CADS to sponsor 2010 International Law Enforcement/Military Symposium

Palm Beach Gardens, FL, February 26, 2010

The Center for Advanced Defense Studies is co-sponsoring the upcoming International Law Enforcement/Military Symposium to be held on Friday February 26, 2010 in Palm Beach Gardens, Florida. Two CADS associates are among the five guest speakers who will address post-deployment issues for law enforcement organizations at the event. Dr. Newton Howard, the founder and Chairman of the Board and Dr. Mathieu Guidere, Senior Fellow will discuss ongoing efforts to protect the health and well-being of those returning from combat. Other speakers include Dr. Louis M. French from the Walter Read Army Medical Center, Dr. John Violanti from the Department of Social and Preventive Medicine at the State University of New York at Buffalo and Barbara O’Reilly who serves as Chief of Deployment Cycle Support and the Beyond the Yellow Ribbon program for the Minnesota National Guard.

In 2004, the Army published its first study of the mental health of troops first study of the mental health of troops who fought in Iraq. The survey indicated that while 17% of soldiers reported symptoms of post-traumatic stress disorder, less than half of those with problems sought help. Although an unprecedented number of treatment programs are available, legitimate concerns about stigmatization and loss of career advancement remain. Thus, it is necessary to continue efforts to help U.S. veterans and others through research, education, and training on trauma and PTSD.