Early this morning, Joan Anderson, Ozone Bhaguan, Le Anne Clausen, Michelle Yipé, Art Landis, Ed Lewinson, Chris Lieberman, Diane Lopez Hughes, Tiel Rainelli, Gus Roddy and Stephen Schweitzer; together with family, friends and supporters marched through downtown Columbus, Ga en route to the U.S. Courthouse where they are now appearing in front of Judge Faircloth. The 11 could face up to six months in federal prison for having taken their protest to close the SOA/WHINSEC onto the Fort Benning Military Reservation during the November 16-18 Vigil.

The SOAW 11 held a press conference for the media on the courthouse steps at 8:00 AM with Diane Lopez Hughes and Ed Lewinson speaking on behalf of the group. The defendants entered the court at 8:30 AM. We will keep you updated throughout the day on the status of the trial.

On the night of Sunday, November 27 - The SOAW 11 where honored with a Festival of Hope. Surrounded by supporters, friends and family from around the country, we sang, danced, and listened to poetry and compelling stories. Father Roy addressed the attendants and updated us on the next steps in the campaign to shut down the SOA/WHINSEC and some of the challenges that we face for 2008.

- Read more about the SOAW 11...