PFC JOSE CRESPO
By Courage to Resist, 8:30 min. Update June 13, 2008
September 25, 2008 UPDATE. Army PCF Jose Crespo won a protracted battle for a hardship discharge from the Army this week, avoiding court martial for refusing to return to Iraq. We’re looking forward to posting a follow up interview with Jose soon.
At 5:00 am this morning, Army PCF Jose Crespo at Fort Carson, Colorado did not return to Iraq as scheduled. Jose told his sergeant that he was not “refusing” to deploy, but that he “could not” do so due to the circumstances in his family. “Well if you won’t get on [the bus], then you’re refusing.” Jose replied, “Whatever you say.” He is was placed on restriction and prepared to face court martial.
While on leave from Iraq, Jose discovered his family in the midst of a serious health crisis. Determined to help, Jose requested a hardship discharge, or a posting near his home so he could take care of his family. The Army’s response was to order him back to Iraq. Courage to Resist first spoke with him two days ago for this audio interview.
“I continue to be so impressed by the leadership of Courage to Resist in building a broad movement to free Chelsea Manning.”
