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EPISODE #1 | Ray Cocks: A Veteran’s Story

Pronouns: He/Him

Ray Cocks learned the intricate complexities of violence at a young age – knowledge he continued to carry with him through his deployment during the Vietnam War. In honor of Veteran’s Day, Ray shares his story, which captures the profound strength and resilience of the human spirit. He also opens up about how it felt to tell his story and how storytelling continues to impact him today. 

Content Warning:  This episode contains candid discussion of violence and warfare, child abuse, and domestic violence. Listener discretion is advised.

The sounds of gunfire give way to the sound of taps played by the bugler. And I feel a catch in my throat, a poignant sense of bittersweet sadness that has stayed with me ever since.

Episode Contributors:

Julie Novak (she/her), Host
Blake Pfeil (he/him), Host
Ray Cocks (he/him), Storyteller

Storytelling Prompt:

Write a true story about a time you discovered your own inner strength and resilience through a life-altering experience.

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