IVAW members arrested while attempting to present questions to Obama and McCain

In a repeat of the Vietnam era, some of the most vocal advocates for ending the war are those who served in it.

File photo of IVAW members Courtesy: couragetoresist.org

(WASHINGTON, D.C.) - One hour before the final presidential debate of the 2008 campaign, fourteen members of Iraq Veterans Against the War marched in formation to Hofstra University to present questions for the candidates. IVAW had requested permission from debate moderator Bob Schieffer to ask their questions during the debate but got no response.

The contingent of veterans in dress uniforms and combat uniforms attempted to enter the building where the debate was to be held in order to ask their questions but were turned back by police.

The IVAW members at the front of the formation were immediately arrested, and others were pushed back into the crowd by police on horseback. Several members were injured, including former Army Sergeant Nick Morgan who suffered a broken cheekbone when he was trampled by police horses before being arrested.

IVAW and other Iraq and Afghanistan veterans have voiced outrage at the treatment of these anti-war vets. The group blames the campaigns of both candidates for dismissing them and arresting them without allowing their voices to be heard.