Photos from Camp Casey - Join us in Crawford

Crawford, Texas (August 24, 2005)

Camp Casey is gearing up for the final weekend of activities. You still have time to make your way to Central Texas. With both George and Cindy returning to Crawford, there is a sense that history is still being written here.

Folks have heard a lot about the heat, and it is hot. But the massive tent provides some refuge, the trees help keep people cool, and for those that have real problems, the Crawford Peace House is now fully air-conditioned.

Folks have heard about the fire ants, and they do hurt. But you quickly learn where to avoid stomping around, and closed toe shoes pretty much eliminate bites. If you do get bit, there are plenty of medics to apply ointment.

Folks have heard about the heavy police and secret service presence. But there is a definite feeling that the pro-war forces are on the defensive, even here in Central Texas. For whatever reasons, Camp Casey has had no problems with the local police. For a city slicker like myself, they are eerily friendly and helpful.

After being here for eight days now, I have yet to spend a dime on anything. In addition to great vegetarian fare served up by Food Not Bombs twice a day, last night’s menu featured buffalo stew and ice cream for desert. Food and supplies have poured in from every corner of the country. Need toothpaste, soap, a flashlight, a rain tarp, bug spray, or sunscreen? Just ask if it is not readily available.

Volunteers take shifts cooking, cleaning, night watch, shuttle drivers, supply runs, traffic control, and anything and everything that needs to be done to support three separate positions spread over 12 miles of Crawford countryside.

In response to my resent reports, yesterday Cindy Sheehan jokingly emailed to ask, “How come it has to be anti-Cindy activity? ... or is it all against me?” With a dozen Gold Star Families for Peace in camp, we have shown that it is much more than “just Cindy.” Yet some folks think Camp Casey and the movement is stronger without Cindy here because of her “cult of personality.” At best, that’s just trying to make lemonade out of lemons.

Stand with Cindy! Out of Iraq Now!