Greetings again from the darkness. After two tours in Fallujah, Iraq, U.S. Marine Roman Baca returned home a changed man. He struggled with anger, anxiety and depression. Transitioning from soldier to citizen did not go smoothly for him. PTSD was a part of his life.
At the encouragement of his wife Lisa, Roman founded a dance company called Exit 12. He had previously trained as a classical ballet dancer, and was now using his talent and love for dance to choreograph the effects of war ... telling stories that had previously haunted him. His workshops for active military and retired veterans are designed to facilitate and mediate the conflicting messages of soldiers and civilians.
Director Mohammad Gorjestani's 23 minute film won the Grand Jury prize at SXSW, and it provides a look at PTSD that we hadn't previously considered. Mr. Baca calls it "reprogramming" the soldiers, and it also allows for a communication outlet so that families can better understand what caused these personality shifts. Exit 12 Dance Company and the workshops allow veterans to have a voice, as well as an outlet. The transformation from Marine to dancer is good for all.
