July 5th, 2014
To: Mr. Jack Emerson
From: Colonel Jon McKay, 4th Infantry Division: 3rd Brigade Combat Team
Hello Mr. Emerson,
This letter is being written on behalf of Private Jacob Marshall, who -along with his mother Rose-Lee Marshall- indicated you as his emergency contact.
During the month of June 2014, an incident occurred that involved many of the soldiers in 4th infantry division 3rd brigade combat team stationed in Kuwait. The team had been instructed to invade and attack on what was thought to be an ISIS headquarters. They followed instructions and proceeded with the attack, however, when the mission had been completed, there were a handful of men missing upon return. It became apparent to us that some may not have survived the attack.
A search was sent out, and after 2 days there was no indication of any survivors. A secondary search and assessment team was dispatched a week following the attack to assist in rebuilding the village and surrounding area. During the second search, 4 men were found, including Private Marshall. These 4 men -the others whose names have been omitted for privacy- were found under the care of some locals, who informed us that they had found them in the street earlier that day. No other information about their whereabouts had been provided at the time.
Upon medical assessment, it appeared that the 4 men were dehydrated, underfed, and had suffered multiple and varying wounds; on some, there was evidence of torture methods used. Though exact details are still scarce, our team of psychiatrists were able to talk to one, who provided us with a general explanation of their whereabouts during the course of that week. While we do not know the exact location, it can be established that the 4 men were taken captive and their captors attempted to use them to extract information about the brigade -and army’s- plans. The captors did not hesitate in their interrogation; they used our men as both the torturee, and the torturer. Again, exact details are unknown, and we are working as efficiently as possible to extract such information.
One man was transferred to another unit, while the remaining 3 returned to duty once they were deemed physically and mentally fit. Unfortunately, although they had been cleared, it appeared later on as though the 3 were not as fit for duty as previously assumed. July 4th is a traditional cause for celebration for our soldiers, but it seemed that the fireworks were not as welcome as anticipated, especially among the 3. They were all compassionately discharged. We have gone through his history and discussed with his mother as well as Serenity's advisers, and we have come to the conclusion that Private Marshall would benefit from the treatment Serenity House has to offer. While we will miss having Jacob in our brigade, we believe this is what is best for his mental and physical well being at this time.
We thank you both for your service, -Colonel Jon McKay
