Friends and Family of Lt. Watada is moving forward with plans for a regional mobilization near Ft. Lewis in support of bringing the troops home, a “people’s hearing” on the legality of the Iraq War, and many other events “to help Lt. Watada put the war on trial” leading up to an expected court martial in the winter.
On June 22, 2006 Lt. Ehren Watada became the first US commissioned officer to refuse to deploy to the unlawful Iraq war and occupation. He has been charged with “contemptuous words” towards President Bush and conduct unbecoming of an officer. These charges represent the first military persecution of an objector for First Amendment speech since 1965. Including the charge for not deploying to Iraq Lt. Watada faces over seven years in military prison. By placing himself on the line for the truth, Lt. Watada has issued a challenge to all of us. Help Lt. Watada put the War on Trial! For full reports, breaking news, and to donate:www.ThankYouLt.org
On August 17, U.S. Army First Lieutenant Ehren Watada succeeded in placing
the war on trial during an Article 32 pre-trial hearing in a military courtroom
at Fort Lewis, Washington. The investigating officer recommended that Lt.
Watada be referred to a general court martial on all charges – including
five charges for political speech.
Supporters nationwide demonstrated their support of Lt. Watada’s courageous
stand in over 30 cities on June 27.
“Courage to Resist is a organization that has helped many soldiers, including myself who have taken a vital stance in refusing to redeploy to Iraq…”
