.da_story_info span
{
color: #333333;
}
Vandenberg to host Theater of War
VANDENBERG AIR FORCE BASE, Calif. -- The 30th Medical Group Mental Health Clinic is scheduled to host two presentations by the Theater of War Productions at 8 - 10:30 a.m. and 1 - 3:30 p.m. Jan. 20 at the base theater.
Theater of War is a play put on by actors who bring to life the dramatic readings of Sophocles, an ancient Greek general officer and well-known playwright, from the tragedies described in "Philoctetes" and "Ajax," in a pair of performances for military communities across America.
Philoctetes and Ajax are two ancient plays that timelessly depict the psychological and physical wounds inflicted by war upon warriors.
The intent of the performances is to prompt more open discussions in regards to the psychological problems, including post-traumatic stress disorder, effecting servicemembers today as they return home from deployments.
"This presentation applies to all men and women of Vandenberg," said Staff Sgt. Jennifer Robinson, a 30th Medical Operations Squadron NCO in charge. "Deployments not only affect the active-duty member, but also families, co-workers, and veterans that remain at the home station. Greek drama was once used as a form of storytelling and communal therapy. This setting and forum facilitates a safe, open discussion to help de-stigmatize the affects and challenges presented to servicemembers and their families."
The presentation is a participatory event that is designed to provide its attendees with information regarding available mental health resources in connection with post-deployment psychological health issues. Discussions following the presentation were formatted to foster an environment of greater troop and family resilience.
"It is very exciting to be a part of this event," said Sergeant Robinson. "It allows us, as a community, to come together and discuss the challenges we face. It is important to understand and realize that we are not alone, and we can relate to each other through our own experiences."
Although this will be Vandenberg's first presentation of the show, the men and women of Theater of War Productions have been traveling and performing at military installations across America since 2008.
All personnel with base access are invited to attend the event. Seating is limited.
For more information, call Capt. Crescent Seibert at 606-0638.