From the FLP mailbox:
Shakesville contributor Phil Barron (also known as Waveflux) has long been covering the story of Pfc. LaVena Johnson, who died in Iraq in July 2005 from what her family was told was a self-inflicted gunshot wound. But evidence on her body and in materials given to her parents by Army investigators painted a very different picture. It appears she was sexually assaulted and someone attempted to set her on fire, for a (blunt) start.
Her case remains closed, and there has not been the groundswell of support for LaVena Johnson as there has been for Pat Tillman, although their cases are similar in a lot of ways. This weekend, her father Dr. John Johnson spoke at the Veterans for Peace speakout on sexual assault in the military, calling once again for help in getting LaVena’s case reopened: more information is available here.
Phil has also set up a petition that has nearly 6,000 signatures, but sure could use more. And he’s also set up this blog with more information. He’s gotten to know her family, who are wonderful people and could certainly use our support. Any light you can shine on this story would be greatly, greatly appreciated.
NB: There are two short YouTube videos about Pfc. Johnson here and here.
UPDATE: Dr. Violet Socks has some apt words here, read them.
–Ann Bartow
