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Iraq War veteran Clint Van Winkle inspires students to understand PTSD
By Michael Corby Wed, February 15, 2012 7:14 pm EDT
Van Winkle was among the first troops to invade Iraq in 2003. After returning home, the trauma he experienced overseas resulted in a diagnosis of Post-Traumatic Stress Disorder. His memoir, “Soft Spots,” provides a poignant account of the human connections often overlooked when discussing large issues like war and trauma.
In anticipation of Van Winkle's Feb. 28 lecture, several events preceding the lecture are free and open to the public:
• A panel discussion of veterans in the Wounded Warrior Project Track Program who are willing to speak about their personal experiences in combat situations and their experiences adjusting back to civilian life. These personal presentations will be followed by a “controlled Q & A” where students will be able to interact with the panel via pre-screened questions. Thursday, February 16, 2012, South Campus Wilson Center Lakeside Room, 2 – 3:30 p.m.
• A screening of Clint Van Winkle’s Documentary, “The Guilt,” followed by a short discussion with faculty and students. The film explores issues of PTSD and survivor’s guilt as it relates to veterans. This powerful documentary poignantly captures major issues many combat personnel struggle with then they return home. Thursday, February 16, 2012, Wilson Center Lakeside Room, 6 – 7:30 p.m.
The lecture, panel discussion and screening of “The Guilt” are free and open to the public.
Media are welcome to attend all of the above events. For information about interviews with Van Winkle, please call Michael Corby at 904-997-2631 or 904-608-0415.
About the AuthorMichael Corby is a writer, editor and media liaison at Florida State College at Jacksonville, his employer since 1995. His knowledge of and connections with the faculty and staff at the College enable him to provide rapid response to media inquiries and pitch stories about the fantastic FSCJ faculty and students. Send news to michael.corby@fscj.edu. Corby has a Bachelor of Arts in English and Theatre from Macalester College.