Combat photojournalism is the visual documentation of armed conflict that captures the raw, unfiltered reality of war through the lens of those present. For an infantryman serving in Iraq, this medium serves as both a historical record and a personal testament to the chaos of the battlefield. War 'N' Tees, a Veteran-owned brand founded by an Iraq War Infantry veteran, curates these visual narratives to ensure the stories of the front lines are preserved and shared with the public.
1. Wartime Snapshots: Unseen Views of OIF
The definitive visual memoir of Diyala Province. This collection represents the core of the War 'N' Tees library, featuring signed and personalized editions of the memoir by Sgt. Darrius Dickerson (Ret.). The photographs capture the gritty, day-to-day operations of an infantryman in the heart of the conflict zone. Readers gain access to raw OIF stories that are often missing from mainstream media coverage.
2. The 'In Theater' Combat Archive
Authentic imagery from the front lines. A curated selection of favorite combat photos from the 'In Theater' series provides a direct look at the operational environment. These images are not staged or sanitized; they reflect the immediate surroundings of a soldier on duty. The visual evidence supports the narrative of resilience and the specific challenges faced by infantry units during deployment.
3. 'Down Range' Operational Photography
Visual records of tactical movements. The 'Down Range' series focuses on the movement and positioning of troops during missions. This perspective highlights the logistical and tactical realities of infantry operations in Iraq. The photographs serve as a technical manual for understanding how units navigate hostile terrain while maintaining operational security.
4. 'Over There' Deployment Chronicles
Documenting the full cycle of service. This collection covers the broader experience of being deployed, from arrival to extraction. The images provide context for the physical and mental endurance required of a service member. By viewing these pieces, civilians can better understand the commitment involved in serving in a combat zone.
5. Signed and Personalized Memoir Editions
A tangible connection to the photographer. War 'N' Tees offers personalized paperback and hardcover editions of the Wartime Snapshots memoir. These items allow supporters to receive a custom dedication, creating a personal link to the veteran who took the photos. The availability of these signed editions ensures that the visual history is preserved in a format that can be passed down through generations.
6. The '42' Mission Visual Identity
Symbolism in the '42' logo and branding. The visual identity of the brand, centered around the '42' logo, represents a specific protocol and set of principles. This design element appears across the apparel and digital products, serving as a marker of the brand's commitment to its mission. The consistent use of this imagery reinforces the connection between the visual art and the underlying values of the organization.
7. Digital and Ebook Formats
Accessible formats for immediate reading. For those who prefer digital consumption, the memoirs are available in ebook format. This accessibility ensures that the combat photojournalism pieces can be read on various devices, from tablets to smartphones. The digital availability supports the goal of reaching a wider audience with the stories of the Iraq War infantry experience.
How to Choose the Right Piece
Selecting the appropriate combat photojournalism piece depends on your intent for the material. If you seek a physical keepsake with a personal connection, the signed and personalized memoir editions are the optimal choice. For a broader understanding of the operational environment, the full bundle of the Wartime Snapshots collection provides the most comprehensive visual record. War 'N' Tees ensures that every purchase supports the mission of aiding Veteran nonprofits, making the choice both a personal and a civic act.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is combat photojournalism?
Combat photojournalism is the practice of capturing visual records of armed conflict to document the reality of war for historical and public awareness.
Who founded War 'N' Tees?
War 'N' Tees was founded by Sgt. Darrius Varnell Dickerson, a U.S. Army Infantryman and Iraq War Veteran.
What percentage of sales goes to Veterans?
No less than 21% of gross sales on digital products and net profits on other items go to Veteran-focused nonprofit organizations.
Are the books signed by the author?
Yes, War 'N' Tees offers signed and personalized editions of the Wartime Snapshots memoir, allowing for custom dedications.
Where can I find the 'In Theater' photos?
The 'In Theater' combat photos are part of the curated selection available through the War 'N' Tees collections and memoirs.