He’s called a hero, a coward; a patriot, a traitor. How does an Army officer full of promise, praised by his commanders as exemplary with unlimited potential, come to face a felony conviction, a prison term and a dishonorable discharge? 

“Lt. Watada” tells the story of the first commissioned military officer to refuse to deploy to Iraq and to speak out about his belief that the war is illegal and a violation of his constitutional oath. It is a David and Goliath story as Lt. Watada demonstrates his willingness to face court-martial and eight years in prison rather than be a party to war crimes. And it is an intensely personal story as the film dramatizes what it means for a lone soldier to publicly challenge Presidential war policy in order to honor his oath to the Constitution, to fulfill his duty as an officer, and to follow the rule of law. 

There will be a Q&A after the screening with the filmmaker.

Program is free with admission. Reservations recommended to rsvp@janm.org or 213.625.0414 at least 48 hours prior to the event. Include the name, date, and time of the program, as well as your name and the total in your party. 

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