8181 (507) 864-2716 [email protected] (773) 276-4189 Central Coast, CA Mpls./St. Paul, MN Kent, OH Pete Zastrow Lane Anderson John Anderson Brian Slease (847) 864-3975 (805) 564-2698 (651) 485-8019 (330) 676-0074 Joe Miller Brighton, CO St. Louis, MO Oklahoma (217) 328-2444 Charles Elliston David Curry Bill Homans Bill Davis (303) 654-1754 (314) 516-5042 (405) 227-4245 (708) 386-1413 Denver, CO New Jersey Waldport, OR David Cline Terry Leichner David Cline Ron Betts (201) 876-0430 (303) 935-5360 (201) 876-0430 (541) 563-3634 John Zutz Miami, FL Jersey Shore, NJ Emmaus, PA (414) 372-0749 Patrick McCann Gerald Gioglio David Shelly Dave Kettenhofen (305) 238-3361 [email protected] (610) 967-2066 (414) 481-4614 Tallahassee, FL Princeton, NJ Levittown, PA Bill Perry Tom Baxter Annie Hirschman Bill Perry (215) 945-3350 (850) 893-7390 (609) 430-0440 (215) 945-3350 Athens, GA Albuquerque, NM Philadelphia, PA NATIONAL STAFF Elton Manzione Bob Anderson Jon Bjornson Bill Branson (706) 369-0546 (505) 858-0882 (215) 438-8883 David Curry Chicago, IL Northwest NM Chattanooga, TN Jeff Machota Barry Romo Joseph Knight Fritz Efaw Lisa Boucher (773) 276-4189 (505) 330-7713 (423) 425-4688 Hannah Frisch Oak Park, IL Las Vegas, NV Austin, TX Bill Davis Rena & John Kopystenski Dave Collins MILITARY COUNSELOR (708) 386-1413 (702) 399-8012 (830) 868-9055 Ray Parrish Rockford, IL New York College Station, TX (773) 561-VVAW Stanley Campbell Ben Chitty Ray "Doc" White (815) 964-7111 (919) 779-1341 (979) 218-6729 Tuscola, IL Cold Spring, NY San Antonio, TX CONTACTS Paul Wisovaty David Eisenhower Tom Wetzler (217) 253-2157 (514) 265-3495 Northwest AR (210) 533-4467 Champaign-Urbana, IL Hudson Valley, NY Dwayne Knox Virginia Joe Miller Jim Murphy (870) 428-5597 Leigh Hauter (217) 328-2444 (845) 358-5709 Cave Creek, AZ (703) 754-4005 Indianapolis, IN Hudson Valley, NY Bob Riggle Northern VA Steven Spurgeon Dayl Wise (623) 465-9837 Doug Nelson [email protected] (718) 231-0616 Huachuca City, AZ (708) 848-3501 Richmond, IN Hudson Valley, NY Michael Holzman Seattle, WA Chuck Yates Mike Gillen (520) 456-9419 Mike Dedrick (765) 966-3221 (914) 948-8983 Arcata, CA (206) 328-5477 Baton Rouge, LA Staten Island, NY Brian Willson Milwaukee, WI Ward Reilly Ramon Rodriguez [email protected] Annie Bailey (225) 766-1364 (718) 447-0049 Southern CA (414) 963-0398 New England Olean, NY Leland Lubinsky Milwaukee, WI Jerry Lembcke Barry Miller (909) 796-6565 Dave Kettenhofen (408) 793-3050 (716) 557-8978 Long Beach, CA (414) 481-4614 Jackson, MI Cincinnati, OH Horace Coleman Northern WI Arnold Stieber Marty Webster (562) 438-2818 Jay Tobin (734) 475-0740 (513) 349-4413 (715) 832-1989 Bunker Hill, WV Bill Czyzewski (304) 229-0692 Editorial Collective Barry Romo Joe Miller Jeff Machota Lisa Boucher 4 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Fraggin' Bill Shunas We haven’t been hearing much movement has not been as active leaders and the situation on the no-win war. We’ll support you all “support the troops” rhetoric lately in this war, compared to Vietnam. ground in Iraq that undermines the way. from the politicians and pundits There are demonstrations each morale. Troop morale is not low- Finally, I must issue an apol- who support the war. Maybe March for the anniversary of the ered by antiwar activity, whether it ogy. In the past, many of us have that’s because 72% of the troops beginning of the war. During the is high-intensity activity (as during been critical of those we have in Iraq say all the troops should rest of the year, antiwar activity is Vietnam) or what we have today. called chickenhawks. This term be withdrawn by the end of the more subdued. This is not written That brings us back to the point refers to our nation’s leaders who year. (That’s according to a poll to diss the antiwar movement. It’s that the best way to support the see fit to lead us into various wars, conducted by Zogby.) Also, 26% a different situation from Viet- troops is to bring them home. but who, back in the day when they of the troops thought immediate nam. Back then, we were trying In place of the “support the had their chance to serve in a war, withdrawal was the best choice. to convince fellow citizens of the troops” rhetoric, the hawks have found their way out of it. War supporters used to say that bankruptcy of the war; now most lately been switching over to the Ronald Reagan helped fight antiwar activities undermined World War II in the movie studio, troop morale; now the troops are Back then, we were trying to but got us involved in a couple of out ahead of the rest of us in op- minor wars. Bill Clinton avoided posing the US presence in Iraq. convince fellow citizens of the the draft. The current president Now, if nearly three quar- bankruptcy of the war; now most avoided Vietnam by joining the ters of the troops are in favor of National Guard, but he wasn’t withdrawal, maybe “supporting of our fellow citizens have afraid to get us into this mess in the troops” means that we should that figured out. Iraq. Most of those who advised get out of this war ASAP. The him on this adventure were also chickenhawks can’t accept that, so skilled at avoiding military ser- the “support” rhetoric is fading. of our fellow citizens have that “those 2,400 cannot have died in vice. Recently Bush said that figured out. Back then, we felt vain” mode. My apologies to the We used to criticize them withdrawal will be up to the next we were part of the democratic families, but those 2,400 have died for this, but think about it: maybe president. That would be consis- process, like we could demand that in vain, and there is no sense in it’s good that they didn’t serve. tent with the lack of support these the nation’s leadership change; adding to the list. That happened in Back in ‘Nam, if you were hun- troops have been getting from now it seems like the nation’s Vietnam. Long after it was evident kered down in a firefight, would day one: delayed medical atten- leadership is oblivious to any kind that the war was unwinnable, we you have wanted Cheney with tion early in the war, the lack of of pressure. They don’t care that kept sacrificing troops, claiming you? If you were out in the field, Kevlar vests, the lack of armor for these wars have no purpose for that if we didn’t keep fighting, it guys would be afraid to go off to Humvees, the lack of gloves for those who don’t hold oil stock. would dishonor those who had take a dump, not knowing where the troops in the Afghan winter. They don’t know that these wars previously paid the price. Such Cheney would be aiming on their Oh yes, Afghanistan. The latest can’t be won. They are arrogant rhetoric is only a cover for those way back. I can picture a Three information from there says that and stubborn...and don’t forget who will not admit the war policy Stooges movie where Curly has war isn’t going well either. As stupid. was misguided in the first place. his finger stuck on the trigger of far as I know, no poll has been Today’s antiwar activity is It is an effort to shift the guilt for a machine pistol. So I apologize. conducted among those stationed also less publicized by the me- the 2,400 dead. If Cheney is an example, I’m glad in Afghanistan, but I doubt those dia. I make these points to say Then we get to those who these chickenhawks never served troops are too happy with their that those who claim that antiwar claim that the US military “never in the military. situation. With the perpetrators activity undermines the morale of tucks tail and runs,” and “these of 9/11 long gone, what is their the troops are wrong. Morale gets colors don’t run,” and other such purpose? undermined when you fight unjust phrases. Yeah, baby. You guys Bill Shunas is a Vietnam veteran In my opinion, the antiwar or unwinnable wars. It is the lying and gals get up front and fight this and author. Notes from the Boonies Paul Wisovaty During the twenty years that I’ve Thompson was always one of my to draw fire from enemy forces. second. If the Americans fire at the lived in Tuscola, I’ve penned a few heroes, you know. Instead, they saw several hun- Vietnamese, shoot the Americans. dozen articles for the local paper. He has also been a minor dred Vietnamese civilians, dead I realize that most readers don’t I never got paid for any of them, footnote in history. I work with a or dying, piled in an irrigation work in the court system, but we but it would have been nice to have thirty-six-year-old Marine (there ditch. Putting the chopper down, have a legal phrase for that sort of gotten five bucks at least once. I are no ex-Marines) who has never they came to a quick and accurate behavior. It’s called having really could then have called myself a heard of him. My officer’s a pretty conclusion: American soldiers had big brass balls. “professional journalist.” So I was smart guy, but as I suggested, killed them, and were in the pro- Thompson and his crew obviously flattered when, a couple Hugh Thompson isn’t exactly a cess of finishing off any who were succeeded in saving the lives of of years ago, the publisher asked household name. I would venture left alive. There was no indication several of the Vietnamese, and he if I’d be interested in doing some to guess that about one in fifty of the presence of enemy forces immediately reported the incident work for which I would actually people in Tuscola has any idea who in the area. to superiors. Predictably, nobody be paid. I was flattered up until the he was, and I don’t know whether Thompson noticed several cared. A year later, one of those point at which he explained that he that percentage would increase if children and elderly adults trying rascally whistle-blowers did what needed somebody to write obitu- you took a poll walking down a to run away. He placed his chopper his caste heroically does, and the aries. It seems that the last obit street in New York City. For the between the soldiers and the flee- rest is history. Of course, one writer had, I guess fittingly, died. I uninitiated, here’s a quick bio. ing civilians, and gave an extraor- man’s history is another man’s respectfully declined. As they say, My Lai, South Vietnam, dinary order to his crewmates: If whitewash. To this day, there are pride goeth before a fall. March 16, 1968. Thompson and the soldiers fire at the civilians, those who think that Lt. “Rusty” But I’d like to do one now. I two crew members were helicop- shoot the soldiers. It didn’t come just hope that I do it justice. Hugh tering over the village, expecting to that, but let’s push “pause” for a continued on page 5 Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 5 My View John Zutz There are good reasons to clas- ments: to manipulate available sought to obtain nuclear material sion? The Downing Street memo sify information. First, it keeps information for political purposes. from Niger. says yes. Why else would any enemies from knowing what we It looks like this is what happened The yellowcake accusation administration believe a forged know about their capabilities. in July 2003, except in this case it was a pivotal point in the assertion document from dubious sources Another good reason is that if was declassification. that Iraq had weapons of mass de- over a trusted ambassador? And if enemies know that we possess Just as the Veteran ap- struction. That accusation proved the ambassador had no credibility, certain information, they may be proached the deadline for the to be based on what even newspa- why attempt to discredit him? able to discern our intelligence 2005 Memorial Day issue, the per reporters could recognize as a And the big one: Why methods—how we got the info. news broke, big time. I. Lewis crudely forged document. would anyone believe this leak There are also bad reasons (“Scooter”) Libby was instructed Wilson’s article helped de- has no connection to the other to classify. One bad reason would by President George W. Bush, bunk the yellowcake accusation. leak Fitzgerald is investigating, be to conceal information to keep through Vice President Dick In it, he stated, “Some of the intel- the leak that illegally exposed someone from looking bad. The Cheney, to leak classified intelli- ligence related to Iraq’s nuclear Wilson’s wife, Valerie Plame, as “secret” bombing of Laos and gence documents related to Iraq. weapons program was twisted to a CIA agent? Cambodia is an example of this. Special Counsel Patrick exaggerate the Iraqi threat.” Scooter was the source of The North Vietnamese knew, so Fitzgerald made the revelation This leaves a lot of questions both leaks. Bush and Cheney were certainly the Russians and Chi- in a court filing. He said the to be answered. Over 2,300 dead the instigators of one. Does anyone nese knew. The Laotians knew, leak was the result of a “strong boys and girls demand answers. believe Scooter acted alone on the the Cambodians knew, the plane desire to repudiate claims” made A trillion dollars of debt demands other? Yes? I have a bridge I’ll sell drivers who dropped the bombs by former ambassador Joseph answers. Both sides of the congres- you cheap. knew. The only ones in the dark Wilson in a July 2003 newspaper sional aisle ought to be clamoring were US citizens. article. In the lead-up to the Iraq to hear the answers. John Zutz is a VVAW national This is closely related to an- invasion, Wilson was hired by Was the intelligence “mas- coordinator and a member of the other bad reason to classify docu- the CIA to evaluate whether Iraq saged” to reach a foregone conclu- Milwaukee chapter.

Notes from the Boonies a mama-san under his flak jacket I don’t know. I just know and medevaced her out of harm’s what he did. Hugh Thompson continued from page 4 way, I’d have given him a medal died this year, too young and way Calley, who was in charge of the of this medal, but I’m told that it’s based on that. But that wasn’t too unheralded. As an old enlisted Americal Division platoon that several notches above my Good what he did. “If the Americans man, I guess the best eulogy I can day in 1968, was the real hero, vi- Conduct Medal. fire at the Vietnamese, shoot the offer is this: It would have been ciously scapegoated by the Army. I have briefly summarized Americans.” Did this guy have a an honor to have served under I don’t entirely disagree with the what happened at My Lai and death wish? Did he consider for a you, sir. second half of that assessment, thereafter, but you know what? I moment what he’d just said, and although it’ll be a sober day in can’t get Mr. Thompson’s order what might happen in the next Dick Cheney’s office before I label out of my mind. “If the Americans thirty seconds? Didn’t he realize Paul Wisovaty is a member of Calley a hero. Hugh Thompson, fire at the Vietnamese, shoot the he was dealing with a platoon of VVAW. He lives in Tuscola, along with his surviving crew- Americans.” If he had just called charged-up, burnt-out, frustrated, Illinois, where he works as a mate, Lawrence Colburn, was Calley a son of a bitch and quoted scared and pissed-off grunts with probation officer. He was in awarded the Soldier’s Medal on the Geneva Convention, I’d have loaded M-16s? What the hell was Vietnam with the US Army 9th March 6, 1998. I had never heard been impressed. If he had stuffed this guy thinking? Division in 1968. 6 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Winter Soldier/Wagin’ War Minneapolis Billy X. Curmano These are the times that try men’s of hours: shot while fleeing; shot the enemy to fear us more than ever-expanding university and souls. The summertime soldier and in the back; shot while praying. we feared them. We wanted them art-house audience. One reviewer the sunshine patriot will in this Lt. William Calley became the to think twice about engaging the noted that it still possessed “the crisis, shrink from the service of scapegoat for an administration “Herd.” power of an unexploded gre- his country; but he that stands it that claimed My Lai to be an iso- I repressed much of this with nade.” now, deserves the love and thanks lated incident. drugs and alcohol (read “PTSD” Last January, I was asked of man and woman. —Thomas In response, Vietnam Vet- here) until the Karl Armstrong trial to represent VVAW and perform Paine erans Against the War gathered in Madison, Wisconsin several the song/poem “Wagin’ War” at over 125 Vietnam veterans for years later. Karl was charged with the Bryant Lake Bowl Winter War is the ultimate failure of the Winter Soldier Investigation (among other things) blowing up Soldier screening in Minne- civilization. It creates a culture at a Detroit Howard Johnson hotel the Army Math Research Center apolis, as part of the City Pages of hate, death and destruction that in February 1971. Three days of at the University of Wisconsin. documentary film festival. The changes its participants forever. testimony exposed the brutality of Karl didn’t deny the charges. He audience spanned generations of The Iraq War, with its atrocities their tours of duty. Without regard pled guilty. In this way, attorney witnesses to the repeated cycles of at Abu Ghraib and sites yet to be for possible repercussions, the William Kunstler, Karl and his war. VVAW shared an information discovered, is not new. It parallels mostly young men bravely testi- defense team used the Winter table with Veterans for Peace. A Vietnam and the ever-expanding fied to witnessing and participat- Soldier model to put the war on veteran VVAW campaign banner history of war and inhumanity. ing in war crimes. They testified trial. I joined with other VVAW and traveling display with docu- The Vietnam War had Lt. William about things that had changed witnesses to expose the atrocities mentation from thirty-some years Calley of Charlie Company and their lives forever. They wanted that drove Karl and the New Year’s of our antiwar and social-justice the March 16, 1968 My Lai Mas- to awaken America. My Lais and Gang to acts of violence against the struggle stood as reminders of sacre. Lt. Calley gave the “search Abu Ghraibs are to be expected war machine. My testimony stirred vigilance. Several harrowing pho- and destroy” order that flattened in the culture of war. up dark memories. Afterward, I tographs smuggled out of Vietnam the village of Son My. The two I remember that Winter Sol- was exhausted. I fled my home in 1969 showed the work of my platoons of Charlie Company were dier Investigation. I began actively and found anonymity on the road. unit, personalized the film’s mes- war-torn. They had suffered lots protesting the war in 1969, and I I bring this up only to emphasize sage, and brought it all home. of casualties. If you’ve never been worked with Milwaukee’s VVAW how difficult it was to expose sent to kill or be killed (quite liter- in the early days. I wanted to tes- the realities of war, and to show ally), you wouldn’t understand. tify, but just couldn’t. I couldn’t my admiration for those “winter Billy X. Curmano served with They were probably on edge, talk about it yet. I served with soldiers” who broke first ground the 173rd Airborne Brigade really on edge. the 173rd Airborne Brigade in in Detroit—and the Iraq veterans (D Co., 4th Battalion 503rd It was more an execution than 1968 and ‘69, in a paratrooper that have begun to follow. Infantry) in Vietnam during a firefight. It most likely began strike force that moved about the A film crew captured those 1968–69 and received a Purple as Charlie Company protected country, striking fast and hard, first testimonies in the documen- Heart and other commendations themselves with superior fire at least theoretically. We marked tary Winter Soldier, with footage for his troubles. He joined with from what their intelligence said our path with human skulls and every bit as relevant today as it antiwar vets to demand the war’s was an enemy stronghold. In war, ears. My company had a motto: was thirty years ago. First released end shortly after, and continues things have a way of getting out of “Dog Company: a pocketful of by Winterfilm in 1972, it played working with VVAW as a Minn. hand. By some reports, 500 men, ears.” The uninitiated may ask to accolades in Europe, but was contact. More information is women and children—including why. It was unsaid, but we simply repressed in the USA. Milestone available at www.billycurmano. babies—were killed in a matter wanted to stay alive. We wanted Films rereleased it in 2005 to an com. Wagin’ War Busy, boyish hands flying air-conditioned cockpits, Well, I read about a baby Playing Dungeons and Dragons and delighting in direct hits, That was wounded by a bullet High above reality and anguished human cries, That was meant for her...mama! Separated by Ninja Turtle Nintendo screens blocking out the whys. But then again, bloody bull’s-eyes wins extra tries. The young soldier that shot her had nothing against her. Patriotic rites of passage push and pull us straight to hell. When! We were wagin’ war. High-hoped heroes exchanging emotions When! We were wagin’ war. (Refrain) For protective plastic shells— Can you look them in the eye again? But mama was a rebel, so she would have to die. Can you pat them on the back “Just followin’ orders,” the young soldier sighed When they kill for you...believe in you... As he squeezed on the trigger and let the round fly. believe in where you’re at? Though she believed in truths just as strongly as he, Take your AWACS and A-10 and A this ‘n’ that— Their personal Napoleons could never agree. Take your AWACS and A-10 and shove it up your...! He might’ve asked why. But then again, foreign tongues have a tendency Well, I read about a baby To tie. That was wounded by a bullet That was meant for her...mama! War-fueled adrenaline junkies and jock-ass news reporters, Mr. and Ms. taking missiles and tracers and rockets and mortars The young soldier that shot her had nothing against her. For Fourth o’ July fireflies that light up the skies, While bombastic bomb blasts blow out their eyes. While! We keep wagin’ war. And the damaged eye always wonders why. While! We keep wagin’ war. Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 7 VVAW Growing in Cincinnati Marty Webster Since I became the VVAW contact argued that by invading Iraq, the pain that Vietnam has come to how VVAW was in the forefront for Cincinnati, a lot of exciting United States launched a war of represent. in getting our government and the things have happened. Our first aggression (defined by Nuremberg Because of intense student VA to recognize the seriousness of VVAW event was on November as “the supreme international interest and the interest of Steve PTSD in returning veterans, and 19 and 20, when we joined VVAW crime”), and said that troops must Sunderland (a UC peace stud- said that sometimes symptoms contact Mark Hartford and the be withdrawn immediately. ies professor and the director of don’t appear until years later. Columbus, Ohio VVAW for two On Presidents’ Day, we par- the Peace Village), VVAW has One evening after the theater showings of Winter Soldier at ticipated in a “constitutional vigil” been invited to sponsor a two- had been locked, the custodian Ohio State University’s Wexner in front of the Federal Building day showing of Winter Soldier in heard the conversation and said Center for the Arts. The events in Cincinnati. This was part of May. Robert Harris (community he had done six years in the Army. were well attended, and discus- a series of events organized by relations co-coordinator for the “This isn’t about 1972; it’s about sions followed each showing. MoveOn to bear witness to the National Conference for Com- 2006,” he added. Members of Veterans for Peace president’s lawbreaking and in- munity and Justice of Greater VVAW has also attended and and Military Families Speak Out crease the pressure on Congress Cincinnati) and Stewart Newstate participated in various candlelight also participated. to do something about it. (a retired investigator for the Ohio peace vigils and demonstrations In January, we attended a In March, we set up a table Civil Rights Commission) have in the Ohio Valley area. There is memorial and interment service outside the Tangeman University agreed to help with the publicity much interest in rejuvenating the for Specialist Douglas Barber Center at the University of Cin- and arrangements. VVAW presence in Cincinnati. near Cincinnati. He was an Iraq cinnati during a presentation by I moderated and gave a brief I am officially announcing the veteran who suffered from post- retired general Wesley Clark on synopsis of the Winter Soldier Ohio Valley regional chapter of traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), national security and veterans’ is- investigation and the background VVAW. This will cover southern and because of the ongoing failure sues. The Hamilton County Demo- of the film. The documentary not Ohio and parts of Kentucky and of the VA to adequately address his cratic Party sponsored the event. only exposes war crimes, but it southern Indiana, and we hope issues, he was no longer able to Later in March, we were invited also gives us an insight into the groups will form new chapters in cope. Tragically, he took his own to participate in a discussion on a effects of PTSD on Vietnam vet- these areas. life on January 16 in Alabama. veterans’ outreach program at a erans, and I spoke about Douglas On February 4, we were luncheon in Louisville. Barber’s funeral, noting that Iraq Marty Webster is a Vietnam- invited to set up a table and say a From April 7 to 13, VVAW war veterans also experience era veteran who served in a few words at a “Day of Dialogue participated in ten showings of PTSD. Discussions followed each naval hospital during the war. on Iraq” by Reverend Benjamin Winter Soldier at the University of session. “I know this girl, and He experienced the results of J. Urmston, director of the Xavier Cincinnati, which were sponsored she just signed up, and she really war firsthand from a medical University peace and justice pro- by the Cincinnati Film Society. We wants to change her mind,” said perspective, treating young men grams. The event was a dialogue had only two days’ advance notice one fellow. who came back from Vietnam between Adeed I. Dawisha, a to prepare, and attendance was “So many of my buddies are with facial wounds and burns. professor of political science at sparse for the first few showings. coming back, and they are differ- Marty also worked with TDRLs Miami University (Ohio) and Ray However, word of mouth about the ent,” added another. “I don’t quite and medevacs and on escort McGovern, an Army officer and film spread quickly. The attend- understand it; they don’t seem to duty. Like countless others, he CIA analyst. Dawisha represented ees were riveted as they viewed want to talk about it.” suffers from post-traumatic the point of view that the United the eyewitnesses’ testimony on I spoke about how war chang- stress disorder. Marty is the States must stay in Iraq until Iraq war crimes and atrocities. The es us, usually with long-lasting VVAW regional contact for is able to protect itself. McGovern film evokes all of the sorrow and effects. I explained to the group Cincinnati, Ohio.

VVAW member Jerry Smith (l) and VVAW Cincinnati contact Marty Webster (r) display a new banner funded by a VVAW grant 8 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Veterans Day in Chicago Ken Nielsen For over twenty years, Vietnam and his new war memorial. Hav- Veterans Against the War in Chi- ing secured a permit to hold the cago have paid respect to their ceremony at that time and that brothers and sisters on Veterans place nearly a year before Veterans Day by speaking out against war Day, VVAW, due to the proxim- and imperialism, speaking up for ity to the new memorial and the veterans and active-duty soldiers dedication, was forced to stand and reminding the general popula- down by Chicago’s finest until tion that war is the worst possible Daley’s machine was done with its option in any circumstances. speeches, which reshaped history This event was held at vari- (the United States won the war in ous locations in the city over the Vietnam?) and blindly supported years until 1982, when Mayor the current war in Iraq. Jane Byrne and Cardinal Bernar- Luckily, the city’s exercise din dedicated the first Vietnam in senility didn’t last long, and War memorial in the country, at VVAW, along with a couple hun- the intersection of Wacker and dred others, began their ceremony. Wabash. The memorial contained The first speaker was Cody Ca- a time capsule that listed all of the macho, an Iraq War veteran who names of soldiers from Chicago served with the 41st Field Artillery who died in Vietnam. From that and the 72nd MP Company at the day forward, VVAW’s ceremony Abu Ghraib prison from March was fittingly conducted at the 2003 to March 2004. After giv- memorial; that is, until the current ing a firsthand confirmation of mayor, Rich Daley, decided to the torture that occurred at Abu reconstruct Wacker Drive in 1998 Ghraib, Cody described some of and proceeded to lose the nation’s the problems he faces after return- first Vietnam War memorial. ing from the war. “You can’t get Despite all of the city’s excuses, back. The nightmares, the shakes, Pat Vogel of MFSO, Veterans Day 2005, Chicago let’s just recall that Jane Byrne’s the hollow feeling of a soul that’s name was on the memorial, not dry for what seems like no reason consistently spoke out against the we betraying them so badly? Why Daley’s. The mayor’s solution to at all. The recruiter never said that war in Iraq; Nick Egnatz, a VVAW are we sending them off to war, this small reminder of his family’s I wouldn’t be able to look my mom member from Indiana, who spoke a war based on lies? Why are we short lapse of control over Chicago in the eye when it was over.” Cody about his trip to DC and lobbying treating them as pawns? And espe- was to destroy an important and called for support for returning with Cindy Sheehan; and Cesar cially, why are we leaving them in historically significant memorial, veterans and thanked veterans of Ruvalcaba, a veteran who served a no-win situation with absolutely and then build his own. In the previous wars for helping him and with the 10th Mountain Division no end-point in sight?” words of Barry Romo, “Not only others muster the courage it takes in Somalia, who shared his expe- The ceremony concluded as was this city the first city to have to oppose the war. riences returning home from the the crowd silently placed flowers a city memorial to Vietnam vets, Another Iraq War veteran, Army with physical disabilities on a nearby monument and paused we were also the first city in the Dave Adams, who served with the and spoke of his battle to gain to reflect on the day’s events, on world to lose a memorial.” 101st Airborne Division in 2003, compensation for his active-duty- veterans, and on all of the soldiers Veterans Day, November 11, spoke of an incident in which his related injuries. The military’s who have fallen. 2005 saw the dedication of the convoy ran down a small child in practice of preying on minorities city’s new Vietnam War memorial, the streets of Al Khut and was not and those of low income to fill located nearly underground, steps able to stop to assist the child, due their ranks, he said, is a modern Ken Nielsen served in the US away from one of the state’s dirti- to their orders. After having been form of slavery. Army from 1991 to 1993 (4th est rivers, and almost completely told that his mission was “to win VVAW national coordinator Battalion, 9th Infantry, 1st hidden to anyone not taking a the hearts and minds” of Iraqis, Barry Romo was the moderator of Division). He is a member of the vomit-inducing boat tour. It’s a Dave struggled to make sense the ceremony. He started the day’s Chicago chapter of VVAW. nice memorial; there’s grass, and of this incident, and it became events by providing historical a new fountain. But the whole one of the many contradictions details about the original Vietnam thing has been treated just like he witnessed in Iraq that helped War memorial, as outlined earlier. veterans in this country: kept out shape his current feelings about Barry added, “Six months to two of sight and out of mind. Except, the war. Dave went on to issue a years to get your first visit [at the of course, for the dedication. That challenge: “We have to go home VA]? People coming back from was where the mayor got to show and engage our neighbors, our Iraq can’t wait; they’ll be dead, off his fellow war supporters, bus- family, our friends. We have to they’ll be alcoholics, they’ll be ing in Veterans of Foreign Wars call our representatives and ask doing drugs—anything to get and American Legionnaires from for change, demand change. Ask to sleep. The money for the VA the suburbs to stock his event. them what they’re doing to stop should set be in stone. It should During the five years the this war now.” not be discretionary.” city was hard at work locating the Other speakers at the cere- The event’s final speaker was original Vietnam War memorial, mony were VVAW’s GI counselor, Pat Vogel of Military Families VVAW held their ceremony at Ray Parrish, who talked about the Speak Out. Pat posed a number of eleven AM across the street from sorry state of GI benefits in Illinois; excellent questions aimed at those where the original memorial had Dr. David Gill, a Democratic can- who praise the troops and support been, which just happened to be didate for Congress in Illinois, an the war. “If we feel this way about Ray Parrish, up a flight of stairs from Daley emergency-room doctor who has these people [the troops], why are Veterans Day 2005, Chicago Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 9 Agent Orange Justice Tour P. Stewall In 1973, the Nixon administration tion included Dang Thi promised $3 billion in reconstruc- Hong Nhut, a woman tion aid to Vietnam—you know, to from Ho Chi Minh make amends for all the previous City who experienced years of aid we’d been providing. multiple miscarriages We shouldn’t have to be reminded between 1973 and 1980 of past promises to Native Ameri- after exposure to Agent cans to be able to make a wild Orange around May guess at how much aid has been 1965; Ho Sy Hai, an given to Vietnam to date. That’s army truck driver from right: none. Thai Binh who suffers Vietnamese citizens who suf- from chronic hepati- fer from Agent Orange poisoning tis, a gastroduodenal are taking their case to the courts ulcer, enterocolitis, and and to compassionate Americans. enlargement of the A delegation of four Vietnam- prostate as a result of ese citizens toured the USA last his exposure in Atopo November and December to gar- and Quang Tri between ner support for their cause, arriving 1965 and 1973; Dr. in Chicago on November 30. Nguyen Trong Nhan, Eighty people braved a cold not an Agent Orange victim, but now being used by the United were very interested and asked and blustery evening to arrive at a former president of the Vietnam States was also mentioned. some thoughtful questions in the Roosevelt University in down- Red Cross, who led the delega- All were very well-spoken, question-and-answer session fol- town Chicago. Local folksinger tion and represented the Vietnam friendly, and patient, and they lowing the presentations. Snow Anna Stange warmed up the crowd Association for Victims of Agent presented their personal stories began to cover the city during with some topical songs of peace Orange/Dioxin; and Vu Binh, to a riveted crowd. Some Vietnam the school presentation, and our and remembrance. The event was the delegation’s translator, from veterans shared their experi- Vietnamese guests were excited to sponsored by the Mansfield Insti- the Vietnam Union of Friendship ences, but otherwise it was quite a see the snow fall—more so than tute for Social Justice. Its direc- Association. (The US government diverse audience, including col- their Chicago hosts. tor, Heather Dalmage, welcomed denied a visa to Nguyen Muoi, the lege students, activists, and the For more information about the group and introduced the son of a veteran of the ARVN.) simply curious. the Vietnam Agent Orange Relief evening’s master of ceremonies, Dang told stories of being a The next day, the tour mem- and Responsibility Campaign, Bill Davis, a member of Vietnam member of the long-haired army, bers gave their presentation to visit www.vn-agentorange.org or Veterans Against the War. Davis Ho reported traveling through two separate classes of local email [email protected]. spoke briefly of his experiences recently defoliated areas, and high-school students and teach- in Vietnam, then introduced the Nguyen explained the effects of ers. US Army veteran Steve speakers, beginning with the dioxin, giving a scientific and well- Nelson, who served two years in tour’s national coordinator, Merle rounded account of the long-last- Vietnam, joined the speakers to P. Stewall is a member of the Ratner. ing effects of chemical weapons relate his experiences from “our Chicago chapter of VVAW. The Vietnamese delega- on humans. The depleted uranium side” of the conflict. The students

Cody Camacho of IVAW, Veterans Day 2005, Chicago 10 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Iraq Veteran Speaks Out at the U of I Jen Tayabji On February 11, 2006, the Progres- During his talk, he described sive Resource/Action Cooperative how he was assigned to various (PRC) hosted an antiwar event tasks and positions, including featuring Iraq War veteran Dave chaplain’s assistant, that he was Adams. The PRC is a multi-issue, never trained to do. He spent multi-tactical activist organization some time working in convoys, composed of students and com- and witnessed a severe shortage munity members at the University of armor in his unit. Because of of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign. this lack of armor and the way The PRC has been involved in anti- they were arranged, the convoys war organizing, including fighting were very dangerous, not only the for the rights of GIs and veterans, soldiers in the convoy, but also to since the first Gulf War. Iraqi civilians. Over fifty people came out Adams called on President to hear Adams, a member of Iraq Bush to apologize to the troops Veterans Against the War (IVAW), for lying about the reasons for discuss his experiences serving in going to war with Iraq. As part of Iraq and readjusting to civilian life. his process of reintegrating into Adams has spoken at many events, civilian life, he began to realize including the VVAW Veterans Day that his friends were dying and rally in Chicago last fall. there wasn’t a good justification cal VA and was diagnosed with being a full-time student, Adams Adams joined the military for what was going on. Adams post-traumatic stress disorder. He continues fighting for the rights of in December 1999, not long discussed his work with IVAW also joined Iraq Veterans Against his brothers and sisters by talking after completing high school, and and their goals of working to bring the War and began speaking out to those who are contemplating served from 2000 to 2003. He the troops home now, support about his experiences. Adams enlisting, by talking with his fel- completed basic training at Ft. Iraqi reconstruction in any way described how the VA’s treatment low vets, and by speaking out Jackson, South Carolina. Upon possible, and support our veterans was simply to dole out medication, and fighting for the rights of all completion of basic training, he and our troops now and upon their which had negative side effects veterans. was assigned to the 101st Airborne return home. and didn’t address the problems Division at Ft. Campbell, Ken- Adams said that upon return- at hand. It was his work with tucky. He served as a mechanic ing home, he began drinking heav- IVAW that helped him the most. Jen Tayabji is executive director for the military police and was ily and acting uncharacteristically, Currently Adams is an under- of the Illinois Disciples stop-lossed in early 2003, shortly and sometimes he became angry graduate at Southern Illinois Foundation in Champaign, before the start of the Iraq War. for no reason. He went to the lo- University in Carbondale. Despite Illinois. Three-Day Antiwar Blitz in Baton Rouge Ward Reilly

On the three-day weekend of Feb- where Cindy did a tape-delayed who helped organize and worked Louisiana troops that have died ruary 11–14, 2006, Cindy Sheehan piece for the noon show. to make this another successful in Iraq were read by VVAW and and Ann Wright were the guests of Following the CBS show, weekend of activism. Veterans for Peace members Pat Baton Rouge’s Coalition Against Cindy was joined by Colonel The candlelight vigil unques- Dooley (Army, cavalry, 1968–69), War and Injustice for a flurry of David Couvillion at Louisiana tionably took the most amount of David Collins (Army, combat antiwar actions. Sheehan and State University in an open dis- work, and the elaborate labyrinth medic, 1969–70), Mark Ruter (Air Wright arrived Saturday and got to cussion on Iraq sponsored by the was laid out over two weekends. Force, Desert Storm, 1986–92) meet and mingle with about forty Bienville House Center for Peace 2,267 candles were lit, one for each Randy Sinclair (Navy, 1976), and members of Southern Louisiana’s and Justice and the LSU English American killed in action, along myself (Army, infantry, 1971–74) antiwar community at a barbecue department. Colonel Couvillion with a large cluster to represent for the third straight year, a de- and potluck held at my home to represented the pro-war side, the 150,000+ Iraqis killed during pressing and tearful task for those kick off the weekend’s events. while Sheehan stood in opposition our invasion of their nation. The of us who have opposed the war On Sunday, Cindy and Ann to the occupation of Iraq. Couvil- design was laid out by Maida since before it started. spoke and answered questions at lion had been in the initial inva- Owens, and dozens of people The vigil is held to com- the Unitarian Universalist church sion as a National Guard infantry worked for many hours to prepare memorate the worldwide demon- in the morning. The spectacular officer, and was later a provincial the thousands of candles, which stration that took place on Febru- third annual Candlelight Vigil for governor of one of Iraq’s southern were put in cups with sand to hold ary 15, 2003, when an estimated the Dead, also at the church that provinces. The media were also in them in place. 10,000,000 citizens from scores of evening, was covered by several attendance for the forum, and our Three hundred citizens nations around the world marched media outlets, including ABC-TV action made the front page of the from around Southern Louisiana in unison to try to prevent the USA (on the ten o’clock news) and the Advocate, local TV, and the LSU attended this year’s candlelight from invading Iraq. It should be Advocate, Baton Rouge’s newspa- newspaper. (LSU’s nickname is vigil, up from one hundred and noted that 82% of the Iraqi people per, which carried a large photo of “The Ole War Skule,” primarily fifty last year, a sure sign that our polled want the USA out now, a the vigil on the front page. because General William T. Sher- citizens are becoming more and fact that even the pro-war colonel Monday started with Cindy man was their first president, after more disgusted with the neocons’ acknowledged during the debate and Ann live on WRKF-FM radio the Civil War.) “war on terror,” which has done at LSU. for a one-hour statewide call-in All in all, it was a banner nothing but create more reasons May this be our last Vigil for show. After the Jim Engster show, weekend for the Baton Rouge for the Islamic world to hate our the Dead here in Baton Rouge. we jumped into the van and hur- antiwar community, and we are nation. Ward Reilly is the Southeast ried over to the studio of CBS-TV, most thankful for all of those The names of the fifty-one national contact for VVAW. Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 11 The Future of Struggle Brooke Anderson On December 4, 2005 I arrived is worse. These vets have to worry Ward Churchill added, up to you and doesn’t know how at the First Unitarian Church of about going back. Today, we are “VVAW did these silent marches. to party, I want you to walk away Oakland, just a few blocks away working with these younger vets. All you could hear were boots hit- really fast. In Vietnam, I thought from my new home in Oakland, We didn’t think that we would ting the street. Once a Republican that I would never have friends California, to see Barry Romo on make it to thirty years old, let alone woman came up to us and said, like my platoon mates. But now a panel convened by AK Press and form an organization that is now ‘What are you doing to the morale I do. The movement will give you KPFA. Having recently moved almost forty years old.” of the troops?’ And VVAW would friends for life.” I was reminded from Champaign, Illinois and During the introductions, say, ‘Lady, we are the troops.” how right he was; I consider my missing my friends, I reveled Ward Churchill also mentioned Mike James asked Barry to VVAW friends and other move- in the idea of Barry and VVAW VVAW in his remarks, saluting speak about what work is happen- ment friends to be my friends coming to Oakland, even if only the organization for standing in ing today with soldiers still in Iraq for life. for the evening. solidarity with AIM. “VVAW was and recently returned veterans of Over the years, I’ve been The panel was called “The at Wounded Knee with us, and it the Iraq War. Barry talked about to a lot of events in the activist Future of Struggle: Movement is in large part because of VVAW the formation of Iraq Veterans community that featured move- Veterans Discuss Yesterday’s that our lives were saved.” Against the War and the support ment veterans reflecting on their Lessons for Today.” The idea was After introductions, the first that VVAW is giving to them. He experiences. And I’ve sat bristling to have key figures from various four questions from the panel and encouraged people to connect at too many of them, who lament radical movements discuss lessons audience were directed at Barry. with Iraq veterans and welcome the supposed apathy on the part learned over the last four decades Kathleen Cleaver opened the ques- them into the antiwar movement. of my generation and generations of organizing, how these lessons tions by asking Barry to talk more “People didn’t spit on me when coming up after us. That’s not could be applied to work being about VVAW, saying, “I want more I came back and was doing my true—there’s a vibrant movement done today, and how to move people to know about VVAW. I’ve drugs and alcohol. They told me among today’s young folks. And if forward. always been very impressed with that the war was wrong, which I it were true, what would that say In addition to Barry Romo, their clarity of views. VVAW’s knew in my heart, but I couldn’t about the movement they helped the panel featured Kathleen statement on Iraq was literally the say it yet. But you gotta stay con- build, one that didn’t move young Cleaver (Black Panther Party), only coherent statement I saw.” nected to who you once were, and folks up through its ranks? Russell Means (American Indian Then Elizabeth Martinez to where other people are at right As I listened to Barry speak Movement), Mike James (SDS asked Barry to speak about coun- now. People shouldn’t have to that night, I thought about the and Rising Up Angry), Elizabeth ter-recruitment. Barry responded, learn your language to talk to you. title of the panel, “The Future of Martinez (Chicana activist and “We get into high schools, even As Dave Dellinger used to say, as Struggle.” VVAW is the future author), Ward Churchill (Ameri- with a name like Vietnam Veterans a movement, we have to be like an of the struggle, because of the can Indian Movement), Bo Brown Against the War. And we were escalator that brings people along next generation of organizers it (George Jackson Brigade) and a recently on the NewsHour with Jim with us, not an elevator of activists has trained, recruited, and found former member of I Wor Kuen. Lehrer talking about the education that leaves the people behind.” places for in the movement; but Since I know him so well, some- we do in high schools.” When asked his advice for the also because VVAW continues to times I forget what a movement When an audience member younger generation thinking about do work that is on the very cut- celebrity Barry really is, but after asked if they should feel ill will organizing, Barry responded, ting edge of building an antiwar seeing him in this impressive toward the soldiers currently “Organizing doesn’t mean that you America. crowd, I won’t forget again! in Iraq, Barry responded, “The have to give up your life, a family, The panel opened with a people in the military are not or friends. Because we live here, lightning round of obligatory in- your enemies. Some of them are. and not other places where there troductions: name, organization, They tend to wear four stars. They is more repression if you speak Brooke Anderson is a VVAW and lessons learned. Barry opened tend to work in the Pentagon and out, we have a responsibility to member and lead organizer by saying, “I never thought that send poor kids to war who only act. But I also know that you have for the East Bay Alliance there would be a war worse than dreamed of buying a home for to have a good time doing it. If for a Sustainable Economy in Vietnam, but this [the war in Iraq] their parents.” some really boring person comes Oakland, California. 12 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Doofus about Darfur and Genocide Horace Coleman Genocide is a word that mellows stances of the indigenous people already willing and wanting to act weakly or too late out and makes antiseptic and who stubbornly continue to exist do) acceptable one of humanity’s old don’t often enter our thoughts. • People to approve of or accept And that’s how you get the Ar- habits. The current theater where We think of them—if we do at doing it (finding or inventing menian genocide, the Holocaust, genocide is playing is on the stage all—mostly as brand names and needs, scapegoats, grievances; it Biafra, Bosnia/Kosovo, Rwanda, called Darfur, in a country called place names. They’re the names helps to frame it as an easy way and Chechnya, just to name a few Sudan. of mascots and athletic teams, or to “solve” problems and unease randomly selected occurrences. The first genocide I became exotic and distant historic customs or to divert attention from what’s Darfur, for instance, is a aware of was the one America and individuals. really bothering people) struggle and dispute over natural waged against Native Americans. All it takes for genocide (a • A reason that justifies doing it resources, autonomy, and ethnic We don’t think often about the special form of extremely vicious (almost any excuse will do) politics; it’s nomads versus farm- effects of westward expansion, war) to occur is: • Someone to do it to, and a way ers, rebels versus an established the Indian Wars, or reservations. to do it government, climate changes, Or we justify them. • Someone who wants it done (just • Someone to not care about, not buttinskis from neighboring or The Bureau of Indian Affairs about anyone who can influence, know about, condone, or ignore distant countries. Hence we get: continues to mismanage Indian persuade or convince large groups it money and land. The circum- of people to do what they’re • Someone to not intervene, or to Doofus about Darfur or “It all depends on who has the power this hour!” Sad babies’ eyes fill with flies. The war and unrest spread genocidal threads Their bellies blimp when of sorrows that throttle or subside, but never settle. mothers’ breasts go flat and limp. History is no mystery.

The janjaweed, filling a need, ramble sand gardens We’ve done this so long, it’s hard to get it wrong. and see that young girls and women From time to time, acts produce crimes searching for water and wood are well raped. that have reasons, but no rhymes. Except

The African men of these African women mostly People often need blood and bones fight, flee, and die by (stubborn rebels) to grow and feed a justification for a deed; Arab blades, bullets, and bombs. it could be a clash of greed, creed, class, caste, or what we mistakenly call “race” that opens Outgunned browns and blacks succumb the season for getting in someone’s face and snarling, (germs, oil drums, starvation, polluting politics) “I want what you got!” (Or, “You stole what I have!”) to a government counting its cash. “So you’re gonna get it!”

The USA gives orders—but can’t control its own borders. Soldiers from the Un-united Nations (African branch) bake in the sun and watch the fun.

Human beings tend to forget nalize) our motivations, needs, and Genocide is something we pated in? You’d think they’d be that we’re animals too (although actions. We tend to find it easy to do because we can, even if it openly proud. Something, some- divinely made so and placed at accept—or overlook—the causes occasionally shames segments of where deep inside us, gets uneasy. the top of the food chain, some of our periodic beastliness. the human species (a little, for a Perhaps some of us—slightly and say). Or we may have stopped, Because it’s “natural” or while). But we still manage to do it. slowly, in a slight flicker—don’t or at least paused in, evolving. Or “historic,” it’s “inevitable.” So Sic semper? Higher priorities? like what’s happened. What’s hap- perhaps we were fixed in capabil- the species doesn’t need to change But why are there Holo- pening still. ity and capacity at the beginning. caust deniers and people who try its ways. Time and change move Horace Coleman is a veteran, We have the ability to pleasantly to dismiss, repress, or ignore the like glaciers (minus the global poet and writer. He is also a describe, define, or explain (ratio- genocide they caused or partici- warming). VVAW contact in California.

Candlelight Vigil for the Dead in Baton Rouge, September 12, 2005 Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 13 Camouflaged Blues Ray Parrish The war’s not “over” for our vets in schools, etc. A vital part of that Many vets also have other stress, of the Veteran. I need your help. until it’s over in reality. Stress and experience was the veterans’ “rap anxiety and depression symptoms There are many PTSD issues to anxiety are disabling American group.” These are again springing and diagnoses. The catch-22 is that deal with; group and individual veterans of today’s perpetual war up, I hear, especially at meetings we know that if PTSD symptoms counseling, self-help books, get- of terror at a rate this country has of young vets and families and are left untreated for six months, ting treatment, and proving a never seen. That’s because they through www.Vets4Vets.us. Since the statistical chance of complete diagnosis or trauma to the VA are behaving as if they are still at taking action is usually more recovery drops below 50%—and are some. I want to start with war. And they are, in many ways. therapeutic than talking about it, it usually takes six months for the topic of outreach: How do I The nightmares and flashbacks the rap groups provide increasing PTSD symptoms to become obvi- get my vet to ask for help? Tell remind them daily of the reality numbers of volunteers and mem- ous. They need help immediately, me of your experiences and send of their own personal war. They bers to peace and justice groups, as whether they know it or not! suggestions for topics that you have an overwhelming anxiety well as giving the vets back their And there is help out there! wish me to address. Please email that they will get called back to war lives and returning them (at long It is reported to me that vets and me at [email protected] or ask involuntarily. They can only see a last) to society. families get volunteer civilian the national office to forward your future of “victory or death.” And Although post-traumatic psychological help by the second letter to me. they cannot change their beliefs stress disorder (PTSD) has been phone request for it. Don’t hesitate or behavior until this war is over! inexpertly covered (or is it covered to ask, and our fellow Americans What can we do to help them? up?) by the mainstream media, will answer this call. There is hope Ray Parrish (Sgt., USAF, 72-75) Remember Vietnam? While some vets don’t take the time to at the end of this tragedy. is VVAW’s military counselor. that war was still going on, VVAW get very far into the “post” part The first in a series of articles If you need help, call him at and our supporters provided each of their lives. Their behavior focusing on grassroots counseling (773) 561-VVAW or email him at other with “political therapy” degenerates almost immediately for PTSD and helping with VA [email protected]. through marches, rallies, speeches upon discharge, if not before. claims will begin in the next issue Veteran Respect Cesar Ruvalcaba I was one of many veterans that away from public view. were present with families at What message does this send Saturday’s march [to mark three from our leadership to the veterans years in Iraq, with no end in sight that fought these wars, and to the —Ed.] on Michigan Avenue. On families that were left with a loss our way to the staging area on of a father, brother, sister, son, or Walton and State, Barry Romo daughter? What message is the and I encountered a woman in city sending when they have men a cab who saw us and screamed dressed in black with heavy armor out, “Assholes!” and SWAT inscribed on their In response to her insult, I chests at the start of the march replied, “We are not assholes; we and at the end of the march? All are veterans.” This is the general this armor for a group of veterans situation for people like Barry and and civilians that are advocating myself. Even though we defended peace? our country, we are not treated as Veterans do not need to be people of respect. We are called recognized as “assholes” or as assholes. people who merit a SWAT team This happened at the start of when they publicly express their the march, and I wondered if it was views. We need to be recognized a sign of the sentiment regarding and respected for what we are: the march and the veterans who ordinary people who were put in had experienced the violence of extraordinary circumstances and war firsthand and were now advo- did the best they could to make cating peace. This sentiment was their country proud. If we advo- confirmed as we crossed Wacker cate peace, we are not stirring up Drive, heading toward Wabash. trouble; we are simply expressing One of the veterans, a long- our feelings from firsthand experi- time member of Vietnam Veterans ence of being on the front line. Against the War, turned to me and It needs to start with lead- said, “Hey, Cesar, look: there is ership. The mayor needs to be the veteran memorial site.” He one of the first to recognize this, pointed down toward the river, instead of moving our memorial where the memorial now stood. to below street level. Do not call Out of over 7,000 marchers us assholes; let us express our- that night, I wondered how many selves regarding our experiences people knew that the memorial and regarding peace. Show us Cesar Ruvalcaba, Veterans Day 2005, Chicago (honoring veterans from World the acknowledgment and respect War II to the present Iraq war) was that we have earned through our actually down by the river, out of service and courage. public sight. It saddens me that the Cesar Ruvalcaba is a member of site chosen for the memorial was the Chicago chapter of VVAW. 14 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 The Warrior Was a Child Marty Webster

They don’t know that I go running a young man who had come home veteran from Indiana who quietly streamed down the faces of the home when I fall down from war and realized what he had attends as many veterans’ funerals strangers. Ripped bodies, broken They don’t know who picks me up been ordered to do and what he had in the Midwest as possible. He lives, immense pain, and deep when no one is around seen, and he couldn’t live with it. feels that someone from ‘Nam sorrow—all came back to them. I drop my sword and look up for He ended his life the way he was should always be there to stand They had come as strangers, but a smile trained: with violence. the vigil. they bonded as brothers and sis- ‘Cause deep inside this armor This is not the first time that Jerry Smith, a US Army ters, as they had many times, with The warrior is a child a soldier has taken his life after ‘Nam combat veteran, was there. many others, in many places in the returning from the battlefield. Jerry is a Cincinnati VVAW past. But the strangers had only When the veterans return home to Even today, the list of the tens of member; he is also a member of come to watch. Yes, someone must southern Ohio, they are greeted thousands of Vietnam veterans After ‘Nam, a rap group of combat always be there to watch when at the airport by family, friends, the innocent blood of our children and grateful patriots. There are drips on newspapers printed in welcome-home celebrations and He was a young man who had vacant lots. parties. Often there are parades VVAW will never forget. with bagpipe bands and motor- come home from war and VVAW can never forget. VVAW cycle clubs. The streets are lined realized what he had been will never leave any veteran with well-wishers and toddlers behind, and we know all too well waving miniature flags. ordered to do and what that people are not dead until they Of course, there are those are forgotten. who return to southern Ohio to he had seen, and he be laid to rest. They are honored couldn’t live with it. for giving their lives for their country (or perhaps having their Marty Webster is a Vietnam- lives taken from them). Once era veteran who served in a again, the bagpipes are present. who have committed suicide veterans who discuss how PTSD naval hospital during the war. The fire department is there too, continues to grow. affects their daily lives. He experienced the results of with ladder trucks adorned with Candy Lovett was there. Reverend Benjamin J. Ur- war firsthand from a medical giant American flags to welcome Candy is a Desert Storm veteran mston was also there. The director perspective, treating young men the fallen heroes home. Recently who suffers from PTSD and a of Xavier University's peace and who came back from Vietnam a horse-drawn caisson carried a debilitating spinal virus from an justice programs, Father Urmston with facial wounds and burns. soldier to his final resting place. anthrax shot administered in Iraq. is a World War II veteran and a Marty also worked with TDRLs Honor is always given to She had recently met Doug in member of Veterans for Peace. and medevacs and on escort duty. those who have been placed in Florida. Candy drove many pain- We five had come to bear Like countless others, he suffers harm’s way in the service of their ful miles to be at Doug’s funeral, witness and to honor Doug. And as from post-traumatic stress country. and she prayed that he had finally a stepsister of Doug sang “Amaz- disorder. Marty is the VVAW But there are others who re- found peace. ing Grace” and Twila Paris’s regional contact for Cincinnati, turn without such accolades. On Bob Kincses is a Vietnam “The Warrior Is a Child,” tears Ohio. January 18, I attended a memorial and interment ceremony for an Iraq war veteran in Arlington Memorial Gardens, located in a small west- ern suburb of Cincinnati. There was no hero’s welcome. There were no flags, bagpipe bands, or motorcycle clubs. There was no procession. There were no parties. Very few people were there—no politicians, no media. Just the fam- ily, and a few veterans who know firsthand the horrors of war. Specialist Douglas Barber had found peace. He was a mem- ber of Iraq Veterans Against the War who took his own life after returning from Iraq. Post-trau- matic stress disorder (PTSD) was a big part of why he died—PTSD that originated from the time Doug had spent in the war in Iraq. Another contributing factor was the failure of the VA to provide adequate mental-care services to heal the wounds of war. This young man, like many others, came home to face himself in the mirror. He was not the young man who had left for Iraq. He was Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 15 Remembering the “War on the VA”

Steve Bublitz Here are some musings and nuclear subs weren’t off the list. people to PTSD who had carried demanding justice for vets. As in memories of one vet’s tour as a I lasted one month before going out orders and the policy of our past wars (going back to the Bonus member of the Milwaukee chapter AWOL and working to correct my government, and in many cases, March), we said, “We will not be of VVAW from 1971 to 1978. mistake. I’m lovingly referred to embarrassingly survived to turn forgotten.” I was antiwar and pro-civil as “almost-a-vet Bublitz.” against the government—that we Now we’re right back where rights before I enlisted in the Navy. I got in trouble coming out. initiated the “War on the VA.” we started. A new generation: our I came from a working-class fam- I joined the Milwaukee VVAW Looking back, I guess volun- kids. Hell, old guys like me are ily. My dad was in Korea when chapter, and even though I had teering to organize at the VA was being reactivated and sent off to I was born, and I remember his straightened out and had support, a natural step for me. Back then fight for democracy—spelled Hal- nightmares, the ghosts that stalked I pulled two years in prison. There we were outsiders, troublemakers, liburton. Profit. They’re coming him: what we now know as post- I met the walking dead: brothers and rabblerousers. I had to sneak home maimed, physically and traumatic stress disorder (PTSD). who came back over the line and in, with leaflets and posters under mentally, to be discarded like so An Army sergeant, he was com- never got help from the VA. That cover, and dodge security to get much cannon fodder. Yeah, I’m mander of a ‘track. He got blown dead look in the eyes is something up on the floors with the bros. I pissed off all over again. I want out of the turret twice, and was I’ll never forget. It helped me in made many friends with sympa- my country back. the only survivor. So I knew, even organizing at the VA later and with thetic VA rank-and-file staff along It took a nationwide orga- though it took years to understand, many nights of friends’ night- the way. nization such as VVAW was and the guilt of surviving. mares, holding them and talking We did takeovers of regional still is to accomplish these goals. I was worried about the them back to “the world.” offices and VA hospital admin- That it started in Milwaukee, that draft and was pressured at home Such was the latent trauma istration offices and organized I played a small part in this his- to “straighten out my life.” After from ‘Nam. We’d be doing a march veterans around the country to tory...that’s one campaign ribbon taking tests and getting my GED, at a Memorial Day parade, the demand decent health care, rec- that I hold dear. Peace. And let’s I enlisted for six years of active VFW would fire a volley, and half ognition of PTSD, etc., until the kick some ass. duty in the Navy, with a written a dozen of the chapter would hit the VFW, the American Legion, the Steve Bublitz is a member of guarantee of no river boats, but deck. It’s in this context—losing DAV, and the public joined us in VVAW. If You Ain’t Been There and Done That, Shut Your Trap Joe Balsamo Sometimes I wonder how people privileged class who prey on the proud of those who served. time sanction (or at least toler- who haven’t taken part in war poor and send them off to kill for Now the same thing is going ate) the murders of men, women, can speak from the sidelines and their own greedy ends. on in Iraq. Over 100,000 innocent and children by ourselves and our assure those on the battlefield War? I have been there and Iraqi men, women, and children government. For what? We don’t that everything’s okay, or dare done that. During my tour in Viet- were killed by us because they even know. to tell bereaved parents that their nam, I held little children with their were “collateral.” We pretty well I must testify, for those who children died noble deaths for a bodies burned to a crisp, and saw wiped out the city of Fallujah cannot speak, that war is deadly noble cause. men and women with limbs blown because it “harbored terrorists.” wrong. If there is a God, and I It’s sort of like men picketing off, blind, dying, demented. I once And we’re talking about dropping hope there is, we will pay for this. against abortion. There is no way Shame on us! We have everything, you can experience the depth, pain, Many of these warmongers, and we use our wealth to murder and choices that a woman must and maim the poor and helpless. consider when she says yes or who are sending us to war for For this, we are evil. no on this issue. So I say to those Should I worry about a few who think they know the answer god knows what reason, have nondescript cells in a woman’s to that question: If you ain’t been never faced the reality of death. body, then go out and murder, there, shut up; you might learn maim, and steal from those who something. cannot protect themselves from And I say the same thing to held a dying sixteen-year-old a nuclear bomb on Iran—as if this our might? Should our priests, the arrogant leaders of our country American soldier’s head while his is a casual, everyday decision, like ministers, and leaders rail about who wage war on other nations and brains slipped through my fingers going to the corner store to pick abortion, homosexuals, divorce, say we need to be in the Middle onto the ground. And what did our up groceries. and sin, but not be consumed by East for decades to “stabilize the soldiers and Vietnam’s civilians Folks, our leaders are dis- these murders we are committing? area.” It amazes me that people suffer and die for? Anyone have cussing murdering people, and Shame, shame! who haven’t actually served in the a clue? they call other people terrorists. How can we pray to God and military, during peace or war, are I served during the Vietnam Isn’t it about time we analyze let this happen? How do we get making decisions about whether War from 1966 to 1970. I joined up what’s going on and question up in the morning, eat, take our young men and women should die when I was twenty-four years old, who has the right to make these kids to school, go to church, have for their country. because I was about to be drafted. decisions? It is said that we reap Christmas, go to the movies, etc., Many of these warmongers, I didn’t think it was the right thing what we sow. How are we going while allowing this to go on in our who are sending us to war for god to do, but I felt I had no choice. to justify our tolerance for and lack name? Why are we not consumed knows what reason, have never I had always been taught that if of protest against these murderous with anger and fear? faced the reality of death. Bush, your country calls you, you do not actions? Aren’t we all responsible Cheney, and their cronies have no question; you serve. I have since for these deaths? idea; nor do their children or their become proud of those who had the We worry about the drugs, Joe Balsamo is a member of relatives and friends. They were courage to resist the draft or went thefts, murders, and violence VVAW and Veterans for Peace, all born with silver spoons in the to Canada, as I always have been here at home, and at the same Taos chapter. 16 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Mobile to New Orleans: Resistance Defined in Epic Action continued from page 1 were also at least five documentary film crews with us. We also decided that it was imperative for Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW) to lead and speak as representatives for this action. They took the lead each and every day, proudly carry- ing banners. They led with grace, and they led with the truth. They also did a fabulous job of sharing their experiences with their own brand of intense poetry and music. That so many of their members came from around the country is hard for me to understand how song. Fernando Braga did a poem and the stealing of the land of the a tribute to their commitment, and they could rap out multi-paragraph about Katrina, and Stephen Potts poorest of our citizens. We shared their beauty on stage and in being lyrics, with deep emotion, without did his (now-infamous) speech their music, their churches, and interviewed was the icing on the even a lyrics sheet, and how they comparing holding in farts to not their food as they fed us, laughed cake. At least twenty-five IVAW could articulate so much meaning speaking out. with us, cried with us, and loaned members made the trip. in their heartfelt words, straight Each and every night, there us their land to rest our weary The Iraq and Afghanistan from memory. were late-night drum sessions heads (and feet). veterans did a superb job of speak- Josh Dawson emceed the that went into the wee hours of Day after day, we took care of ing, and an even better job of per- veterans’ art collective and per- the morning. It was incredibly each other and loved one another, forming. One after another, they formed. Joe Hatcher and Garrett gratifying to see all those young and we started something that will went on stage and shone during Reppenhagen did several poems vets having fun and realizing that spread like wildfire. The locals had the veterans’ art collective, which on the Iraq War. Dave Cline and I there was some semblance left of the chance to mingle with people the nation they were supposed to who loved and respected them as be fighting for. They were “home” true equals, and the marchers and for the first time since they went locals came together in the realiza- away to impose Bush’s war-crime tion that we must stand together policies on the Iraqi and Afghani against a common enemy: an people. enemy not of color, but of class. On Saturday, a team of ten Yes, we did it, and the hardest vets from the march gathered in part of the trip was saying good- New Orleans at the house of a bye to all of those who formed veteran who had lost everything this incredible family, our tribe to Katrina. We worked all day of peacemakers, on the fabulous with the Arabi Wrecking Krewe journey from Mobile to New of New Orleans, gutting the vet’s Orleans. Harvey Tharp house and cleaning his yard, truly helping another veteran, citizen, Ward Reilly is the Southeast took place at the Vietnamese vil- jammed. Josh Dawson and Ethan and Katrina survivor, which was national contact for VVAW. lage in New Orleans East, where Crowell contributed performanc- also part of our mission. He was a volunteer infantryman we camped the last night. The es. Billy Mitchell, a ‘Nam-era vet The other good news about serving in the famed 1st & 16th art collective was organized by and cofounder of Gold Star Fami- the march is that we made real (Rangers) of the First Infantry IVAW’s own Michael Cuzzort, a lies For Peace, read a poem about contact with the black and Viet- Division from 1971–1974, Louisiana native who lives near his son, who was killed in action namese communities that Bush spending a thousand straight New Orleans. It would be a dis- the same day as Casey Sheehan, and Cheney’s class warfare have days in Germany with the Big service to say that any act was whose mother, Cindy, also joined most affected. Truthfully, the Red One. He joined VVAW better than any other, because they us for a portion of the march. issues down here along the Gulf originally in 1972, and re-upped were all truly inspired. It is still Charlie Anderson played a fine Coast are issues of gentrification in 2001.

IVAW leads the way on the approach to the Louisiana border, carrying the “Walkin' To New Orleans” banner Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 17

Iraq Veterans Against the War speaks to the marching group at the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery, where the Battle Of New Orleans was fought in January, 1815. The park and its collections were completely destroyed by Katrina's floodwaters.

IVAW leads the march into New Orleans

Dave Cline at the New Orleans rally Bill Perry

Iraq Veterans Against the War stands and speaks in Mobile at Veterans Memorial Park 18 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 World Social Forum 2006 in Caracas, Venezuela Stephen Sinsley

I have been following the World city. Over the next five days, del- Social Forum (WSF) from a dis- egates from 140 countries from tance since its inception in 2001, around the world gathered in over but given the major social changes 2,200 workshops, panels, and occurring in this year’s host coun- sessions to discuss and debate a try, I decided to participate in this wide variety of issues in venues year’s forum and see the changes scattered throughout the city. in Venezuela up close. Officially there were 80,000 reg- We live in what Uruguay- istered delegates (with twenty to an writer Eduardo Galeano thirty thousand more unregistered described as an “upside-down participants), representing 2,500 world.” We live in upside-down organizations. Many participants times. Nevertheless, many magi- complained about the excessive cal things are stirring in Latin distances between forum sites, America—things that couldn’t unlike Porto Alegre in 2005. even have been dreamed of under Although the Caracas subway the US-supported dictatorships runs well and was free for all of just twenty or thirty years ago. people sporting WSF badges, it There is a movement afoot—high was impossible to keep track of hopes and dreams that stretch events in ten or twelve widely from the Pampas of Argentina dispersed sites of activity. The to the plains of Uruguay, Chile, “nerve center” of the forum was Brazil, and Bolivia, and now from the Bellas Artes district, and in Washington’s current nemesis, particular the Caracas Hilton (a Venezuela. Bolivar’s dream is fact that struck many as ironic) Steve Sinsley with General Raul Baduel, stirring in the hearts of hundreds and the elegant Teresa Carreño commanding general of the Venezuelan Army of millions to the south, and the theater. These sites and the nearby the lingua franca was Spanish; can people, themselves victims WSF highlighted this hope. Parque Central boasted the best most people from Venezuela and of the same policies. We all felt The first World Social Forum meeting rooms and the best-pro- neighboring Andean countries welcomed as brothers and sisters was held in Porto Alegre in the moted forum activities. In places spoke only that language and in the same struggle. south of Brazil in 2001, and it was as far-flung as the military airport expected conversations to be in The World Social Forum was there that its charter of principles of Carlota or the Parque del Este, Spanish. Furthermore, a growing originally created to provide an was adopted to provide a frame- on the other hand, events were US presence also introduced a open platform to discuss strategies work for the forum. The forums in condemned to lesser attendance, sizable, unfortunately monolin- of resistance to the model for glo- 2002 and 2003 saw the movement regardless of interest. gual English-speaking audience, balization formulated at the annual grow rapidly as the WSF came The largest delegation came who at times felt frustrated in the World Economic Forum at Davos, to symbolize the strength of the from Brazil, and the next largest Spanish environment. In a show Switzerland by large multinational anti-globalization movement and group was from the host country of cultural pride, many indigenous corporations, national govern- became a rallying point for world- of Venezuela, followed by the speakers from throughout Latin ments, the WTO, and the World wide protest against the American neighboring country of Colombia. America and North America gave Bank, the latter organizations invasion of Iraq. The WSF has thus The United States provided the their talks or posed their questions being thugs and enforcers for the far taken place four times in Porto fourth largest group, with about first in their native languages, former. In contrast, the WSF is in Alegre, Brazil (2001, 2002, 2003, 2,000 delegates. US participation and then in either Spanish or itself a transparent, open process and 2005) and once in Mumbai, in the forum has been small but English. that invites the participation of India (2004); this year it was in growing, and this was the first The leading slogan setting progressive social movements and three parts of the world: first in year that the United States had a the tone for the forum and reflect- networks, progressive nongovern- Bamako, Mali (January 19–23), significant presence. ing its central issues was: “No to mental and nonprofit groups, and then in Caracas, Venezuela (Janu- The Caracas forum was much war; no to imperialism. Another other civil society organizations to ary 24–29), and finally in Karachi, more monolingual than the previ- world is possible; another America gather under the banner: “Another Pakistan (March 25–28). ous forums. In Porto Alegre, the is possible.” The dominant dis- World Is Possible.” This year’s forum in Cara- official languages were the four course at the forum, rather than While many in the US cor- cas began on January 24 with a main colonial languages in the being about war and globaliza- porate media (and even among massive anti-imperialism march Americas: Portuguese, Spanish, tion, increasingly shifted to one of sectors of the Democratic opposi- through the streets of the capital English, and French. In Caracas, anti-imperialism and anti-capital- tion to the Bush administration) ism. Reflecting this, volunteers seek to portray Hugo Chávez as greeting delegates at the airport a determined enemy of the United sported shirts with the slogan: States, it must be recognized “A better world is possible, if it is that he and many others on the socialist.” Another common slo- Latin American left are making gan proclaimed: “Another world a direct and open appeal to US is necessary, and with you, it is progressives to join their Latin possible.” One thing made crystal American counterparts in forg- clear by the forum, the delegates, ing alternatives to an oppressive the Venezuelans on the street, world system. The future vectors and by Hugo Chávez himself is and dynamics of such North-South the distinction between the US political cooperation cannot be government (and its imperialist foreign policies) and the Ameri- continued on next page “In a revolutionary democracy, power is in the hands of the people” Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 19

continued from previous page predicted, but it occurred to many at the forum that the potential for such cooperation is enormous. The size and format of the Caracas WSF made it difficult to analyze an event that may have raised more questions than found answers. How can the WSF’s base act globally when the process is so deliberately diverse and most participants are preoccupied with their local concerns? How can the elite of the movement, no matter how much they talk of solidarity with the oppressed, truly represent the very people who could never afford to attend such an event? How can a global movement dedicated to improving the lives of the marginalized of the world avoid the stark class, gender, and even racial imbalances that some- times seemed evident? How can Boston thanks Venezuela Venezuela progress when cheap oil brings pollution and other to act on behalf of human rights message that “in a democracy, eled for a week in the interior of problems? of people, to care especially for the highest office is the office of Venezuela to see Chavez’s social Notwithstanding these children, and in many instances citizen.” Power is in the people, programs (misiones) and to talk to dilemmas and concerns, vision- to bring a deep spirituality to bear and we all need to accept the chal- the people working in them. I truly aries seeking to make the world on all these problems. lenge of working together to form believe these programs to be the better seemed strengthened by the At the World Social Forum, “a more perfect union” before it best answer to the WSF’s hopes, exhilarating experience of global President Hugo Chávez stated that is too late. embodying Bolivar’s dream of a solidarity in their local struggles there are two superpowers in the The word used over and over democratic Latin America ruled for justice, peace, freedom, and world today: one is the imperial- by US participants to describe the by and for its people. Galeano’s the integrity of creation. Many ist behemoth to the north, and the experience at this year’s WSF was upside-down world may just participants, myself included, other, even more powerful, is the “hope.” The opportunity to meet be one day standing on its feet have returned to their homes public opinion of the people of the activists and social workers from again. renewed in their commitment to world. We have much to learn from 140 countries made us believe that reverse the growing gap between the Bolivarian Revolution, and another world is possible and that the world’s rich and poor, to we should take to heart Supreme we want to be part of its construc- Stephen Sinsley is a member of address the environmental crisis, Court Justice Felix Frankfurter’s tion. After the forum ended, I trav- VVAW. 20 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 “I was a soldier once…” Barry Romo and Joe Miller (reviewers) Black Virgin Mountain: and smells of the journey to war, homecoming, and the postwar A Return to Vietnam as well as the war’s angry after- confusion. By Larry Heinemann math, which takes Heinemann Heinemann’s anger remains (Doubleday, 2005) back to Vietnam on multiple visits. to this day, and it is directed to- Larry is an excellent writer, and ward those at the top who sent “I was a soldier once, and did a he seamlessly weaves a tale back us, who lied to us and to the rest year’s combat tour in Vietnam with and forth through time. of the American people, and who the 35th Infantry Division at Cu This book is not merely a re- finally abandoned us. This work is Chi and Dau Tieng from March cord of his return to the mountain a thoughtful and painful reminder 1967 until March 1968.” area that dominated his combat of that era, what it cost the people This is the opening line in the tour with the 25th Division. It of Vietnam, and what it cost those newest book from Larry Heine- also provides an accessible his- of us who served in that unjust and mann, and it is quite a ride! If we tory of the various struggles in immoral war. were to recommend just one work Southeast Asia and their current He reminds us of one of our on the American war in Vietnam, it consequences. We are reminded favorite Vietnamese writers, the would be this one, without a doubt. of the inner details of the Vietnam former NVA soldier Bao Ninh, Close Quarters, Larry’s first novel War, and Heinemann draws con- who wrote The Sorrow of War. states that he never joined VVAW based on his experiences as a nections between it and America’s The pain, the fear, the frustration because “it was my understanding soldier in Vietnam, was published other wars. There is also a 1989 of the grunt on the ground trying that the organization was basically in 1977. Ten years later, he won meeting in Moscow with the to survive, to just get home—these run by ex-officers, and I’d had a National Book Club award for afghantsi, those poor Russian elements are found in the work of enough of lifers to last me quite Paco's Story. This nonfiction work grunts who found their “Vietnam” both writers. a while (no offense, guys).” Barry should also have a special place in Afghanistan with the Soviet This is definitely a must-read (one of this review’s authors) does on everyone’s bookshelf. military adventure there. (Are ya for anyone who wants a down-to- not regret being an ex-officer, just From the start of Black Virgin listening, G. W.?) earth book about what Vietnam as long as you realize that it is the Mountain, the reader is drawn into Heinemann’s love for ordi- meant, what it still means for most “ex” part that is most important an extended conversation about nary people everywhere comes of us, and how we can continue on to him and the rest of the “guys” the context that took Larry and his through on every page. Through the road to reconciliation. in VVAW. younger brother to military service his eyes, the reader can see the in 1966 as young draftees. In his beauty of Vietnam and the ugliness A VVAW postscript: words, “We submitted to conscrip- of the war. We can almost smell Joe Miller and Barry Romo are tion with soul-deadening dread.” and taste it all: basic training, the Early in the book, as he talks about VVAW national coordinators. He brings us the sights, sounds, fear and drudgery of the war, the his postwar feelings, Heinemann Jarhead Nation Jerry Lembcke (reviewer)

Jarhead Jarhead, as a contrasting mirror nothing could make clearer than a guard tower hundreds of meters Directed by Sam Mendes image that represents our present this film that American culture away, just before they’re blown to (Universal Studios, 2005) as an extension of our past, but is still in a post-Vietnam phase. smithereens by an air strike. manages to do so in a way that ob- Given the power of film to con- For its own finis, Jarhead Commenting on films nominated fuscates more than it illuminates. struct new presents out of our cops one last cliché from the for this year’s Academy Awards Although set in the Persian Gulf past, Jarhead is a disappointing Coppola/Cimino generation, that on his February 5, 2006 show, War of 1991 (and by implica- repackaging of Vietnam-film being the transformation of the war Chris Matthews noted that films tion, the current wars in Iraq and subjects—the brutality of boot per se into a coming-home story. are important for what they say Afghanistan), the subtext of camp from Full Metal Jacket, the Almost none of the first hundred about the times in which they are Jarhead is about the continuing sergeant out of Hamburger Hill Vietnam War films made prior to made. For example, Good Night domination of America’s Viet- with Nietzschean-themed reasons 1990 had any discernible account and Good Luck, he said, is about nam experience in the nation’s for preferring the war front to the of what the war was about; nor the current Bush administration’s present. We see that in the scenes home front, and Apocalypse Now, was there a healthy, wholesome attempts to suppress the truth of of Marines getting pumped for whose influences run right to the veteran of the war portrayed. governmental malfeasance, even the Persian Gulf War by watch- jarheads’ exhibition of their own The historically grounded image though the film is set in the Mc- ing Apocalypse Now, and later in primal darkness in their farewell of the veteran empowered and Carthyist climate of the 1950s. Kuwait, when they gather to see rave to the war. Take the riffs of politicized by his Vietnam expe- Munich, he observed, speaks to The Deer Hunter. As the platoon those three films out of Jarhead, rience was totally AWOL from our ongoing anxiety about national trudges through the sand toward and there isn’t much left. Hollywood productions, displaced security, even though its story is the Iraqi border, an aircraft passes But what is left is an even by the strung-out, dysfunctional, about the Olympic Games of 1972 overhead, blasting the Doors song more troubling reminder of and dangerous victim-veteran and the events that followed. “The End,” which prompts a Vietnam’s legacy in American who brought the war home with If Matthews’ point is that Marine to wonder, “Can’t we even political culture. Like its progeni- him. That wigged-out stereotype screenwriters can write our present have our own music?” Indeed. tors, Jarhead turns the war into a makes a gratuitous reappearance into representations of our past, And since the scene is clearly solipsistic affair about Americans; in Jarhead as one more cheap and by that displacement, create plagiarized from Apocalypse Now, literally the only Iraqis we see shot at the Vietnam generation of the social and emotional distance film buffs throughout the theater here are the “crispy critters” left antiwar veterans who continue to we need for a more dispassion- were adding, “...and your own smoldering on the desert floor by work for peace and decent treat- ate perspective on where we are movie too.” the boys with the Doors. Oh yeah, ment of all veterans. and where we’re going, he could Sometimes the medium is and there are the shadowy figures have used another popular film, the message, and in this case, of two Iraqi officers that we see in continued on next page Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 21 The Machine Breaks Down Brian Gryzlak (reviewer) Soldiers in Revolt: GI Resistance hit the Army and Marine Corps to the mix the unemployment During the Vietnam War hardest, as these branches faced and underemployment endemic By David Cortright the most direct combat exposure. in the United States, and a recipe (Haymarket Books, 2005) As air assaults were stepped up in for channeling the economically the early 1970s in place of ground disadvantaged into the ranks of Discourse over the motivations forces, acts of resistance shifted the military emerges, enabling the for (and the state and trajectory from the Army and the Marine country to continue its interven- of) the current war in Iraq is often Corps to the Navy and the Air tionist policies. imbued with comparisons to the Force, and included sabotage of In a postscript to the new edi- Vietnam War. It is in this context Navy ships, attempts to block ships tion, Cortright delves further into that the new edition of David from deploying to Vietnam from the extent of GI resistance during Cortright’s Soldiers in Revolt: GI the United States, and on-ship the Vietnam War; drawing from Resistance During the Vietnam sit-ins. With the end of the draft thirty years of evidence on the War (first published in 1975) is in 1973 and the subsequent draw- issue, he argues that GI resistance an especially salient and timely down of US forces in Indochina, was much more pervasive than ini- read. With an introduction to the GI organizing efforts shifted to tially thought. Resistance among 2005 edition by historian Howard improving day-to-day conditions GIs stationed at bases in the United Zinn, Soldiers in Revolt chronicles of military life, focusing on chal- States and those stationed in In- for Peace. acts of resistance within the US lenging institutionalized racism dochina (and simultaneous dissent Soldiers in Revolt demon- military to the Vietnam War and and working toward the democ- at bases elsewhere throughout the strates how GI resistance disrupted the conditions of military life. ratization of military life. globe) threw the status of the US the social order of the US military Cortright documents how Cortright also details the military as a viable institution and effectively undermined its resistance was most prominent “recruitment racket” that ensued into question. Moreover, veterans ability to function. While the mass among enlistees of working- once the draft ended in 1973, played a critical role in stoking protests and social upheavals of class backgrounds, volunteers (as illustrating the deceptive, pres- antiwar sentiment, and VVAW the US civilian populace played a opposed to conscripts), and Af- sure-laden tactics employed by “convincingly demonstrated to the critical role in influencing policy, rican Americans. GI resistance military recruiters to sign up American people and US political the acts of GI resistance were an to the war (and various facets volunteers; those with limited leaders that the war had to end.” enormously important factor in of military life) assumed many prospects for social and economic In fact, the attorney general for the withdrawal of US forces from forms, ranging from conscious advancement were prime targets the Nixon administration branded Vietnam. Three decades later, it is dress-code violations and attempts for recruitment (often referred to VVAW as “the single most dan- clear that Soldiers in Revolt can at unionization to circulating on- now as the “poverty draft”). Cor- gerous group in the US,” clear be read not only as a fascinating base petitions, disobeying orders, tright highlights the non-transfer- evidence of its effectiveness as and detailed history of mobilized and committing direct assaults on ability of skills learned in certain an organization. discontent among GIs during officers. GIs spoke out against the roles to civilian labor markets Absent from current main- the Vietnam War, but also as a institutional racism of the military and the discrepancy between the stream media assessments of the resource for the current antiwar and held rallies. With the support demand for transferable skill sets situation in Iraq are the substantial movement. of civilians, they founded news- to the civilian labor market and and growing contributions of US papers to disseminate information the supply of such rarely needed military personnel to the opposi- among the ranks and established skills; e.g., those of weapons tion to the war. In fact, as with off-base coffeehouses, which were mechanics. veterans of the Vietnam War, Iraq Brian Gryzlak lives in Tiffin, venues for organizing efforts. The global commitment war veterans and their families Iowa and is a member of the As the war progressed, the of US military personnel drives have established organizations University of Iowa Antiwar military faced increasing deser- the “recruitment racket” to staff aimed at bringing the troops Committee and a former member tions, AWOL soldiers, and con- an “all-volunteer” military, cur- home, including Military Families of the Progressive Resource/ scientious objectors, and declining rently spread across over 700 Speak Out, Iraq Veterans Against Action Cooperative (PRC) in reenlistment rates, which initially bases throughout the world. Add the War, and Gold Star Families Champaign, Illinois. Jarhead Nation continued from previous page public memory of the war itself. Political veterans thereby One of the consequences of that dismissed, we’re left with the revisionism is an American pub- film’s lesson that American wars lic shorn of the kind of historical are all about the Americans we perspective that Chris Matthews send to fight the wars. It’s a les- applauds the Academy for valu- son that collapses means-and-ends ing. Unfortunately, Jarhead, reasoning—support the troops, best-positioned of all the 2005 even if you don’t support what films by its subject matter to they’re fighting for—and erases reinvigorate the political culture, the political boundaries around recycles themes and imagery that which efficacious debate about the enervate rather than enliven. war should be waged—the Right Jerry Lembcke is the author uses the troops to rally support of The Spitting Image: Myth, for the war, the antiwar Left uses Memory, and the Legacy of the specter of damaged jarheads Vietnam. He is an associate to oppose the war. professor of sociology at Holy Vietnam War films recon- Cross College in Worcester, structed the war as a coming- Massachusetts and a New A demonstration against the war in Iraq, home narrative that displaced England VVAW contact. Saigon, March 2003 22 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Neocon Architects of War

Ken Nielsen (Reviewer)

The Assassin’s Gate: visits to Iraq over a period of two the remainder of the book. America in Iraq years. In contrast to many au- While Packer doesn’t pres- By George Packer thors writing about controversial ent any information that is new (Farrar, Straus and Giroux, subjects, Packer doesn’t attempt to those who have been criti- 2005) to force the reader to conform to cally following the war in Iraq, one idea or another, but instead Assassin’s Gate does a great job explores facts and presents per- of explaining the neoconservative Sometimes referred to as a liberal sonal accounts of Iraqi citizens role and background concerning hawk, George Packer has put to- and exiles, American soldiers, Iraq, explaining the influence and gether a wealth of information in and “occupational authority” misguidance of Iraqi exiles on the The Assassin’s Gate: America in civilians (including his own as invasion, showing how the war Iraq, which at times comes close a journalist in-country). For the was mismanaged from the highest to attempting to justify the war. most part, he lets the facts speak levels, and showing the disastrous Although this is no small issue to for themselves. effect of bureaucratic infighting overlook, the book does a good Unlike most critiques of our and institutional incompetence on job of probing into the history and current administration’s failures, the Iraqi people and the soldiers probable causes of the conflict, and instead of focusing on Bush, on the ground. it provides an engaging perspec- Rumsfeld, and Cheney, Packer Unfortunately, the final human beings are killed, maimed, tive from firsthand accounts of goes straight to the brains of the analysis presented in the last chap- or psychologically damaged can how things have changed since influential neoconservative war- ter of Assassin’s Gate is essentially be considered successful, regard- the initial invasion of Iraq. mongers at the time and focuses on that if the war in Iraq had been less of the outcome or cause. Culled from a series of ar- Feith, Pearle, and especially Paul conducted differently, it would ticles written for the New Yorker, Wolfowitz. He steps back to look at have been successful. In taking this Assassin’s Gate is not a scholarly Wolfowitz’s family history, philo- stance, Packer falls into the same analysis of the war, but more of an sophical and ideological roots, high-minded destructive approach Ken Nielsen served in the US educated treatise with a series of and what Wolfowitz considered to the Iraq War as its arrogant Army from 1991 to 1993 (4th accounts and interviews that de- an unfinished first Gulf War; this neoconservative architects. What Battalion, 9th Infantry, 1st scribe to the reader one reporter’s background sets the stage for the George Packer doesn’t seem to Division). He is a member of the interpretation after numerous mess that is described throughout understand is that no war in which Chicago chapter of VVAW..

VVAW marching in New York City, April 29, 2006 Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 23 Her Father’s War Kelly Connolly (reviewer)

Falling Through the Earth: she yearns for an understanding they are more vivid than the many ror in Cu Chi and elsewhere, but A Memoir of the man who was irrevocably people who look to him for love following her father’s ghost, she By Danielle Trussoni scarred in war, years before she and approval. cannot find the thing she seeks. (Henry Holt, 2006) was born. When he is diagnosed Her father, Dan Trussoni, The sad truth is that her father’s with post-traumatic stress disor- recently passed away from a rav- vibrant youth was left there, never der, the acknowledgment provides aging cancer that was caused by to be restored. The most persistent image in some comfort for his daughter, his exposure to toxic herbicides Her stories are open-ended. Danielle Trussoni’s memoir is but the pain from hearing her fa- in Vietnam. But the book is not They lead down paths that are that of her trailing desperately ther’s stories remains; the mental focused on politics; it concerns painful, but in looking for a father after her father as he attempts to images, the photographs, and the the pervasive and unsettling way that could never be completely escape: stalking a deer through unexplained skull in her father’s her father’s war experiences dev- there for her (and her brothers and the snowy woods; ducking out of basement persist. astated her family. sisters, some newly discovered), a bar to avoid girlfriends; speed- The sorrow that runs through Scrounging for quarters for she takes an honest look at her ing in his pickup, wary of police. her story emanates from her father food, choosing sides when her childhood, growing up with a man The book centers on her struggle and washes over the lives of his parents divorced, and growing up full of vitality but broken by events to understand her father, and how wives, children, and girlfriends, without a stable guide left Trussoni beyond his family’s control. his experience as a tunnel rat who are drawn to his solitary with a fierceness and confusion chasing the Viet Cong in Vietnam magnetism and repelled by his in her own relationships. Having affected her family. She yearns inability to endow his relation- spent her childhood years accom- for the love of her father, despite ships with anything but the bare panying her father to his regular his excessive drinking, irrational essentials of human care. He bars in La Crosse and absorbing Kelly Connolly is a graduate violence, and inability to deal with remains in a perpetual winter in La his war stories, Trussoni goes on of Antioch College and the his wives, girlfriends, or children Crosse, Wisconsin, aloof, reliving a mission to Vietnam to see the daughter of Mike Connolly, a on an emotional level; years later, his experiences in Vietnam as if tunnels her father entered in ter- member of VVAW. Bravado and Compassion Jim Willingham (reviewer) Stop War America who had seen the atrocity of war in a vain effort to stay dry.” when he’s playing Coyote, the By Robert McLane without redemption (like me) and As it turned out, Vietnam trickster. Some might call it an (Corps Productions, 2006) was dealing with the aftermath of and the Marines had prepared Bob attitude; judge for yourself. www.corpsproductions.com that. How do you find enduring for what was to follow, only there When the Marines stop fol- meaning in it all? How do you keep was no war, just hard traveling lowing dumb orders and demand Robert McLane, a former activist living in a strange new world? with interludes of friendship and honorable missions with ethical with Vietnam Veterans Against the We journey back into the protest, trials and celebrations. purposes, Bob’s book will have War, has written a memoir in the Vietnam War and the antiwar We get to encounter a number realized its mission as well. Bob style of real-time gonzo journal- veterans’ movement, and through of other interesting people from has an independent bravado, ism. It’s dedicated to the memory this narrative, we find a picture of those days: some famous, some an alchemy of spirit; he’s still a of Hunter S. Thompson, and it’s history that is at once difficult and infamous, some marginal at best. Marine, and he has hope for an absorbing journey into the heart personifies a path with heart. When Bob is an interesting person. He America. Dig it, man. of a young man whose patriotism Bob finally gets on the freedom has heart, more than any other was in touch with essential truth bird, we feel his relief. His effort quality, and he combines that with and human value. In other words, at dialogue and detail throughout a healer’s calm and a genuine Jim Willingham is a member of he was both a US Marine and an is exemplary. respect of self and others—except VVAW. antiwar protester; he was a sur- On coming home, he writes, vivor, a hearty vagabond whose “I hitched a ride on a military path took him through the rigors plane going to Oklahoma. An Air of boot camp and the scorched Force general was kind enough to earth of Vietnam. Along the way, let me have a seat on his personal he found the counterculture and jet. First I watched his valet bring somehow melded the two worlds his luggage on board, including the into a fusion of bravado and com- two sets of golf clubs. Finally the passion. man himself walked aboard and I knew the guy as a down- sat down on the solitary bed that and-out vet when I was rebuilding was waiting for him. He looked at my own shattered psyche, doing me with the eye of some jaundiced therapy at a vet center, staying Caesar while an Air Force staff awhile in Shreveport. It was a sergeant loosened his shoestrings place where time stood still, and took off his shoes and put them save for one of the few places of under the bed. He then pulled the enlightenment there, the weekly curtains to give the general pri- evening meditation group at the vacy...I remembered the night at local Unitarian church. He popped the Rockpile when Rail and I tried in and plopped down, always smil- to make a floor out of boards from ing. It’s what gets me the most some ammo crates while the rain about this guy: his joy of life. Yet poured down through the leaky Bob had all the pathos of a man ponchos we had snapped together 24 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Searching for Honest History: Domestic Surveillance S. Brian Willson M. Palmer and his twenty- Union International) delivered Eisenhower ordered FBI director country. The names were submit- four-year-old assistant, J. Edgar copies of messages on a daily basis Hoover to accept it as a legitimate ted to the NSA by other agencies, Hoover, conducted in 1919 what to the NSA. CIA function. The CIA considered because the targets were suspected are popularly called the “Palmer The NSA kicked its large spy this a normal extension of its of involvement in terrorism, drug Raids” or “Red Raids,” develop- campaign into high gear in the authorized infiltration of dissident trafficking, threats to the president, ing a database and ordering the 1960s, especially under President groups abroad, even though the and civil disturbances. smashing of labor union offices Johnson. The FBI demanded that activity was taking place within The Department of Justice’s and headquarters of communist the NSA monitor antiwar activ- the United States. Disdain for Internal Security Division, es- and socialist organizations without ists, civil-rights leaders, and drug Congress permeated the upper tablished under President Nixon, search warrants, concentrating on peddlers. echelons of the CIA. Congress worked with a vast network of “foreigners.” That December, 249 The FBI’s secret, illegal could not hinder or regulate what domestic intelligence agencies, of the arrested were forced onto a COINTELPRO (counterintel- it did not know about, and neither including Nixon’s own Huston ship headed for the Soviet Union. ligence program) was conducted the president nor the director of Plan (the “White House Plumb- In January 1920, another 6,000 from 1956 to 1971 against Ameri- the CIA told them. ers”), acquiring information were arrested without warrants, can citizens, targeting the Black The Department of Defense, and conducting dirty tricks on mostly members of the Industrial Panthers, the American Indian the Directorate for Civil Distur- “persons and organizations not Workers of the World (Wobblies). and civil-rights movements and bance Planning and Operations, affiliated with the Department of During one raid, 4,000 “radicals” VVAW, among others. The FBI and the US Army Intelligence Defense.” were grabbed in a single night, and admitted 2,218 separate COIN- Command conducted domes- An intense debate erupted all “foreign aliens” were deported. TELPRO actions, many involving tic surveillance on thousands during the Ford administration By January 1920, Palmer and a variety of illegal operations, such of US citizens throughout the in 1975–76 over the presidential Hoover had arrested more than as warrantless phone taps (2,305), 1960s. More than 1,500 Army power to eavesdrop without war- 10,000 Americans. secret bugs against domestic tar- plainclothes intelligence agents rants to gather foreign intelligence During 1917–18, as the USA gets (697), and systematic inter- worked out of 350 separate using NSA. George H. W. Bush entered World War I, President ception of mail correspondence offices and record centers to spy (director of the CIA), Donald Wilson created the Office of (57,846). on ordinary US residents. They Rumsfeld (Ford’s chief of staff) Military Intelligence (OMI) in In 1967, the CIA initiated operated without authority from and Dick Cheney (Rumsfeld’s the War Department, to conduct Operation CHAOS (and later Congress, the president, or the deputy) were involved. Bush wholesale clandestine surveil- Project MERRIMAC and Project Secretary of the Army. Databanks wanted to ensure “no unneces- lance of US citizens suspected of RESISTANCE), exceeding its were kept on as many as 100,000 sary diminution of collection of “disloyalty.” statutory authority in response individual entries, focusing on important foreign intelligence” Before President Truman to a presidential request that the the feared civil-rights movement under a proposal to require established the National Security agency discover ties between and the “New Left” anti-Vietnam judges to approve “terror” wire- Agency (NSA) in 1952, govern- US antiwar groups and “foreign War movement. The assump- taps. Bush complained that some ment cryptologists were ordered interests.” From 1967 to 1974, tion was that there were foreign major communications companies to conduct domestic spy hunts it indexed 300,000 names, kept influences on the civil-rights and were unwilling to install govern- under Project SHAMROCK. This 13,000 subject files, and intercept- antiwar movements. During 1967 ment wiretaps without a judge’s was a super-secret operation that ed voluminous letters and cables to to 1974, presidents Johnson and approval, claiming such refusal forced private telegraph compa- compile information on domestic Nixon repeated Wilson’s World “seriously affects the capabilities nies to turn over the telegraphic activities of US citizens. War I OMI activities through the of the intelligence community.” correspondence of Americans to However, there is evidence Army Security Agency, which Ford supported what became the the government. SHAMROCK that Operation CHAOS began worked with other military intel- Foreign Intelligence Surveillance began in 1947, growing out of a much earlier—in 1959, when ligence units to illegally survey Act. World War II program that con- President Eisenhower used the the communications and activities In 1994, President Clinton ducted government censorship CIA to seek exiles who were of US citizens who expressed op- expanded the use of warrant- of international telegrams. Until fleeing Cuba after Castro’s trium- position to the war. Called Opera- less searches to include entirely the program was shut down in phant revolution. The CIA sought tion MINARET, it kept a watch domestic situations with no for- 1975, the three major international contacts in the exile community to list of suspected Americans and eign intelligence value whatso- carriers (RCA Global, ITT World recruit them for use against Cas- collected their phone calls and ever. In a radio address promoting Communications, and Western tro—arguably illegal, although telegrams made in and out of the a crime-fighting bill, Mr. Clinton discussed a new policy to conduct warrantless searches in “violent public housing projects.” Searching for honest history enables us to possess a critical frame of reference in which to judge current policies, and in which to reevaluate the authentic- ity of our supposed constitutional republic.

S. Brian Willson, a longtime activist, started his war opposition while serving in Vietnam in 1969. He is the northern California contact for VVAW. Stacy, Cindy, and Al marching to New Orleans Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 25

Story ideas and fan/hate mail: [email protected] Sheldon Ramsdell Archive I have set up an archive for Shel- (McGovern collection, McCarthy can raise some money to begin a to obtain information on sending don “Shelly” Ramsdell at Cornell collection, Northern California nonprofit book project based on his materials to Cornell. Cornell will University. I am requesting that LGBT Historical Society, etc.). photography, with any proceeds reimburse you for any shipping- anyone with Ramsdell-related I am also working with his fam- going to support organizations like related expenses. items consider sending them on to ily regarding securing potential VVAW, the Alexander Hamilton Cornell when it is convenient. archival holdings that they may and Bob Basker American Legion Thanks, Shelly's archives are have. Posts, and the AIDS education far-flung. My goals for this- ef Overall, I am trying to cre- organizations. Linda Alband fort are twofold: (1) to gather as ate a comprehensive picture of Please contact me directly Executor much as possible at Cornell, and his work through this collection with any questions or suggestions Sheldon H. Ramsdell Estate (2) to put the Cornell archivist in “network.” At some point, if I am of people I should contact regard- [email protected] touch with other extant collections able to find key pieces, perhaps I ing Ramsdell archival materials, or (415) 819-3760

4-second funeral I’matanothertvfuneralwiththatsoldierinthebackgroundhaze. I’velearnedto scanquickly: ranknameagebranchhometownthenglanceathiseyesand trytoknowhimhewasthecenterofauniversetheyconstantlypassed throughhismindhismomhisdadtheirmessagesoflovethemostbeautifulgirl he’deverknownhecouldn’twaittotreasureagainhissmallchildrenclosein aportraitlikeinhislifewiththemtheylooklikehimbrothersandsisterspiecing togetherhisstoryintheirmindsnephewsniecesatcookoutsandbirthdaysand ballgamesfriendswhogrewwithhimandlearnedofhisothersidesandallthe holidayswereshiningmomentshesharedwithallofthemhe’sleftthemforever andthousandsofmenhisagealiveandangryshoutinthestreetswherehediedfor hisarmytoleavetheirhomelandandgohomeIhaveanother4secondstoknow thenextsoldierimageI’llneverseeagainwhenhefadesfromthescreen atthecloseofhis4-secondfuneral...hewasthecenterofauniverse...

—Mike Henrich 26 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Chávez’s Venezuela Robert Naiman

Most readers of the Veteran are elans can successfully insist on get the daily VIO Roundup or the your union hall or religious group. no doubt aware that the Bush more control over their natural weekly digest emailed to you by In addition to being informative, administration has been waging resources and demand that these signing up at www.veninfo.org. it’s a great movie—the filmmakers a low-intensity political conflict resources be used primarily for the Reading the summary and skim- happened to be in Caracas when against the government of Ven- benefit of the Venezuelan majority, ming the articles will keep you up the coup unfolded. They caught ezuela. The Bush administration then others might be emboldened to date on what’s happening. the coup and the popular mobiliza- has been politically and financially to do the same. This year, Boliv- • Write letters to the editor. tion that reversed it on film. It’s a supporting Venezuelan opposition ians elected Evo Morales as their Vicious, unsubstantiated attacks powerful story. groups for several years, includ- president on a platform much like on the Venezuelan government • Buy your gas at Citgo. Your ing funding groups that were the one that brought Chávez into regularly appear in the US media, neighborhood Citgo gas station is involved in the attempted coup office in 1998; and at this writing, often planted by US government actually owned by the government d’état against President Hugo Ollanta Humala is leading in the officials. More people are needed of Venezuela. Of course, maybe Chávez’s democratically elected Peruvian presidential race on the to respond to these attacks. A short you’re an eco-warrior and go ev- government in April 2002. As basis of a similar platform. letter (less than 200 words) does erywhere on your bicycle; if so, depicted so grippingly in the must- In addition to the political the trick. kudos to you. If not, you might as see documentary The Revolution effects of the perception that • Write to and call Congress. well buy your gas at Citgo and do Will Not Be Televised, the coup Venezuela is defying Washington Phone the congressional switch- some good—the Venezuelan gov- was reversed by popular mobi- and getting away with it, there are board at (202) 225-3121, or call ernment uses the proceeds to fund lization, no thanks to the Bush real economic effects. The ability your local office. Use websites to education and health programs for administration, which welcomed to borrow from Venezuela has submit a comment (www.house. Venezuela’s poor. Find a station the coup—about which it had prior bolstered the ability of Argentina gov and www.senate.gov). Your near you at www.citgo.com. knowledge, according to declas- and Bolivia to steer course inde- representatives in Congress need sified documents, although this pendent of the prescriptions of to know that you oppose US efforts was denied at the time. The Bush the International Monetary Fund to undermine the government of Robert Naiman is a longtime administration also lobbied other and the World Bank. Venezuela’s Venezuela by funding Venezuelan supporter of VVAW. He lives governments to support the coup economic and political policies are opposition groups through the Na- in Urbana, Illinois, where he government. loosening the grip of the United tional Endowment for Democracy is on the board of the Illinois Reporting in the US media States and US-dominated interna- and similar programs. Disciples Foundation and is a on the political conflict between tional financial institutions on the • Educate your friends. The VIO member of the Jobs with Justice the Bush administration and the whole region. can tell you where to find a copy Organizing Committee. During Venezuelan government often The power of Venezuela’s of The Revolution Will Not Be the last two summers, he worked emphasizes the war of words example is also seen in military Televised. Get a copy and invite at the Venezuela Information between US and Venezuelan of- affairs. Recently, Argentina and your friends over, or show it in Office in Washington, DC. ficials. But although no one loves Uruguay have decided that they to be criticized—certainly not the will no longer send soldiers to Bush administration—there are train at the School of the Americas deeper issues at stake: control (the “School of Assassins”) at Fort of Venezuela’s oil reserves, the Benning, a step Venezuela took in largest outside the Middle East; January 2004. As a result, efforts Venezuela’s programs to use its by the Bush administration to pun- oil wealth for the benefit of the ish, pressure, and undermine and poor majority through education, isolate Venezuela can be expected health, and other social programs; to intensify. and Venezuela’ efforts to promote However, these efforts by regional economic integration as the Bush administration to under- an alternative to the corporate mine Venezuela can only flourish globalization agenda promoted by if people in the United States the Bush administration. allow it. Here are some things Although right-wing critics you could do to counteract the in the Bush administration and Bush administration’s war against Congress like to make vague and Venezuela: unsubstantiated allegations that Venezuela is subverting or threat- • Follow the press. Every week- ening its neighbors, the real danger day, the Venezuela Information that Venezuela represents to the Office (VIO) prepares a selection Bush administration is the power of daily press clips on Venezuela, of a positive example. If Venezu- together with a summary. You can

"Peoples Liberation is Not Terrorism" Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 27

He Would Tell You

Here in the secret chambers Of my darkest heart are things I will never tell: Here is oily blood and brittle bone; Here are clotted lips, frothy lungs, Decomposed and muted tongues; Here twisted cloth lays strangely stiff In a powdery triptych pit, Where a dumbstruck man and wife Lock quicklime arms round their Dream-face child; here, Past the graveyard’s fragrant stones, Memory’s nightmare head will not lay prone, Its battlefields etched on a red brocade Agent Orange Justice Tour, November 22, 2005, Philadelphia Inlaid with a crown of skull and bones. Front, from left: Larry Felker, John Beitzel, Jon Bjornson Yes, here in the busy chambers of my Rear, from left: Frank Corcoran, Nguyen Trong Nhan, Bill Perry, Sandy Fulton, Heart are things I will never tell, Ho Sy Hai, Al Kovnat, Dang Thi Hong Nhut Though I swear we did not mutilate, Only boobytrapped or ransacked; Did not take human souvenirs. No, we did not do that. So, though I nearly did, Let me never tell you Things you cannot know; Let me never tell you Things that won’t let go.

—Marc Levy

David Collins, Cindy Sheehan, and Ward Reilly at the Candlelight Vigil for the Dead in Baton Rouge, September 12, 2005

Arlington North, Philadephia, November 2005 28 THE VETERAN Spring 2006

VVAW participating in the Milwaukee rally to end the war, March 18, 2006

VVAW getting ready to march in the Milwaukee rally to end the war, March 18, 2006

Milwaukee VVAW sells beer at the Locust Street neighborhood festival, June 2005

Veteran beer servers Roger Quindel, John Lindquist, Dave Kettenhofen, and Rich Peters have a brief lull in sales Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 29

Diane Wood, Annie Bailey, and John Zutz at the VVAW National Meeting, October 29, 2005, Chicago

Mike Woloshin, Ray Parrish, Diane Wood, Annie Bailey, John Zutz, and Jenny Ori at the National Meeting

The VVAW National Meeting, October 29, 2005, Chicago

The Extraordinarily Reverend Dan Moeller Dave Cline at the VVAW National Meeting party using a golden sickle to bless the beer at the 2006 Milwaukee Beer Festival 30 THE VETERAN Spring 2006 Letters to the Editor e mince no words. Time hoods of the Bush administration, Eisenhower was even clearer and servicewomen and the citi- Wis of the essence. Iraq is a culminating in Secretary of State when it came to preventive zens of Iraq. We stand opposed human and political catastrophe, Colin Powell’s presentation to war, the kind that Bush and his to the undoing of constitutionally stark testament to the deceitful be- the United Nations on February chickenhawk ilk fancy so dearly. guaranteed freedoms by this most havior of the Bush administration. 5, 2003. He stood foursquare against it. dangerous, oppressive administra- The dangers are clear and present, The West Point Honor Code “When people speak to you about a tion. And so too would President and too many human beings are (“A cadet will not lie, cheat, or preventive war,” said Eisenhower, Eisenhower. dying for an ignoble cause. The steal, or tolerate those who do.”) “you tell them to go and fight it. “If all that Americans want preemptive war launched against defines honor and duty as a way After my experience, I have come is security, they can go to prison,” Iraq on March 20, 2003 stands of life. This provides graduates to hate war.” he said. “They’ll have enough to illegal to its roots. Premised on with a lifelong sense of duty, a When West Point gradu- eat, a bed and a roof over their lies, misstatements, and sub- shared responsibility for us all to ates took their commissioning heads. But if an American wants terfuge, the destruction of that do the right thing, even admon- oath of office, they swore to to preserve his dignity and his sovereign nation and its people ishing our country’s leadership protect the nation against all en- equality as a human being, he must has destroyed the reputation of when democracy and its inherent emies, foreign and domestic. The not bow his neck to any dictatorial America, perilously debilitating freedoms are at stake. deceitful connivance of the current government.” its military. Dwight D. Eisenhower, administration has resulted in a Nor shall we graduates of the These malefactions, in vio- thirty-fourth president of the war catastrophic to our nation’s United States Military Academy lation of a host of international United States, West Point Class interests: politically, economi- at West Point. treaties, protocols, and conven- of 1915, was a champion of the cally, militarily, and morally. The tions, have placed the military, in right to dissent. “Here in America time has come for West Point James C. Ryan particular its officer corps, in legal we are descended in blood and graduates to speak out about these New York, New York and moral peril. West Point Gradu- in spirit from revolutionists and deplorable conditions. Graduate, United States Military ates Against the War, a grassroots rebels,” he said, “men and women We will not serve the lies Academy movement to redeem the honor who dare to dissent from accepted of this administration. To remain Class of 1962 of our country, stands opposed to doctrine. As their heirs, may we silent is to tacitly serve. So we Cofounder, West Point Graduates the Bush administration and its never confuse honest dissent with speak out, clearly and directly. Against the War callous disregard for honorable disloyal subversion.” His words We seek justice for all victims of www.westpointgradsagainstthewar.org behavior. At issue are the false- inspire us to act. this illegal war, both servicemen

eterans and friends will ride am looking for any Marine who am looking for subjects to Although the political climate has Von bicycles to the national I served with Danny E. Goodwin, I interview for My Vietnam, Your changed, this family relationship convention of Veterans for Peace my Canadian best friend in Viet- Iraq, a film documentary that will based on military service is once in Seattle this summer to do their nam. He died on August 24, 1967 tell the stories of Vietnam veter- again relevant some thirty years part in curing America’s addiction near Hill 55. He was with the 1st ans whose children have served later. I’m looking for a diverse to oil and to bring attention to Engineer Battalion, A Company, or are serving in Iraq. Some of cross-section of opinions, and the need for a spirit of individual 1st Platoon. I was helpful in you may remember my earlier I’m hopeful that I can find some responsibility and sacrifice. This getting a website set up for him request, just over a year ago. I’ve women that served in either war. If ride was proposed by Brian Will- (www.canadianvietnamveterans. finally received some funding, you would like more information, son, who will lead it from Arcata ca/DannyGoodwin.html). and I anticipate starting produc- please contact me. in northern California, but several If you served with him, please tion this summer. My interest in veterans will begin riding further email any info you have! telling this story is rooted in the Ron Osgood south. I will be riding from Santa fact that I am a Vietnam veteran [email protected] Barbara, leaving around July 18— Thank you, whose father served in World War (812) 855-5096 the day I enter my sixtieth year. It II. Veterans who returned from would be good to ride together, so Eric Campanelli World War II were called members if you want to join the ride from VVAW member of the “greatest generation.” Their Southern California or start a ride [email protected] sense of patriotism and willingness from other areas to converge on to serve in the armed forces was Seattle, please contact me. considerably different from that of their draft-age sons in the 1960s. Lane Anderson, VVAW Central California contact [email protected] (805) 564-2698

Eyes Wide Open exhibit, Veterans Memorial Park, Mobile Spring 2006 THE VETERAN 31 Where We Came from,Who We Are,Who Can Join Vietnam Veterans Against the VVAW also took up the Agent Orange victims. did not end when we were dis- War, Inc. (VVAW) is a national struggle for the rights and needs Today our government still charged. We remain committed veterans' organization that was of veterans. In 1970, we began finances and arms undemocratic to the struggle for peace and for founded in New York City in 1967 the first rap groups to deal with and repressive regimes around social and economic justice for all after six Vietnam vets marched traumatic aftereffects of war, the world in the name of “democ- people. We will continue to oppose together in a peace demonstra- setting the example for readjust- racy.” American troops have again senseless military adventures and tion. It was organized to voice the ment counseling at vet centers been sent into open battle in the to teach the real lessons of the growing opposition among return- today. We exposed the shameful Middle East and covert actions Vietnam War. We will do all we ing servicemen and women to the neglect of many disabled vets in Latin America, for many of can to prevent future generations still-raging war in Indochina, and in VA hospitals and helped draft the same misguided reasons that from being put through a similar grew rapidly to a membership of legislation to improve educational were used to send us to Southeast tragedy, and we will continue to over 30,000 throughout the United benefits and create job programs. Asia. Meanwhile, many veter- demand dignity and respect for States, including active duty GIs VVAW fought for amnesty for ans from all eras are still denied veterans of all eras. This is real stationed in Vietnam. Through war resisters, including vets with justice—facing unemployment, patriotism and we remain true to ongoing actions and grassroots bad discharges. We helped make discrimination, homelessness, our mission. Anyone who sup- organization, VVAW exposed the known the negative health effects post-traumatic stress disorder ports this overall effort, whether ugly truth about US involvement of exposure to chemical defoliants and other health problems, while Vietnam veteran or not, veteran or in Southeast Asia and our first- and the VA's attempts to cover up already inadequate services are not, may join us in this long-term hand experiences helped many these conditions as well as their cut back or eliminated. struggle. JOIN US! other Americans to see the unjust continued refusal to provide treat- We believe that service to nature of that war. ment and compensation for many our country and communities

SUPPORT VVAW! DONATE OR JOIN TODAY! Insignia of Vietnam Veterans Against the War, Inc. V VAW M e m b e r s h i p Vietnam Veterans P.O. Box 2065, Station A Against the War Champaign, IL 61825-2065

We took the MACV patch as our own, replacing the sword with the upside-down rifle with helmet, the international Membership Application symbol of soldiers killed in action. This was done to expose the lies and hypocrisy of US aggression in Vietnam as well as its cost in Name ______human lives. The original MACV insignia also put forward lies. The Address______City______State______Zip______US military was not protecting (the sword) the Vietnamese from Phone______invasion from the People's Republic of China (the China Gates), Email address______but was instead trying to "save" Vietnam from itself. Branch ______Our insignia has come to represent veterans fighting against new Dates of Service (if applicable)______"adventures" like the Vietnam War, while at the same time fighting Unit______Military Occupation______for a decent way of life for veterans and their families. Rank______Our insignia is more than 30 years old. It belongs to VVAW, Overseas Duty______and no other organization or group may use it for any reason with- Dates______out permission. Yes, add me to the VVAW email list. I do not wish to join, but wish to make a donation to the work of VVAW. Sign me up for a lifetime membership in VVAW. $250 is enclosed.

Membership in VVAW is open to ALL people who want to build a veterans' move- ment that fights for peace and justice. Most of our members are veterans of the Beware of VVAW AI Vietnam era, but we welcome veterans of all eras, as well as family members and friends to our ranks. The annual membership fee is $25.00 (not required of home- This notice is to alert you to a handful of individuals calling them- less, unemployed or incarcerated vets). selves the “Vietnam Veterans Against the War Anti-Imperialist” (VVAW-AI). VVAW-AI is actually the creation of an obscure ultraleft VVAW is a democratic organization. Chapters decide on local programs and projects under the general guidelines of the national program. Chapters elect local sect, designed to confuse people in order to associate themselves leadership and representatives to annual national meetings where major organiza- with VVAW’s many years of activism and struggle. They are not tional decisions are made and national coordinators elected. These coordinators a faction, caucus or part of VVAW, Inc. and are not affiliated with are responsible for the day-to-day organizational leadership of VVAW and issuing us in any way. We urge all people and organizations to beware of national publications. this bogus outfit. Signature ______

Date ______

Total Amount Enclosed ______

Make checks payable to VVAW. Contributions are tax-deductible. RECOLLEC12.01.69 TIONS Michael Nelson

12.01.69: the first day of the last Ernie Banks; 154 meant nothing service in the Army. Numbers and talking about births, marriages, month of the decade that changed to me. When added together, the letters. My draft number, 154, the or deaths. Well, maybe death: a so many lives, that changed the digits equal ten, and we all know number that changed my known metaphysical death, the death of direction of our country, that about the power of ten, because universe. My college roommates’ one’s spirit. I have always referred changed the direction of my we have seen the Charles and Ray numbers? In the 300s, numbers to the war as an unconscionable universe. One day that changed Eames film. Letters and numbers that changed their known univers- act. It was a decision by our everything forever. nation that made no sense to me Just how important can a day then and makes no sense to me be? Seminal events in the history today; that we would force young of man have changed everything It was a decision by men—kids, really—to go to war. that would follow: the first atomic I’m not talking about just Vietnam, blast; the first step on the moon; our nation that made but any war at any time. Today, viewing the first images trans- thirty-six years later, three and a mitted through air; December no sense to me then and half decades after the decade that 7, 1941; September 11, 2001; changed my known universe, we to name just a few. December 1, makes no sense to me are still determined to send our 1969 was the day I knew my life young men—kids, really—to war. was about to go in a direction that today; that we would By three and a half decades after I didn’t want to take. A seminal the decade that changed my known event shared with my two college force young men—kids, universe, I thought we would have roommates, three amigos sitting evolved beyond war; I was terribly on a worn-out sofa, fixated on a really—to go to war. wrong. Three and a half decades television screen, watching men after the decade that changed my pick ping-pong balls from a large known universe, we still enjoy metal container, ping-pong balls killing one another. We still love with numbers on them. A singular in combinations that make sense es as well. At that moment—that unconscionable acts. We seem to event: placing a ping-pong ball only to the very smartest of the seminal moment—they knew they be very good at unconscionable next to August 17, a ping-pong ball smart. Numbers and letters in com- were not getting drafted. I knew I acts. with the number 154. A seminal bination can explain everything, was. My seminal moment. event. Goodbye, life. even infinity. I think that all people look Michael Nelson was a chaplain’s Numbers...they mean more Numbers and letters. My back on their lives for that one assistant with the 212th Combat than we think. Prior to 12.01.69, I birthday is August 17, 1947, or moment that either made them Aviation Battalion stationed at liked the number seven because of 8.17.47. The digits total seventy- or destroyed them—or, at the Dong Ha and Marble Mountain Mickey Mantle, and fourteen for two, which is the year I ended my very least, changed them. I’m not in 1971.