The Havok Journal

The Voice of the Veteran Community

West and Dunn Law

Carry On Wayward Veteran

Carry On Wayward Veteran by Mike Kelvington This first appeared in The Havok Journal in February 2017. For the past 18 months, I’ve had the fortunate opportunity to “unplug” from the operational Army and be a graduate student at Princeton University. During this time, I must admit I’ve been chasing ghosts. I’ve toiled and mulled over thoughts and feelings wondering: … [Read more...]

My Father is Homeless and I Don’t Help Him

My Father is Homeless and I Don't Help Him by Cora Kane My father is a homeless man, living on the streets of Tampa. He used to be a homeless man, living on the streets or in the shelters of Albuquerque until I got a random phone call to let me know he was a few miles from my house. It was a surprise to say the least. He says he made his way to Tampa because at the time, … [Read more...]

Winter Carry Woes: Choosing Your Cold-Weather Handgun

Winter Carry Woes by John Chandler Like many of you, I carry a concealed handgun when and where I’m legally allowed. Three seasons out of the year, I carry a mid-size auto pistol in either 9mm or .45 and have no issues. But then winter hits, and I’m burying the weapon under a parka or other heavy coat, drastically increasing the time it takes me to draw. I’m not the … [Read more...]

Shortcomings and Lessons Learned of a Ranger

Shortcomings and Lessons Learned of a Ranger by Kasey Pipitt Very recently I was a victim of my own wake up call, one caused by no one other than myself. It was a real “look in the mirror” moment, if you will. I’m going to try and put this as detailed as possible without making this article seem like a “poor me” story because it isn’t. About six months ago I lost control … [Read more...]

Special Operations and Law Enforcement: The Importance of Balance

Special Operations and Law Enforcement: The Importance of Balance by Vincent Vargas As a little boy, the first thing you learn about life is that you will always be stronger when you are part of a team. After all, we are pack animals; it is how we have survived this long. People are not hard-wired with this sense of community because we enjoy it, but because it is … [Read more...]

Reality Check: Gay Marriage

Reality Check: Gay Marriage by Leonard Benton This first appeared in The Havok Journal January 26, 2015. We face a myriad of problems in America today, problems which affect our economy, our justice system, and healthcare for our citizens, education, and national security. Police are vilified and vindicated. Terrorists murder citizens. The Middle East is a nightmare … [Read more...]

The Things I Carried: A Special Forces Officer Reflects

The Things I Carried: A Special Forces Officer Reflects by Tyler Mack On October 2, 2015, I gave notice to my boss:  it’s time to do something different after ten and half years in the Army. In the spirit of a writer from my Dad’s generation, I look back on the things I carried: A great admiration for then-Captain Craig Whiteside, West Point TAC officer. Our cadet … [Read more...]

An American Diplomat: A “Better” Life

An American Diplomat: A "Better" Life by Donna Hernandez Donna Hernandez is a Consular Officer for the U.S. Department of State.  This is the story of how she got there. _____ My grandfather moved the Hernández family to California, my father’s first step towards a “better life.” In my father’s “better life” he has been a low-rider, a gang member, a factory worker, a … [Read more...]

Fitness and Sleeping: Intertwined

Fitness and Sleeping: Intertwined It may sound like a surprise to you, but sleep and your workout routine and performance are connected. People need at least 8 hours of sleep every day in order to start the day fresh and be ready for daily obligations. However, quality sleep will also positively affect your fitness. Just like diet and fitness are mutually connected and … [Read more...]