Amputations, Wounds and a Prisoner of War

Yesterday I spoke to a man about his experiences while in Korea. He was there the same time I was. While walking along the DMZ, he said, his buddy stepped on a land mine. He said something hit him in the back; it felt like a sledge hammer. It was his buddies’ leg. 

I recently had lunch with another man who tried, unsuccessfully to kick a grenade out of the area which an enemy soldier had thrown during Operation Just Cause in Panama. 

I received an email from another man who was a Marine guard at the U.S. Embassy in Lebanon when it was hit with a truck bomb. His buddies died, and he eventually fainted from the loss of blood himself. 

And, last night after spending time with my family, I stayed up late reading the account of a POW from WWII sent by the editor of my forthcoming book, Warrior SOS. 

Update: Here's the book…

To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Laughter, the Best Medicine

Recently, I heard from a good friend in the tactical law enforcement community, owner of TacView, a great tool for all SWAT teams, that another friend, Michael Finley, had throat cancer.  I just chatted with him a few months ago. Well, yesterday I sent him a note and told him I've been praying for him and that I added his name to a prayer roll at the temple. Temples are different than churches at The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. At any rate, he wrote back and thanked me, described a bit of his battle with cancer, and gave me a link to his blog. He said it's to keep family and friends updated, but after reading his blog titled "Easy Like Sunday Morning...", I just had to share.

For those who suffer tough times, attitude can make all the difference. Michael Finley has one of the best attitudes of any operator I've ever met. In fact, when I met him, he was the president of the Texas Tactical Police Officer Association (TTPOA) and a team leader on Dallas SWAT team. Often, when outsiders envision guys with such stature, they may immediately think of some giant, knuckle-dragging oaf who hates everyone and is mean. That Hollywood image is simply not the case. It's especially not true with  Finley. His giant smile and his contagious energy sets him apart as one of the most outstanding professionals I've ever met.

For some good laughs and SWAT stories, check out Michael Finley's blog. Hopefully he'll publish a book!

http://mfinleyblog.com/

Get well, brother. And, thanks for the laughs and great stories. Your optimistic attitude is infectious.


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Gun safety, realistic weapons training, and negligent discharges

When it comes to dye-marking cartridges or man marking rounds (e.g. Simunitions, Ultimate Training Munitions) and simulated training exercises, most often performed by police, military and private security professionals, it's extremely important to have assigned and marked weapons specifically for those drills or scenarios. Administrators, departments and trainers ought to realize the cost-benefit value of incorporating purchasing or adapting specifically-marked training guns that will only allow dye-marking cartridges and no live ammo. Remember, the worst thing that can go wrong and then have the courage, wisdom and foresight to authorize the budget or implement wise protocol from there.

Moreover, stopping training long-term after an event just hampers preparedness. As it is now with budgets, departments are already behind the curve when it comes to a duty to train, as outlined by case law and actual readiness for all contingencies. Too often we get lucky and live, and thus, erroneously believe we have good tactics or incorporate quality safety measures. In reality, that may well be a false protection, a false sense of security. Too often, like the civilian who pointed his pistol at me "accidently" at the gun range the other day, there are those "experienced" people fortunate enough not to have a negiligent discharge (ND) for "the last 20 years handling guns", but their lack of safety awareness with firearms has merely given way to luck. Hope is not a stragety or a tactic. When doing all the wrong things, it's just a matter of time before bad things happen. Regardless, when it comes to law enforcement training, the onus of officer safety and preparedness still remains on both the individual officer as well as the agency.

Lastly, two things to remember are these:

1) Before pulling the trigger, have positive identification of your target and what's surrounding it. Don't shoot sympathetically just because someone else is shooting. They may be in the wrong.

2) The definition of a safe direction is anywhere that if a round went off, it would not cause major property damage and no human injury.

Alas, I wrote this letter to a local Chief of Police recently. Readers may find it of interest.


Chief,

I recently received this link and thought it was well worth sharing. Examples of NDs like these should be mentioned before training, during training, at the range, at the academy, prior to shift, and so forth.

http://www.optacinternational.com/officersafety/pdfs/WhyAreWeKillingOurselves.pdf

I was a cop in Dallas at the time of the Arlington, TX police shooting incident, where a corporal shot another officer in an empty school during a Simunitions training exercise briefing. The officer forgot to go back to Sims FX rounds after lunch. I saw him speaking later on the news, and except for seeing grown men cry while I was in the war zone in Iraq, I've never seen a man weep so profoundly.

Hopefully this link is a helpful reminder to stay safe and remember to reinforce the four fundamental safety rules:

1) Treat all weapons as if loaded.
2) Never point at anything or anyone you're not willing to kill or destroy. (If you think it's unloaded or "safe", or even have the action opened or blocked, refer to rule #1.)
3) Keep your finger off the trigger until you're ready to shoot.
4) Be sure of your target, backstop and beyond.

As far as training goes, sniper/observers must keep their bolts out of battery when looking at any other officers through the glass and get a buddy check for no live ammo. That may not apply to your department specifically, but it's good to know.

Another essential absolute is to ensure that during training where guns -- even plastic, non-firing guns -- are pointed at other human beings (or even during unarmed defensive tactics), that everyone needs to get patted down. EVERYONE. It doesn't have to be ultra invasive, just hit the spots where officers might carry a concealed weapon. Check their guns and bodies for live rounds and loaded magazines. No one's perfect, we all forget. Overconfidence, boastful egos and the "It will never happen here" or "It will never happen to me"-syndrome, gets people killed.

I cannot tell you how many advanced military, SWAT and other tactical schools I've attended across the nation where the "big boy" rules applied, and where no one wanted to pat down other officers. That's an accident waiting to happen, especially when you're dealing with firearms directly; frankly, it's stupid and dangerous. Moreover, if anyone leaves and returns, including any late-comers, everyone needs to be checked again.

We can never be too safe. Perhaps you may recall my safety briefs prior to teaching you and your officers on the range or in the school. We've got to be safe and help each other be safe. Safety is a culture and a mindset, but too often we fail to recognize that "officer safety" also means safety when conducting training and handling our personal, off-duty and duty firearms.

Finally, I'm presenting at this year's ILEETA Conference on Reintigrating the Returning Warrior. There are too many cops and too many veterans who are suffering. Hopefully they'll be a good turn out and officers and administrators can come away with some strategies for winning the personal war with stress, PTSD and depression. If you can't make it, feel free to let others know about it, if you think it would benefit them personally or professionally.

Respectfully,

--
Jeffrey Denning

Tennyson's Sir Galahad

Sir Galahad
by Alfred Lord Tennyson


My good blade carves the casques of men,
   My tough lance thrusteth sure,
My strength is as the strength of ten,
   Because my heart is pure.
The shattering trumpet shrilleth high,
   The hard brands shiver on the steel,
The splinter'd spear-shafts crack and fly,
   The horse and rider reel:
They reel, they roll in clanging lists,
   And when the tide of combat stands,
Perfume and flowers fall in showers,
   That lightly rain from ladies' hands.

How sweet are looks that ladies bend
   On whom their favours fall!
For them I battle till the end,
   To save from shame and thrall:
But all my heart is drawn above,
   My knees are bow'd in crypt and shrine:
I never felt the kiss of love,
   Nor maiden's hand in mine.
More bounteous aspects on me beam,
   Me mightier transports move and thrill;
So keep I fair thro' faith and prayer
   A virgin heart in work and will.

When down the stormy crescent goes,
   A light before me swims,
Between dark stems the forest glows,
   I hear a noise of hymns:
Then by some secret shrine I ride;
   I hear a voice but none are there;
The stalls are void, the doors are wide,
   The tapers burning fair.
Fair gleams the snowy altar-cloth,
   The silver vessels sparkle clean,
The shrill bell rings, the censer swings,
   And solemn chaunts resound between.

Sometime on lonely mountain-meres
   I find a magic bark;
I leap on board: no helmsman steers:
   I float till all is dark.
A gentle sound, an awful light!
   Three angels bear the holy Grail:
With folded feet, in stoles of white,
   On sleeping wings they sail.
Ah, blessed vision! blood of God!
   My spirit beats her mortal bars,
As down dark tides the glory slides,
   And star-like mingles with the stars.

When on my goodly charger borne
   Thro' dreaming towns I go,
The cock crows ere the Christmas morn,
   The streets are dumb with snow.
The tempest crackles on the leads,
   And, ringing, springs from brand and mail;
But o'er the dark a glory spreads,
   And gilds the driving hail.
I leave the plain, I climb the height;
   No branchy thicket shelter yields;
But blessed forms in whistling storms
   Fly o'er waste fens and windy fields.

A maiden knight--to me is given
   Such hope, I know not fear;
I yearn to breathe the airs of heaven
   That often meet me here.
I muse on joy that will not cease,
   Pure spaces clothed in living beams,
Pure lilies of eternal peace,
   Whose odours haunt my dreams;
And, stricken by an angel's hand,
   This mortal armour that I wear,
This weight and size, this heart and eyes,
   Are touch'd, are turn'd to finest air.

The clouds are broken in the sky,
   And thro' the mountain-walls
A rolling organ-harmony
   Swells up, and shakes and falls.
Then move the trees, the copses nod,
   Wings flutter, voices hover clear:
"O just and faithful knight of God!
   Ride on! the prize is near."
So pass I hostel, hall, and grange;
   By bridge and ford, by park and pale,
All-arm'd I ride, whate'er betide,
   Until I find the holy Grail.


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

My Flag -- the United States of America Flag

I awoke this morning, after dreaming, with a renewed vigor to protect the America I know and love -- to do all in my power to preserve the greatest symbol freedom in the world today, Old Glory.  I felt, as I nearly leaped from my bed, to contact my elected officials and with all the vigor I have to muster, encourage them to preserve, sustain and/or create any and all such laws that make dropping the flag, burning, trampling, spitting upon, or disrespecting, defiling, or defacing the national flag, in any way, illegal.  

We must treat the Stars and Stripes as the physical representation of all America holds dear.  The fabric of three colors -- red, white and blue -- beautifully sewn in a pattern rich in national historic meaning, is the symbol of a free people and a free nation.  That incredible flag which was still standing during the War of 1812, while Francis Scott Key was held a helpless prisoner on a British vessel during the attack at Fort McHenry, is the flag I hold most dear.  That same flag, given 37 more stars, is the flag of my home.  

We must treat the United States flag as the symbol of peace and power she truly is.  Americans must look to that beautiful, incredible and majestic piece of art as the sacred emblem of “the Republic for which it stands.”  

I have seen the flag -- my flag -- flown high over the U.S. Capitol, the White House, and U.S. embassies and consulates in foreign lands.  I have seen the fabric and material honored, presented and saluted by men and women in military uniform.  I have witnessed men literally weep while looking to her and the free nation she represents.  I have wept myself and have received chills over my entire frame while saluting and listening to our national anthem, the Star-Spangled Banner.  I have silently watched as our flag has been draped over the coffins of American countrymen who have given the ultimate sacrifice in defense of all she stands for -- foremost being freedom, liberty and equality. 

May the blood of our forefathers, who created and erected the blessings we now enjoy because of their actions, and because of the Declaration of Independence and the United States Constitution, be revered, respected and honored forever.  May the faithful and courageous military men who hoisted the flag of our nation from Fort McHenry to Iwo Jima and beyond, be remembered for sacrificing for our great nation, represented foremost by our greatest symbol of freedom, the American flag.  May the war dead who die today and tomorrow be allowed an honorable burial without protesters who, in essence, are certainly disrespecting my flag, my nation, and my brothers and sisters in arms. 

I pray that our flag -- my flag and your flag -- will be the banner of freedom it truly represents, the beacon of hope for all mankind, the light and glory of “one nation under God.”  May this blessed symbol -- held high at ball parks, waved at parades, worn on every military uniform, and flown at half-mast during national catastrophes and loss of life -- become, and forever stay, the symbol of hope for a better way, the sacred evidence of self-government, the meaning of all things Americans cherish most, the incarnate Constitution of these United States of America.  

May each of us gain anew the appreciation for Old Glory.  May we each rally together, around and behind and beside this blessed symbol of freedom.  May we all look high to see this extraordinary piece of fabric forever waving in the breeze and cherish all she stands for.  May national patriotism shown to our flag be honored, respected, and sustained and enforced by law.  

Finally, may all those who value freedom and all those who have stood with arms to defend her rich blood-red stripes, her deep-blue sky and pure-white stars and stripes, forever thank God for all she stands for.  May this people -- the American people -- remember what Abraham Lincoln once so eloquently encouraged in his Gettysburg Address every time we look upon the folded or unfurled flag.  Let us “be here dedicated to the great task remaining before us ... that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom—and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth.”

The Hands -- a powerful poem by Richard Brewer

The following is a brief commentary and a poem written by warrior-advocate and Marine, Rich Brewer, founder of One Warrior Won. 

I wrote this shortly after putting the cold steel of my weapon in my mouth, then realizing “My Hands” were not done yet.  By the grace of God my journey continues, and with BBOWW, we will march forward and make sure so many others never get to the point so many of us already have!! 

The Hands

The hands that were once used as a pacifier for a new born child.

The hands that were used to reach out to hold my mothers legs.

The hands that were held by my parents to ensure I stayed close by.

The hands that awkwardly wrote that first love note in third grade.

The hands that were used as a teenager to prove my self worth.

The hands that reached out and held my first girlfriend.

The hands that struggled to breakaway from ordinary and reached for extra-ordinary.

These were the hands that rose and swore to defend this nation from the enemy; foreign and domestic.

These were the hands that nervously grasped the stair rails of a bus bound for Parris Island in the middle of the night.

These were the hands that were held tight to the seams of my “trousers” while being screamed at standing on yellow footprints.

These were the hands that climbed obstacles they never thought possible, that learned to defend for the righteous.

These were the hands that first felt the cold comfortable steel of my newly issued M16A1 rifle.

These were the hands that spent weeks feeling, touching, learning every part of the very weapon that was to keep me and others alive.

These were hands that proudly had the Eagle, Globe and Anchor pressed into its palm transforming from a mere mortal to a Marine.

These were the hands that committed to God, Country, and Corps.

These were the hands that embraced the brotherhood that has been bonded by blood, sweat and tears.

These were the hands that grasped the seat of the swaying Chinook at it took evasive action while delivering us to the hostile shores.

These were the hands that held firm, aimed true and gently squeezed the trigger to silence a different set of hands that will forever remain unknown.

These were the hands that steadied scared people as they were gently pushed to waiting choppers to carry them from the surreal reality of war to safety.

These were the hands that held the head of youth, shattered by a snipers bullet, providing comfort awaiting the last breathe.

These were the hands that held my own head down in holes never deep enough as the rounds pounded way to close.

These were the hands that waved good-bye to thousands of Marines as they sailed away from the hostile shore.

These were the hands that grasped tightly to the fourteen Marines left behind to guard the bees’ nest that had been vigorously stirred.

These were the hands that clasped tightly every night in prayer to preserve my life until I woke, and again in the morning to pray to survive the day.

These were the hands that waved frantically to my office colleagues to take cover as I grabbed my weapon and ran towards the noise. 

These were the hands that reached for that sliding glass door that allowed me to step onto the exposed balcony.

These were the hands that attempted to hold steady the weapon I knew so well, only to have it blown from my hands by the force of the bomb.

These were the hands that flew through the air for untold feet only to crash against the collapsing wall.

These were the hands that were buried and felt my own body to see if it was in one piece.

These were the hands that scratched, clawed, and dug my way out from what I believed to be a premature coffin, only to hear and see the hell unfolding around me and wanting to crawl back into my hole.

These were the hands that would hold the soon to be lifeless bodies of two close buddies trying to make their last moments less lonely.

These were the hands that would dig, uncover and carry untold numbers from the burning and destroyed building.

These were the hands that again took hold of my precious weapon and stood guard against a secondary attack.

These were the hands that held my body off the ground as I fell to my knees, not knowing why until it was realized the blood covering me was my own.

These were the hands that shakily signed me out of a field hospital to return to the pile of flesh infested rumble.

These were the hands that stood guard over the ground that only mere moments ago stood the American Embassy for four sleepless days.

These were the hands that wiped away dust from my eyes and wished for the tears that never came to flow.

These are the hands that now try to hold a fragile life and family together.

These are the hands now that try to hold a beast within at bay.

These are the hands today that hold a wonderful wife.

These are the hands that two young children rush to for safety and love.

These are the hands that have tried to teach young minds the perils and purpose of war.

These are the hands that have provided protection to communities from those who wish them harm.

These are the hands that have shied from friendship for fear of being exposed.

These are the hands that are never idle in fear of some distant unseen enemy.

These are the hands that for years never reached out, stoically staying by my side.

These are the hands that wrapped themselves around a bottle, the only medicine able to take the unseen but always present pain away.

These are the hands that hide the scars that so many do not wish to see, yet so many of us bear.

These are the hands that have reached out after 25 years for help, and were slapped by those professing to be helpers.

These are the hands that had to enter battle all over again simply to be recognized as worthy of treatment and care.

These are the hands that have been clasped together in prayer for someone to understand.

These are the hands that have been clenched in anger over those who have never served making us prove we indeed did serve.

These are the hands that have flailed about speaking jargon others seem to think is a foreign language.

These are the hands that have spent countless hours typing rebuttals to the appeals of my appeals.

These are the hands that have fantasized about being around the neck of so many who say they are there to help, but never do.

These are the hands that have been thrown in the air, and wishing to wash themselves of the entire process.

These are the hands that have written farewell notes to loved ones; too tired to go on.

These are the hands that have tried to write, hoping to get someone to see what I feel.

These are the hands that have grasped the cold comfortable steel of an old trusted friend in hopes of ending the pain and suffering.

These are the hands that held a family vacation itinerary in one hand, and the end in the other.

These are the hands that God made and Parris Island perfected.

These are the hands that have saved so many, and protected so much.

These are the hands that have lost battles, but will eventually win the War.

These are the hands that remain clasped in prayer every night, praying that justice will prevail for me, and all who suffer from the beast within.

These hands paid a dear price for this country.  Now it is time for this country to pay a little back. 

All gave some; Some gave all. What has the country given to them?

THIS poem and an interview with Richard Brewer, and many others will soon be featured in a forthcoming book about warriors with wounds and PTSD. Be sure to check out Warrior SOS for updates. 

To read amazing interviews, including an interview from Richard Brewer, check out Warrior SOS, the book available on Amazon.com  http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Rescue US Marine (Military Intelligence) held in Iran

I couldn't sleep last night, knowing there was a U.S. Marine held captive with the sentence of death looming about him.

Wall Street Journal: Ex-Marine Reaches 500 Days of Imprisonment in Iran

Of course, there's no such thing as an "Ex"-Marine; they're just Marines.

Here's the letter I sent to my U.S. Representative and Senators:

Amir Hekmati is being held prisoner and under the death penalty in Iran. He is a former linguist from the US Marine Corps. He was born in the US. He is a veteran of the Iraqi war. 

I personally know one of his former Marine Corps friends very well. I've vetted them both. 

I am a veteran of Iraq and have a Top Secret government clearance. I cannot imagine how horrible it is to be in his shoes. I pray he is still alive. 

Please act immediately to see that he is safe. 

Urgently and Respectfully, 

Jeffrey Denning

For more information, check out these links:

http://freeamir.org

U.S. condemns reported Iran death sentence for former U.S. Marine

Family of detained Iranian-American “shocked” at spy charges

Amir Hekmati, a former marine and decorated war veteran, was born in Arizona and raised in Michigan. Within weeks of setting foot in Iran for the first time in August 2011 to visit his grandmother, he was arrested, interrogated and imprisoned.  Months later he appeared on Iranian TV, forced to confess he was a CIA operative. The U.S. State Department denies he was spying for the U.S. government and calls the case a gross miscarriage of justice. While Amir languishes in prison, his health deteriorating, and his father dying of cancer, his family pleads with the Iranian government to let him go free.

Source: CNN


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

War and the Work of Death

War and the Work of Death
by Jeffrey Denning

Warrior SOS

from my column at http://newscornerusa.com/jdenning.html (no longer operable)

The warrior is taught and trained and encouraged to destroy. His skill lies in battle. A physical battle between bodies and of souls--his own soul, his own life or the life of his comrade, and those enemies seeking his destruction. In seeking death, the warrior dies. 'Tis possible to die, but to go on living. Those select veterans and their family members understand what that means. They "get it." They understand the significance of it.

Or do they?

The warrior's greatest asset is to shut off a portion of his own yearning for life. This is the ultimate sacrifice. Dying is not what the warrior seeks, but to be skilled enough to kill, and to kill well. The most effective and efficient warriors will begin to not care for life. Not that they will murder intentionally, unjustly injure those who do not "deserve" it, but that they can dispose of the life and the body of the enemy, at least to some degree--to raise their rifle, to look him in the face and to watch the enemies' body go flaccid and limp. Such a mental image and such a physical act--including the training for such up-close and personal ending of life altercations--has its repercussions. Of course it does. It should.

The greatest fear may not be that life will end, but that he will end the life of another or that he will fail his team. In some aspects, and under some conditions, this transforms the warrior where he now considers himself less civil. Unworthy. Unable to cope with himself--whether he couldn't save a buddy or whether he took a life or many lives in war. Certainly more circumstances exist than these. Regardless, the warrior now views the world differently. He is a changed man. His life has already ended although he remains awake. Although alive, he may feel dead. He may feel life is over.

But this is not all. Much deeper is the departing life and energy he once knew.

The searing that comes under war can paralyze. Such a fear of being wounded or the fear of the unknown--what shall occur upon death of his own body--can cause acute physical stiffening. In such a mental position the warrior physically freezes. But training will force him to continue on, if not for someone beside him yelling at him to attack or retreat.

Naturally he may want to run. To flee. To get to safety. But the most effective warrior will cease to live. He will neither care for his own life nor the life of his enemy. He may only care for his comrade and brother-in-arms. He is professional. He is emotionally numb to some degree. That is survival.

Once such a warrior has ceased to live on the battlefield, his emotions become fluid to physical acts, his nerves become more relaxed. Instead of freezing, he can now muster the energy to kill. His reactions improve. His instincts develop.

In the state of his own lifelessness, beginning first in his mind, paradoxically he is now in greater control of life--at least while in the war zone. His skill melds with his mind, and vice versa. The chemistry and physiological nature of his mortal body now work in harmony with the mission he has. Target discretion improves; target acquisition improves; readiness and willingness improves, for he is willing to die but more willing to kill.

In short, he doesn't care much anymore. He ceases to care about his own physical injuries. He ceases to believe in the hope of his survival, although he holds on to the daydreams of yesteryear. He stares death in the face. And he feels that sooner or later he will depart. The fear and willingness to live dies before he dies. That makes an effective fighting warrior. But it has tremendous setbacks after the battle is over. The battle never leaves him entirely although he may leave the battle scene.

In a constant state of battle, his mind and psyche change. He is altered emotionally. He becomes conditioned to living war. That is where he lives. That is where he thrives. War becomes him and he becomes a part of war. He becomes effective at this work, although he may not believe it himself always. And for some reason his experiences in the foray will alter the course of his life forever.

His survival instinct grows. Or rather his instinct for physical war develops in a way that he becomes a hunter...and the hunted. It is not simple survival. It is man against man, warrior against enemy, man against the machines of death and carnage. This survival is the most complex of all, latent in some, swollen in the minds of those who understand and have lived the work of death.

The lack of reprieve, the semblance of normality, is bereft. Even a short R&R will not bring him home again. Physically he may be there. But he is not there. He may mask his own development from those who know him best. But it cannot hide forever. He cannot hide in war. And his war continues on within him. The course of his life is altered forever. He may find coping mechanisms; he may find emotions and changes will adapt over time to his peaceful living; but that which he experienced and that which his mind altered (chemically, emotionally and psychologically), have forever changed the course of his existence.

In war he is nice to have around, for it would not take long for those survival instincts and deft reactions to be stirred up again. But without a war to fight, he may be lost. He does not want to fight anymore; he tries to let it go. Or, he will volunteer to go back to the battle, in some way or in some form.

In seeking the work of death he has died himself. And unless he can find a meaning and reason and a purpose for living, he will go on living as though he is dead.

Be sure to check out Warrior SOS, the book.
on Amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

PTSD and the Soul

Indeed, psychotherapists are trained not to talk much about spirituality or morality in the first place, but these are precisely the dimensions we must address in order to evolve strategies for identity reconstruction and soul restoration. 

...Moral pain, with its incumbent harm to the soul, is a root cause of PTSD. If we do not address the moral issues we cannot alleviate it no matter how much therapy or how many medications we apply. 

-- Edward Tick, "War and the Soul: Healing our Nation's Veterans from PTSD.” 


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Links

http://www.mormon.org/me/2GXB/JeffreyDenning 

About me and my religion. There's a special experience I wrote about while in Iraq. 

http://jeffreydenning.blogspot.com/

My original blog, and the blog I kept while I was in Iraq. These are more religious and political in nature, unlike this Warrior SOS blog here.

http://www.guns.com/author/jd/

Articles and videos I've written for Guns.com. 

http://newscornerusa.com/jdenning.html

My weekly column about military, law enforcement and other issues -- whatever comes to mind. (Posted, but no longer active)

Check out Warrior SOS, the book on Amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Here are some colleagues' sites or training sites that I'd recommend: 

http://www.fast762.com

If you're in Texas, be sure to get training from this SOF operator. 

http://www.invictusagi.com

These SOF operators train in Kentucky, as well as in other locations.

http://www.standbythewounded.com

Click here for a great nonprofit organization that helps wounded SOF operators, founded by an operator who's "been there."

http://www.grahamcombat.com

My good friend and one of the most energetic and intelligent instructors I know, Matt Graham.


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Letter to my Legislative Rep -- Gun Control and Mental Illness

Dear Honorable ---, 

As a former local and federal law enforcement officer, as well as a military veteran of Operation Iraqi Freedom, I strongly oppose any ban on high capacity magazines or so-called military or assault-style firearms.

As a combat veteran, there is no one who hates and opposes violence more than I do. But, I am also experienced enough in law enforcement to know that banning guns or high capacity magazines will not reduce crime or gun violence. Banning firearms or magazines usurps the freedoms and liberty of those who obey the law -- those who wish to protect themselves and their families. Criminals do not obey the law.

From shooting sports to hunting, and from firearms collection to self-defense, I urge you to please oppose any and all legislation designed to stop millions of law-abiding citizens from gun or magazine ownership.

The facts revolving around the terrible incidents at the most recent school shooting were incorrect. There was no so-called military assault-style weapon used in the school, and the gun in the trunk of the subject's vehicle was not in the AR family of rifles. To me, it appeared to be a shotgun.

There are so many more facts needing to be addressed, like the annual FBI uniform crime report, which shows that more people were bludgeoned to death by hammers and clubs than were killed by rifles; and that banning firearms does not make an area safer. For instance, Chicago has had more firearms violence than in many years past. On the corollary, Florida concealed carry permits are up and the violence is down. These are just two brief examples of reasons to allow law-abiding citizens to continue to own, purchase, use, sell or transfer firearms according to the laws currently in place.

Certainly many things ought to be done to help our society become less violent. Strengthening the most fundamental unit of society -- the family -- will help alleviate many social ills. Avoiding and prohibiting violence that our children are exposed to in the media and in video games will do much more to help control violence than any attempt to "control" guns. After all, whether using a claw hammer or an illegally purchased or stolen firearm, the criminal element will not be entirely stopped unless his mind and heart can be changed.

In sum, I plead with you to help design, support and sustain any legislation that supports and strengthens traditional family units while allowing law-abiding veterans like myself to keep and bear arms. Moreover, please be cautious about measures or legislation that may be introduced that may negatively impact veterans (or citizens) who suffer from PTSD from legally owning firearms. As a founder Warrior SOS, I have talked with many veterans about PTSD. Having PTSD is not like what Hollywood says it is. It may be classified as a "mental illness", but this certainly does not mean that veterans who suffer from this will go "crazy" and begin shooting up kindergarten classrooms, as horrible as that comparison sounds.

Thank you very much for your time.

Very Respectfully,

Jeffrey Denning

Buy Your Warrior SOS Emergency Bug Out Bag Today!

To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Warrior SOS bug out bags for sale

Warrior SOS prepping, emergency, disaster preparedness and last days survival prepper kits are now available. The Warrior SOS go-bag is both tactical and practical.  This elite go bag, (a.k.a. E&E bag, grab bag, grab-and-go bag, emergency kit, survival kit, 72-hour kit, or bug out bag) contains products for surviving in most any conditions, urban or rural. Researched, designed and specifically created for the most urgent end-of-days survival needs, the Warrior SOS bug out bag allows users to escape and evade, or survive in harsh conditions. Whether it’s a harsh military operation, a paramilitary zone, a high adventure scouting trek, environmental disasters, or a zombie apocalypse, the items contained in this Warrior SOS bug out bag allow users to survive for at least 72 hours. Combine this essential bug out survival gear with some of your own items, if desired, to create your prepper survivor kit. This go bag can be kept in an automobile or in a grab-and-go bag at home or in the office. Be at peace by being prepared. Order your disaster survival bug out bag today, complete with products that really work when unexpected emergencies occur. Buy your kit today. Don’t delay. Supplies are limited. 

The Warrior SOS bug out bag includes:

• Stormproof Match Kit (dark green) 
• Advanced Pure Water Straw
• 36-oz. Whirl-Pak® Stand-Up Bags (2 bags in each kit)
• 12" X 12.5" aLOKSAK® waterproof bag
• Guardian Expedition Light (white light)
• Folding Utility Knife
• Ten packets of honey 
• Sandwich baggie (2 bags in each kit)
• Mini compass
• 4-oz. Datrex emergency drinking water
• Warrior SOS camouflage wristband

Order your Warrior SOS survival go bag today. 

http://www.ebay.com/itm/Warrior-SOS-Bug-out-Go-Bag-for-Emergency-Preparedness-and-Survival-/200872816695?pt=US_Flashlights&hash=item2ec4f3f037

This premiere survival kit, not available in stores or anyone other than Warrior SOS. This kit cannot be purchased by single items anywhere. The Warrior SOS go bag is worth well over a hundred dollars, but you can order today for only $89.

Order today for peace of mind tomorrow!

All orders are final. No shipping overseas.

To learn more about each product, see below for details. 

Stormproof Match Kit (dark green)

The essentials for survival include warmth. In harsh environmental conditions, even in the desert at night, temperatures can drop to life-threatening degrees. Whether surrounded by water, cold or wind, the UCO Stormproof Matches and Stormproof Match Kit will burn for up to 15 seconds each, even in the harshest conditions. The waterproof, windproof container comes with 25 stormproof matches, three strikers, a piece of cotton and one durable, floating waterproof container. 

Watch this YouTube video to see the matches burn even after submerged in water, buried in dirt or in the blowing wind. 

CAUTION: For outdoor use only. Carefully monitor lit matches until completely burned. For use by adults only. Store extra strikers in protective sleeves after use to keep dry. Store matches separately from strikers to prevent accidental ignition.

Advanced Pure Water Straw

This advanced filter and straw removes up to 99.9999% of all virus and bacteria. There is a standard filter and another filter for more murky water. It’s an ideal filter for emergencies, travel, hiking, camping or outdoor use. It can be used with any type of water source excluding salt water such as tap or rainwater, rivers, streams or even lakes. Whether in your backpack, go bag, purse, or glove compartment, this filter is a must have in disasters and emergencies. 

The filter life is good for 25 gallons of water. 

36-oz. Whirl-Pak® Stand-Up Bags (2 bags in each Warrior SOS go bag)

The highly durable, leakproof Whirl-Pak® Stand-Up Bag can carry anything, including gathering or carrying water in an emergency. The bag completely stands up by itself when filled. Equal to about one liter, the amount needed per day for the average adult, the bag have superior strength and can written upon with pen or pencil on the write-on surface. The bag features a leak proof closure and “puncture proof tabs.” When filled it stands 5” W x 15” L.  

Bags should not be used at temperatures above 180° F (82° C). Bags can be frozen to any temperature. All bags are sterilized after manufacturing. 

Video start at 1:15

12" X 12.5" aLOKSAK® waterproof bag

aLOKSAK® bags are resealable element-proof storage bags featuring a hermetic seal. That means absolutely no water, air, dust or humidity permeates the closure. They are designed for a wide range of applications and environments. The transparent bags are flexible and puncture resistant. They can be sealed over and over again and are waterproof to 60 meters / 200 feet. Temperature rated to -40F to 140F. Store books, maps, medicines, electronic devices and more. 12" X 12.5"  (30.5 X 31.8 cm)

Guardian Expedition Light (white light)

The Guardian is rugged, easy to use and can be seen for over 5 Km / 3.1 Miles. With its dual function of flashing and steady on modes, the Guardian can offer over 250 hours of use. Whether on a dark highway with a road crews or commercial fishing, the Guardian is the one light to have when you must be seen. Waterproof to 300 feet and an operational range from -40C to +50C, the Guardian is available with either belt clip, wrist strap/arm band, swivel clip key chain attachment, or magnetic base. 

The clip snaps easily onto the base of the Guardian allowing the light to be attached to molle, belts, clothing, straps, collars, and a variety of other objects.

Folding Utility Knife 

The folding utility knife is a light to medium duty cutting tool. It has a stainless steel razor blade and is very sharp. It weighs less than 8 grams with a closed length of less than three inches. 

Ten packets of honey 

Honey contains all the necessary nutrients to maintain life, including water.

The Warrior SOS go bag also includes: Sandwich baggie (2 bags in each kit), Mini compass, 4-oz. Datrex emergency drinking water, and an Warrior SOS camouflage wristband. 

Remember, it's better to have it and not need it, than to need it and not have it. Have peace of mind in an emergency. Fear and panic grows when preparation hasn't occurred. Prepare now!

Order your Warrior SOS go bag today!

To order send me a note and name your price.  Send me a note either by posting a comment here or via Facebook. Thank you.


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Guns and Freedom

“Firearms stand next in importance to the Constitution itself.  They are the peoples’ liberty’s teeth.” 

~ George Washington

"Let me make a short, opening, blanket comment. There are no good guns. There are no bad guns. Any gun in the hands of a bad man is a bad thing. Any gun in the hands of a decent person is no threat to anybody – except bad people.”

~ Charlton Heston

Facts about mass shootings: http://www.motherjones.com/politics/2012/12/mass-shootings-mother-jones-full-data

South Africa has more murders with firearms than any other nation. They also have more assaults and more rapes than any other nations. (Source: http://www.nationmaster.com/facts/Crime and  http://www.nationmaster.com/graph/cri_mur_wit_fir-crime-murders-with-firearms) 

Interestingly, they've attempted for years to ban guns. It's not working. When governments ban guns only criminals have guns.  http://www.nrapublications.org/index.php/9472/south-africas-deadly-disaster/


To read amazing interviews with warriors, check out my book Warrior SOS: Interviews, Insights and Inspiration, the book on Amazon.com. Here's the link: http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK

Is This Me? - Taken from OneWarriorWon.org

IS THIS ME

Taken from www.OneWarriorWon.org by Richard Brewer. 

You’re different since returning home?  Can’t sleep?  Have nightmares?  Can’t trust civilians anymore?  Need your back to the wall when you go out to public places?  Jump at loud noises?  Feel unsafe without a weapon? Everyday stuff seems tranquil and trite?  Small annoyances set you off?  Feeling aggressive always ready to defend or fight?  Drinking to calm the swirling and raging thoughts permeating your mind?  People telling you it’s ok to seek help, to admit you have “PTSD“, but being labeled as “crazy” or being mentally ill, just doesn’t seem right?

Well, you’re not crazy, not mentally ill.  You’re a combat vet, and all that you’ve experienced has pumped up your body’s alarm, like a car alarm set way too sensitively, so that a simple set of footsteps sets off the alarm.

You are not alone!!! Warriors since the start of time, after experiencing combat, seeing corpses, smelling burning flesh, spilled blood, or feeling death’s presence in the air, have been forever changed, and so are you.  Civilians too, raped, assaulted, motor vehicle crashes, even just witnesses to horror, get the same stuff.  Why?  Because the oldest part of our brain, our ancient hard- wiring, is first focused on survival.  And, millions of years ago, our ancestors who learned to either avoid a second go around with a life threatening situation, or managed to conquer the threat (kill the enemy) were more likely to survive and pass on their genes.

So what does this mean?  If you have flashbacks, nightmares, rage over small stuff, hyper-vigilance, emotional numbing, you do not have a mental illness, you are experiencing a natural, predictable, biological response to the trauma you have been exposed to.  You are continuing to do what allowed you to survive while in a life-threatening situation, while no longer in that situation. You have been injured and have Combat Stress, not a mental disorder. You have real pain and suffering that is preventing you from living the life you once knew and still deserve.

We will help you gain the knowledge to better understand your brain’s hard-wiring system, and help you see why you continue to experience the things that race through your mind, and why your body’s survival alarm is still set on high.  Armed with this knowledge we will be able to show you ways to begin to reset your own alarm and maintain it at a level that will allow you to react appropriately when needed, and peacefully exist in the civilian world and enjoy the life you rightful deserve.

Be sure to check out www.OneWarriorWon.org 


To read an amazing interview with the founder of One Warrior Won, check out Warrior SOS, the book on Amazon.com. http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00D3WO7VK