cyirmed Farces Day It took a lot of phone calls—about bus from Horton Plaza. Tickets are only GIPIC 2:00-12:00 Jt-'BOO.OO worth-but the United States $1 to active duty GI's and will not go on 4918 Voltaire Servicemens' Fund Show is coming to sale to civilians until the last few days Ocean Beach San Diego. A edition of local G.I. groups before the show. There will be two Tel: 224-4095 called San Diego GI's for peace and shows: Saturday, May 15th at 7:30 PM, Liberation went through all the permit and Sunday, May 16th at 2:00 PM. Come C.O.M. 4:00-9:00 and application hasseles. The show has meet the USSF Troupe in Balboa Park at 2143 Market Street rock music, comedy by Dick Gregory aGl picnic Sunday from 11:00 to 3:00 at San Diego, Calif (Sat. only), the CIA (comedy in action, Pepper Tree Grove on Park Blvd. Free Tel: 2 32-1238 and anti-war skits featuring Jane Fonda, food, Folk Singers. Donald Southerland and many others. A Tickets are on sale at Fleet Landing, PCS 3:00-8:00 special bonus will be the music and words Horton Plaza, and outside some bases 1924 Island Ave. of Jon Baez and David Harris. most afternoons. Tickets and information San Diego, Calif The show will be held in Russ Aud can also be obtained from the following Tel: 239 2119 itorium, at 12th and Russ Streets in San organizations: Diego. (Near Balboa Park) Take the No. 7 Garry Goodrow, Jane Fonda, Donald Sutherland, and Peter Boyle entertain troops from Fort Bragg.
VOLUME ONE; ISSUE 1 san diego libert MAY 12, 1971
PUBLISHED BY THE ENLISTED MEN AND concerned officers movement OFFICERS OF THE SAN DIEGO COM Active Duty GIs in L.A. Peace Memorial
Forty-five San Diego servicemen participate in religious services in attended a memorial service, May 2, for uniform. all those who have died in the Viet Nam A large group of Vietnam veterans also War. The service was sponsored by Con attended the service. The veterans, cerned Clergy and Laymen of Los dressed in army fatigues and sporting long Angeles and was held at L.A.'s ExDosition hair and beards, offered a statk contmsl Park. to the servicemen in their service dress Six uniformed servicemen carried a uniforms. The participation of both wooden coffin up to the stage to start the groups was expressive of the growing service. Behind the coffin marched forty opposition to the war among veterans and officers and enlisted men in ranks of four active duty servicemen. abreast. The servicemen stood at Most of the servicemen present were attention throughout the ceremony members of the Concerned Officers which lasted about forty-five minutes. Movement, but they were not repre The service consisted of addresses by senting COM, nor were they representing several clergy, responsive readings and their respective services. Each man was two hymns led by two choirs in atten representing only himself, both as an dance. A guitarist led the assemblage in individual and as a serviceman. They wore "Blowing in the Wind" and "If I had a their uniforms because as servicemen they Hammer." The service ended as the ser share in the guilt for all those who have vicemen marched off while a bugler died. They also share in a commitment to played "Taps." work for an end to the war. Each Pall bearers bore an unmarked casket, individual had come to express his own symbolic of all the war dead regardless of personal sense of grief at the loss of untold thousands of Americans, Cam nationality or military affilliation. Many bodians, and Vietnamese in a senseless of the servicemen present had actually war. served in Vietnam. Some of the enlisted men were senior petty officers with eight The officers and enlisted men who to ten years of service. One Navy man attended the service are convinced that had received a Silver Star for bravery in they can no longer remain passive while _ the war. the President persues a policy which is Some people at the service could not destroying both Vietnam and America. A Active Duty GIs hoist a coffin symbolizing the Indochina War dead. believe that these were actually active man cannot hide behind his uniform and duty servicemen participating in the say that he is only doing his duty. service. They seemed to think that it was All of us who believe the war is wrong staged by a group of actors or ex- have a moral responsibility to speak out servicemen. Their reaction was in .rt against it, to use our influence as mem due to the fact that participatioi a bers of the United Slates military to bring service of this nature by active duty an end to the killing. Our children will servicemen in uniform is almost unheard not ask us, "Daddy, what did you do in of. The participation of the servicemen the War?" Instead, they will ask, "Daddy, Talk to Each Other was perfectly legal since Department of what did you do to end the War?" Defense directives allow servicemen to —Gus Anderson The war continues. to get, you may lose your security Like so many other things in America, clearance, and you might "even" get an it is both bigger and, so they say, better. unfavorable fitness report. Besides, you your uniform and be yourself. Erase the Supposedly better because body counts "volunteered" for the military, so you artificial barriers that have been put up are reaching '"acceptable" levels. might as well play the game their way for around you: officer-enlisted, corps-line, Work on the Connie continues. a couple years. Better to wait until you military-civilian. It is easy for those in This supercarrier readies herself to get out, when you'll be free. Yes? Except power to repress an isolated few. Talk to deliver her presents of Napalm, Defoliants, then you'll be travelling, going to school, Each Other They can't send everyone to and high explosives., but after all, they're raising a family working for an organ Nam. they can't put everyone in the Brig only slant eyed gooks.... ization as monolithic and conformist as and they can't dismiss everyone. You don't like the rape of Indochina. the military. Meanwhile wars will drag on, You must overcome paranoia. The one In private conversations with like-minded ABM systems will be built, people will be thing to remember is that you are doing people you express your feelings. Slave getting jailed for speaking too freely. nothing wrong. Exercise your right of for the conscience, affecting nothing. If you don't act now, you never will. free speach, guaranteed by the Con But after all, what can you do about Of course you're newly married and don't outcast every day at work. stitution you are sworn to uphold. it? You could stick your neck out, but want to get transferred. Of course, you It is hard to stand up alone, and it is Engage in dissent because dissent is the you might risk a CO or CPO trying to need the money and don't want to get easier to be crushed if you are on your burn your ears, you might jeopardize the passed over for the next highest rank. Of own. So get togather-communicate. Take comfortable billet you waited two years course you don't want to risk being an off the mask you put on every day with (continued on P. 2, Column 1) PAGE 2 MAY 12 ttife Ml MtoR In Washington, Vietnam veterans the U.S. Constitution. demonstrate against the war, throwing Those who demonstrate and dissent in their medals away, playing out guerrilla Russia do not want to overthrow the theater on the Capitol steps. The Peking government. They just want their govern Review carries an editorial lauding the ment to let people speak freely and try to Revolutionary Spirit of those who are change it. When the Hungarian revolution joinging their revolutionary brothers and gave Hungarians a short period of sisters to overthrow the Fascist Pig independence in 1956, they did not invite Capitalist Oppressors. Bullcrap. Not me, Wall Street to take over. They formed a Mao Baby. lot of new political parties, all different, That proves that those demonstrators but mostly communist or socialist, all are part of an International Communist joyously arguing about what should be Conspiracy to undermine America's done; all free to criticize. Moral Fiber, to destroy our Way of Life When men seek freedom of expression, and make us weak. Then no one will then they attempt to use those freedoms respect America and the Free World will to offset their lack of money or power, be raped by the Red Hordes, liberty will and influence their government, they are be crushed forever under the Iron Heel of not in the pay of some Foreign Power. Communist Tyranny. Further bullcrap. Not unless the power of free speech is Not me....SIR. foreign to the men who rule over them. In Moscow, writers and scientists and a But all over the world, through-out war-hero general demonstrate against history, there are men who set loyalty to repression of free speech. American news an institution above all, who consider any men and Government spokesmen (fortunately, still two different sources, despite the wishes of some) praise the Freedom Loving Spirit of the men who reveal Communism for What It Is, and soon join with fellow lovers of freedom to overthrow the Murdering Marxist Dictators and vote Republican. Bull. That proves it, Comrade. They are lairjiaWuinlrjIapt.3I23l lackeys of the Capitalist Imperialists, part questioning of that institution an act of of a CIA plot to destroy the Peoples' disloyalty; who respect only power and force and think everybody else feels the Republic and institute a Counter This month's award goes to Captain same way. revolutionary Fascist Regime. They will Harry Gerhard of the U.S.S. Constel sap the strength and fighting spirit of There are other men who grew to love lation. His dedication to freedom of Mother Russia's armies and then no one ideals of freedom above all flags and guns, speech and press, as evidenced by: however difficult those ideals might be to will be left to oppose the Ruthless — The interception of letters from live with in operation, men who respect Oppressor Barons of Wall Street. Nonviolent Action outlining their only tolerance and personal integrity. Such a godawful lot of bullcrap. position regarding the purpose of These men see no patriotism in flag- The trouble is, there are people who Connie's forthcoming deployment, waving rituals, in super-patriotic protesta believe that kind of stuff, on both sides — The confiscation of 800 of the 1300 of the idiotic ideological barriers they tions - just maybe a little nostalgia for July Fourths gone by. They need no signatures given by Connie men in sup have divided the world with. You prob port of having the Jane Fonda USSF ably know a few where you work. They vicarious experience of war by calling those who protest for peace, "chicken." show in the hanger bay come pretty thick in our ranks, and they — His use of the IMC to discourage have both crows and eagles on their Some of these men may have some very calm and rational arguments for Connie Men from attending that show, shirts. Maybe you hear one occasionally, claiming it would only tell the men things as he points you out to his wife in the America's continued involvement in Viet nam. When you meet them, respect them, that they did not want to hear, which Navy Exchange as an "American would ruin their morale. chicken." gSee how brave I am, and if you want to sway a valuable man He has enabled hundreds of Connie Martha?") like that, you'd better be ready with crewmembers to understand more clearly Those veterans are not Communist some strong rational arguments of your the reasons behind COM's drive to secure dupes and they are not interested in own -they will listen, and may under freedom of information and expression destroying America's Moral Fiber. They stand. for those serving their country. Thanks are interested in ending an immorally As for those who understand only for illustrating our position Captain—see conducted war, in enabling America to force, forget them. Just try to avoid you at the show. stand for something more than firepower offending their tin gods; they are full of - or sea power. They are exercising their fears, and are dangerous when frightened. inalienable human rights to free expres —Steve Caple sion, rights guaranteed (not invented) by G&fa G&te G&&S G&Si CtfRti *3
The Pacific Counseling Service in g^N DIEGO forms men of their rights and helps lgoh Tqi-,nr| them to obtain these rights. ,„,, , ___ , * (714) 239-2119 Daily: 3:00-3:00 PAGE 3 MAY 12
With Congressional opinion on the War Charles E. Bennett, Florida hanging in the balance, it is vitally James A. Byme, Pennsylvania important that severicemen try to Samuel S. Stratton, New York persuade Senators and Congressmen to Otis G. Pike, New York vote against bills which support the war Richard H. Ichord, Missouri effort. Unless you write your Con Lucien N. Nedzi, Mississippi gressional representatives, the only voice Alton G. Lennon, North Carolina you have in Congress is from the Joint William J. Randall, Missouri Chiefs of Staff and it is doubtful that G. Elliot Hagan, Georgia they respresent your interests. Charles H. Wilson, California Here is a list of the membership of Eobert L. Leggett. Colorado Congressional Committees on the Armed Floyd V. Hicks, Washington Services. If you have any gripes about the Speedy 0. Long, Louisiana military, or if you want to influence bills Richard C White, Texas pertaining to the military, these are the William Nichols, Alabana people to whom you should write. Jack Brinkley, Georgia Robert H. Mollohan, West Virginia Senate Committee on the Armed Ser W.C. Daniel, Virginia vices G.V. Montgomery, Mississippi Michael J. Harrington, Maryland John C. Stennis, Mississippi, Chairman Harold Runnels, New Mexico Les Aspin, Wisconsin Have you ever seen the Farmworker's Democrats You can help. Striking Farmworkers Eagle? If not, take a good look at it. It is need more than our moral support. They Republicans the symbol of the United Farmworkers need food, tools, wood and other Stuart Symington, Missouri Organizing Committee of the AFL-CIO. Henry M. Jackson, Washington materials, office equipment, and much Leslie C. Arends, Illinois Cesar Chavez is leading the UFWOC more. Their children are in desparate Sam J. Erwin, North Carolina Alvin E. O.Konski, Wisconsin people in a desparate—but nonviolent- Howard W. Cannon, Nevada need of medical attention, as a result of William G. Bray, Indiana struggle to obtain workers rights from the malnutrition and almost non-existent Thomas J. Mclntyre, New Hampshire Bob Wilson, California grower. Harry Flood Byrd, Jr., Virginia services. Navy Corpsmen, Nurses and Charles S. Gubser, Colorado Due to the strength of the growers' Harold E. Hughes, Iowa Doctors can render invaluable aid. If you Alexander Pirenie, New York lobby, and the lack of any workers can help in anyway, call now. Lloyd M. Bentsen, Texas Durward G. Hall, Missouri organization, farm workers were not Medical Aid: 295-5582 Donald D. Clancy, Ohio included in the legislation that guaranteed Other help: Republicans Robert T. Stafford, Vermond collective bargaining rights to most UFWOC STRIKE CENTER Charleton J. King, New York American workers. 314 E. San Ysidro Blvd. Margaret Chase Smith, Maine William L. Dickenson, Alabama Because they have been weak and San Ysidro, California Strom Thurmond,.South Carolina John E. Hunt, New York unorganized for so long, the workers have Tel: 428-1898 John G. Tower, Texas G. William Whitehurst, Virginia been at the mercy of the big landowners. Peter H. Dominick, Colorado Floyd D. Spence, South Carolina They have been paid starvation wages, COM is helping to get some of this Barry Goldwater, Arizona C.W. Young, Florida charged exorbitant rent for dilapidated together. We have food collections and Richard S. Schweiker, Pennsylvania shacks, made to work without toilets in have worked with the strike center. If William B. Saxbe, Ohio the fields, and sprayed with deadly you want to coordinate with the COM When writing to Senators, write to: poisons. effort call us at 232-1238. House Committee on the Armed Services Senate Office Building F. Edward Hebert, Louisiana, Chairman Washington, D.C. 20510 —Steve Caple
Democrats When writing to Congressmen, write to: House of Representatives Melvin Price, III Office Building C.C. Fisher, Texas Washington, D.C. 20515 lite© h 3MK89
In the hope that we migiil better would only say 'Come back tomorrow,' understand how military men view and the next day they would say the military justice, COM interviewed three same thing and I started to panic. I finally men who have been court martialed and went AWOL for 22 days. When I got back are facing possible disciplinary action. to the base, I found that the X.O. was This issue of Liberty Call will cover the going to give me leave, but I took off a case of Mike Dodge, located at Naval day too soon, so I was chareed with 22 Amphibious Base Coronado. We asked days UA. Mike what Navy life had been like for "Since going UA, most ol the Petty UmytfMI him. He replied: Officers feel I am not worth much and "The reason I came in to the Navy was they always seem to be on my back. I that the draft was about to get me. My began to have headaches and feeling HISTORY depressed all the time. I went over to sick Naval Operations in person the injustices lottery number was 81; it was just a The Concerned Officers Movement is a bay and asked to see a Psychiatrist, but done to Sam Miller, a conscientious matter of time before the Army would nationwide organization consisting of you have to be interviewed by a Medical objector who was court martialed, call me up. I thought if I had to go the many local chapters. To understand it we Doctor before you can see a Psychiatrist. busted, and sentenced for his beliefs; We best way would be the Navy. I hoped to must deal with two levels: The national The Doctor told me to take some and the local. have called for investigation under the get one of the Navy schools and have a trade when I finished my time. 1 wanted medication and see how I felt. The On the national level, COM currently UCMJ of possible war crimes, saying that to get into the machinist field, medication only helped for a little while, has a mailing list of over 3000, and responsibility lies in high levels of com specifically unit repair. I did get a school but I still felt bad. I went to a private between 600 and 700 active duty mem mand, and we are currently co-sponsoring after boot camp. The school was called Psychiatrist for an evaluation and the bers. COM was bom in the wake of the a visit by Jane Fonda and her troupe, Machinery repairs class 'A' school located medical department is waiting to see what November 1969 Peace Demonstrations, Joan Baez, David Harris, and Dick at NTC here in San Diego. The school was the results are. I don't think you should and out of this personal frustrations and Gregory in the U.S.S.F. Show. 12 weeks long and I only got through 8 have to go and spend $40 to get help conflicts that active duty military The ongoing thrust of COM's contri weeks because the academic board when the Navy has a department to personnel feel daily. As our country bution to San Diego is not in terms of considered me a waste of money. The handle this type of problem, but you continued to squander her own irre grandiouse projects but in the daily com people that were on the board seemed to can't get to see them unless you go placeable men and resources, and to munity, and support that we provide for be more interested in how I dressed and completely crazy. devestate the land, peoples, and resources our people and those we innuence. Long wore my hair than how I was doing in "I feel that I am of no use to the Navy of Southeast Asia, the time came for ago we realized that the military rank class. Some of the questions went like and the Navy is not helping me in any responsible dissent, and for people of structure was designed to separate people; this: 'Why do you want to wear a beard?' way. I am hoping for a discharge soon leadership and military experience to we cannot participate in this. Con or 'What do you do with your off time?' based on the fact that I can not get along stand up for our nation's ideals. The sequently, we long ago broke down our To this last question, I answered that I with the petty officers and commissioned Concerned Officers Movement was born. exclusiveness and the officer syndrome, surf out at Ocean Beach and they started officers and feel they are out to gel inc. I and welcomed all military people equally. On the local level, in San Diego, COM to ask me questions about drugs. I could know so many people in the Navy who How we represent a good cross sample; was born on July 25th of 1970 with not believe that because a person surfs he would not or could not help me, that I about 70% of our active members are meetings of small numbers of officers in must be a drug user. I told the board that could never be happy or trust any enlisted men. We continue to do what we Ocean Beach. COM San Diego's first I did not use drugs and did not know superior again. I believe I have tried to do can to bring about a speedy end to this public act was the sending of a letter to anything about the drugs in the area. my job and duty but I could not get war. We support one another in the the Secretary of Defense signed by 29 people to help me when I needed help the hassels and intimidations that we all "I was dropped from the school officers expressing outrage over this most." country's continued destruction in experience. We seek, by exercising them, because they said I was not passing, but I to attest to our Constitutional rights such believe they wanted togetsomethingel.se While Concerned Officers Movement Southeast Asis, calling for immediate does not advocate any breach of the withdrawal of all our forces, and as Free Speech and Assembly. on me. The way I feel about that board is they were not interested in my problems, UCMJ, wc believe that the important expressing the desire to open new Wc aspire towards openess. To this end thing that was brought out in this inter channels of communication within the we maintain an Open House at 2143 they were only interested in what I could give the Navy. That's the way the Navy is. view and the two to follow is the simple system. Since that time we have grown Market St. which is used for such per- fact that these men cried for help and did and become involved in many activities. poses as meetings, office space, listening "After the school I requested duty in Vietnam. The reason was, I need the not receive it. We suggest the Com For example, we have supported the to music, talking with each other, and manding Officers consider the con Farmworkers in their efforts to gain generally being human away from gray extra money because I wanted to get married. When the orders came in, there sequence of permanent damage that the justice, by calling for inquires into sus walls. We welcome new people, new ideas military system could do to a young man pected boycott breaking by the Depart and new forms of expression. Only was no leave on the orders so I could not go home to see my family before going to like Mike...... ment of Defense, we have brought to the through this can we remain viable as a —Joe Walsh attention of the public and the Chief of 'Nam. I went over to personnel and tried movement? to get someone to help me but they In the next issue we will interview —John Huyler Robert Allen Wentworth MAY 12 PAGE 4 Winter Soldier Investigation (An inquiry into U.S. war crimes)
Conducted by:
Vietnam Veterans Against the War, Inc.
In the bleak winter of I 776, when the men who had enlisted in the summer were going home because the war was hard and their enlistments were over, Tom Paine wrote, "These are the times that try men's souls. The summer soldier and the sunshine patriot will in this crisis shrink from the service of his country, but he that stands it now deserves the love of man and woman. "
Vietnam Veterans Against the War in 1967, like the winter soldier of 1776, recognized that America was in grave danger and that the danger was from within. We understand The Captain simply repeated the order that came down from only too well that what threatens America this time is not the Colonel that morning. The order was to kill anything that the Redcoats or even the Reds. Rather, it is the crimes that moves . . . America is carrying out against her people at home and her brothers and sisters abroad that threaten to destroy her. It is believed it. It takes only a few months the separating of those of our countrymen who deplore these to be subjected to the circumstances of acts from those of our countrymen who refuse to examine SGT. JAMIE HENRY Vietnam when you come to the realiza what is being done in the name of America, which threatens tion that yon are not fighting for to destroy America. I don't want to go into the details of these executions because the execu Thieu's freedom; you are not fighting The Winter Soldier Investigation of 1971 was convened tions are the direct result of policy. It's for Ky's freedom; you arc not fighting for the purpose of giving America the facts. In the hope that the policy that is important. The execu for your mother's freedom or anybody's after examining these facts, America, like the winter soldiers tions are secondary because the execu freedom. You're just getting your asses who testified, would meet her responsibility to end the tions are created by the policy that is, I shot up and all you want to do is go crimes and take the steps necessary to save herself from believe, a conscious policy within the home. self-destruction. military. Number one, the racism in the Also, we threw lull C-ration cans The Winter Soldier Investigation was not a mock trial. military is so rampant. Now you have all al the kids. Kids would be lined up on There was no phony verdict against the government. In those heard of the military racism. It's institu the side of the road. They'd be yelling three days, over a hundred Vietnam Veterans presented tionalized; it is policy; it is S.O.P.; you out, "chop, chop, chop, chop," and straightforward testimony-direct testimony-about acts they are trained to be a racist. When you go they wanted food. They knew we saw and participated in which are war crimes under interna into basic training, you are taught that carried C-rations. Well, just tor a joke, tional law, acts which are the inevitable outgrowth of official the Vietnamese are not people. You are these guys would take a full can if they and de facto United States military policy. taught they are gooks and all you hear is were riding shotgun and throw it as hard They told who it was that gave the orders; that created "gook, gook, gook, gook." We are as they could at a kid's head. I saw the policy; that set that standard of war bordering on full trained so thoroughly that all Asians kids' heads split wide open. Also, and final GENOCIDE. Their testimony demonstrated that become the brunt of this racism. You I saw several kids knocked off the road, My Lai was no unusual occurrence, other than, perhaps, the are trained "gook, gook," and once the knocked into tires of vehicles behind, number of victims killed all in one place, all at one time, all military has got the idea implanted in and knocked under tank tracks. by one platoon ol us. Their testimony showed that the your mind that these people are not policies of the Amencal Division, which inevitably resulted in human, but sub-humans, it makes it a My Lai, were the policies of other Army and Marine little bit easier to kill 'em. One barrier is SP/4SAMSCHOUR Divisions as well. Their testimony showed what every removed and this is intentional, because Vietnamese and every Vietnam veteran knows, that war obviously, the purpose of the military is A man crimes in Indochina did not start in March 1968, or in the to kill people. And if you're not an was taken out of his hootch sleeping, village of Son My, or with one Lt. William Calley. Their effective killer, they don't want you. was put into a cave, and he was used for testimony showed who really bears the responsibility for My The military doesn't distinguish be target practice with an M-60, an M-16, Lai, for Vietnam, for attempted GENOCIDE. tween North Vietnamese, South Viet and a .45. After they had pretty well It has often been remarked, but seldom remembered, namese, Viet Cong, Civilian- all of them shot him up with the 60, they backed that war itself is a crime. Yet a war crime is more, and other are gooks, all of them are considered to off a ways to see how good a shot they than war. It is an atrocity beyond the usual barbaric bounds be sub-human. None of tiiem are any were with a .45 because it's su;h a lousy of war. It is legal definition growing out of custom and good. And all of them are to be killed pistol. By this time, he was dead. tradition supported by every civili/ed nation in the world, and all of them are killed. On February 8th, this was after a including our own. It is an act beyond the pale of acceptable fire fight and we had lost eight men, on Now the second reason for atroci actions even in war. Deliberate destruction without military February 8th, wc found a man in a ties that occur is because it doesn't take purpose of civilian communities is a war crime. Deliberate spider hole. He was of military age. He very long for an infantryman in the field killing or torture of prisoners of war is a war crime. The use to realize that he is fighting for no spoke no English, of course. We did not of certain arms and armaments and of gas is a war crime. The body's freedom. You can ask any of the have an interrogator, which was one of forcible removal or relocation of population for any purpose men here. They may have thought they the problems in the field. He was asked is a war crime. All of these crimes have been committed by were fighting to protect their mother if he were VC and, of course, he kept the United States Government over the past ten years in when they got there, 'but they sure denying it. "No VC, no VC." He was Indochina. An estimated one million South Vietnamese didn't believe that very long. And this held down under an armored personnel civilians have been killed as a result of these war crimes. A isn't just the grunt. It's the Lieutenants, good portion of the reported 700,000 National Liberation carrier, and he was run over twice -the it's the officers in the field. Our Captain Front and North Vietnamese soldiers killed have died as a fiist time didn't kill him. direct result of these war crimes. And no one knows how many North Vietnamese civilians, Cambodian civilians, and Laotian civilians have died as a result of these war crimes. Indochina has suffered immeasurably as a result of American war crimes, but America suffers too. The first casuality America suffered as a result of her war crimes was that of TRUTH. America told the world she was sending her young men and women to Vietnam to preserve the peace. Instead, she .ordered us to set all ol Indochina aflame. America told the world her task was to defer d the Vietnamese people. Yet, she ordered us to commit GENOCIDE. America told the world our presence was necessary to protect the freedom of the Vietnamese people. But, our presence has turned Vietnam into a series of concentration camps. America told the world we were needed to guarantee the right of self-determination to the people of Vietnam. Instead, we are being used to force a corrupt and dictatorial government upon them. America has told the woild she is working toward the brotherhood of man. But, the strategy and tactics she employs are permeated with racism. Who is America? Vietnam Veterans Against the War, the Winter Soldiers of today, during those three agonizing days of testimony bore witness not against the people of • America, but against those policy makers who are perverting News articles, cartoons, stories and money will keep Liberty Call alive and America, those spokesmen who lie in the name ol America, <* kicking. and those actions it home and abroad that are destroying Send all contributions to: America. We have identified the enemy We are presenting Liberty Call this testimony so the people of America will know who and 2143 Market St. what is destroying America. San Diego, Calif. AI Hubbard ,n Through Rose—Colored Glasses by Dick Rose, retired Master Chief Journalist This is the first of an irregularly gating you. let me retire. Matter of fact, the Chief of case they follow me home. scheduled article in a rather irregularly There are several approaches. I played Staff was publicly looking forward to it. Which is to say, play it cool. I'd like to scheduled newspaper. it safe. I smiled into all mirrors, whis Anyhow, my paranoia has diminshed. assure all of our younger readers that the It sort of fits. pered tender "hellos" into vases of Somewhat. I am considering spraying my Navy is not the monolithic one-way Among other things, well try to keep flowers and ultimately decided to forget garbage with Jade East, though, just in outfit it appears to be. The movement has the whole movement in perspective. Or if the whole thing. Almost. many more sympathizers than you would not the whole movement, a portion of it, Even became suspicious of people. think. Even among the career men. then. For one man, even a retired Master Such as the young seaman who struck up COM offers you assistance and advice. f Chief, to attempt keeping the whole my acquaintance. But I figured he was A chance to discuss your eelings. Trade movement in perspective is futile arro okay when he helped me distribute ideas. However, there should be an equal gance. Or arrogant futility. tickets to the Jane Fonda Show last opportunity aboard ship and on station. Either way, I'm not up to it. Today. month. But its an opportunity that you will have Sort of wonder what NISO thinks of it That had its drawbacks, though. Then to make. It's the idea of working within all. There's a tendency, especially if I became suspicious of all the people he the system to change the system. you're on active duty, to become para sold his tickets to. Or to whom he sold Seek out those who share your feelings noid about NISO. You get the feeling his tickets. and discuss them. Be aware of your that the Navy investigators are Investi Nothing happened, though, and they (Cont. on page 4, col. 1)
VOLUME ONE; ISSUE 2 san diego libert JUNE 14, 1971
PUBLISHED BY THE ENLISTED MEN AND concerned officers movement OFFICERS OF THE SAN DIEGO COM cal GIs Call for Inquiry Over 112 servicemen from scores of brig while he was being investigated. West Coast bases have signed letters When he helped the man obtain a civilian requesting a Court of Inquiry to lawyer he was called to Gerhard's cabin investigate alleged violations of the UCMJ and told to remain in a stripped state and the U.S. Constitution by Capt. Harry room for ten days and to speak to no E. Gerhard, USN, Commanding Officer of one. After five days he was released from the USS constellation: 'Hie letters request "nacK" when nss own lawyer Inquired Secretary of Defense Melvin Laird and into the matter. Secretary of the Navy John Chafee to The third charge was that Gerhard conduct the Court as provided by Article promulgated a Constellation Instruction 135 of the UCMJ. so broadly worded as to be unconsti The servicemen included enlisted men tutional. The instruction aimed at COM and officers of the Army, Navy, Air members was so broadly worded as to Force and Marine Corps. Capt. Gerhard prevent a man from giving a Bible, letter was recently selected for promotion to from home, or newspaper to another Rear Admiral but has not yet been crewman without the Captain's per advanced. mission. The men signing the letters The allegations against Gerhard center believe that no one, not even the Com on three specific acts. It is charged that manding Officer of a ship is above the law he ordered the illegal destruction of up to of the Constitution, specifically the First 2500 pieces of First Class Mail sent to Ammendment (freedom of speech and crew members of the Constellation by a Press). civilian peace group in San Diego, Non Six Navy Officer and enlisted men, violent Action. Whether or not the three of them from the Constellation, letters could be legally withheld from the held a news conference at the El Cortez crew is one question, but to destroy them Hotel in San Diego on June 5. Spokesman violates U.S. Postal Regulations. As First for the group was Lt. Ronald Class Mail they should have been returned VandenBossche, a clinical psychologist at to the senders at least. Bremerton Naval Hospital, Bremerton, The second charge is that Gerhard Washington. The story received good illegally confined an officer incom coverage on San Diego television channels municado for five days with no charges 8 and 10, and appeared in the Sunday brought against him and without Judicial Los Angeles Times. It is expected that a proceedings. The officer had visited a month or more will pass before word is member of his former division who was heard from Washington about the Court being held "for safekeeping" in the ship's of Inquiry. AT THE PRESS CONFERENCE: L t(jg) John Swanson, FTM1 Daniel O'Leary, Ens. Paul Rogers, Lt. Ron VandenBosche, Seaman Paul Nixon, and AZ3 Mark Jensen.
\ Do Something! Vietnam conflict has been basically to let Similarly, the military can be changed. Congress and the President carry on and It isn't a democracy, but it does need Anyone who has tried to get some it in such a manner that they have to do do the best job they could. Not much money to function. If you can threaten thing changed by going through the what you want to protect it. pressure was applied, and consequently, the flow of that money, you can force system in the military knows what Well, what are large institutions not much happened. After ten years, the change. You didn't sign away your right happens. You talk to the people in charge interested in? Corporations are interested war is still going on. However, now many to freedom of speech when you joined about the problems, and they listen in making money. The military is sim people are fed up with the war. Because the military. Speak out, write, join an patiently and admit that problems exist. ilarly interested in appropriations, for of this Congress and the President are organization, stand up. The effect of an But "you are impractical," "you're without money it can do nothing else. forced to do something for fear of being individual's actions are magnified trying too move too fast, " or "these Many of the politicians in Congress, turned out of office in their respective thousands of times when they are covered things take time." Nothing happens. The having come to the conclusion that they elections. Society has endangered what by the news media. You can create people you have talked to are convinced can do nothing if they do not stay in politicians are interested in and forced hostility towards the military. Hostility of their own open-mindedness, and you office, are largely interested in being them into action. towards the military tends to cause a are frustrated. The military is filled with re-elected. You can force change by Ralph Nader has operated in a similar decrease in military appropriations. In people who are putting in their 20 or 30 endangering these things that these organ manner. For him to submit critical order to restore or maintain the money it years the same way that large corpora izations and individuals are interested in. reports to the automobile industry would needs to function, the military must take tions in civilian life are filled with people For example, for ten years the attitude produce no effect at all. However, when action to decrease this hostility. This waiting for their pension. These people of the American people towards the Mr. Nader through the use of the news action will be in the form of facing your are mainly interested in doing something media shows the American people the problems and doing something about today the same way that they did it The only race kind of product that they are getting, he them. yesterday. There is no way to move these hurts profits. Mr. Nader's publicity forced Instead of beating your head against people unless you find something that TIC cannot afford to lose the Chevrolet Corvelr off the market. He the wall on your ship or station, you can force change. Do something! they are interested in and then endanger is the human race! has also forced Congress to take a stand on the issues. ENS Bob Moore _ PAGE 2 JUNE 14
FROM A BLACK GI Better Living Through Blackness The word Negro means black in said) slaves were given better food, (henceforth, I will spell "Negro" - Knee- attitude toward the "gooks" and Spanish. It is inappropriate as the name clothing, easier jobs. They were after all grow). Thus, an Afro-American of any "chinks" it is evident they would receive of a people or race; there is no land called kin to the slavemaster. They cherished skin color who acknowledges his heritage the same treatment in Amerika as Afro- Negroland and most people are named the few privileges they enjoyed over their and actively resists the oppression and Americans do. after lands: English-England; Germans- brothers and sisters who sweated in the exploitation that is perpetrated against Our fathers were discouraged from Germany, etc. Nor, does Negro describe fields, instead of forsaking the priviliages the black colonies of white Amerika, is making the military a career, at the risk accurately a people whose high degree of and uniting to overthrow the slavemaster. black . of losing the education and homes the GI visibility (color) ranges from that of a Afro-Americans are decendants of the To Afro-Americans the military is a bill would have meant in favor of Caucasian to the black of a Stokely Africans who were enslaved in Amerika Jim Crow system based upon rank and Northern factories and ghettos primarily Carmichael. We must realize this is due to They reject the name "Negro" given them requireing complete, immediate because of the policy which seemed to the slavemaster who raped black females by the white American slavemaster. It is obediance to orders. In order to comply confine Afro-Americans to the inferior in order to breed more slaves. The sons repulsive due to the aura of inferiority, of the individual must sacrifice his individ stereotyped Knee-grow roles such as and daughters of this capitalistic rapist a lazy and unclean servile sub-human. uality and self-respect while adopting a cooks, laundrymen and positions that were the pawns of slavery's policy of Someone, who white supremacist males slave-type mentality. were the military's version of servants divide and rule based on color. The call boy; a man who is regarded as being The young Afro-American serviceman for officers. Officers are given better seats lighter-skinned (polluted as Malcolm X only knee-high to this superior being of today generally finds himself under at movies; reserved parking spaces; lockeroom; separate bathrooms, faster, separate chow lines; better living quarters; clubs with better entertainment and atmosphere. Since 99.8% of the officers in the Navy are white, excluding chaplains and doctors; Afro-Americans find the Navy an example of institution alized racism; adjustment to leaves the individual with "only white is right" inferior complex. James Baldwin said: "White people cannot, in the generality, be taken as models of how to live. Rather, the white man is himself in sore need of new standards, which will release him from his immediate authority of a "refugee" from confusion and place him once again in the non-industrialized South. Ten to fruitful communication with the depths twenty years ago, when the Navy, in of his own being". This means a massive particular, functioned as an example of debrainwashing which will remove the institutionalized racism, this first class, 350 years of psychic genocide Chief, or sergeant joined to escape the perpetrated upon the black people in this despairing life of a tenant farmer or country by the white supremacist society. sharecropper. You find that this type of For example; the spirituals sung about person from such a Southern background "When we are really honest with ours are at this time wrapped up in a very hard getting on that good ship Jesus and going are generally lazy, unambitious, and less elves, we must admit that our lives are all struggle for justice. Jiome were about slave ship Jesus; that that really belongs to us. So it is how we educated as compared to the Afro- our high degree of visibility prevented us The UFWOC workers need your help! American just entering the service. use our lives that determines what kind of Many of them are not eating well, many from being assimilated into the white men we are. It is my deepest belief that Although the military offers excellent society as the white Jew or Irish or of them are sick and have no medical educational opportunities, he has been only by giving our lives do we find life. I attention, many of them don't believe Pollish people; that a black minority am convinced that the truest act of content with the semi-professional job he cannot outvote a white majority. that anybody but UFWOC members sup was' given by the Navy, with his intel courage, the strongest act of manliness, is port them. Please help. If you have any If we wish to attain our goals by being to sacrifice ourselves for others in a lectual developement confined to non-violent we should start in Vietnam. food, clothing, money, or know where majoring in the language of profanity and totally non-violent struggle for justice. To they can get medical attention please call Vietnam has shown us that the black man be a man is to suffer for others. God help pornographic literature. His actions and is still dying faster, percentage-wise that them (428-1898) or contact COM. If you thoughts are in facsimile to the white us be men." are in the military and would like to the white for the freedoms that Crispus supremacist who overturns school buses, Attucks was the first to die for in the The paragraph you just read is by become part of their struggle for justice, stands in doors of schools spitting on Revolutionary War. White supremacist Cesar Chavez. It was read for him at a contact Mark at COM (232-1238). Afro-American children, preventing them Amerika would be forced to make the Mass of Thanksgiving that concluded his Viva la huelga from attending school, while at the same 1968 fast. He couldn't read it because he Viva la causa time saying "they aren't educated". This choice; to stop the exploitation and was too weak to speak. Chavez is the sergeant or first class is the type of person oppression of Afro-Americans or con AZ3 Mark Jensen leader of the United Farm Workers, who who, in the 1943 Detriot race riot, tinue it while sending a hundred thousand attacked Afro-Americans in uniform; who more of thier own white sons and refused to permit the burial of an Afro- sons-in-laws to die or be crippled and wounded in Vietnam. Since, the war is U.S. Bombing Tonnage in Three Ware American who won the Metal of Honor, posthumously. He doesn't trust an considered immoral and illegal by the World War «1 Afro-American colonel of the Strategic majority of young whites this could be Air Command to become the commander the factor to make white Amerika a part of a base in his own country, yet he will of the solution instead of being the Korean War go overseas and fight for the human rights problem. We must realize that we are ISSO-ttSS of non-whites in other countries while human beings with human rights from depriving Afro-Americans of their human birth, not when the ex-slavemaster S,6t3,3S2 rights here in Amerika. But by his very decides we are. SN Clarence (Rip) Gafeney I'CSllMC 1967 1968 1M» I ItTO l'7t aiMOO-* t nim MJ1.H4 •7MM t •U.000 Peace is a human right | ffrtf r»f it lit ff iititf w The grumbling noises coming from water. In 1965 while she was under some of the men aboard the U.S.S. construction the government told the Tripoli (LPH-lO)are getting louder and builders to cut costs — which they louder these days and a few of the Chiefs promptly did. Unfortunately, they also have considered refusing to go on the cut a section of the ship from the blue next WESTPAC cruise in October because prints making the Tripoli a hundred feet of the ship's alleged unseaworthiness. shorter than originally planned. This, The "T" pulled out from the San coupled with the rounded bottom causes Francisco shipyards on a sea trial May the ship to be somewhat topheavy. 21st leaving behind an oil slick at the pier The constant vibration in the vessel and belching black smoke (the existence that takes place at nearly every speed is of which the Navy refuses to acknow due to the crooked keel and lead weights ledge) from the stack. The purpose of the are being added to the bottom to correct trial was to test some of the repairs made this malady. during the four month overhaul (it was It is said that the first 35-37 degree supposed to be a twelve month overhaul.) roll the Tripoli takes will be her last. Fifty miles out to sea she encountered During the above mentioned trials she rough water and a faulty patch job in the was taking 20 degree rolls. hull began to leak badly. The bilges soon While anchored in Danang last year the filled with water and the main engine deck force had to stand by on the hangar room flooded. As the ship rolled, water and flight decks armed with M16's. It came within a foot to six inches of the seems the harbor was full of suspect junks boilers. Although the signal was never and only one of the Tripoli's four given, distress frequencies were ready. backwards. This had to be corrected and 3"-50cal. guns was operable. Among the adjustments made to the all other valves inspected before the ship R. Grant. "Trip" during the overhaul was the instal could go to sea. lment of new steam and pump valves, The Tilting "T" got her name from the fifty of which were found to be put in permanent list which occurs even in cairn PAGE 3 JUNE 14
Letters for Peace
How do you feel about this war? It's gone on for some ten years. It's escalated from a war in Vietnam to a war in Indo-China. What do you think? Isn't it time we bring all this killing; all this bombing; all this burning to an end. Remember, America's pride is based in her sense of morality. Let us now have our sense of morality, and earn our right Photo by ex-Lt John Huyler to pride. In San Diego, Memorial Day was marked by active duty GIs participating in a peace memorial. Here, then, is a means by which all of you can help. You may not want to join a . group in order to protest. You may not CHAPLAINS HARASSED want to march or sit-in or demonstrate. But your voice can and must be heard. And here is the way you can do it. cJMemorial Service for Peace On July 1st of this year, write and mail a letter to President Nixon. In this Memorial Day was a day for peace party to the war. They had come together religious memorial service a political letter, in your own words, tell the Presi services all around the country,. San Diego to express their grief at the death of event before it occurs. And secondly, if it dent that you want this war ended NOW was no exception and in fart had a untold thousands of their American and was political why were the Chaplains the Imagine, millions of letters pouring into ceremony organized by and composed of Vietnamese brothers and sisters, to con only military personnel singled out for the White House on the 5th of July, all active duty servicemen and women. The fess their sense of guilt for America's harassment. Many military men have saying "STOP THE WAR NOW!" It's service was excellently done and very crimes against humanity and to dedicate participated in religious services of this time that Mr. Nixon hears from the silent moving. To quote The New Gadfly "The themselves to work for an end to the nature in uniform. majority instead of just using its silence service at San Diego's Organ Pavilion in killing. Tie issue is further clouded by an to promote his own cause. Balboa Park must surely have been one of The service was coordinated by Navy event which took place in another part of So do your part now. And remember, the finest." Unfortunately due to the Chaplain Daniel Roberts A few days town on the same day. The holiday was your part is small only if you fail to use difficulty of publicizing something of this before the event the Navy found out that also celebrated by a clearly political it. nature in the San Diego area the event Dan and another Navy Chaplain were gathering. The local democrats had a AQF3 Art Behn was not very well attended. planning to conduct the service in uni picnic for Senator John Tunney and Approximately forty military person form. Their reaction was swift and devas others of their party. Some of us who nel in uniform opened the service with a tating. They gave the two Chaplains were there noticed what appeared to be a funeral march. A wooden coffin repre written orders not to participate in uni contradiction of military policy. A large senting the dead on all sides of the form. The reason was that the service was contingent of U.S. Marines were attend Vietnam conflict, was carried at the front a political meeting. Military men are not ing the picnic in uniform. Upon of the procession. The burden of the allowed to appear at political events in questioning the Marines replied that they coffin was reflected on the face of each uniform. As a result only Dan appeared were there under orders. man as he marched up to the front of the and he came in civilian clothes. It appears to us as though the military congregation. Some of these men had Two questions immediately come to only follows its own orders when it suits participated in the war, many had lost mind concerning the Navy's actions. them. ENS Gus Anderson and friends, each one was now an unwilling How can the Navy call an announced ex-LTJG John Kent
'Just watch yourself, \ouug fellow. I may not know the law, Inn I know whal I tike." By the way — Congressman William R. Anderson (D - Tenn). former skipper of the USS Nautilus, is taking a poll of military opinion on the war in Southeast Asia. If you would like to tell him what Why Can't Enlisted Men Resign? you think, write him a letter:
U.S. House of Representatives On Armed Forces Day a quarter-page The Fort Bragg PIO, a Lt Col those 29 officers, and hope their spirits Washington, D.C. 20515 ad appeared in the Fayettevllle, N.C Johnson, said that the action did not weren't dampened. We would also like to Observer calling for an end to the mean that the Army was prepared to know why enlisted men aren't given the or, come by the COM house — we have "immoral and wasteful war" in Vietnam, accept the resignations. News sources courtesy of being asked for their resigna copies of the questions he wants answer and for the "withdrawal of all American thought that the Army would not have tions under similar circumstances. Appar ed. military personnel and advisors" by the suggested the resignations unless it was ently what the brass doesn't understand is end of 1971. The ad was signed by 29 prepared to accept them. Johnson said that the "movement" is not a rigidly officers from Fort Bragg and nearby Pope that the men were within their rights to structured hierarchy like their own, but Air Force Base, and was sponsored by the sign the ad, but that it was not in an open and democratic system in which Concerned Officers Movement. On accordance with their oath to obey orders a person's importance is determined by Friday, May 21, all but two of the men of the Commander-in-Chief. He didn't the work he does. The loss of an officer were called in by their Commanding Off- mention the part of the oath about hurts us no more than the loss of any icers and interviewed about their motives upholding the Constitution, possibly other person. in signing the ad. Seven of the men, because the war is held by many to be ex-AWHl Steve Caple and judged to have very strong convictions, unconstitutional. were asked to submit their resignations. We here at COM San Diego applaud ex-LTJG John Kent
Humanity and the Voting or Apathy??
How many times have you, as an strate in the streets, demonstrate at the National Interest American, sat back and wished you could polls by voting. Our forefathers, with help end the war, control the spread of great visions, set in motion one of the Probably the most conspicuous way in fostered over the years is that being a CO crime, or see the Air and Waters unpoll greatest experiments in government this which a government can control the lives is a personal act of deep religious or uted. Along with marching and demon world has ever seen, government of the of its citizens is through military service. philosophical conviction.The reality is strating, voting can help solve these prob people. It was not meant to be controlled It is their ability to muster individuals to that it is not merely a personal, but a lems. by a small per cent of the voters, or the arms which in the end allows a nation to highly significant political action. Who was it that put Nixon and his war rich industrialists and large land owners. pursue certain courses of action in the Consider the fact that a man cannot cabinet in power? If you can't demon (Cont. page 4, col. 2) larger world. The direction of these actually make his own decision to no actions is often determined by those who longer partake in the organized killing have special influences with those in high which is war. He must have his govern nized that those very people who have government positions. A military force ment's approval before he is allowed not given the state the maximum of power has made possible aggression between and to kill!! Any wonder then that it is (their lives as weapons) have chosen to Pacific towards nations and groups of people. indeed difficult to gain CO status that reclaim that which is inherently theirs. The ability to create and maintain has other men decide whether you are Increasing numbers of in-service CO allowed governments to perperuate dis opposed to war!! cases are finding their way into the tinctions between human beings of a Counseling The in-service CO faces especially judicial system. The government will racial, national and ethnic nature. difficult resistance The spectre of large tremendously resist granting CO status. If a government could no longer force numbers of men making individual deci They will even go so far as to deny the Service a man to fight it might lose the ability to sions about participation in war haunts claimed conscientious objection and then MILITARY COUNSELING pursue those special interests which the government. All of those who wield release the man from service for some The Pacific Counseling people came to see as unjust or oppressive power, who psychologically need that other reason. It is the questioning of the Service informs men of to themselves or other peoples-even power, realize tnai uiey are impotent state's prerogative to order men to fight though those other humans might be of when faced with people who decide that which is feared, not whether the man is their rights and helps them another race or nationality. the power of their lives is truly their own. kept on active duty or not. All of this to obtain these rights In this light, we should consider a The government is not threatened very should not be suprising since it is really a government's reaction to those who much when civilians oppose war as long struggle between the causos of humanity 1924 Island conscientiously object to wars. The as their armies remain intact. However, and the causes of a nation. (714) 239-2119 general impression which has been insecurity runs rampant when it is recog- ex-LT James Skelly PAGE 4 JUNE 14
There was a different sort of Armed and witty songs with incredible warmth Forces Day observance in San Diego last and rapport. Next came the USSF month. A capacity crowd of 2400 packed Troupe. Actress Jane Fonda, and actors Russ Auditorium May 15 to see the Don Southerland, Peter Boyle, Garry United States Servicemen's Fund Show. Goodrow and Don Sturdy performed a California Country, a local rock group, series of blackout skits poking fun at the opened the show with some really enjoy brass and commenting on the war. There able music. A Chicano theater group from was little question that the audience San Diego State, Teatro Mestizo, per was in full agreement with the anti-war formed a hard-hitting play about the life theme of the show. and death of a young Chicano soldier After the show many private citizens killed in Vietnam. Comedian Dick opened their homes to servicemen so that Gregory sent everybody out to inter they might spend the night and avoid the mission laughing at his pointed humor. dreariness of returning to bases and ships. The second half of the show opened The good mood was heightened Sunday with poet-singer Len Chandler. He is one when everyone including the cast of the of those rare singers who combine a show, mingled in the Pepper Tree Grove wonderful voice, excellent musicianship in Balboa Park for a noontime picnic.
Photo by Jon Gage While the entertainment took place inside the auditorium, an uninvited act performed outside. After the intake of food and other were so pathetic it was laughable. After a goodies the crowd wandered over to the time a San Diego Police Officer asked auditorium for a Sunday matinee per them to leave. Being ardent supporters of formance. "law and order" they piled into their cars While the show was going on inside, and departed. another show took place outside. About Many active duty people contributed nine members of the National Socialist large amounts of time and effort to the White Peoples' Party (Nazis) picketed in preparations for the show, as did their front of the auditorium wearing brown civilian counterparts who have been shirts (take note, John Mitchell), black working for a long while in aiding local ties, and. red swastika armbands, they GI's. Probably the most rewarding result chanted "We want White Power. "Their of the weekend's activities was the feeling signs read "I'm proud to be American and of success through shared effort. Three White," "Death to Red Traitors," "Peace local groups, Concerned Officers Thru Victory," and "Drop Jane Fonda on Movement, Movement for a Democratic Hanoi." One of the monitors watching Military, and Pacific Counseling Service, said he wished someone would drop Jane along with many individuals all Fonda on him. The monitors watched contributed to the smoothness with and laughed at the Nazis. Their ideas are which events took place. • anything but funny, but they themselves ex-AWHl Steve Caple and ex-LT James SkeUy t^noto by US2 Kurt Bennet Don Sutherland, Peter Boyle, Jane Fonda, and Gary Goodrow kept a capacity crowd rolling in the aisles.
Rose Colored Glasses — from page 1 drop me a line at COM, 2143 Market. San Diego. Maybe we can explore the idea of rights. If you incur harassment it's good delicate dissension. Maybe. to have friends. And don't let NISO spook you. That lieutenant with the sideburns just a bit longer than what is "acceptable," the first class or chief who still smiles Voting or Apathy? — from page 3 occasionally, can be of assistance. The government was to be by the people Just remember, whether you're in and of the people of the United States. for two years or twenty, it's to your When the people sit back and don't advantage to improve the Navy, not take the time to vote, or vote straight destroy it. party line rather than the man and the Even if you won't derive benifits issues, who's to say stop the war, when directly, the guy who follows you may. only the war profiteers, and those whose Adm Zumwalt, who's attempting to lives are affected by the war, vote. change the system, is still a prisoner of it. When all the people vote and take an himself. He needs help. Exposing the interest in their government, then and capriciousness and arrogant disregard for only then will the people no longer need personal rights of a Captain Gerhard is to fear dictatorships. When 25 to 30 doing the CNO a favor. He may not million voters can decide the fate of a realize it, and if he does, he won't nation of 200 million people, then what consider admitting it, but we are doing more of a dictatorship can you ask for? him a favor. Until the people can control the go Which is about enough for the first vernment and make it bend to their will, column. I would like to note that one of there will always be war and death. This Photo by DS2 Kurt Bennet the things which has impressed me about is one of the reasons why Concerned Warm good fellowship made up for the lack of sunshine at the picnic in the the movement is how casual and Officers Movement is in existence. To unpressured it is. If you wish to express Pepper Tree Grove. Here, Don Sutherland talks with a group of GIs and educate the servicemen to the fact that a civilians. the same feeling of non-violent action, do loss of civil liberties while in uniform, can your best to also stay loose and relaxed. condition you to a loss of the same out of Let the establishment stay up-tight. We'll uniforms. Let's join together and bring win, eventually. The small group which control of the military back to the considers change as destructive is con people. Not-so'Cool Hand Harry tinually decreasing. Remember, only you can return all the If you have any comments to make. power to the people. AZ2 Jim Hunt On June 1, 1971 John Huyler sent the lent Action. I personally am alarmed that following letter to Captain Harry E. for some reason we have been denied the Gerhard, Commanding Officer of the USS standard PAO tour. Constellation (CVA 64). It was received I am hoping that you will write to Would you like to get Liberty Call in the mail? If so, just fill on board on June 3rd. On the 9th of inform me of the reasons for this denial. out this coupon and mail it to: June, this certified letter was returned to If. however, you would prefer to explain Concerned Officeis Movement sender; it was marked "REFUSED" , and the matter in person, I would welcome 2143 Market Street had not been opened. Remember the the opportunity to discuss it with you San Diego, Calif. 92102 prison warden in "Cool Hand Luke?" and await your convenience. "What we have here is a failure to Most sincerely, Name communicate." John S. Huyler, Jr. The letter: Lt. USN (RAD) Address Dear Captain Gerhard: As an ex Naval aviator I was greatly looking forward to touring your ship with News articles, cartoons, stories and ZIP my friends, among whom is Jim Stewart. money will keep Liberty Call alive and As you know Jim had arranged through kicking. It would be a big help if you could send a donation to cover your Public Affairs Office for a tour on 5 Send all contributions to: costs of printing and mailing. If you can't afford it. send in the June at 1000. Apparently someone coupon anyway, and we'll send you Liberty Call as long as we became alarmed at the fact that some of CONCERNED OFFICERS MOVEMENT can afford it. us are associated with San Diego Nonvio 2143 MARKET STREET - 232-123N S\N DIEGO, CAI.II". 92102 PAGE 1
san diego VOLUME I ISSUE 4 liberty SEPT. 1971
PUBLISHED BY THE ENLISTED MEN AND OFFICERS OF THE SAN DIEGO COM callconcerne d officers movement
PHOTO-KURT BENNETT GI'S BOYCOTT TYRRELL'S BY JOHN IRWIN Since July 29, the GI's of San Diego, salesmen explaining how to sell their boycotting Tyrrell's. The results have in coordination with Pacific Counseling "golden clover pin." been very encouraging. (1) An end to sidewalk soliciting and Service, have been conducting a boycott "Bill, may I ask you a question On July 30, the second day of the high-pressure salesmanship. and maintaining a picket line against the before you leave? What would you do to boycott, 1 took part in the picket line (2) An end to the exploitation of Tyrrell's Jewelry Stores downtown on any man who insulted your mother? for two hours. We succeeded in stopping homesickness which includes the use of Broadway. Tyrrell's business is Now, before you start sounding off, almost all business, and in addition, put the "buddy books," the hometown sales principally with military personnel. They remember, INDIFFERENCE and the Tyrrell's salesmen very uptight. They line, the "golden clover pin" for Mom are a nation-wide chain, with stores NEGLECT CAN HURT A WOMAN locked their doors and removed all and the matching tie clasp for I'op. located near most major military bases WORSE THAN CRUEL WORDS. merchandise from the display windows. in the U.S. The boycott is in protest "Now tell me, how long has it been 100% of the people who commented on (3) An end to military cooperation against the high-pressure sales tactics and since you did something nice, I mean our signs or on the leaflets we were and intervention on payments. questionable business practices used by really nice for your mother? Not on her handing out, supported us. Even the (4) An end to the use of a Viet Nam Tyrrell's. birthday, on Mother's Day, or police expressed a favorable reaction. Honor Roll of customers who die in One elderly gentleman told me this Viet Nam while owing money to Tyrrell's salesmen try to exploit the Christmas, or some other big holiday, should have been done long ago, and Tyrrell's. loneliness and homesickness of GI's, but just out of a clear blue sky, when that there were several other gyp joints There will be a meeting to discuss the especially new recruits away from home did you do something extra nice to say, on Broadway we should be picketing. boycott each Wednesday at 7:00 PM at for the first time. Every Saturday "Mora I love you?" (Pause a moment to The boycott is accompanied by four Pacific Counselling Service. If you wish afternoon hundreds of recruits, on their give your prospect a change to digest demands. We will end our boycott when to support the boycott, visit them at first liberty after two months of boot this question, but not long enough for we are certain they will be met. 1924 Island Ave., or call 239-2119. camp harassment, wander the streets of him to raise any defenses.) downtown San Diego. Most of them "Now don't get me wrong! You're probably pass by one of the two not the only man who's quilty. In fact, Tyrrell's stores, located strategically in it's unusual to find a man who can the same biock on both sides of easily say, "Mother, I love you," no Broadway. The entrances to the stores matter how deeply he feels it. t Can Be Done are recessed in a small alcove just off "If you're like most fellow, Bill, the sidewalk, so that the salesmen can you're always intending to do stand outside and make their pitch something, probably, but you never without violating the laws against quite get around to it. Bill, we have Only By Us sidewalk soliciting. something here that in one moment will After getting the serviceman's express to your mother all the love that attention with a line like "Hey buddy, is in your heart. (Keep box top closed, BY DANIEL J. O'LEARY f but tap it significantly with one finger. where ya from?" or offering him a ree "It was the best of times, it was the authorities insisted on its being received, Speak slowly and reverently.)" cheap plastic "wallet," the salesman will worst of times, it was the age of for good or for evil, in the superlative almost literally drag him into the store. On May 15, GI's from Fort Hood, wisdom, it was the age of foolishness, it degree of comparison only." Then he will begin an extremely high Texas, began a boycott against Tyrrell's, was the epoch of belief, it was the These lines were written by Charles pressure sales pitch, telling the GI in to stop the exploitive practices of that epoch of incredulity, it was the season Dickens of an era that is dear to the effect, that if he doesn't buy his company and to show other merchants of Light, it was the season of Darkness, hearts of free men. It told of the mother/girlfriend/wife a diamond pin or in the area that they were no longer it was the spring of hope, it was the tumultuous time of the French other expensive trinket, then he is most going to be conned and cheated. On winter of despair, we had everything Revolution. thoughtless and inconsiderate, and she June 30, GI's and various civilian groups before us, we had nothing before us, we This revolution marked the will probably think he doesn't love her in the San Francisco area began a were all going direct to Heaven, we were ascendancy of common man over noble anymore. boycott which met with great public all going direct the other way in man. This revolution said thai a man The following statement is part of an support. Now, Sailors and Marines in the short, the period was so far like the should decide his own fate. instruction sheet given to Tyrrell's San Diego and Long Beach areas are also present period, that some of iLs noisiest cont'd back poge, col. I | PAGE 2 N 0 M I C S K Y
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A G.I. "underground" newspaper broad process of decay in the US now. And The solutions to their WHAT GI'S FACE exposed the story of a pamphlet economy. Inflation cuts heavily into problems are the same. The people need AFTER DISCHARGE published by the New York State wages; state and city governments pile jobs, not advertising campaigns and Chamber of Commerce (a co-ordinating on more taxes to stay afloat; education, promises. Jobs at union wages, and committee of big business) called "Drug medical care, and every kind of public For the 375,000 Vietnam vpferans training in skills that will be needed. Abuse as a Business Problem", which service is cut down. Veterans who have who were unemployed in the first And the people need lowered prices for openly warned management against returned with serious and disabling quarter of 1971 (according to the N.Y. food and rent, not inflated prices that hiring veterans because they might have wounds have found decrepit conditions Times, June 5), getting out of the Green prop up the incomes of business. used drugs. The pamphlet reads, ". . . it and poor treatment in the VA hospitals. Machine was not everything it used to would be unrealistic for business to Of course, the government hardly be. As recession gets deeper throughout assume it could recruit from these hesitates to spend millions to prop up the US economy, spreading markets and not risk bringing abuse, the incomes of the business barons, Tax unemployment has started to hit hard at narcotics addicts and pushers into money goes for bailing Penn Central and the veterans. The system demanded that companies, despite all sophisticated Lockheed out of "bankruptcy". And it's they risk life and limb for it, and now screening available." common knowledge that the rich can it's denying them even a livelihood. The government had admitted that escape taxes on most of their income. Instead of creating useful jobs-doing "job training" programs like Project The things people need most can be work that needs to be done—the Transition don't really work, because modern industrial economy, but that government conducts an advertising the guys are trained for jobs that still may not be profitable enough. campaign. Does anyone believe that aren't usually available when they get Production doesn't run on the basis of flying the Goodyear blimp over the west out. Why No Jobs?--The Disease of meeting the people's needs. As in the coast with a banner reading "Jobs for Profits Depression, the rulers would rather shut Veterans" will cure a sick economy? On the surface, unemployment down production (layoffs) than run it "It's unbelievable tough and doesn't seem to make sense. There are without profits. It's no longer enough to discouraging, and I've only been home people looking for work, and people rake it in form huge investments in three weeks", said a former helicopter who need the goods and services-food, making weapons and waging war (the crewman interviewed by the Times in housing, public transportation, medical more wasteful and expensive the better). Chicago, and his feeling was echoed by care, recreation. But in the profit system Now the only program they have left is '| used to be a draftee in thousands in every city. (free enterprise to those who run it) the austerity: scraping every possible penny the war in VietNam—now Young veterans, who entered the people's need for products isn't a good out of workers' wages and public army from high school, have been hit enough reason for making them. The funds .program they have left is I'm a draftee in the war on especially hard. But the worst picture is austerity: scraping every possible penny inflation". for black veterans: an unemployment Unemployment Among out of workers' wages and public funds. rate of 15.1% overall, and 20.9% for Vietnam Veterans those under 24. This amounts to saying EE Veterans EZ2 Non-v«tw«i» that young black veterans are living in a What The People Do About it-A Wave To maintain and improve their full-scale depression. (During the Great IctwMn Ag«i 20 of Strikes Under A9. 24 standard of living, and to fight the Depression of the 30's the US and 29 2'% prevailing program of inflation, umemployment rate was around 15 to Against the tide of rising prices and austerity, layoffs, and injunctions agaist, 20%.) taxes, wage-earners have had to fight back by striking for higher wages just to atrikers, workers are pushing to getl Job Discrimination Too stay even, and to protect themselves better organized. They have to get mto against speed-up and the deterioration of unions if they're not now, and demand The Nixon administration's working conditions (there are over job programs and education to end "campaign" for jobs hides the truth: 14,000 fatal industrial accidents every unemployment. that employers in fact are avoiding the year). So along with the economic After what the US government has Veterans even when they have work. An slump there is a massive upsurge in demanded of them, the hundreds of ex-Marine told the Times, "Most Ovtr-«ll Macka Over-ail lUda strikes and labor actions of all sorts. thousands of Vietnam veterans are not employers just don't give a damn how management has to make a profit for likely to stand quietly in the many Purple Hearts you've won or how itself, then the wheels turn. If they We Have Something In Common unemployment and welfare lines for well you can lead men." Veterans are don't make the profits at a high enough long. They just might lend a powerful actually turned down by employers who rate, production closes down (a Veterans and other GI's going back dose of solidarity and strength to the believe that anyone back from Vietnam depression or recession). to civilian life will be facing the same people's campaign for real answers to is likely to be a drug user. Unemployment is one factor in a hassles that wage workers are facing poverty, depression, and war. our man - in country
BY JAMES M. (Vietnam Correspondent) Early this August Armed Forces Saigon are Whites, Dungarees and Radio Vietnam broadcast a short item Khakies rather than the more familiar on the news concerning the B-52 raids greens. The shift, both psychological and conducted that day. Sixty sorties were physical, is a reality. flown against North Vietnamese supply But beneath what appears to be lines in Laos and Cambodia which was happening are many currents flowing some sort of temporary record. The that few people care to look at for the bomb tonnage was not mentioned. Each moment. There is talk in Washington of day the Carriers on Yankee station send a residual force of about 100,000 men planes to drop their bombs in unnamed in Vietnam. There is the continuation places, their targets determined by and stepping up of the air war; fought intelligence reports. Congress, for all its from Carriers at sea and bases in anti-war posing, appropriated more Thailand and enshrouded in a cloak of funds to continue our war effort in secrecy, thich prevents disclosure to the Laos. Secretary Laird assures us we need American people of what is being done 80 billion next year for defense so we in their name. We are given assurances can negotiate from strength. He tells us by the "experts" that all this is we are past employment and economic necessary. It is they who have the big problems. A day or so later President overview and who should be able to Nixon announces his plan to save the make the right decisions--we need only dollar and economy, which Secretary to put faith in them. Secretary Laird is Laird assured us was in good shape. One an "expert" and he knew little of the might reasonably ask what the hell is state of our economy as he talked to going on. the media about it. Vietnam was the work of "experts". Here in Vietnam from my microcosmic point of view, the war, to When Mr. Laird spoke of negotiating all appearances, is rapidly winding down. from strength, what did he mean? Was American ground operations, when they he refering to the Salt talks? Was he Le Van Vinh, 10, left - traffic accident; Nguyen Tan Hoang, 10, exist, are of a limited nature. Many referring to prisioners of war and phosphorous bomb; Tran Van Rang, 16, artillery fire; Doang Trung, bases in the Delta are being closed down Vietnam? Was he speaking of the talks or have limited numbers of Americans in concerning all of SKAsia anticipated by 15, fire bomb. ^defensive roles. The Navy uniforms in cont'd back page, col. 2 PAGE 3 : A Fight For Survival BY DAN FRICK Once again Cesar Chavez has THE FARMWORKERS ALONE organized the Chicano Farmworkers to strike for a living wage and basic human an Open Letter to COM rights. My mind flashes back to the grape and lettuce strikes, also of the Several months ago 1 attended a Chicano farmworkers organized by Cesar meeting of Concerned Officers Chavez. I was fortunate enough to be Movement and listened to the stationed at Great Lakes when the representative of the United Farm lettuce strike took place, and had read Workers appeal for help. Rob told us about the start of it in Newsweek. 1 how the people were fighting for the noticed that a strange thing happened, right to unionize, how they were we began to have lettuce more suffering and how much they needed frequently Where we had been having our help. We promised to give all the lettuce two times a week, we began to support that was humanly possible to have it every night. All the lettuce was give. The strike continues and the scab, that is that it was processed by people to whom we pledged our support non-union strike breakers. go hungry. COM San Diego has In the current strike the military is forgotten a basic concept that we stand buying scab tomatoes although I have for - the rifht of an individual to live a not as yet noticed any increase in the life without interference from those push of tomatoes. The scab tomatoes "higher-ups" - in this case, the growers. are Egger Ohio (E-MO) brand, so, the There are many parallels that can be next time you have a working party or drawn between the man in uniform and see a buddy who is messcooking ask him the migrants who work the fields of San what brand they are. If they are Egger Diego County. The GI is a man without Ghio (E-MO) there are two things that rights; the farmworkers are men without you can do at your station to help. The representation in our land of the free. first is don't take any tomatoes at chow. Until a short time ago, the farmworker When the officer of the mess in charge had to listen and obey the grower or he notices that he has a half a ton of and his family risked being turned away tomatoes thrown away he will cut his from the fields which meant their order of tomatoes and, in a round about existence. The GI must obey his way, help the farm workers. The second superiors or he will be punished as the is call the action line on your ship or commanding officers see fit. The two station and tell them that you support groups have so much in common that the strike and would appreciate it if no COM wanted to help - and did - in the more Egger Ghio tomatoes were beginning. However, we began to get purchased. PHOTO-KURT BENNETT into "more important projects" which People in town can help by giving us were more relevant to the GI's...I Market Street; the main San Diego happening due to the strike is the wonder? that old can without a label that has office at 1865 National Avenue; in Del special benefit planned for September been hanging around the house. The Mar at 1845 Ocion Front; the Main 5th at 1:30 at the Academy Theater on What does it mean when a group of next time you go out for a couple of strike office at 314 East San Ysidro 3721 University. A whole lot of heavy people become so involved with their six-packs make it just one and give the Boulevard. And if you can't gel to a people will be there like: David Harris, own cause that it forgets people in need. bread for the other to the farmworkers. collection center call 428-1898 or Carol McComb, Chose Marsh, and I believe COM is attempting to serve the Food is on a day-to-day basis for them 235-6087. Tolecas Combo for your entertainment. people of San Diego and the men in and any donated will be much The Underground Movies are giving Speakers from United Farm Workers of uniform and that this service is basically appreciated. Basic foods like Pinto away free passes to anyone who brings California will provide information on one of hope and an extension of iove. beans, flour, rice, and oatmeal for the three articles of food three weeks in a the strike. Because of this framework I think that children are really needed badly. row. That's at midnight every Saturday Prices are $1.50 for servicemen and we must continue to help the Collection centers are placed around at the Academy Theater. students and $2.00 regular admission. farmworkers; we must not become so San Diego, they are: Peace House, 2143 Perhaps one of the brightest things VIVA LA HUELGA VIVA LA CAUSA!!! busy that we are deaf to their crys for assistance. A week ago I was attending a meeting of the Non-Violent Action Group, an organization that shares the J Peace House with COM, and again I ROBLEDO listened to Rob plead for the support that NVA pledged him several months before which they later, like COM, FOR tended to forget. I felt, as I listened to Rob, a great sadness for I knew that I also had let down these people who MAYOR have so much courage. I believe it is time to apoligize to the farmworkers and request the help of our readers to lend any assistance they possibly can give. The farmworkers need clothes, money, food, and most of all our continuing support throughout the strike. \** The question before us is this simple: "Is it possible for the people of San TO BE A FARMWORKER WITHOUT A UNION IS LIKE Diego who claim to care about the suffering humanity, to ignore the pain BEING A SEAMAN IN THE NAVY ALL YOUR LIFE. of the people in our backyard?" People who are interested in helping should We here at COM feel that we are a he says. Robledo is also the only contact COM 232-1238. definite part of this community even if candidate to endorse the Harbor Project we, as individuals, are here only a short and the Constellation Vote, the Farm time. Since the military is a part of this Workers Strike, and is the only city and in a sense of the word a candidate who is an active member of a minority group, we think we should union. His candidacy is endorsed by the support the mayoral candidate which United Farmworkers Organizing would give the military person and his Committee and Cesar Chavez. family the most consideration. Because Robledo does not have the Gilbert (Gil) Robledo as an support of a 'political machine', does ex-serviceman himself, knows the not have unlimited funds, only the military feeling. He is a member of the support of San Diego's poor and "I pledge to provide a G.I. Forum (a national Chicano veterans minority groups, he needs your support. organization) and has been in close If you would like to donate money and decent way of life for all contact with servicemen's organizations especially time, contact ROBLEDO FOR citizens of San Diego re since his campaign started. MAYOR at 1845'/i Logan Avenue, San gardless of their racial or During a speech given to the Diego, or call 232-3003 or 3004. Mr. economic background." Concerned Officers Movement he Robledo will appear on KPBS Channel promised to 'clean up the Navy ghetto 15 September 10th at 8 PM and on Broadway'. As the only candidate to September 12th at 6 PM. -Gilbert Robledo participate in the boycott and picketing This is not a paid political of Tyrrell's this seems to back up what advertisement. mLook for this label on al l pro duce at your grocers. PAGE 4
Navy Assumes Civilian Role In Drug Rehabilitation BY PAUL ROGERS
Z-Gram No. 94 is the latest in a 6) If a person seeking exemption series of attempts to eliminate the drug mentions any friends involved with problem in the Navy. The previous drugs in his disclosure statement, or in attempts were of a more clandestine an "approved testing program" nature and in part are responsible for (whatever they are), those mentioned the new drug amnesty program. will be given 24 hours to apply for In order to assess this new drug exemption or will be prosecuted. program it is of value to view previous 7) Disclosure statements are not Navy sponsored drug programs. The privileged information. They may be oldest of these is the NISO-NARC used for anything except NJP, Courts program, which is still in effect on many Martial, or separation with a U.D. They ships and bases. The NISO-NARC may be used as evidence in prosecuting program consists of an infiltration effort others. which is usually coordinated with the If a person happens to have a drug command's MAA forces. NISO agents problem, and happens to meet all the are assigned to various divisions whose aforementioned qualifications, and does members are suspect of drug use. The not mind going through "approved typical NISO agent is easily identified testing", or making nonprivileged by division members; he will inevitably disclosure statements, he may qualify say "groovie", when he means "far for exemption, providing he shows out". These agents are called NARCS - sincerity (whatever that means). hence- the program's name. Congress has recently made extensive Their function is twofold. First to efforts to halt the military from inform on possible drug users. (The idea throwing together last minute drug is to get the "pusher", but if they rehabilitation programs. These cannot figure out who the "big pusher" Congressmen maintain that drug is, they will usually settle for anyone.) rehabilitation is to be taken as a serious When the suspect drug user is spotted problem, and should be handled by (fingered as they say), the second NARC competent and experienced civilian function begins. This is to develop authorities who have already established informers from the men who have been effective rehabilitation programs. Z-94 is fingered - how do you say it - the of no value to those who have no "shake down"? serious drug problem but do use drugs, and for those who do have a problem it Well anyway the methods of is little more than a token gesture which developing informers varies. Sometime denies them the treatment necessary to they will tell the suspect that his friends adequately solve the problem. have told on him. This may not be true, but the NISO agents will make it sound As far as putting a "stop" to drug true enough when they list names and use the results of Z-94 are as predictable dates. Step two is when they come on as previous drug programs in the Navy. like nice guys and say they will go easy The "drug problem" is not a recent on you if you sign the statement development, nor is it exclusive to our admitting your guilt, and list everybody youth. Drug promotion campaigns such you know who uses drugs. The methods as "Excedrine headache No. 29; Take all have one thing in common - they do Sominex tonight and sleep; and not inform the suspect of all his rights. No-Doz" bombard our society everyday This method was successful for a through the media. Our biggest drug time, but eventually people caught on. problem is still alcohol, and as far as I When the method began to yield low know NISO never conducted clandestine BY GUS ANDERSON results one MAA remarked, "kids are investigations for possible alcohol abuse. For those of you who are unfamiliar coming in to fill up the gap. We sure different these days, they don't tell If the Navy is serious about dealing with the Concerned Officers Movement, welcome anyone on active duty to stop on each other like they used to". with our society's drug problem, there perhaps a review of the history and aims by our house at 2143 Market St. to talk Other methods have also yielded low are certain things that must be of our organization is in order. with us about C.O.M. Our meetings are results. On one ship a massive bust was understood and acted upon. The first is C.O.M. was started in the fall of held regularly at 7:00 p.m. on Sunday organized - this time using Jr. Officers. that drug abuse is not a problem 1969 in Washington, D.C. by a group of nights, but there is usually someone It went under the name of "locker restricted to the young. Everybody officers who were working in the D.C. around most any night. inspection surprise". Nobody really knows Mama's diet pills give more of a area. These officers were concerned You may have heard that we are all knows for sure why the program failed, buzz than a "joint". about the effects of the Vietnam War on conscientious objectors, or communists but Jr. Officers were never again part of Second, it must be understood that the American military and on civilian or worse, but this is not true. We are all a surprise locker inspection. education programs are not going to society. They felt that they had an loyal Americans who feel that our And everyone heard about the Tico's solve the problem. Drugs are not used obligation as members of the United country has deviated from its ideals in grass sniffing dog, who went around and because of ignorance or misinformation. States Military to speak out against what Vietnam. We all feel an obligation to smelled everybody's bag after the ship Cigarette smokers are an example that they considered to be an unjust, ill-fated speak out against American involvement returned from WestPac. No results - education does not assure corrective war which was sapping the strength of in Vietnam as being contrary to the either the dog didn't work, the red action. the military and undermining civilian Charter of the United Nations, the pepper did work, or the Tico is an Third, it must be understood that support. Geneva Accords of 1954, and tne unusual ship. people use drugs to fill a need. In most These officers felt an obligation to Constitution of the United States. Some Basically Z-94 is for members with a drug abuse cases this need is to alleviate speak out against injustices within the of us have become conscientious "drug problem" to apply for medical pain; pain caused by conditions that military which came to their attention, objectors as a result of our experience in assistance without fear of punitive offer little hope or meaning in life. For and to devote themselves to improving the military and feel that we can no discharge or prosecution under UCMJ. example, existence in a ghetto life in the armed services. In order to longer participate in military There are a few Catch 22's one should surrounded by an affluent society is carry out these aims these officers called organizations which are actively engaged be aware of before applying for PAIN. People trapped in this existence a news conference and announced the in killing innocent men, women and exemption. abuse drugs to alleviate the pain of that formation of the Concerned Officers children; but most of us are dedicated 1) Know who the Exemption existence. The same is trie for the Movement. Unfortunately, the Defense officers and enlisted men who are Representative is, and if he is not executive who abuses alcohol to alleviate Department did not appreciate their honestly trying to point out the faults desirable, get on the action line and get the pain of existence that offers little intentions, for they were all soon we find with American foreign policy a new one. other than material reward. separated from active duty. and within the military establishment. 2 ) Z-94 does not preclude When a drug program tells a person Since that time C.O.M. chapters have We are trying to serve both our country "modification" of security clearance, to stop alleviating his pain without grown up at military bases all over the and our conscience in a very troubled duty assignment, or administrative considering the cause of this pain or country. The chapter in Washington still time. actions. offering alternatives to alleviate this publishes .a national newsletter, called 3) Exemption is granted for use or pain, it is doomed to failure. Z-94 offers COMMON SENSE, but there is no effort possession only - not granted for drug no alternatives nor does it consider the to control or regulate local chapters related incidents (whatever they are), cause or magnitude of drug abuse. from Washington C.O.M. STAY sale or transfer. There is however, the beginnings of a The San Diego chapter of C.O.M. has HOME 4) Exemption is only granted once. drug program that may be a step in the about fifteen officers and forty-five After a person obtains exemption he right direction. The program is called enlisted men who are active in the FOR may not reobtain exemption for any "Chaplains Relevance to the Emerging organization and many more who have action whatever they are having to do Drug Order CREDO. Don't let the expressed their support in letters and with drugs. name fool you, it's not the Navy faction donations of time and money. Our 5) Exemptions only apply if made of the "Jesus Freaks". More on this membership is constantly changing so before apprehension or warning under program in our next issue (providing we people are shipped out or separated Art. 31, UCMJ. get enough money from our readers). from the service, but new people keep PAGE 5 ANNOUNCING THE.... CONSTELLATION VOTE SEPTEMBER 17-21
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ON AUGUST 17, THERE WAS A NEWS CONFERENCE HELD ON THE "G" STREET PIER. THE FOLLOWING STATEMENTS ANNOUNCING THE CONSTELLATION VOTE WERE ISSUED BY DAVID HARRIS JOHN HUYLER, AND ACTIVE DUTY ENSIGN PAUL ROGERS.
the 21st at polling places established Statement by David Harris the intimidation. The people with the senior ofticers, including the Captain of throughout the city of San Diego. August 17, 1971 most direct insight into the workings of the ship, to join us at our meetings in Above all else, the Constellation Vote the military, the people closest to the discussion of foreign policy and the is an attempt to exercise democracy. The Constellation Vote is a way of actual conduct of warfare, are direction of our nation. The men in the Navy have been told by making something known. For ten years. effectively silenced. We were met with punitive transfers, the government that democracy is what the United States government has been Since mid-December a group known early discharges, and covert methods to they must risk their own and others making war on the Vietnamese. It has as San Diego Nonviolent Action has discourage us from meeting, or lives for. Yet they have been given no used thousands of soldiers and sailors to been doing extensive research on the expressing our opinion. Men who had opportunity to exercise that democracy. fight that war. Yet it has never in all attack carrier. I became involved with perviously been considered outstanding The vote is an exercise in very simple that time asked those who had to fight this group while on active duty; many performers, were removed from their and straightforward democracy. It is a the war whether they wanted to. The other servicemen who can remain silent jobs and stripped of their security common voice for people who have Constellation Vote is a way of finding no longer, have done likewise. As a clearances in an effort to discourage been denied a common voice in the out. It is a public vote for the mass of Naval Aviator, I have flown from the others from joining with us in vocalizing ongoing process of government sailors who have no other way of decks of our carriers. Today, carriers are our views. decisions. If it is really democracy the making their feelings known to the used, not to protect other naval vessels, We hold that the right of free speech government is practicing and democracy people of this country. but to attack targets on land. The most and dialogue is a CRUCIAL right that the Navy is defending, then we expect The Vote is about an Aircraft Carrier, sophisticated of technological weapons must be established before any other they will recognize and be bound by the are targeted at people, the people of reform can be made possible. Admiral the USS Constellation. The Constellation results of the vote. We hope their is scheduled to sail for Vitenam on underdeveloped countries. Right now Zumwalt, the Chief of Naval Operations, interest in democracy is sufficient that attack carriers are in the Gulf of has made it his policy to create October 1. It has been deployed to they will help us conduct the vote. If Vietnamese waters off and on since Tonkin. Their planes are bombing channels, such as the ACTION LINE, not, their lack of interest in the feelings people in our names. Do we want that for in-service members to air their 1964. Its mission there is to launch of sailors and common citizens stands as bombers. Every day it spends in pursuit bombing to continue? We're going to grievances. It is the opinion of COM an indictment of their claims to ask everyone an honest question. From that although these channels are a step of that mission costs the American democracy. people over 2 million dollars. Six days sailors and civilians alike we want an in the right direction, they should be in a battle zone by the USS Whatever the response of the honest answer. Should the USS expanded to include channels by which Constellation is enough money to run an government and of the Navy, the rest of Constellation stay home? servicemen can form and express their entire 300 bed hospital for a year. The us need to know how the sailors feel views on community and national issues costs that the ship extracts from the about a war they are being made to as well. If one is to serve his nation he Vietnamese are even dearer. Its bombing fight. The vote will help us find out. should be afforded a means to express And the vote will help us as a people his feeling about the direction of the missions are totaled in human lives. The Statement by Paul Rogers, Ensign, begin to make decisions that have been nation he serves. It is not enough that Vietnamese must pay for the USS Operations Intelligence, U.S. Navy Constellation in men, women and out of our hands for much too long. men be given the right to air petty grievances, such as lack of toilet paper children. The deployment of the During the past year I was stationed in the heads, and be silenced on issues Constellation is obviously a question of Statement by John Huyler, former aboard the USS CONSTELLATION that concern them as individuals. great importance to all of us. It's the Lieutenant and Aviator (CVA-64), and served as a member of question the vote hopes to answer. Operations Intelligence Division. I was We ask that the men in uniform he The Constellation Vote isn't being As a former Lieutenant, I have also a part of a growing concern of the allowed to express whether or not the conducted by the Navy. It will be experienced the Navy from within. I am members of this ship over the war in CONSTELLATION should be used to organized by a group of citizens and keenly aware of the quiet desperation S.E. Asia. continue the technological aspect of the sailors outside of the normal electoral shared by most of the men who man Since the formation of our chapter of war in S.E. Asia. We ask that this be channels, to cover a question and a our ships. Their political expression is Concerned Officers Movement aboard approved as a permanent channel by constituancy the normal electoral limited to occasional, silent, absentee the Constellation, we have sought to which servicemen can be allowed to process does not cover. The vote will be ballotting; the rank structure divides promote and carry out dialogue between form and express opinions on issues of conducted from September 17 through man from man, and harassments increase all crew members, and often invited national concern.
• Whenever it sails...
•WW0* ...it always leaves someone behind.
Shouldn't the U.S.S. constellation stay home?
Vote ... September 17-21 (If you don't speak up...you'll never be heard!)
CONSTELLATION VOTE 2143 Market Street San Diego, Calif. 92102 714) 233-9591 (714) 233-9593 PAGE 8 doitNixnr7 SIIMGS ENlbd DAVID RAPS HHRRIS SUNDAY
Two Programs 6:30PMS. 9:30PM PETERSON GYMNASIUM SAN DIEGO STATE COLLEGE STAY HOME C.ill JILL SEATS $2.00 FOR PEACE 243 9591 iltlOUS^
» USS CONSTELLATION (CVA - 64) V?P CONSTELLATION VOIE ,¥-S THE CONSTELLATION VOTE BALLOT
In early October 1971 the attack aircraft earner USS CONSTELLATION & Constellation (CVA 64) is scheduled to leave San Diego to VOTE continue the bombing of Southeast Asia X ^ SEPTEMBER 17- Zl s*# > THE USS CONSTELLATION SHOULD STAY HOME
YES • NO D
SCHEDULE OF EVENTS SEPT II: 12 noon. Picnic in Balboa Park at Juniper and Balboa Dr. Come for music, food, and a good time. 3 pm. A rap at Palomar College, San Marcos, room P 32. SEPT 15: 11 am. David Harris raps at Grossmont College. 7:30 pm. Film Festival. 654 India Street, San Diego. Good sights and it's free! SEPT 18: 12 noon. Another picnic in Balboa Park. Music, food, run. SEPT 19: II am. David Harris raps at St. Davids Episcopal Church, 55th and Milton. Joan Baez sings and David Harris raps at the Peterson Gym, San Diego State College. Two Shows, 6:30 pm and 9:30 pm. $2.00.' SEPT 17 - 21: THE CONSTELLATION VOTE
During the days of the vote there will be polling places in all major sections of San Diego and outlying areas. You may obtain an absentee ballot by writing or coming to 2143 Market Street, San Diego, Ca., 92102.
Many groups are working on this project, but the work has no limit. During the next week people are needed to help spread the word about the vote so that everyone may have a voice. From the 17th to the 21st we need help to staff additional voting places. Come by or call us: E CONSTELLATION VOTE 2143 MARKET STREET SAN DIEGO 92102 233-9591 233-9593 *Ntoi M\ PAGE 9 Through Rose-
Colored Glasses BY DICK ROSE JOCM (USNFR) My loyal reader(s) will notice, patriotism. immediately, that I've changed the However, to get to what bugged n.e. identification line of this column. It's It's the assumption that those who died been pointed out to me that though I've in the service of their country, or were been calling myself USN (Ret.) I'm captured when their planes were shot really only Fleet Reserve. I'm not Ret. down over enemy territory, are more until 1981. patriotic, more noble, more wise and This way I'm subject to recall to more knowledgeable than those of us active duly more readily. It's highly who served during a war or two, but "My wife gave it to me for Christmas. The idea unlikely, though. weren't killed or captured. is to activate your anti-ftallistit missile before your opponent Effective with this issue, I'm going to With all due respect to them and activates [us nnti- ballistic missile." start a new feature in the column. I'll in 20 years I've gained a great deal of it call it "Last Gasp Department." In the — they were only unluckier. 24 July 1971 that the life of the man alongside him, last column Capt. Woodrow Wilson I can see that to their families the and of the whole ship may depend on Graham earned (Dis)honorable mention war has to be 100 percent justifiable, or Dear Sirs: how well he does that job. A 'citizens' for his cooled-down hotline on the the sacrifice was in vain. Enclosed is an article I found in Navy' could mean devotion of a Amphib Base. But when George Putnam reads a Naval Institute Proceedings Magazine. I sailorman first to himself. Again, God Current champion, of course, is still letter from a Gold Star mother, and thought you might be able to use it, if forbid' Harry Gerhard. It's going to be a calls dissenting GIs punks and cowards, not it is at least interesting reading. "The traditions of the Navy are those column of Brass who are, in their own he errs. (How's that for understatement?) It seems to point out the kind of of the sea, traditions tested for centuries frustrated way, fighting the idea of 1 have...most of us have...known thinking you are fighting against. Keep by a hard taskmaster. The sailor must liberalization. The guys who say, "We many authentic heroes who fought well, up the work you have more support prepare himself to fight two enemies don't give a damn what Elmo says, served with distinction, risked their lives, than you may know. and he is always at war with one of we're still Kings of our pile...hills, that but were fortunate enough to survive. Yours Truly, them. He can never let down his guard is. Does this fortune lessen their right to Kenneth G. Ellis against the sea—to prevail against it, Such as the exec of one of the patrol speak out? Are their parents and wives watches are stood around the clock. gunboats who told me, in all seriousness, less authoritative of the War? Not so. A Citizens' Navy? Thus, through the ages, the autocratic that he thought skippers should still There used to be a saying iduring organization and regime of shipboard have the authority for summary WWII and earlier wars) that if Many of uiss have founad ourselve tiges r " "What do you want to fly when you faced with the draft and at the same get out of here?" Uime not wanting to leave the country. "Well, we don't know yet." There are no simple solutions to the "Have you ever thought about problem. If you have a degree, you will air-to-air combat?" probably think about getting a "No, sir." commission, and if you have some spirit "Well, think about it." And he of adventure, you will probably think walked away. about flying. This is part of what Hying Gradually the students pick up the in the military is about, take it as a style they are supposed to have. Flight warning. caps are worn low on the brow, There is no such thing as a good deal sunglasses (very expensive American in the military. optical polariod) are always worn and Reese Air Force Base is about nine flight suits should have that old miles from Lubbock, Texas. Reese's bleached look. main function is to train pilots for Once you are in jets you get to wear the government over working and living Uncle Sam's Air Force. Most of the jump boots with zippers in them and BOOK conditions, as do the West German student pilots come straight from patches on your shoulders. Everybody soldiers? And, above all, why should a college About 90 percent of the notes with awe the "Hundred missions REVIEW man, because he wears a uniform, lieutenants were faced with the draft over the North" patches worn by some endure what is sometimes unjust before they entered the Air Force; for of the instructor pilots. We don't collect punishment without protest? most of them, going to flight school was MILITARY JUSTICE IS TO JUSTICE victims' heads in this society. Of course, there are two sides to the the only way they could get a AS MILITARY MUSIC IS TO MUSIC Friday night is "flight suit night" in argument, and at the other end the men commission. the main bar. Drinks are half price, free (Harper Colophon Books, 1969, $1.95) who run the military system maintain that they must continue to have this BY TONY LEHTONEN total domination over the lives of their personnel or the armed forces will fall «1> apart. It is between these two poles that "It is one of the ironies of patriotism the confrontations described in this that a man who is called to the military book take place, and through these service of his country may anticipate encounters that the courts and Congress not only the possibility of giving up his wm0051 are beginning to be forced to consider life but also the certainty of giving up these basic questions. his liberties..." So begins this highly Regardless of the reader's initial detailed, grimly humorous documentary opinions, these accounts provide a of the uses and abuses of that ever worthwhile opportunity to experience present aspect of service life, often the ordeal that is sometimes military labeled a contradiction of terms, justice, allowing adequate room for the military justice. formation of independent conclusions. From author Robert Sherrill's At the same time, they make it clear accounts of the Presidio "mutiny", that the problem has grown to such where the prisoners refused to endure dimensions that it will never again any more abuse from their captors, to respond to half-answers and patchwork the case of Captain Howard Levy, who reform. chose two years of prison rather than support the Vietnam war by training Green Berets for it, the denial of NAGASAKI-PEACE Constitutional rights that has been BY RICK GAFFNEY characteristic of the military form of The following thoughts were written justice through the years is made on April 11, 1971 when I returned from overwhelmingly evident. an all day tour of Nagasaki, Japan. But the author goes beyond Today, I saw Nagasaki-the second simply recounting past history, and city to be blessed with the warfare of "Hell, do-as [ do, kid, pretend there's no one down there." through his text poses the very the Twentieth Century. The effects of Rationale: Better an officer in the fundamental questions that surround the what I saw today had, will have, food is served and women are allowed Air Force for five years than a dog face military legal system. Although profound effects on me for the rest of to attend. The most amazing thing is the historically the Bill of Rights has had my mortal life. The scarred bodies, getting shot at on the ground. segregation between the flying personnel little or no relevance to the code of charred remains, melted glass, metal, In your first few days at Reese you and the non-flying personnel: killers on justice governing the military, can the even tile, imploded buildings and heat are welcomed at least 50 times. "On one side of the bars, clerks on the other. military be safely allowed to continue to imprinted walls cry out peace-peace for behalf of the CBPO (whatever the hell On one of these evenings we were hold this kind of total power over a mankind. How can one man, nation, that is) let me welcome you to..." able to meet a steely-eyed killer just largely conscript army? ideal, reason be so important that men, The Chaplain interviews all the new back. "Fighters make it, man; there is If all men are citizens first and nations, ideals could conceive of using students and gives his standard morale nothing like it." His accomplishments: soldiers second, then why is it that the that fury, any fury against such lecture: "Yeah, I got a truck one day; God rights that other citizens take for man-their own. What is the sickness "You're here to learn to fly. We need damn did 1 zap that thing. I'll tell you granted-the rights to petition, to that pervades my species, that after pilots to stop the tide of communism in what is really wild, though. Coming assemble, to speak freely, to publish at visible proof of the possible end, we Viet Nam...don't worry about questions back we used to unload our ammo on will-somehow cease to apply when a continue to prepare for it. How blind of killing, just worry about each other. the beaches. You should see the zips man puts on a uniform to defend those are people to say, "I'm no killer," and You're the only ones that count." run, no way to miss. Fighters make it." rights? Why can't American servicemen yet maintain subservience to an Armed As if the chaplain wasn't enough, vou He was on his seventh gin and tonic. form unions that would negotiate with Force whose job it is, at a given are then treated to the "manhood" On the same night we met Phyllis (no lecture. The Air Force's pilot training moment in time, to bestow a force real names). Her husband was on his And so it goes at Reese. If you fly inconceivably massive, on his brother. program has been plagued by a large first tour in Nam and she was "...just you are rewarded — more pay. status, 20,000 tons of A-bomb ended life for dropout rate, SIE in military jargon. looking for company." We rapped for a and the crap you start to feed your ego 20,000 people instantaneously-today "If you don't have the pride in your while and finally we came to the subject after a while. Don't forget you are in people are still dying from its manhood to finish this program, then of what sne would feel if her husband the military, though, sideburns only to aftereffects. We possess an arsenal, the there isn't much I can say for you as a got killed. the middle of the ear and all buttons Soviet's possess an arsenal and the Red man." Who's worried about whose "It's just so important to me that he must he buttoned. Chinese are fast building one-to what manhood, colonel? would die an honorable death, I mean Later you learn what it is to be a Every once in a while the studens end'.'-scarred bodies, charred remains... like not in an accident or a I raining will forget who they are becoming and man in a place called the "Stag Bar." mission, but engaging the enemy." Near I am a conscientious objector. I don't Men only. The walls are covered with rap for a while. And sometimes late at believe in the use of violence, I will not to tears. night a few of the good people gel signs: "Your job is to fly and to fight "Phyllis, what the hell is the support any war or any instrument and don't you forget it," "Find the together and talk about the trips to thereof. I have therefore petitioned my difference between a dead honorable Canada they should have made, the grass enemy and shoot him down," and corpse and a dead dishonorable corpse?" government, by those means given to "Every man is a tiger." they'd like to be smoking and the hair me, for release from the Armed Forces We couldn't resist. they'd like to be growing. And they Most of the time is spent drinking as of the United States. I have one goal-to "You're Air Force. Don't you always tell each other how they are much beer as possible and trying to look lead my life in the fullest possible way, understand? If he were to die for beating the system, faeist or not. They like a killer. On our first excursion to and to lead that life in the most nothing, I just couldn't go on!!!" More know the war will be over by the time the Stag Bar, a light colonel, tall and exemplary fashion I am able to. I will tears. they graduate. They even knew it would bald with a little mustache, stopped by work in the course of my lifetime to How do you tell a teary-eyed, be over before they graduated from the table. seek one end-real and lasting peace patriotic, homy girl from Lubbock that college. Sure thing, kids, believe "How are you boys doing'.'" from all violence and war, for all her honorable war is a pile of crap? anything you want. "Fine sir." mankind. PAGE 11 WHAT CAN I DO ? BY RICK GAFFNEY SPECIAL SERVICES The inspiration to write this article HOW SPECIAL? WHAT SERVICE? comes as I recall the days before my initial involvement in "the movement." BY BOB MOORE There was the constant dilemma of "Yeah, I think the war is wrong, 1 dig The name of the place is Special For those hikers' packs you paid 25 what the peace freaks are doing, I feel 1 Services Department, Naval Station, San cents per day each. The ice box was 25 should help the cause...but what can I Diego, California. It is located at 5th cents per day, as was the lantern. Each do?" I've settled that problem in my and Harbor Drive, Building 50. This rod and reel set was 25 cents per day. own mind; now I'd like to help you facility is designed as a benefit for our The stove and each of the sleeping bags solve the problem in your own mind, little buddies in blue. However, this is were 25 cents per day. The tent was 75 and, hopefully, get involved. not the case. Actually it is such a cents per day, and the thermos jug was fantastic rip-off that one can lose money 10 cents per day. Another 25 cents per To start with, if you'd just like to there faster than at the races. Can this day for the car top carrier. You can rap about what is happening locally be? Does our mother navy do things like consider yourself lucky. If you had drop by the Peace House at 22nd and this to her little ones under the guise of gotten the 12-foot boat with trailer and Market and meet some of us. There are a bennie? It is, and she does. outboard motor you wanted, your bill always people around that are ready to "So why shouldn't I do my thing? would be a grand total of $102.85. talk about what we've got going, so Lord knows, I've already done yours." In order to dramatize how this is But all is not lost. The Navy comes bring some interested friends and stop done, we will construct the hypothetical through again. If the bill you have by anytime. The basic purpose of our movement situation which follows: You are in the If you already dig what we are doing is education. We've got a bunch of ideas and would like to work to keep the on peace and human ideals that we CONSTELLATION from going overseas, think are valid. We feel that ll various or just generally work in the Peace realities are presented to the public movement, there are many, many things there will be a great deal of you can do. We need typists, writers, reevaluation, restructuring and eventual t actors, musicians, carpenters, printers, replacement of existing aspirations, speakers and at all times, just plain old ideals and beliefs, accomplished. World manpower. We are organizing free peace and brotherhood are our J.S.NAVAL STATION concer is, street theatre, leafletting objectives; public education is our RECREATION EQUIPMENT sessions, rap sessions, pickets and method. If you dig where we are, join RENTAL FACILITY •Mti -V. us in the struggle- we need your help. numerous other activities all of which HOUR have room for anyone interested to So, what can you do? Plenty! Drop 5' *V"aJw participate in them. by and see us. Rap with as many people Perhaps you've got some particular as you can about your ideas, and help personal or shipwide hassel that you like to spread just plain thinking amonst to rap about. Maybe you've got some your friends and shipmates. If nothing solid money raising, or educational else-how about passing this newspaper ideas...by all means drop by and let us on to a friend. You never can tell where know what you are thinking. that will lead! IN THE NAME OF PEACE BY MIKE MAGILL Navy; you are married and have two accumulated for these very special I saw a man die tonight, I didn't see BAY IMMEDIATELY. ALL children. Your big mistake is that you services is too mucy for you to pay at the act that caused his death; nor did I PERSONNEL HAVING OH POSITIVE are going to take leave to do a little once, you can pay in monthly see the last gasp of life leave his body - BLOOD REPORT TO SICK BAY fishing and camping, and you have read installments. I saw his life's blood nonchalantly IMMEDIATELY." a poster somewhere about the great What does this money pay for? Well flowing from his body - the most "I went down there to sick bay and camping gear you can get from Special if you ask one of the employees at memorable aspect of this human being's started to fill out the blood donation Services. You plan to leave on a Friday, Special Services, he or she will tell you death drama. chit when I saw the corpsman walk by with his arm wrapped in a bloody gray stay for nine days, and come back to that Special Services is self-supporting The body that was whole, now work on Monday morning. This means and that the money you pay in rental scattered in multiple directions across the cloth. Then he came back a few seconds later, and told me and the rest of the that you pcik up your gear on a pays for the salaries of the workers and flight deck; the blood that once carried Thursday and turn it back in on a the wear and tear on the gear. This life giving oxygen, now polluted by the dudes that we wouldn't be needed any longer. 1 didn't even get to fill out my Monday, a check-out period of eleven means that the five or ten minutes it greasy flight deck. The man's arm, days. Let's pick out the basic things you took to check out the gear plus the five propelled from the port catapult to name." "He was going to get married next will need: Two hikers' pack racks (the minutes it took to check it in again plus almost the starboard catapult, now an kids don't need them), one ice box, one the wear and tear on two hikers' pack u nf u nctioning, retch inducing, month. I wonder how his chick feels?" One careless mistake, a moment of lantern, four rod and reel sets, four racks, one ice box, one lantern, four rod dismemberment. The left side of the sleeping bags, one stove, one 11' x 9' and reel sets, one stove, four sleeping man's face was disintegrated by the unthinking resulting in a needless, ugly, barbaric loss of one man's life. What tent, one thermos jug, and one car top bags, one tent, one thermos jug, and one "swoosh" of the cutting propeller. As I carrier because there's not enough room car top carrier amounted to $47.85. looked at what was a human being, the once was a man is, now, nothing more in the car for all the gear. Does that A little observation will rapidly grotesqueness of this violent death than a dead, round-celled sound like too much? convince you that at this branch of permeated my being, catching my fears decomposition. Special Services there are four or five with the actuality of this event, knotting Arguing the relevancy of this man's When you get back and turn in that salaried employees struggling to do the up my stomach bringing the foul taste death, seemed to me irrelevant. He died. gear on Monday afternoon, you find work of one. into the back of my mouth. He was in the Navy. He made a stupid that your rental bill is $47.85. After mistake. you pick your jaw up off of the floor, The reason that service people Working on an aricraft carrier flight supposedly get lower salaries is the deck is a job with death being an What the hell did he die for? Was it one of the four or five people that work God and country; mom and apple pie; there hands you a sheet (which you benefits they get because they are in the ever-present silent partner. After Navy. If this is the kind of service I'm working hundreds of monotonous hours because it was his duty to his country; have never seen before) outlining the to save the lives of his loved ones; or so daily rental for all the gear you checked giving up pay for, forget it. Just give me gaining familiarity with the procedures the money. of flight deck operations, acquiring an that some rung climbing officer could out from Special Services. outlook that makes one loose with the advance? If any of these be reason respect one should have for turning enough for man's death, then I say Fuck it. Fuck it all. propellers, one forgets that there is DANGEROUS DRUG! danger in the spacey, rotating, white-red-white arc. For these reasons, From "Fragging Action" or others that God only knows, the man Pacific tried to walk through the turning prop. I was wondering why the military has not been banned by the 1914 Narcotics "He was really a nice guy," says the Act. It definitely is a depressant. It Counseling man at my left shoulder. attacks all the senses, dulling them into "It's God's will, that's the only way insignificance from boredom and lack of to explain it," says one behind me. Service stimulation. Furthermore, I believe it "God damn. They're still finding MILITARY COUNSELING has a potential for psychological pieces of him all over the flight deck," The Pacific Counseling dependance. Have you ever noticed the says the guy holding two tie downs, Service informs rr-n o< great number of emty-eyed, fuzzy-faced mouth agape. career types who seem to exist in a their rights and help-, them "I went to T.J. with him when he perpetual state of insomniatic trance? If to obtain these 07 first got here at North Island. You the military is such a dangerous, know, he has a master's degree in habit-forming drug, why is it so readily 1924 Island college." available on the open marked without a (714) 239-?119 "ALL PERSONNEL HAVING OH prescription? POSITIVE BLOOD REPORT TO SICK PAGE 12 from front page The First American Revolution General Hollingsworth followed and personified and codified the principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. The American constitution Transferred became a model of freedom and justice. It became the standard by which others could be measured. To Nam Let's stop and think of this standard. What is it really? Does it mean anything? Well, it's tangible, lt is so many fallen BY NORM BLEIR trees and so many gallons of printer's Ed Note: Norm Bleir is a former ink. It is so common it can be obtained Navy LI w ho was given punitive orders by any American. It is so short it can be to Kodiak Alaska Due to the tact that a read in half an hour. It's so meaningless number <>l others had been given orders today that it makes me despair. to Kodiak tor Hie same reasons, a good A piece of paper is junk. The portion of the people stationed there Constitution must be something were in COM With all those people m intangible. It must be a feeling in the OUR MAN - IN COUNTRY, cont'd from page 2 the same spot you know there is going minds of people. It must be a concept some as China and the U.S. ^row closer'.' million or so deaths thai have occured to be some action. This is an article we of truth in the heart of America's These things can only be guessed at due in v let nam .\nt\ its neighboring borrowed from FID I Kodiak COM children. It's principles must be our to the policy of our leaders to either countries? On the eve of elections in publication. Norm Bleir was recentl) principles of daily living. keep their long range views from the this country 11 appeared thai President discharged and is now working lull tune We of the military have sworn an people or not to formulate any views .1! Thieu would be running unopposed. for Nonviolent Action and the Harbor oath. We have said, "I will defend the all. Vice-president Ky then talked about I lie Project. Constitution of the United States against Mr. Laird spoke of negotiations from possibility ol 8 COUp; more bloodshed all enemies foreign and domestic." Who strength. The true Strength in an) of tin more pain and suffering lor the people. inc. .i..:,v .v... in.i .IUIIIII it, inn are these enemies and how can we negotiations we enter into should he our and 110 solutions lor the man\ problems chances are that l\t. Edmund Jurenas. defend? moral strength. Lacking thai we will only facing Vietnam. But now after talks editor of the Kurt tlreely AIM It The enemies are intolerance and create further tensions as we jive our with Ambassador Hunker it appears thai ARSENAL had a lot to do with bigotry. They can be defeated by daily bombing demonstrations so aptly K\ will be on the hallo) because of 1 Hollingsworth's sudden and unexpected understanding and love. staged in Laos and Cambodia bj Supreme Court reversal. Hovi will the transfer to Vietnam. HollingSWOlth is To defend the constitution one must the President, Defense Secretary and Vietnam government function when we the recipient of the ARSENAL'S first understand it. Read it. study it. Read various military leaders. The death, pain are gone? I 1 hink ihe present display "Lifer of the Month" award. What did John Stuart Mill and Thomas Paine. and suffering caused by the bombs: the ^ive us some idea. llollingsworth do to deserve such an Read Thomas Jefferson and the My Lai's that occur. I lie refugees The elections will be run, somebody award'.' We quote Iroin the ARSENAL. Federalist Papers. Learn the five basic created, are the cost of our position of will be elected, but only citizens "in 1969, as Commanding General ol freedoms. Understand these rights. strength. There is a very real personal approved bv the administration alread> Ft . .I,, c kson. Soul h Carolina, There is a revolution in America loss to each individual in our country as in power will be allowed to vote. llollingsworth was responsible tor the today. It is led by people who want a result of these policies - the loss When we are gone Iroin the "round railroading of 8 GIs Into the stockadi truth and freedom, not lip service to sometimes painfull, sometimes not. war we will be in a unique position in because the) wanted to bold meetings ideals. The American Serviceman must Senator Kennedy made a trip to the conduct of warfare. We will be to discuss the Vietnam War and racism become just that; a man who does India to try to assess the refugee killing an enemy who lias little or DO in the Army. Due to public pressure and service to America. The service is situation. It was a needed thing he did. means to light back. Most of the time a UrWSUil llollingsworth was forced to directing his country away from a policy But who has gone to Laos and they cannot even see the planes that back down and release the eight, of hate and of war. The service is Cambodia to see what our bombs have drop the bombs, as in the case of the discharging them all. By his actions we directing his country toward a policy of done and returned concerned for the B-52's, and they don't know the bombs can assume that Hollingsworth feels it's freedom for all men. people whose lives we have disrupted are coming until the first one hits. I alright for Gil to die in .Nam but not This is the Second American and displace? Are we going to continue wonder if we would be so eager to for them to talk about it." Revolution. To succeed it cannot be killing here so we can show China they continue the war it we were lighting "While serving in Vietnam during done with guns, lt must be done by have a vested interest in talking to us people who were technologically our 1966 m the Big Red I Division. holding America's leaders responsible. It about SEAsia? When Secretary Laird equals. llollingsworth gave an interview to a must be done by an informed and President Nixon talk about ending It is time for us to stop this killing; reporter for London Timet, i don't population. It can be done only by us. the war in Vietnam they talk only about to stop all war and become people know how you think about war The the ground war. When they speak of again. Time to wake up to our own way I see it. Pm just like any other ending the draft they talk only of zero humanity and see the suffering we have company boss, gingering up the boys a!! draft call but retaining the law. become so detached from, so removed the time, except I don't make1 inoitev I There has been nothing done from thiit we can allow 11 to continue as inst kill people and save lives. There's no completly by our government in recent long as it does not touch us. Let u.s belter wa\ to fight than goin' OUl to years, in ending tne war. in ending work together in man) «,i\, to create shoot VCs \n' there's nothing I love conscription, there is more concern with the conditions necessary for 1 real. better than killin' Cong. No sir'." creating an illusion than with making a lasting and living peace for all peoples. However, the Arm) blew it. They solid reality. Those conditions will not change il left brought i ourtmarlial charges against The course of the government in first to the government of this or an) Edmund. Phis gave the Movement in making this war and m continuing il other country. The responsibility for Alaska a chance to talk to the people seems to have been chosen bv the thai change lies with each of us as and tell them what's going on in the President, selected advisors and military individuals and we I urn inwards, alone. milium and expose the military's officials who may serve other interests and search- the heart or soul lor a place disregard tor the constitution. It gave us unchecked. Congress has been informed to live'. Without tins there will be no a chance to find mil just how strong the of only what these people want them to solutions, no lasting peace, perhaps no antiwar feeling in Alaska really is. know. peace al all. and surer) no hope 111 the VERY SI EtONG! What has been resolved bv the half light of what continue to be done in the The Army