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Supporting Materials for Sir! No Sir!
Ft. Riley Stockade Riot
For the second time in a month, the stockade at Ft. Riley erupted in riot, on Monday night, July 21. That day there had been a work call, despite the fact that it was a national holiday. The barracks refused to go out on a work order; Col. Randall of the Provost Marshall Office ordered prisoners to go out, but they refused.
All day there were rumors that there was going to be a big party that night. Hootering and hollering began at lights out. Prisoners emptied out of barracks, setting fire to foot lockers, mattresses and Dempsey Dumpsters. An attempt was made to ignite one of the guard towers. Three fire trucks arrived to put out the fires, and then turned their hoses on the prisoners.
Prisoners broke into the mess hall, overturned freezers, tables and chairs, and helped themselves to the food. Eggs and rocks filled the air. When one major tried to cool it off, telling the men: "I fought for you in World War II", they pelted him with eggs. Fences between the barracks were broken down; prisoners in all blocks tried to escape. The guards locked themselves up in Area 9.
About 200 prisoners took part in the action, which lasted about three hours. The dispensary was hit, and Tuesday morning half the stockade was still stoned. There had been no arrests as of Tuesday, but one man has been put up in administrative segregation for allegedly inciting the riot. Segregation is filled up, as is maximum security.
General Bostwright was down Tuesday to check out the scene. A similar disturbance is also reported to have occurred Tuesday night. The dispensary was allegedly hit again, but the turmoil was cooled out by some brass who walked into the stockade.
The AWOL Press, no. 8