I served in the army reserves for a little over four years. I was deployed to Iraq from Feb. 2004-2005 with the 458th En Bn, 1st Cavalry Division. I am currently the Mid-Atlantic Regional Coordinator for IVAW.

I have come to realize many things over the last few years about our government. I was deployed when I was 19 and didn't return home until several months after I turned 21. I was overseas for a year and a week, most of my time was spent in Baghdad (BIAP). I began my deployment with an enthusiastic attitude; I wanted to see the world and serve my country. And strangely, I was still enthusiastic about the mission. As time pressed on, I began to notice some things about the war (occupation) that eventually changed my mind on a lot of issues. I realized that our purpose for being there was not, at the time, what the government and media projected. It was all based on misconceptions and false pretenses. I was appalled, confused, and hurt by the entire situation.

Since my deployment, I have had a rough transition. I have decided to become more involved and make a difference in the world I live in rather than sitting back and watching it crumble around me. I am so thankful that I have found a family as understanding and empowering as Iraq Veterans Against the War.

Peace!
Nick