FORT HOOD, Texas – Soldiers undergo tough, strenuous training as well as real world missions throughout their career which often times can produce stress. Many times troops bring this stress home with them which can cause emotions to run high while at home with their loved ones.
In efforts to circumvent this, Fort Hood offers “The Home Team,” a live domestic violence prevention show which began in October 2012 and runs three times every Tuesday at Palmer Theater to Soldiers and civilians alike.
The Home Team focuses on improved communication and conflict resolution in relationships, the definition and early warning signs of domestic violence and abuse, child abuse and neglect, the effects of abuse, and the importance of bystanders in detecting and reporting issues in the community.
“In order to teach, we sometimes need to reflect the grim reality,” said Joey Hood, The Home Team actor and Austin, Texas, native. “Our approach is not to shy away from the issue, but to face it head on.”
During the show soldiers are offered the chance to get involved and invested in the live play as volunteers are encouraged to participate on stage with actors and make decisions in the direction of scenarios and story outcomes.
“We arm soldiers with five skills that contribute to couples solving larger, long time problems in order to remain together,” Hood said. “These skills include knowing yourself and your partner, backing down and taking a time out, as well as smart and sober communication ahead of time. By applying these skills, domestic violence can be prevented and relationships can be strengthened.”
Pfc. Kenesha Graham, a unit supply specialist with Headquarters and Headquarters Company, 1st Air Cavalry Brigade, 1st Cavalry Division and New York City native, attended the live event and said she will take away many of the lessons learned.
“There are many things I’ll take away from this training,” Graham said. “Although I’m not married, these are still valuable skills for me to remember and eventually put to use.”