MURRAY, Ky. – The upcoming fall semester at Murray State University will have a new section of English specifically tailored for veterans, active military personnel and military spouses.

Teaching the course will be Chris Hildebrand, a veteran himself, who has geared the class around ‘Operation: Homecoming’ — a writing program dedicated to bringing to light through the written word the experiences of American soldiers, sailors, airmen and marines, as well as families on the home front. The class, ENG 105: Critical Reading, Writing and Inquiry, will use writing to transition from military to academic life, and will feature many readings about and/or by soldiers and other military personnel.

“As someone who served active duty in the U.S. Navy and has chosen a life of academics, I have a keen understanding of the distance between these two cultures, “ Hildebrand said. “Veterans often find it difficult to relate to other students because of their experiences — whether in a region where armed conflict is a daily reality or even in non-combat areas where the stress levels inherent in any military activity is high and constant,” he added. “For my part, I see this idea as a way to help veterans make the transition from a military life to an academic life. “

Dr. Staci Stone, chair of the MSU department of English and philosophy, is enthusiastic by the prospect of helping military families in a special way.  “The department of English and philosophy is excited about offering this special section of composition tailored specifically to help members of our military ease back into civilian life,” Stone said. “Students will think critically about their military life and read others’ accounts of military and combat experience to inform their own writing.”

The class will be offered Monday through Thursday, 10:30-11:20 a.m., during the fall semester. Interested students should look for the classification ENG 105, Section 08. More information can be found by contacting the department of English and philosophy at (270) 809-2401 or emailing staci.stone@murraystate.edu.