Posts Tagged ‘Fort Hood Support Network’
Sunday, January 15th, 2012
Join us on Friday, January 27th at 7:00 p.m. at 5604 Manor for screening of 
the documentary “Hidden Battles.” “Hidden Battles”, a feature length documentary, is a dramatic and deeply personal film about the psychological impact of killing on the lives of five soldiers. (see trailer at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YDSQETnkIgk)
Representing a cross section of nationalities, gender, class and race, these soldiers reveal intimate memories about the central act of war, the killing of another human being. How do these
individuals make sense of what they have done? What happens when time challenges
their carefully constructed stories? Consciously apolitical but deeply psychological, Hidden Battles examines the strength and struggles of men and women who kill and how they create a life for themselves afterward.
Immediately following the film, volunteers with Under the Hood Cafe & Outreach Center will talk about their efforts to support IVAW’s (Iraq Veterans Against the War) Operation Recovery, an outreach program promoting traumatized soldiers’ right to heal.
$10 suggested donation at the door. All donations support the work of
Under the Hood Cafe & Outreach Center. http://underthehoodcafe.org/ and https://www.facebook.com/underthehoodcafe#!/underthehoodcafe
also see event announcement at https://www.facebook.com/events/217030288384556/
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center, FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Tags: 2012, 5604 Manor, Austin, FHSN, Fort Hood Support Network, Hidden Battles, Iraq, Iraq Veterans Against the War, IVAW, January 27, Operation Recovery, traumatized soldiers, Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center, war
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Wednesday, December 21st, 2011
December 2011
Despite the recent “end” of the Iraq war, those of us at Under the Hood Cafe & Outreach Center know that the impact of ten years of war continues on the home front and is far from over. We are still
engaged in a ground war in Afghanistan despite the slow draw down of forces, and recently over 4,000 Ft. Hood soldiers shifted from Iraq to Kuwait. Deployments are not over.
By January, more than 8,000 soldiers will return to Ft. Hood. They are returning to a base with services already overwhelmed, and they will face many obstacles in accessing trauma care and overcoming the stigma that still surrounds trauma.
An active duty service member commits suicide every 36 hours. 18 veterans commit suicide every day. Every day at Under the Hood we continue to work to break the isolation that service members and
military family members experience by offering a space to relax, gather and speak freely about the wars and military life with their peers and to work together for change.
Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center is run almost entirely on the unpaid labor of our volunteers which consist primarily of veterans, active duty soldiers and military family members. We have only one paid staff person.
“I want my feelings to get out and be heard. And that is what Under the Hood is doing for me. We are getting stuff done, and we have got the potential to do so much more… Im feeling like I am accomplishing what I have been wanting to do ever since I came back from Iraq. I saw all kinds of nonsense in Iraq. I want to speak out. I guess you could call it the focal point, the head, this is
where all the energy is focused and we are accomplishing things. I feel like I am just reaching so many more people.”
-
Curtis Sirmans, Ft Hood soldier and Under the Hood volunteer
Here are some highlights of what Under the
Hood Cafe and Outreach Center has accomplished in the last six
months:
***We have had a 200% increase in visitors to the Under the Hood since July of this year.
***We renovated Under the Hood, painting the interior and building a coffee bar, a
designated childcare space, an art-making room and a stage area for hosting community events.
***We partnered with Iraq Veterans Against the War’s Operation Recovery, a campaign to defend service members and veterans right to heal and to stop the practice of deploying traumatized troops
experiencing Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD), Military Sexual Trauma (MST), and Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). In May we helped launch an outreach drive and have talked with over 350 active duty soldiers about their experience with these issues.
***On Veterans Day, we partnered with the Ft. Hood chapter of Iraq Veterans Against the War to
participate in the
Killeen Veterans’ Day parade to raise awareness of the issues that Ft. Hood
soldiers face in accessing trauma care. We distributed over 400 leaflets to parade attendees about
Operation Recovery and Under the Hood and received very favorable
media coverage by a local television station. We are helping to shape the conversation about these issues by highlighting the direct experience of those who are most impacted and by demanding the changes that they identify as needed at Ft. Hood.
***We held monthly woman’s nights and will increase our women’s programming in the new year to address the unique needs of women service and family members.
***We host weekly community organizing meetings.
***We expanded our referral capacity to an extended network of mental health providers.
***We developed a volunteer program and now have over 15 regular volunteers on the ground.
***We developed an arts based program to open a healing space, creating dialogue in the community that extends beyond the confines of words.
Yo(ur) Art Show,
Combat Paper Project and Warrior Writers Ft. Hood Community Arts Forum have been transformational experiences for us here.
***We offer in-house individual GI rights counseling in partnership with the San Diego Military Counseling Project, a member group of the GI Rights Hotline.
***We host weekly “Ribs and Rights”, a free BBQ and peer training on service members’ rights. In the spirit of peer support and empowerment, veterans, active duty soldiers and family members research and teach each other about service members’ rights and how to navigate through issues they face at Ft. Hood. An average of 10 participants come weekly but we know that the impact of these trainings
reaches far more people as participants are armed with knowledge that they can share with fellow soldiers back on base.
“The issues that Under the Hood addresses dont go away, regardless of the end of the Iraq war. I think in the next couple of months…couple of years, there is going to be a lot of soldiers in this area that will find themselves pretty confused, pretty lost with what’s going on and maybe this place can help with that.Under the Hood allows people of all different backgrounds, whether they are prior service, active duty, family member, or just a community member, it allows them an outlet to express themselves or plug into something that they might not be able to find in other parts of thiscommunity.”
–Chris May, Ft. Hood soldier and Under the Hood volunteer
Thank you to all who made it possible for us to expand our programs to continue meet 
the needs of the community in the Ft. Hood area. We depend primarily on individual donors to fund our work. In order to continue to be able to provide these vital programs we urge you to become a
sustaining donor to Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center today.
Sincerely,
Under the Hood staff and volunteers,
Lori, Kyle, Chris, Curtis, Amy, Sean, Alice, Heidi, Fran, Jim, Cindy and Naomi
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center, FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Tags: afghanistan, December 2011, FHSN, Fort Hood Support Network, Ft. Hood, GI rights hotline, Iraq, Iraq Veterans Against the War, Killeen, Kuwait, mental health, military, Military Sexual Trauma, MST, Operation Recovery, post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, service member, soldiers, suicide, TBI, Texas, trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury, Under the Hood, Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center, Update, veterans, Veterans Day, war, warrior writers
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Thursday, August 18th, 2011
August 2011
Under the Hood and IVAW have joined forces with the Civilian Soldier Alliance to expand Operation Recovery efforts in Killeen!
Founded in 2007, the
Civilian Soldier Alliance is an organization of civilians working with veterans and active-duty service-members to build a GI resistance movement towards a just foreign policy. They work with and support service-members and veterans to withdraw military support from the occupations of Iraq and Afghanistan, supporting resistance within the military that empowers
service members to have a voice and develop as leaders organizing for change.
Check out Under the Hood’s new coffee bar!
Thanks to Malachi Muncy, UTH’s intern extraordinaire, Under the Hood now has a new coffee bar with UTH logo. Now when you visit Under the Hood, you’ll be greeted with a cup of organic fair trade coffee when you walk in the door. Please stop by and enjoy a cup with us.
Join us this Friday, August 19th at 5604 Manor (Austin) for a screening of the documentary “ Grounds for Resistance.”
A $5 suggested donation at the door will benefit Under the Hood.
Location:
5604 Manor, 5604 Manor Road, Austin, Texas 78723
Time: 7 – 9 p.m.
This documentary tells the story of the
Coffee Strong coffee house located outside the
Fort Lewis, Washington army base. Aaron Hughes, an organizer with
Iraq Veterans Against the War will be on hand to answer questions and speak about IVAW’s Operation Recovery program. Staff and
volunteers from Under the Hood will also be available to answer questions about their work.
Under the Hood Upcoming Events:
Ribs n’ Rights
Every Thursday 7-9pm
Eat some ribs and learn more about your rights as a service member.
Free with enlisted ID.
Killeen Poetry Slam
Friday August 26, 7-11pm
Under the Hood is proud to host the Killeen Poetry Slam every other Friday kicking off on Friday
August 26!
Refreshments and snacks available.
[Note: This is recurring. Every other Friday, 8/26, 9/9, 9/23]
Women’s Night at Under the Hood
Friday September 16, 7-10pm
A woman’s only space to relax, speak freely and have fun together. More details tba.
Soldier and Veteran Art Showcase
Friday, September 30, 8pm-11pm
Under the Hood will be hosting a Soldier and Veteran’s Art Showcase, where soldiers can display artwork and see what other art is being done by soldiers and veterans in the community. Interested in
submitting artwork? More details to be announced soon.
Join us for Hoodstock III on Sunday, October 2nd at Jovita’s! (Austin)
Our annual Hoodstock show will feature local artists and musicians and all proceeds will benefit Under the Hood Cafe & Outreach Center. We are still recruiting local artists to perform at this year’s event. If you would like to donate your time and talent to this important annual event, please contact Jim Turpin at
[email protected].
Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a
one-time donation or want to sign up as a
sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Donations may be treated as
tax-deductible.
Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood?
We are always happy for support in any form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to
contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the
same time. Check it out
here.
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and
connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking
here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click
here.
Tags: "Grounds for Resistance", 2011, 5604 Manor, afghanistan, army, art, august, Austin, c, Cafe and Outreach Center, Civilian Soldier Alliance, Coffee Strong, FHSN, Fort Hood, Fort Hood Support Network, Fort Lewis, G.I., Hoodstock, Iraq, Iraq Veterans Against the War, IVAW, Jovitas, Killeen, military, occupation, Operation Recovery, poetry slam, resistance, ResiStore, rights, service member, soldier, Texas, Under the Hood, Update, veteran, Washington
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Thursday, July 21st, 2011
July 19, 2011
This evening the Austin AFL-CIO Council [Central Labor Council] was privileged to have members of the Fort Hood
Operation Recovery team as guests and presenters. Visitors to the CLC meeting were Aaron Hughes, Scott Kimball, and Sergio Kochergin of Iraq Veterans Against the War; Lori Hurlebaus of the Civilian Soldier Alliance; Alice Embree of the Fort Hood Support Network (who is also a member of the Texas State Employees Union).
Aaron spoke of the need for solidarity among soldiers, veterans, and workers. Soldiers are workers–they are public employees; and our unions have many veterans as members. Many soldiers come from union families and go back to unions when discharged. But the unemployment rate among Iraq and Afghanistan veterans is 21% (12% more than the national average). The rate is even higher among African-American and female veterans–about 30%.
Many soldiers suffer from war trauma and nonetheless are redeployed. Suicide rates among active-duty troops are twice as high as that of the civilian population, and veterans with PTSD are 6 times more likely to attempt suicide. 20% to 50% of all service members deployed to Iraq and/or Afghanistan suffer from Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). One in 3 women in the military are sexually assaulted. 1 in 3 soldiers serving in Afghanistan and Iraq say they can’t see a mental health professional when they need to, and nearly 20% of service members are taking some kind of psychiatric drug.
Aaron pointed out the huge expense of the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. This money is needed at home–and we owe veterans the benefits and health treatment they need.
Most of the CLC delegates signed the pledge of support for Operation Recovery that our visitors passed around. It states: “I pledge to support the Operation Recovery campaign to the best of my ability. In a war where soldiers are being injured faster than the military can treat them, I will work alongside veterans and service members to end the cycles of trauma and abuse.” The pledge sheet further explains: “Join Iraq Veterans Against the War and Civilian Soldier Alliance in our effort to stop the deployment of troops suffering from Military Sexual Trauma, Traumatic Brain Injury, and PTSD. By signing our pledge, you agree to do what you can to help defend the rights of soldiers to heal and to hold accountable those who are responsible for deploying traumatized troops. As the Operation Recovery campaign unfolds, we will be calling on you to help in a variety of ways.”
There was discussion from the CLC delegates, several of whom are veterans. A Teamster rep described their program to get members back into jobs when they get home from the military. A member of AFSCME indicated she has personal experience with veterans’ mental health problems and wants to get a group she works with in touch with Operation Recovery. There was also interest among the delegates in U.S. Labor Against the War–USLAW brochures were available as well as Operation Recovery literature.
For more TxLAW stories on Fort Hood Operation Recovery, see http://txlaboragainstwar.org/2011/07/08/killeen-ivaw-its-audacious-and-a-little-crazy-what-were-doing-at-ft-hood/, http://txlaboragainstwar.org/2011/05/27/killeen-ivaw-operation-recovery-action-at-ft-hood/, and http://txlaboragainstwar.org/2011/07/17/killeen-under-the-hood-update-july-2011/
For LOTS of information about Operation Recovery, to sign the pledge, and to donate, see http://www.ivaw.org/operation-recovery
Facebook group at https://www.facebook.com/#!/groups/operationrecovery
For more on the Civilian-Soldier Alliance, go to http://www.civsol.org/
–Leslie Cunningham, July 21, 2011
Tags: 2011, Aaron Hughes, afghanistan, African-American, AFSCME, Austin, Austin AFL-CIO Council, Central Labor Council, Civilian Soldier Alliance, deployment, female veterans, Fort Hood, Fort Hood Support Network, Iraq, Iraq Veterans Against the War, July 19, Killeen, mental health, Military Sexual Trauma, post-traumatic stress disorder, PTSD, soldiers, suicide, Teamsters, Texas State Employees Union, Traumatic Brain Injury, troops, TXLAW, U.S Labor Against the War, unemployment, unions, USLAW, veterans, war trauma
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Sunday, June 19th, 2011
Under the Hood welcomes Kyle Wesolowski as the new manager. After several years of devoted service to Under the Hood,
Cindy Thomas recently stepped down as manager so
that she could be closer to her family. Cindy remains an important part of the UTH family and the soldiers, veterans, volunteers, and board members will never be able to thank her enough for everything that she has done. Jim Turpin, a longtime volunteer with UTH had this to say when he heard the news: “Cindy has made such a difference in so many people’s lives, there are really too many of them to count. Some of these young men and women are alive, happy, and healthy today because of her selfless work.”
With
Kyle Wesolowski’s recent release from the military, this is a great opportunity for him to provide some of the same kind of support to soldiers that he received when working to be acknowledged as a Conscientious Objector. With Kyle as the new manager, Malachi Muncy working on a 12 week internship, and support from IVAW staff working in Killeen on Operation Recovery, this is an exciting time for Under the Hood.
Check out some of the things that have been going on this month at UTH.
Operation Recovery campaign requests a meeting with the new General at Fort Hood: In late April, Lt. General Donald Campbell, Jr. took command of the Army’s Third Corps and Fort Hood, the largest and most deployed military installation in the United States. On General Campbell’s first week at work, IVAW, in coordination with Under the Hood staff, sent him a
letter requesting he meet with representatives of the Operation Recovery Campaign about the ongoing mental health epidemic raging at Fort Hood. Since then, Operation Recovery members have gotten no response from the General’s office.
Fort Hood Commander is put on watch: After receiving no response from the new Commander, Operation Recovery members attempted to meet with him on base on May 25th. After being escorted off of the base, members built a
watchtower as a symbolic act to let the General know that his actions in reference to the health and well-being of soldiers at Fort Hood are on watch.
Grill the General Barbecue and fundraiser held on Memorial Day: A fundraiser and barbecue was held at Under the Hood on Monday, May 31st. Soldiers, veterans, and civilians all came together to discuss work being done in Killeen and enjoyed a great meal together. Funds raised at the barbecue will go to support the continued work being done to support soldiers in need.
Under the Hood and IVAW members talk about Operation Recovery on Rag Radio: On June 10th, Thorne Dreyer interviewed Aaron Hughes, Malachi Muncy, Scott Kimball and Sergio K about Operation Recovery, their personal experiences, and their work to stop the abuse of traumatized soldiers. Listen to the podcast
here.
Here is a way that YOU can help a soldier in need. PFC Ryan Reed recently received a 10 month sentence at a court-martial at Fort Hood, Texas.
His crime? – He put his family first.
PFC Reed tried to get help from his chain of command when his wife suffered from serious health issues after the birth of their first child, but his requests were repeatedly denied. In fact he was told by some of his NCOs that he should give up his child to either his parents (or the state), so that he could legally abandon his family and deploy with his unit.
PFC Reed left the unit for six months. Upon return he was told that his family would still get no help (he was even forbidden to talk to the chaplain about his problems) and that he must deploy. This time he fled again, taking his family to Canada where he believed he would be safe from prosecution and his wife could get the care that she needed.
In October 2010, PFC Reed made the difficult decision to voluntarily return to the United States. Upon return he was arrested and then escorted back to Fort Hood, Texas.
At trial PFC Reed plead guilty to one count of AWOL and one count of desertion. He then presented a strong case showing (1) his serious family hardship, (2) his old unit’s failure to help him, (3) his positive service history upon return to military control, (4) his high rehabilitation potential, and (5) the difficulty his family will experience if he is given jail time. PFC Reed asked the judge to give him a BCD (bad conduct discharge) in lieu of jail time, but he was instead given a 10 month sentence (coupled with the BCD, loss of pay and loss of rank).
The good news is that this fight is not over. PFC Reed has a right under MCM 1105 to submit written matters in mitigation to the convening authority (Lt. General Donald Campbell, Jr., CG of Fort Hood). We are asking members of the public to write letters of support asking the general to suspend part or all of the 10 month sentence.
Details will be posted soon on what these letters should say and how they can be submitted. In the meantime, please “like” our page on Facebook (
Free PFC Ryan Reed campaign) to show your support for PFC Reed.
This Memorial Day, we remember three fearless activists for peace.
Nick Travis III, 55, passed away suddenly early Monday morning, May 24, 2010 in Austin. Nick, a long-time peace activist, was known to show up at Under the Hood with his guitar and infectious smile. People couldn’t help but be a little happier with Nick around.
Lisa Morris, 28, passed away unexpectedly the next day, May 25, 2010, in Copperas Cove. Lisa, a regular at Under the Hood, always made sure to stand in protest with fellow soldiers, veterans and family members at the gates of Fort Hood. She left behind many friends.
Then on January 30, 2011, Nel LeBar passed away, surrounded by her family after losing a battle with cancer. In the words of Nel’s granddaughter: ”Nel lived a life of grace and love. Her absence will leave no small hole for those who called her friend, which includes her family. Those who knew her were changed by her, and those who met her were inspired. Her legacy will live on in the memories and hearts that carry her spirit always. She didn’t waste one moment here on Earth and demonstrated love in everything that she did. Her gentle soul that longed for peace has finally found it.”
Although we miss Nick, Lisa and Nel more than words can say, we continue to work for peace in their memory.
Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a
one-time donation or want to sign up as a
sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood? We are always happy for support in any form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to
contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out
here.
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking
here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click
here.
Tags: 2011, bad conduct discharge, BCD, Cindy Thomas, conscientious objector, deploy, Fort Hood, Fort Hood Support Network, IVAW, Jr., June, Killeen, Kyle Wesolowski, Lisa Morris, Lt. General Donald Campbell, Memorial Day, military, Nel LeBar, Nick Travis III, Operation Recovery, PFC Ryan Reed, Rag Radio, ResiStore, soldiers, Under the Hood, Update, veterans
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Thursday, May 19th, 2011
May is a busy month at Under the Hood. Iraq Veterans Against the War headed to UTH this month, as part of its Operation Recovery Campaign, in its continued effort to stop the deployment of troops suffering from PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Military Sexual Trauma . IVAW has requested a meeting with General Don Campbell. Read IVAW’s letter to General Campbell here. IVAW has not yet received a response, but their efforts to reach the General is only the beginning of the work they plan to do while in Fort Hood. IVAW’s organizing team will work for several months to outreach to soldiers, build their case against the military’s egregious practices, conduct town hall meetings, and pressure Fort Hood’s new General to do the right thing
Under the Hood has a new intern! He’s a longtime supporter of UTH – Malachi Muncy. This internship through the national G.I. Coffeehouse Network started on May 9th and will last for a total of 12 weeks. Malachy will be working closely with the Under the Hood staff, volunteers an board members to build working relationships with veterans, servicemembers and the civilian community. We’re very excited to have him on staff.
Regina Vasquez brings her Fatigues Clothesline to UTH. This 8 week series beginning May 15th, from 5-7 pm, is for women only. To find out more, you can reach Regina at
[email protected].
Join us on Memorial Day as we celebrate Kyle Wesolowski’s release from the army! As we told you in our
March issue,
Kyle’s Conscientious Objector claim was approved by the U.S. Army. Since he was notified of his CO status, Kyle has been on terminal leave. After months of patiently waiting, Kyle will officially be out of the military by Memorial Day!
Here are the details:
What: Under the Hood BBQ and get-together
When: Monday, May 30th, starting at 2:00 p.m.
Where: Under the Hood Cafe & Outreach Center, 17 College Street, Killeen Texas
A $10 suggested donation is requested to cover the cost of food, however, no one will be turned away for lack of funds. GIs are welcome to join us free of charge.
Meet new friends and get together with old ones. We look forward to seeing you on the 30th!
The Fort Hood Support Network, sponsor of Under the Hood, is very pleased to receive a 2011 grant from RESIST, an organization that has funded forty years of social change. The “Hell Yes!” Grant was awarded for leadership in the movement for social justice on April 3, 2011. RESIST says, “The ‘Hell Yes!’ Grant honors the spirit of resistance to illegitimate authority and is awarded to groups that embody the moral clarity, courage and political commitment to challenge the forces that drive toward war and place profits over people.” The Fort Hood Support Network board member and treasurer says: “We are honored to be a ‘Hell Yes!’ grant recipient.”
Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a
one-time donation or want to sign up as a
sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood? We are always happy for support in any form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to
contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out
here.
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking
here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website!
If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click
here.
P.O Box 16174 | Austin, TX 78761
Tags: 2011, BBQ, Cafe and Outreach Center, CO, conscientious objector, deployment, Fatigues Clothesline, FHSN, Fort Hood, Fort Hood Support Network, G.I Coffeehouse Network, G.I., General Don Campbell, Hell Yes, Iraq Veterans Against the War, IVAW, Killeen, Kyle Wesolowski, Malachi Muncy, May, May 30, Memorial Day, Military Sexual Trauma, Operation Recovery, PTSD, Regina Vasquez, RESIST, ResiStore, servicemembers, social change, Texas, Traumatic Brain Injury, troops, u.s. army, Under the Hood, Update, veterans, war
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Sunday, March 20th, 2011
March 2011
After months of waiting, Kyle Wesolowski is finally acknowledged as a conscientious objector!
We first met
Kyle Wesolowski in January 2010. After returning from Iraq, Kyle spent his leave in New Jersey with his family. Realizing that he could no longer serve in combat, he returned to Fort Hood concerned and discouraged. As fortune would have it, the day he returned to town, a vigil lead by Under the Hood was being held at Fort Hood’s East Gate. The vigilers caught his attention and he stopped to learn more. The rest is history.
It was several months after returning from that combat tour in Iraq, that SPC Kyle Wesolowski submitted an application for a conscientious objector discharge based on his Buddhist faith. Since that time, Kyle has completed a rigorous examination of his beliefs by military authorities, including required interviews by a psychiatrist, a chaplain and an independent investigating officer. All of these officials recommended that Kyle be discharged based on the sincerity of his beliefs.
Today, we are pleased to announce that Kyle’s Conscientious Objector claim was approved by the U.S. Army. Wesolowski’s honorable discharge will likely occur in March or April 2011.
Kyle has received a great deal of encouragement from the community who helped to support him through this arduous process. He explained that there are many people that he wants to thank, including his attorney,
James Branum, the staff at
Courage to Resist, Aaron Hughes and
Iraq Veterans Against the War, Cindy Thomas of Under the Hood and many individual supporters and friends. Kyle also points out that there are many within the army who showed him compassion during this long process and he wants to thank them as well. “In the spirit of Under the Hood’s motto — pro soldier, anti war — I know that there are many good people in the army and I appreciate those that supported me.”
Wesolowski’s attorney, James Branum, had this to say:
“I am so proud of Kyle. He stood strong in a long and difficult process. Many other applicants would have given up, but Kyle stood firm. Thankfully the Army has now recognized what I’ve known all along—Kyle is a sincere conscientious objector to war.”
Under the Hood has teamed up with IVAW in support of Operation Recovery. Join Iraq Veterans Against the War and Under the Hood in our effort to stop the deployment of troops suffering from PTSD, Traumatic Brain Injury, and Military Sexual Trauma. By signing our pledge, you agree to do what you can to defend our right to heal and to hold accountable those responsible for the deployment of traumatized troops. We need your help to build the Operation Recovery Campaign. You can take the pledge at
www.ivaw.org/operation-recovery.
Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a
one-time donation or want to sign up as a
sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
Coleen is a former FBI Special Agent and Legal Counsel, whistleblower, and Time Person of the Year.
“How Top Secret America Misfires”
When: Sunday, April 3, 2011, 6:30 p.m.
$10 suggested donation at the door
All donations benefit Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center.
Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out
here.
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking
here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click
here.
P.O. Box 16174 | Austin, TX 78761-6174 US
Tags: 2011, 5604 Manor, army, Austin, Cafe and Outreach Center, Cindy Thomas, Coleen Rowley, conscientious objector, Courage to Resist, Fort Hood Support Network, Iraq, Iraq Veterans Against the War, IVAW, James Branum, Killeen, Kyle Wesolowski, march, Military Sexual Trauma, Operation Recovery, PTSD, ResiStore, Texas, Traumatic Brain Injury, Under the Hood, Update, whistleblower
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Thursday, January 13th, 2011
January, 2011
Staff and volunteers with Under the Hood are starting off the year with renewed energy!
As the wars drag on in Afghanistan and Iraq, the new year reminds us that we must renew our commitment to peace, so we are starting off the year with a busy schedule. In coordination with Iraq Veterans Against the War (IVAW), here are a few things that we have on our calendar for January and February:
IVAW/Veterans for Peace Joint Meeting, January 22nd 1p.m. at Under the Hood Cafe: Bringing together the pro-soldier anti-war veteran community in Central Texas. Opportunities to get to know one another, discuss upcoming events and dates, and to discuss active duty outreach. Consider getting involved at the start to help make history at Fort Hood this year.
GI Rights Training, Saturday, January 29th, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Sunday, January 30th, 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Under the Hood Cafe. Come learn about your rights as a GI and how you can help other GIs fight for their rights in this two-day training led by Military Law Task Force member and lawyer James Branum. Fee: We are asking $25 per person to help cover the travel costs for the trainer.
Participants will gain a broad beginner’s knowledge about GI rights (rights to which all current service members of the US armed forces are entitled), connect with people who care about these issues and/or are already connected to organizing with people in the military, and be well on your way to becoming a GI rights counselor.
When: January 29th and 30th, Saturday 10-5PM and Sunday 1-5 PM
Where: Under the Hood Cafe, 17 S. College St., Killeen, TX
Fee: We are asking $25 per person to help cover the travel costs for the trainer.
Outreach Action – From the 24th of January through the middle of February IVAW Fort Hood and Under the 
Hood Cafe are going to be heavily focused on outreach to the 1st Cavalry Division that will be deploying 3,500 soldiers to Afghanistan and Iraq. This mobilization is part of a deployment of 23,000 soldiers from across the country to Afghanistan to replace the 101st Airborne that are set to return in February.
This outreach will conclude with a highly visible action that will include “harass the brass” tactics and messages that include:
We know that the command of the 1st Cav. is deploying wounded soldiers.
We know that this is a violation of these soldiers’ right to heal.
We want you to know that you are not alone.
You have a right to heal and you do not have to deploy with PTSD.
In addition to these upcoming activities, here are a couple of things that have already happened so far this month:
Cindy Thomas, Manager with Under the Hood, talks about the suicide rates at Fort Hood and the lack of support that soldiers receive when suffering with PTSD. Check out her interview with Channel 10 News (KWTX) in Waco
here.
Under the Hood recently hosted a slam poetry night. It was a success, and now staff and volunteers are considering some writing workshops!
Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a one-time donation or want to sign up as a sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
Fort Hood Support Network is proud to inform its supporters that Under the Hood recently received a $300 grant from RESIST Inc. In addition, Under the Hood is working with the War Resisters League who recently received funding to provide support to GI coffeehouses across the U.S. If you know of other grant opportunities, please feel free to contact us. We are always looking for opportunities to increase our base of support.
Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood? We are always happy for support in any
form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking here.
Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out
here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click
here.
P.O. Box 16174 | Austin, TX 78761-6174
Tags: 1st Cavalry Division, 2010, afghanistan, anti-war, Cafe and Outreach Center, Fort Hood, Fort Hood Support Network, GI rights, Iraq, IVAW, january, Killeen, peace, PTSD, RESIST, soldiers, suicide, Under the Hood, veterans, Veterans for Peace
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Tuesday, December 14th, 2010
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Thanks to the generosity of those who attended Hoodstock and those that have donated throughout the year, Fort Hood Support Network has signed a lease for another year so that Under the Hood can continue to be a place for soldiers to meet and receive important support. Jim Turpin is a volunteer on the fundraising committee for Under the Hood. Jim had this to say about Under the Hood and what it means to him:
“UTH is a place that makes a real difference in soldiers lives. It’s important to be on the streets speaking out against war, but I feel that it is also important to do something that counterbalances the negative effects that the government and its wars have created for our youth. The Department of Defense says they are helping active duty soldiers and vets, but in reality, we find that they aren’t helping at all. That’s what makes Under the Hood so necessary. We’re trying to undo some of the damage that’s been inflicted upon these young men and women.”
Jim feels that it’s vital to have a physical space to do this work at one of the largest military bases in the U.S. That’s why he volunteers his time to fundraise for UTH. But Jim isn’t only a volunteer. He’s also a recurring donor for Under the Hood. “I have actually been fortunate enough to see the result of the work Under the Hood has done. I’ve seen young soldiers get out of the military through the support services that UTH has been able to provide and go on to lead productive lives. It’s made a difference for them and for their family members. It feels good to be a part of something that has such tangible results.” Jim expresses what many of the volunteers with Under the Hood feel by saying: “I am so grateful for the support of the community, volunteers, artists, and musicians who are helping to ensure Under the Hood’s continued success.”
Hoodstock Flashback was a success!
A big thanks to all of the musicians who donated their time to this event, to all of the artists who donated their beautiful work for the silent auction, and to all of our supporters who came out to enjoy the music and help us in our fundraising efforts. A special thanks to Rich Bowden who organized the music and for his vision to create a community through music and poetry.
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Your continued support of Under the Hood allows us to continue our important work in Killeen. Whether you are making a one-time donation or want to sign up as a sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal.
The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status. Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
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Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood? We are always happy for support in any form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
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Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out here.
Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking here.
Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click here.
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| P.O. Box 16174 | Austin, TX 78761-6174 US |
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Tags: 2010, December, Fort Hood Support Network, Hoodstock Flashback, Jim Turpin, Killeen, military, Rich Bowden, soldiers, Under the Hood, Under the Hood Cafe and Outreach Center, wars
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Monday, October 18th, 2010
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Suicides at Ft. Hood remain at an all-time high. A recent article in the
New York Times confirmed what Under the Hood has been battling at Ft. Hood
for the last year and a half : suicides are at the highest point since 2008, with 14
confirmed suicides since the beginning of 2010. In one recent weekend, there
were 3 suicides and one murder-suicide at Ft. Hood. With the population at
Ft. Hood ranging from 46,000 to 50,000 soldiers at any given time,the rate of
suicides is four times the national average based on Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention estimates of 11.5 suicides per 100,000 people.
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The repeated deployment of military personnel who suffer from both physical and psychological wounds has led to these all-time high suicide rates. It is well-established in the medical community that multiple deployments lead to Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) along with increased incidence of other physical issues including Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). A recent article in the
American Journal of Public Health studied 2,500 NJ National Guardsmen and determined “deployed soldiers were more than 3 times as likely as soldiers with no previous deployments to screen positive for post traumatic stress disorder.” With over 1 million service men and women having served in either Iraq or Afghanistan, the potential number of returning active duty and veterans with PTSD is staggering.
Under the Hood has been a sanctuary for both active duty soldiers and veterans to get the referrals needed for psychological assistance to prevent these types of tragic outcomes. In reference to psychiatric services provided by the military, manager Cindy Thomas stated in the recent New York Times article: “You don’t get counseling, you get medication…these soldiers are breaking.”
Your continued support of Under the Hood will allow us to continue the work needed to support our returning soldiers as they heal and to prevent further tragedy. Whether you are making a
one-time donation or want to sign up as a
sustainer, it’s easy to contribute through PayPal. The Fort Hood Support Network (FHSN) operates Under the Hood Café and Outreach Center. FHSN is a Texas non-profit corporation with 501(c)(3) tax exempt status.
Donations may be treated as tax-deductible.
In addition to on-line contributions, we have another fun way for supporters to give. Join us for
HOODSTOCK FLASHBACK, a great evening of music, Sunday, November 14, 2010 at Jovita’s, 1617 South 1st Street, Austin, Texas. For a mere $10 admission fee, you will hear from over a dozen local artists, including Sugar Bayou, the Therapy Sisters, Barbara K, Karen Abrahams, Will T. Massey and many more! Join us for a great evening of music, food, camaraderie, important information, and a silent auction.
Interested in sharing some of your time and talents with Under the Hood? We are always happy for support in any form. Along with monetary support to keep our doors open, we can always use other forms of assistance. If you believe that you can provide support in some way, please feel free to
contact us. We’d be happy to put you to work!
Several months after returning from a combat tour in Iraq, Fort Hood soldier SPC Kyle Wesolowski submitted an application for a conscientious objector discharge based on his Buddhist faith. Since that time, SPC Wesolowski has completed a rigorous examination of his beliefs by military authorities, including required interviews by a psychiatrist, a chaplain and an independent investigating officer. All of these officials have recommended that SPC Wesolowski be discharged based on the sincerity of his beliefs.
Despite these positive recommendations and the clear dictates of the regulations governing conscientious objection in the Army, SPC Wesolowsi has been subjected to a deliberate campaign of harassment, threats of violence and religious discrimination.
In response to these developments, SPC Wesolowski issued a statement to the press about his case on September 21, 2010. To read his full statement, click
here. You can show Kyle your support by joining his
“Free Kyle Wesolowsky” Facebook page.
| Check out the ResiStore! Now you can purchase great items and support Under the Hood at the same time. Check it out here. Under the Hood Update is on Facebook. Become a fan! You can find archived issues and connect with other fans of Under the Hood. Visit our Facebook page by clicking here. Past issues of Under the Hood Update are now on the Under the Hood website! If you’ve missed any of our past issues, or if you just want to re-read past articles, please click here. |
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| P.O. Box 16174 | Austin, TX 78761-6174 US |
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Tags: conscientious objector, Fort Hood Support Network, Ft. Hood, Iraq, Kyle Wesolowski, military, PTSD, soldiers, suicide, TBI, Under the Hood, Update
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