Health

‘Battling BARE’: Military Wives Raise Awareness of PTSD by Shedding Clothes in Photo Campaign

Military wives have long been known for a quiet and stoic support of husbands, even during trying times such as battles with post-traumatic stress disorder. While they will continue to support them, some are saying they will no longer stay as silent and are choosing to expose the fact that PTSD affects the whole family.

In a revealing campaign to raise awareness about PTSD, women are joining with “Battling BARE,” a private organization seeking non-profit status, in the hopes of inspiring “‘silent supporters’ to ‘battle back’ and let our voices be heard by creating an outlet of support and providing resources for wives that are at their wits end trying to help their husbands heal.”

Photos are what first really got the campaign attention, as they show women baring a little skin marked with a pledge, which reads:

Broken by battle,
Wounded by war,
I support our troops forever — to them this I swore.
I will:
Quiet your silent screams
Help heal your shattered souls
Until once again every soldier is whole.
Battle Bare

Check out this slideshow showing a few photos submitted to Battling BARE:

 

Why were the photos the chosen way to go for the campaign, which was formally created in April 2012? Founder Ashley Wise, a military wife of a soldier battling PTSD, said once to a friend, “I kind of want to take my clothes off and streak across the 101st command building, because then maybe the general or someone would listen to what I’m saying.” The Leaf Chronicle in Tennessee recently interviewed Wise about the program and her experience with her husband’s PTSD:

“I decided that streaking the command building was not a good idea,” Wise said. “That was when I took the first picture holding Rob’s M4 and I wrote the pledge on my back.”

[...]

Wise posted the picture on Facebook. Within 24 hours, other military support groups had contacted her praising her bare-backed pledge. Five days later the photo had broken 1,000 likes on the social networking site and the Battling Bare campaign was born.

There are rules for picture submissions, which include no images of naked private parts or faces. Children are also welcome to participate in the campaign, but only their feet can be pictured with the pledge ”Battling Bare for my daddy/mommy/soldiers.” Teens are allowed to include a photo submission of their arm or shoulder with the obvious appearance that they are wearing a shirt or tank top with a similar message as that of the wives.

At of the time of this posting, Battling BARE has more than 3,700 likes on Facebook.

Watch this Battle BARE video to learn more about the campaign (Warning: Images may be disturbing to some):

(H/T: Daily Mail)

Comments (209)

1 2 3 4
  • rdk
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:14pm

    Goofy stuff!

    Report Post »  
    • NHwinter
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:20pm

      No, not goofy. They are trying desparately to make a point. We owe our returning military everything! We have the life we do because of them. They deserve more pay than Congress, they deserve more medical help than Congress and the President (he has never served or been in battle). God bless our military, their spouses and family.

      Report Post » NHwinter  
    • JRook
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:35pm

      While the individuals who are truly in need should receive the counseling or care they need. This PTSD diagnosis is becoming a lot like ADD for kids who have too much energy. War is not fun, war is by all measures immoral and no one should be asked to kill for the state. But if you enlist you should understand and accept the situations you will be confronted with. And by all accounts the warfare that is occurring now is far less traumatic than WWI, WWII and even Vietnam. I am reminded of the folks who think that every one who murders someone, must be insane. They are not and probably ever veteran is no suffering from PTSD. However, we should divert some of the $ billions being wasted on weapons systems that we don’t need, like nuclear submarines, to providing care to the veterans that are truly in need. Not to a fad diagnosis.

      Report Post »  
    • soybomb315
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:00pm

      “Goofy stuff”

      So says the brainwashed sheep of America who think the situation is normal. We live sheltered lives away from suffering, away from sacrifice, away from hurt. Our folks in the Army and Marines have been crapped on by Washington for the last 11 years. They send them wherever they please without regard to mission or deployment fatigue. And then when they arrive at some god-forsaken country they get ambushed and have to fight against guerrilla warfare. For most, this is not what they signed up for.

      God forbid the better half finally stands up and demands answers from our politicians!!! The situation is not normal, its all f-ed up

      Report Post » soybomb315  
    • SLOWBIDEN
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:03pm

      @jrook. you are a turd that needs to be flushed

      Report Post »  
    • chuckm310
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:09pm

      Goofy stuff??? I am a retired Air Force enlisted man and Vietnam vet. This video and these women is some of the most incrediable, loving examples of what each of our vetrans need to recover from the mental wounds that occured in all the wars of our nation since the beggining of solder, seaman and air force suffering. The dedication of these wives is the example all of us need. As a PSD sufferer and plaged by the nightmares of the body bags we, “in air freight” at TanSanNhut unloaded almost on a daily basis. SHAME ON those of YOU, that cannot fathom the depth of suffering the solders and familys go through upon the return of their loved ones from the combat zones. How dare you compare the suffering of combat solders from one war to another. In the heat of combat, from corssing the Delaware to the mountains of Afganistan, when the fighting starts, regardless of the time or region, each solder fought, at that time, to protect and defend the rest of your asses and laid his or her life on the line. It was all I could do not to cry watching this wonderful incrediable video. You ladies and your children are hero’s within your own right. JOB WELL DONE. (BTW, I don‘t give a damn which of you don’t like my lack of ability to spell). Thank you ladies for your dedication and understanding of our delima.

      Report Post »  
    • NHwinter
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:14pm

      JRook – I’m not sure, if you enlist, you can ever be fully prepared for the horrors of war. I, also, don’t believe all wars are immoral. The OT is full of wars and God was on the side of good. War is terrible and I would rather see the leaders of countries fight it out in the boxing ring then send young men and women to do the fighting for them, but we must always fight evil, domestic and foreign. I don’t think all returning soldiers are suffering PTSD and they are not saying that, but it certainly deserves more attention. If you have never served or fought in battle, you know not what you are talking about.

      Report Post » NHwinter  
    • NHwinter
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:18pm

      chuckm310 – Thank you for your service and spell anyway you want. Your message was clear and I support what you said. The soldiers and their families go through more than we could ever realize and I am grateful to all of them.

      Report Post » NHwinter  
    • momrules
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:44pm

      Chuck310…………I couldn’t agree more and thank you sir for your service.

      Report Post »  
    • GENEPAGLIARI
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:33pm

      Never has there been a more ignorant, self-centered comment.

      Report Post »  
    • ReddirtOkie
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:42pm

      No not goofy. To ChuckM310, Welcome home brother. As you said, all wars have their horrors and vets from different eras coped with them in any way they could. Some successfully and some not. The wives have suffured in silence as they try to make their men whole and understand their mans horrors. I don’t think we can ever be made whole again but these brave women are doing their damnednest to make us so and deserve our support too. If showing a bare back with writing on it got your attention, then they are a success. Many of my fellow Vietnam vets feel like they were crapped on by our country and have an anger against anyone that would besmerch any of our new vets. They understand the suffering in silence and most vow not to let it happen again. PTSD is real, I know and ChuckM310 knows. Now my youngest son is in boot camp to become a Marine and start to form that special brotherhood of men who understand that freedom has a special meaning for those who fight for it that the protected will never know. I am proud of him and proud of these women who are fighting for their man.

      Report Post »  
    • Beauzeaux
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:53pm

      ‘Bout freakin’ time SOMEONE paid attention to our heros!!!!!!!!!!….(sheesh)

      (and YOU>>RDK<<<, have ya head so far up ya butt, you'll NEVER get a tan……….(just sayin')

      Report Post » Beauzeaux  
    • pavnvet
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:55pm

      @ RDK I am a Vietnam Vet that, although I had a great childhood, after my service, I never quite fit in. Several failed marriages, many jobs, never having a good nights sleep, flashbacks and I could go on with what symptoms I have. It wasn’t until I was almost homeless and nowhere else to turn that I went to the VA and was diagnosed with PTSD. Anything that makes military command more aware of the problem can only help because early intervention helps many enjoy a more useful and peaceful life.

      @JROOK. Not every service member that serves in a combat zone has PTSD. That is just a stupid comment. One doesn’t go, Yep, I got PTSD and that is it. Depending on the VA facility, there is testing and hours of evaluation. The diagnosis must be made by a trained professional and those of us that are considered 100% disabled due to PTSD go through another hell by the VA with Compensation and Pension examinations, as well as counseling, evaluations and being a guiena pig to see what medications lessen the symptoms. I would trade the lousy money I receive to just feel normal. Why don’t you go volunteer at a VA Medical Center and see first hand the ruined lives of those that suffer PTSD? Maybe you wouldn’t be so quick to judge what PTSD is.

      Report Post » pavnvet  
    • LSTMANSTNDNG
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:28pm

      @JROOK. Any Crticizing of a service members struggles and how he deals with them should be brought up by his brothers and his brothers alone.

      Although I’m still proud I fought to make sure you can still say it.

      Report Post »  
    • harv1961
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:48pm

      In the oath they took out the word lawful orders of the President and Officers appointed over me. Was this a clerical error or is this the new oath? Help these american hero’s whenever possible.

      Report Post » harv1961  
    • resme
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:52pm

      @soybomb , Excellent post. The best thing we could do for our soldiers right is to bring them home. It’s so sad to see stuff like this happening. If justangry, is right, 18 suicides a day from veterans returning home.

      Report Post » resme  
    • Steelheadisadouche
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 8:14pm

      Rookie
      Again with the piehole and shutting and not knowing jackchit? Do you have a mentor that can just smack the turds out of you 2x a day for gp alone? Read your very own bs before hitting enter.

      Report Post »  
    • SaintzOfAk
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 9:27pm

      JROOK…i haven’t felt like truly beating the $h!t out of another Human Being for quite some time…thanks for the inspiration, now step up and take your thrashing like the spineless little fkn COWARD! you are.

      Report Post » SaintzOfAk  
    • SaintzOfAk
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 9:28pm

      These are truly devoted and inspirational women defending their men with Honor and Integrity….God Bless every one of them.

      Report Post » SaintzOfAk  
    • hallkbrdz
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 10:25pm

      Not Goofy.

      I feel for the current military – being sent all over the world to fight battles without defined military goals. Impossible to win and useless.

      If we put the Department of Defense back in charge of the defense of this country AT HOME – and not political games all over the globe – these types of problems will almost disappear.

      Report Post » hallkbrdz  
    • jzs
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 10:50pm

      I’m not sure of the issues and challenges that returning veterans face, but I’m glad they have access to socialized medicine. They deserve that.

      I hate to think of what would happen to them were that not the case and they, maybe, were given a stipend to buy their own insurance from a company who could deny them coverage for any pre-existing condition, like Paul Ryan wants. At least they’ve got the VA.

      Report Post » jzs  
    • soybomb315
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 11:13pm

      Think about how these guys joined the military because of their patriotism and desire to serve. Then our country uses them to be patrol all day long and be IED magnets. Sometimes they are used to provide security to private american contractors who are making 5 times the money for 5 times less dangerous job. Even if you manage to come home safe, i dont know how you cope with seeing all that in addition to the deaths and injury

      Report Post » soybomb315  
    • Stoic one
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 11:52pm

      I remember Guam during the Tet offensive (sp?), the looks of our men going – the looks upon returning. The hushing of my questioning, from my parents, of those who did not return. I remember 10yrs later going to college, being placed on the vets floor in the dorms – I was told I fit in. ALL of our service men were affected. Who needed counseling? Not all; most certainly some.
      Our government commanded – they served. It’s responsibility Is to HEAL our servicemen (and women) to the best our our current ability. Not dismiss the condition.
      I saw…
      I thank each and every one of you for your service
      May God bless you and your families.

      Report Post » Stoic one  
    • midnightvelvet
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 1:25am

      I agree with their reasons. However, I do wonder where we are going as a country. Everybody, it seems, takes their clothes off to make a point nowadays.

      Report Post »  
    • MontaraMissileMan
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 1:42am

      Wow JRook, just wow…

      Nice stab at the most effective portion of the Navy BTW. Obviously you have zero clue what we submariners do/have done on a daily basis. Subs are the most cost effective and results driven portion of the US Navy, do not bash them. That’s like calling the SEALS wusses, not a good idea and a lie.

      Also, no matter what, you will never be properly prepared to have to fight another human being in war. The terrible things done during operations in order for the men to survive would destroy most people. You never go to war and come back the same. PTSD is very serious business and is not over diagnosed. To say such a thing is disgusting and wrong.

      Report Post »  
    • Watchingtheweasels
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 6:03am

      Can’t really see the guys who came back from D-day endorsing something like this.

      Report Post »  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 8:44am

      @Chuck

      Well said, brother. When I landed in Vietnam, I saw the bodies being loaded. It must have been terrible duty.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 9:36am

      @Watchingtheweasels, I beat myself over that very same thing when I was diagnosed. Should we add guilt to their problems? Now I just question why that is. Is it the because the cause was so much more noble then? Are we just softer now? Could it be side effects from the new vaccines or crap they prescribe us when they rush to a diagnosis? Regardless, we need to find the answer. I‘m sure there’s a few that are playing the system, but I‘d bet the ranch that not one legit veteran wouldn’t trade their paycheck for an answer and a cure.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • NHwinter
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 10:16am

      jzs – isn’t it just like you to bring up socialized medicine and then say its good they have the VA. Oh my gosh!!! They VA is so underfunded and the vets do not receive the best of care. It could be and should be so, so much better. If Obamacare goes through it will only get worse. If only you knew what you were talking about!!!

      Report Post » NHwinter  
    • pavnvet
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 10:58am

      @JZS, yep you want to see what government run health care is like, follow me around on my next visit to the VA. Or better yet, go to a VA Med Center around 3 PM and see how many patients are being seen. Maybe, you would like to travel 130 miles to get a blood test done.? Or have to travel 208 miles to see a specialist. Get your head out of your azz. BTW, returning OIF/OEF vets get VA care for free for 5 years. After that, they pay a per visit fee and a fee for medications unless they are disabled. And unless the disabilities amount to 50%, the only thing that is free is care for the disability. This country spends 50 Billion a year on veteran health care and it sucks. That is in general, there are some good people but they are either crushed by the bureaucracy or by their fellow employee’s laziness, incompetence or lack or empathy.

      Report Post » pavnvet  
    • David Hudson
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 1:04pm

      It’s not goofy at all. I retired from the Army three years ago after my third combat deployment. There are many programs out there for veterans with PTSD such as myself (we’ll save the discussion about there effectiveness for another day).

      My son is still serving. He has two Iraq tours behind him and leaves for Afghanistan later this year. What is missing are programs for our men and women still serving. Still being assigned to the unit they deployed with mitigates PTSD somewhat, but it doesn’t treat the disorder.

      What many who haven‘t served don’t know, and many that have served forget, is that once a unit returns, the Soldiers that make up that unit continue with their career. This may mean an assignment to recruiting or drill sergeant duty, a transfer to a new unit, or temporary duty as a student at a service school. These troops in particular need a program to address the issue. My opinion is that the “best medicine” is to be with the guys and gals you were deployed with. But this isn’t a realistic solution. We cannot afford to wait until our servicemen and women end their service to address this.

      Report Post » David Hudson  
    • Sgt_Rock
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 2:56pm

      @JROOK As a veteran of OIF II, OEF and a retired Senior NCO (E-8) I can assure you sir, these wars are every bit as traumatic as WW I and WWII. WAR SUCKS, DUDE! Any war in which people, friends die is f*&#ing traumatic you pencil neck dip ****! I have this message for you doubters read carefully; don’t think that just because you’ve played Call of Duty every night since your 12th birthday you have any clue what combat is like. Combat is not a game and there is no reset button. If you are compelled to be a real world warrior I suggest you go see a recruiter. If not, if you just want to talk out of your a**, I suggest you put down the game controller and get a life…hey was that the microwave I heard? I think your pizza pocket is ready.

      PTSD is real, it hurts and it kills. It is as insidious as any form of cancer and like most cancers can be treated…if detected early and dealt with honestly. I am proud of these women, as I would be my wife or daughter (both soldier’s wives).

      Oh, and BTW I like nuclear submarines. The more bad guys they kill with missiles the better. I like big fast bombers and attack helicopters and stand off platforms that kill stuff fifty grid squares away. Maybe some of that billions we spend on NPR, public broadcasting, SSI for dope smokers and other worthless social programs could be diverted to PTSD treatment instead.

      Report Post » Sgt_Rock  
  • Brother Winston Smith
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:13pm

    CHICKENHAWKING OBAMA!
    CHICKENHAWKING (Beck-supported) ROMNEY!
    CHICKENHAWKING DEMOCRATS!
    CHICKENHAWKING REPUBLICANS!

    …ARE YOU LISTENING?!?!?!?!?!?!
    END THE NATION-BUILDING!!!!!!!!!

    RON PAUL 2012!!!!!! THE CHOICE OF THE TROOPS!!!!!!!!!

    Report Post » Brother Winston Smith  
    • GMP
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:46pm

      I think you’re out of luck

      Report Post » GMP  
    • Machtyn
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:35pm

      or is he out of duck?

      Report Post »  
    • Blazebanned
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:40pm

      Really encinom? Back on the meds you idiot…..

      Report Post »  
    • 13th Imam
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:10pm

      Ron Paul
      King Of Earmarks
      Loads a bill up with pork. Votes against it, knowing it will pass, . Then proclaims, Loudly, I Did Not Vote for the Bill. Then his district cash’s the Taxpayers check.
      Ron Paul, King of Earmarks, MAJOR LEAGUE HYPOCRITE, friend of bro winnie smith

      Report Post » 13th Imam  
    • huntinwabbits
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 8:22am

      lol @ people who still support ron paul

      Report Post »  
    • SocialistSlayer
      Posted on June 27, 2012 at 11:25am

      Ron Paul might be out but this guy has a point – We need to stop our world wide military police system. It’s not fair to our citizens or our troops. We have troops stationed all over the world and it cost us trillions and the toll on our military and their families is horrendous. For what? Nothing but political purposes! It is time to end the insanity !

      Report Post » SocialistSlayer  
  • myway
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:10pm

    I can’t believe what I am reading. These wives go through hell with their children and they got your attention. Some of you are such brainwashed fools. The little troll has an excuse you can’t fix stupid.

    http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0_StCzStBy0&feature=player_embedded

    Report Post » myway  
  • FreedomWitness
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:04pm

    Now that Don‘t Ask Don’t Tell has been repealed their will be a homosexual version of this. YUCK!

    Report Post » FreedomWitness  
  • FlippyOne
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:03pm

    Does anyone even know what first class is anymore?

    I agree that this is a noble cause. My brother-in-law was diagnosed with PTSD. He took his own life, leaving five children without a father. I look them in the eyes every day, and provocative photos will do nothing to help them heal. I pray my 15-year-old niece does not see these photos. She’s got enough to deal with facing life without her dad. She doesn’t need women she should be looking up to putting into her mind that problems can be solved by taking your clothes off. They can’t.

    Report Post » FlippyOne  
    • LeadNotFollow
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:17pm

      …
      I used to live next door to an elderly gentleman who suffered from PTSD. When he was just 18, everyone but him in his fox hole, was blown to bits by a grenade. The horror he witnessed that day, scarred him for life.

      He was medically discharged by the military, because of the disorder. He was in his nineties when he died. Not a day or night went by, that he was not tormented by the harsh vision of blood and body parts of the young men, that he was just moments before conversing with.

      This gentleman was a kind, modest, classy, soft spoken, Christian. I truly believe he would have been appalled by this display of all the bare skin with markings, even knowing that it was for his disorder.

      Report Post »  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:36pm

      I do not understand either one of your positions? Did not Jesus make a public spectacle of himself hanging naked on a cross to save you and me? He was desperate to do it and was willing to become undignified because of his love for us. His public death was scandelous in his day. These women did nothing distatsteful. No body parts are visible other than their backs. For goodness sake you see more than this with modern day bathing suits and formal dresses. I am baffled by these responses.

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
    • booger71
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:48pm

      My Dad watched as his buddies were shredded with bullets on Omaha Beach, watch them die in the many battles throughout France. Watched them blown to bits by artillery during the Battle of the Bulge.He received 3 Purple Hearts and 2 Bronze Stars and will turn 93 in August. He is still waiting for his PTSD to kick in. Maybe they older generation faced death more readily. If my mother had shed her cloths to make some point regarding WW2, I would have been ashamed of her.

      Report Post » booger71  
    • johnjamison
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:12pm

      I have to side with bogger71 on this one. 3 of my uncle were on the French beaches on D day. The other went island hopping in the pacific all came back alive. All were wounded at one time on another during the war. Jack had three purple hearts the other each had one. Not one ever complained about the job they were asked to do or regreted a single thing they did in service to their country. They faced death as alot men are asked to do at some point in their life. Two of my uncle went to Korea after ww2 and again did their part. Two of my dad’s bowling buddies were infantry in Nam same thing they never dwelled on what they did as if was their duty…however both said America had no business in Nam.
      America isn’t breeding enough men like those anymore society has become more a feminine in nature. That and drug useage has given many a weakened mentality. Of course there‘s also the fraud angle I’m sure alot are playing.

      Report Post »  
    • Veteran Patriot
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:18pm

      @FLIPPYONE
      I think you’re missing the point of this display. PTSD is just another of those things that government would like to have just go away. These women and others are trying to bring attention to this so that the people who put these soldiers in harms way will start to make more than just a token effort to help them deal with the mental and emotional scars of war. I have friends and a son-in-law dealing with this. Sometimes it’s not pretty and it does affect the whole family. It’s about time that the government that helped create this mess began to really help in cleaning it up.

      Report Post »  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:21pm

      To booger an Jon…so you mentioned WWII vets but nothing about Vietnam? You are being obtuse in your comments. Not all who go to battle suffer PTSD but some do. Just in the same way not all suffer deppression or turn to alcohol or drugs when bad things happen in life, but some do. I really don’t understand the aversion to bare backs without seeing any private parts. Many women’s dresses are open backed. I just don’t understand your reasoning or your insensitivity to these men that have given so much for your freedoms and rights. So Vietnam guys were pansies? You know how many came back addicts to one thing or another? How many have committed suicide? I think that the goal of war also plays a large role. What I mean is if your are fighting a clear evil (Hitler and the Nazi’s) then it makes even the horrors of war more pallatable because you know that evil had to be defeated at any cost. But modern warfare is much diferent as was the case in the Vietnam war and since then. I just don’t get many comments on here at all.

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:01pm

      Booger

      Your father was a brave soldier. You should be very proud of him. Whenever a person recieves a medal of valor, you know one thing for certain–something horrible happened. I guarantee that your father came back a different man that the one who left for war. Most combat vets don’t experience full blown PTSD but to say there was nothing is also not accurate.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • booger71
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:15pm

      SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      ===============
      By the time I was drafted, not many soldiers were being sent to Vietnam as the war was winding down. I had many friends that did see combat , had friends killed and receive horrendous wounds from the war. Of the scores of friends that came home, I personally know of zero that committed suicide, or had fought with PTSD. The ones I knew that had drug problems after the war, took them for the most part before boot camp. I am in know way belittling anyone who served in combat, they are heroes, and should be taken care of for any wounds they received. The point of this story was wives stripping to prove a point, which in my opinion is a low class method of getting a point across.

      Report Post » booger71  
    • beekeeper
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:28pm

      @SLEAZYHIPPOS ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING:

      If you think the important component of the crucifixion of Jesus was his wardrobe (or lack there of) and that it was a publicity stunt to get people’s attention, you really need to go back and read your bible.

      Report Post » beekeeper  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 6:57pm

      Yup, go back and look at the comments. The people against it all have an uncle, father or etc… The VETERANS are almost totally for it. That, in itself, should tell you something. All your uncles and fathers are good men, you all are just dicks.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:59pm

      @ BEE. ……you should be more discerning about what you comment and to who. I was making a point about the fact that what we call offensive and undignified is not always what God would call offensive, like eating with prostitutes. I know full well the message and point of the cross. I think you wrongly assumed my comments were meant to be disparaging about Jesus when in fact I am fully devoted to him. Just one reason is that he was willing to become humiliated for me publicly while he bore my sin in his body. Becoming naked so I might become clothed ( in his righteousness). And you may want to study more because it was a great public shame to be naked or mostly naked in that culture and Jesus was willing to do it to save his enemy…….ME!!!!

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 8:08pm

      @BEE……..also being naked is a metaphor the bible often uses to signify our sinfulness, Jesus became my sin on the cross receiving the penalty for my guilt in so being mostly naked he fulfilled even the metaphor that he was becoming my sin. Man looks on the outside of things, God looks on the inside.

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
  • blackyb
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:03pm

    Just an excuse to show their bum and mock any serious efforts to get something done. How utterly stupid.

    Report Post » blackyb  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:17pm

      I sware, the next fight or flight response I have, I hope someone like you is around to make my decision easier.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • soybomb315
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:02pm

      Blackyb is obviously not someone who is concerned about the cost of war

      Report Post » soybomb315  
    • soybomb315
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:05pm

      @blackyb
      Maybe they should publish pictures of the suicides instead

      Report Post » soybomb315  
  • RETIREDUSAFDEFENDER
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:01pm

    I think this is great! As a Iraqi war veteran it is good for the troops to know that family and friends have their back! @IMCHRISTIAN: I am not understanding your post. If you are belittling this effort then you are ignorant and should go find another country to live in. Our government askes a lot of military men and women. I have been over there in combat and war is ugly. If this helps these men and women recover from the horrors they have seen then it is a great thing and people like you need to be more understanding and remove your head from the sand!

    Report Post » RETIREDUSAFDEFENDER  
    • jens63
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:31pm

      I think this is beautiful, nothing pornographic about it, it is very personal, about loving your partner and family.

      Report Post »  
  • theblazerunner
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:56pm

    can tell that a lot on here do not volunteer down at the va…
    im disgusted with the treatment of our vets…all wars.

    dam illegalls get better treatment.

    whatever draws attention, works.

    Report Post » theblazerunner  
  • LeadNotFollow
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:55pm

    …
    Come on! Getting naked and writing on yourself?
    There’s got to be a more decent way to get your message across.

    The kids’ feet were the only photos that touched my heart. Maybe the whole campaign should have been the feet of PTSD soldiers’ children.

    Report Post »  
    • theblazerunner
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:01pm

      how about the destroyed families and mass amounts of suicides…

      can get as real as you like.

      Report Post » theblazerunner  
    • blackyb
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:04pm

      These people are defeating their own effort. They have no respect for their husbands or themselves.

      Report Post » blackyb  
    • lukerw
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:05pm

      Research the Song… Buffalo (Soldier) Gals :)

      Report Post » lukerw  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:11pm

      Many times desperate (or semi-desperate) actions place emphasis on the message that is attempting to be communicated. For example, David danced undignified before the Lord as an emphasis to his worship. On lookers, including his wife, ridiculed him for it, but God accpeted it as pure because he was pouring at his true emotions and heart. In the same way these tasteful non-offensive pictures are truly worth a thousand words expressing the deep desire to be heard, understood, and supported. Which of us that truly love our families would not become undignified (if you even see it that way) to help our loved ones. It is no more tasteless than a savior hanging publicly naked on a cross for my guilt and shame…….

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
    • soybomb315
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 5:04pm

      @lead

      I agree. Maybe showing pictures of the suicides would be more explosive

      Report Post » soybomb315  
  • theblazerunner
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:51pm

    get ‘em ladies…

    bring the attention.

    Report Post » theblazerunner  
  • rosie1000
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:51pm

    I was going to write “what a compelling and unique way of calling attention to the needs of our soldiers”. I made the mistake of reading some of the comments. I am outraged. I work on a daily basis with soldiers with PTSD, those from Viet Nam, Iraq, Afghanistan and their horror is unbelievable. All of you writing to criticize this effort need to walk one day in the shoe of these soldiers and their families. And the military has little sympathy. The military finds ways to negate their reactions to the horrific experiences; to minimize the effects on families. I say Go For It..do whatever you can to raise awareness to this issue. All of you prudes complaining of nakedness, (I’d bet at least half of you are porn addicts), get over it. This effort is classy and presented in a respectful way. Don’t like it? Don’t look! Blown up bodies are often naked. The souls of our soldiers with PTSD are stripped naked. The families are raw to the bone. Take off your denial blinders and try to find some compassion and do something to support them instead of judging their call for help. Or then again: how about just go blame the victim for putting their asses on the line for yours and your familys’ freedom.

    Report Post »  
    • theblazerunner
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:59pm

      nicely said…thank you.
      i have no longer the time or patience to type out more than the minimum chars to get the point across…

      Report Post » theblazerunner  
    • SuzInTheUSA
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:18pm

      I agree. Very well said…

      Report Post »  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:18pm

      Bless you!

      Report Post » justangry  
    • Veteran Patriot
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:26pm

      Nicely done by one who obviously understands! Some of the posters here are like the proverbial farmer’s mule. He needed a whack upside the head with a 2×4 to get his attention before the farmer could get him to do anything.

      Report Post »  
  • Dumpster Baby
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:43pm

    You know how I know you didn’t read the article?

    Report Post »  
  • hauschild
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:38pm

    I’m tired of these candy assed vets and their rasher of “disorders”.

    These people think they have it bad? I heard accounts from my great uncle who did WWII and he matter-of-fact-ly talked about how they learned to adapt and overcome. Yet, I never heard him saying anybody owed him anything.

    Sad how so many Americans say money doesn’t really mean anything, yet at every drop of a hat, the government is there, opening up the checkbook, writing rubber checks (that won’t bounce on the payee, but will on their kids).

    Report Post »  
    • DetritusScreener
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:01pm

      Maybe you should pull on some combat boots, pick up a rifle and “FOLLOW ME!”
      Instead of talking about the stories you have heard OTHER people went through and how you are sick of it.

      Never mind. You just don’t get it. You are the whining victim, aren’t you?

      Report Post » DetritusScreener  
    • hatchetjob
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:36pm

      I’m glad we can speak our minds here at the Blaze without being ridiculed… NOT!

      Report Post » hatchetjob  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:41pm

      My family has fought in the Spanish American War, WWI, WWII, Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan and Iraq. After my father passed away and just before I went to Vietnam, my mother told my wife and I that when I returned I would be different. I would tend to be quiet, look around a lot and my wife should never wake me up by shaking me.

      Mom told me that Dad went through a bout after he returned from WWII, Korea and Vietnam.

      She was right. My wife had the same conversation with our son and daughter in law before his first deployment.

      What kept us from all slipping over the line was our family heritage and talking about what we went through. My son and I talk in detail after each of his deployments. Most of us don’t sink too far into the dark side. Some do. Visit a VA hospital some time to get some perspective.

      Hauschild, I am happy you never had to go to war.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • hauschild
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:02pm

      Funny how my point about “disorders” suddenly turns only to actual wounded veterans.

      Reading comprehension is also a lost art in this country.

      Report Post »  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:22pm

      Neither Detritus nor I mentioned anything about being wounded. Nor did we write about wounded soldiers. Detritus and I both sent the same message. If you have never been in combat, you will never truly know how horrible it is. The only way is to gear up and go. I don’t believe I had any whine in my response. I tried to be as forthright and personal as I am willing to get in an open forum. I remain happy that you never had to go to war.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
  • Firefighter 538
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:35pm

    As A Veteran of 5 wars (Viet Nam, Granada, Panama, Desert Storm & Afghanistan) I find nothing wrong with the photos or the sentiment and as usual the individuals that find fault with this HAVE NEVER BEEN THERE so they can just FO!

    Report Post » Firefighter 538  
    • theblazerunner
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:52pm

      agree.

      Report Post » theblazerunner  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:16pm

      You know it, brother. I read the headline, went directly to facebook and liked/shared their page. I haven‘t even looked to see if exactly what they’ve bared and probably won’t. People seem to forget what these ladies go through too when their husbands get deployed every time the love of their lives ask them when daddy’s coming home. Screw all who poke fun or disparage these heroic women as far as I’m concerned.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • momrules
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:56pm

      Firefighter and others………there is nothing wrong with these photos. Bared backs……..that is all, except the fact that these women are bareing their souls to the rest, of what is appearing to be, an unforgiving public.
      I am truly surprised by the negative comments about this.

      Report Post »  
  • The46Percent2008
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:34pm

    If they cared for their husbands, they’d stop cheating on them while they are deployed, and they’d stop trying to show the world what only their husbands should be viewing….shameless.

    Report Post » The46Percent2008  
    • Dumpster Baby
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:46pm

      You know how I can tell you didn’t read the article?

      Report Post »  
    • Mavrick2012
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:06pm

      My words exactly….You don’t think showing your half naked bodies to the world may cause your hubbies even more PTSD?? Where did all the intelligent people go?? Just Sayin!

      Report Post »  
    • EM2T93
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:45pm

      As someone who once had a significant other overseas, I don’t even know how to politely or respectfully respond to your across-the-board judgemental irresponsible and totally hateful comment about these wives who obviously love their husbands…as well as all the wives who have faithfully stood by their husbands now, and throughout history. They suffer with their men. And, those who remain stateside worry constantly, miss his/her loved one beyond words, and sacrifice more than can be measured. It’s a heartwrenching experience for both those behind and those serving. The he!! with what you said.

      Report Post »  
  • The46Percent2008
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:29pm

    HAHAHAHAHAHA!!! So, what’s the difference between this and when their husbands go on deployment? Majority of Army wives these days, if they cared about their husbands, wouldn’t cheat on them constantly while they are gone. If you haven’t been in the military, you have no idea how rampant cheating wives are….it’s like a disease.

    Report Post » The46Percent2008  
  • lukerw
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:26pm

    Sorry… we are Unique Individuals… my Experiences & Memories are Mine Alone… no one can void the Images or Dislikes or Fears or Hates… and Changes are Forever.

    Report Post » lukerw  
  • SamIamTwo
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:14pm

    I recall the old days when if I did something wrong my father who was in the Air Force would get in serious trouble for not controlling his household….

    Report Post » SamIamTwo  
  • SamIamTwo
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:11pm

    Just when you thought you had everything covered…sheesh.

    Report Post » SamIamTwo  
  • drphil69
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:05pm

    Its a left wing organization trying to get money from the right…

    Report Post »  
    • TROLLMONGER
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:13pm

      Beck has taught you how to respond with propaganda well padiwan.

      Report Post » TROLLMONGER  
  • IMCHRISTIAN
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:03pm

    If I was your husband or my mother, I would be so ashamed. I am soooo ashamed of you now. These images will be with you and your families forever. Congratulations for being the laugh of the community.

    Report Post »  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:16pm

      Read the article. No faces. No phots of private parts. What are you ashamed of? These women (mostly) suffer in silent with a terrible situation. I know my wife did and so did my mom.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
    • HorseCrazy
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:22pm

      dismayed vet I have long battled a severe form of inlamatory bowel disease maybe to bring attention to my disease I should shoot photos of me on the pot right? wrong. there are ways to go about things without being in your face provacative trash. I am the daughter of a special forces vet and my grandparents entered this country during ww2 from italy and my grandfather fought quite litterally for his citizenship for the united states. I love vets, I support those including my dad with ptsd but there are ways to go about this, the suicide stats alone are enough if utilized properly. we do not want to stoop down to the trash that dominates this world to be heard. there are way better ways to be getting the message across and none of them include nudity.

      Report Post »  
    • IMCHRISTIAN
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:41pm

      Writing on posters would have been to much evidently. Someone writing on their bodies was so much better evidently. They are volunteers and I appreciate and appreciated each and every servicemen and women now and in the past. By the way I am a widow of a veteran (cancer).

      Report Post »  
    • SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:31pm

      Out of curiosity what is so offensive about those photos? Do you guys object to backless dresses and bathing suits as well? You must really be upset with a naked Jesus hanging on the cross in public, right? How undignified of Him….I just don’t get it at all, I think some have gone astray with legalism and have missed the greater teaching of love and compassion instead there is no compassion for the pain and difficulties these women and their families go through only a pharisaical attitusde of condemnation. Me thinks your attituides were the same that condmened Jesus for eating with prostitutes….

      Report Post » SLEAZYHIPPOs ILLEGITIMATE OFFSPRING  
    • Dismayed Veteran
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 4:46pm

      HorseCrazy

      From one military brat to another, thank your Grandfather and father for their service.

      Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
  • Dismayed Veteran
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:03pm

    It took years for the wives of POW/MIA to get anyone to listen to them. If this works, I say go for it.

    Report Post » Dismayed Veteran  
  • momrules
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:02pm

    I AM WEEPING……………How beautiful, sad, brave and eloquent this is. I love these people, love them. The brave warriors that defend me and the women and children that love these men.

    Sweet Jesus be with each and every one of those affected by war, by lost comrades, and death. By sights seen and deeds done that I can only imagine. And God be with families that love our warriors and live without them and worry then live with them and try to help them heal. Amen

    Please, in the name of decency, please, no one post anything that in any way belittles this video or the people in it.

    Report Post »  
    • TROLLMONGER
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:06pm

      Strippng naked for PTSD makes you weep? Really? WOW! Someone has some emotional issues to overcome…LOL!

      Report Post » TROLLMONGER  
    • TROLLMONGER
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:09pm

      Speaking of decency. Try to explain how stripping naked correlates to PTSD at all?

      Report Post » TROLLMONGER  
    • justangry
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:44pm

      Trollmonger, These women are bringing attention to something that’s close to my heart. Scoff all you want, it only shows what a ASS you are. 18 veterans a day are killing themselves. Veteran‘s for Ron Paul rallied on the White House turning their back and saluting 1 second for every ACTIVE duty member who committed suicide under Obama’s watch. It last over 10 1/2 minutes. (do the math) Nobody really has answers as to why it’s happening now. I have it, other Blazers posted they have it. Only a total douche would make fun of this epidemic are nation’s best is going through.

      Report Post » justangry  
    • theblazerunner
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:08pm

      dam nice post, thanks.

      Report Post » theblazerunner  
    • resme
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 7:49pm

      @troll, Seriously? Maybe we can show pictures of the people who have committed suicide, Would that be real enough for you?

      Now go back under your bridge and play hide and go fk yourself.

      Report Post » resme  
  • flyingeagle
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 1:50pm

    Am I loged in yet?

    Report Post »  
  • Tri-ox
    Posted on June 26, 2012 at 1:47pm

    It‘s too bad that they couldn’t think of a classier way to help their cause.

    Report Post » Tri-ox  
    • HorseCrazy
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 2:25pm

      thats what I say. I do believe the suicide stats alone are enough to bring attention to this issue if utilized properly. we are taking the military to a new form of degenerate every day. breast feeding in uniform for attention, gays in the military, athiests etc. it has become all about being provacative and much less about facts and first class approach. I wish these women would redirect their campaign to one that is first class like the military we have.

      Report Post »  
    • hatchetjob
      Posted on June 26, 2012 at 3:40pm

      I agree TRI-OX and HORSECRAZY. I’m so tired of the shedding of clothes these days.

      Report Post » hatchetjob  
1 2 3 4

Sign In To Post Comments! Sign In

Sign Up For Our Newsletter!

Glenn Beck Radio

Listen to Glenn Beck 24/7 Listen Now
Restoring Love