Fort Bragg Learns About Human Trafficking at USASOC Prayer Luncheon

By: Kelly Twedell

Monday morning, September 16, 2013 the military community gathered at Fort Bragg’s 3rd Special Forces Group Dining Facility for the USASOC prayer luncheon. Key leaders CH (COL) Thomas Wheatley and CH (LTC) Jack Stumme were on hand for the event.

The topic was human trafficking featuring guest speaker Rebecca McDonald, President of Women At Risk, International. As a mover and shaker in humanitarian efforts, McDonald and her organization have provided rescue and a sanctuary for victims of abuse and sexual slavery for more than 30 years. Females ranging in ages from infants to adults have been repatriated back to their families or have had the opportunity to begin a fresh start.

Well-traveled, McDonald grew up among the Taliban in regions of Pakistan and the Middle East while her father was a renowned doctor and surgeon. Her experience growing up in places of diverse faith, like Buddhist, Hindu and Muslim beliefs have equipped her to understand and connect with many cultures and enabling her to become an advocate for women around the world. But make no mistake about it, McDonald does take credit for what she does, she made it clear that Jesus is her boss and she simply is acting as His hands and feet for victims put into dreadful situations.

“Every culture of the world has predatory men and women,” said McDonald. “Slavery and human trafficking is the fastest growing arm of crime, and often the traffickers are women that go to remote villages and offer destitute, illiterate families jobs for their daughters.”

From Nepal, to Thailand to Africa, McDonald has a heart for women. She often can be found in Red Light districts rescuing women who need help and she puts them into safehouses where they can learn a trade, be it sewing, jewelry making or baking and make a living while getting a new start on life. A table of photos and the wares made by these survivors was on display in the dining facility.

“I have yet to find a woman who has loved her job,” stated McDonald speaking about women trapped in a career as strippers. “I’m more passionate about prevention, than cure.”

Special music for the afternoon was provided by talented vocalist Kezia Curry whose powerful voice filled the room with meaningful lyrics to those suffering and feeling they might not measure up in the game of life. Mrs. Cindy Stumme played the accompanying music for Monday’s luncheon.

If you are interested in hearing more about her cause view her website at: www.warinternational.org

Rebecca McDonald can be heard Monday night at 7p.m. at Cross Creek Presbyterian Church in Fayetteville.