Friday, February 8, 2008

Why I Must Testify


These truly are times that try men’s souls. There are too many veterans returning from futile occupations with heads full of lies and hearts full of sorrow. Minds full of bad memories and bodies full of shrapnel. Fists full of anger and families full of confusion. It’s not a strong place from which to make yourself politically relevant. But out of a strong sense of duty, some of us are trying to put our experiences to use for a good cause. Some of us couldn’t live with ourselves if we weren’t doing everything we could to bring our brothers and sisters home as soon as possible.

The environment may be unkind, but that is why I will be testifying and that is why it will be necessary. I will be testifying to shooting at civilians as a result of changing Rules Of Engagement, abuse of detainees, and desecration of Iraqi bodies. It won’t be easy but it must be done. Some of the stories are things that are difficult to admit that I was a part of, but if one more veteran realizes that they are not alone because of my testimony it will be worth it.

3 comments:

lightbringer said...

Leadership, is offering as an example, oneself in the face of complete alienation, disdain and possible rejection...but through it you will (re)gain self respect,honor, wisdom and inner peace because now no one can say: I did not know!
Your "story"(and IVAW comrades) is the individual story of THIS war: free the story...free yourself...free the Republic.

Action=Life
Keep Acting Adam Kokesh

Anonymous said...

Adam, do what u know is right in your heart, that will always prevail. Peace2u.

Anonymous said...

Adam, your post is really moving...you are not alone in your sadness. Sometimes I just can't stand it for another second that we are still at war, thinking of the price paid by our soldiers and by the Iraqi people. It has changed many of us out here and has taken its toll on our entire country.

Your testimony and the testimony of the others is very important. Even though it will be difficult for you, sharing your experiences will be a tool for change in the future.
This can be a beacon of hope.
The end of this war will come.

My thoughts are with you and all veterans who have endured so much. My thoughts are also with those still serving, with a wish that they are permitted to return soon and safely to their loved ones.

Susan