‘Body of War’ documentary to be screened at MU

COLUMBIA - A free showing of the film "Body of War" will be held at 7:30 p.m. Wednesday in Ellis Auditorium in MU's Ellis Library. MU Provost Brian Foster will introduce the film, and Stacey Hafley of Military Families Speak Out will offer additional comments.

The documentary tells the story of Tomas Young, a 25-year-old man paralyzed by a bullet four days after he arrived in Iraq. The film captures the Kansas City native in a new chapter of his life, as he comes to terms with his disability and develops his voice in opposition to the war. Phil Donahue and Ellen Spiro produced and directed the film, and the National Board of Review of Motion Pictures named it the best documentary of 2007.

"We want to honor young patriots like Tomas by showing this beautifully made film. No matter what you think about the war, Tomas deserves our respect," said John Galliher, director of the Peace Studies Program and professor of sociology at MU.

Young's mother, Cathy Smith, will attend the event.

The event is sponsored by the MU Peace Studies Program, as well as the Center on Religion and the Professions, and the Missouri Students Association/Graduate Professional Council Speakers Committee. For more information on the event, call 882-9720. For more information on the film, go to bodyofwar.com.