Ray Bowyer

I was against the war before it started. I protested in the streets of NYC where I was deployed as part of Operation Noble Eagle while. I was placed on stop loss and forced to go to Iraq with two months left on my contract. While serving in Iraq some one from back home told me about the IVAW so I joined. I worked hard to influence the people in my squad to limit the damage and casualties my unit was causing (not sure how much of a difference I made.) After I got home I tried to for get about my time in Iraq, but this proved to be impossible. Lately it has be hard to separate myself from the word Vet. It has taken over most aspects of my life. Including my writing and art. I feel that the America people have become indebted to the Iraqi population, our military has destroyed that place. We need to make things right (if that is even possible.) I joined the IVAW for three reasons, to end the war, rebuild Iraq and help the vets who are suffering form their experience.