Fighting with Funny

Beneath the array of military memes and videos of people doing 22 push-ups, there is a dark undercurrent of pain within the veteran community. We all know about it. We barely speak about it. Military Times reports everyday 20 veterans commit suicide, and more and more veterans struggle with their military transition.

Enter Jas Boothe, a major in the Army Reserves who has seen her share of pain. After losing everything to Hurricane Katrina in 2005, and being diagnosed with an aggressive head, neck and throat cancer a month later, she has pivoted and used that energy as a springboard for incredibly positive endeavors. Becoming homeless and battling major depressive disorder caused her to recognize the unique challenges female veterans face without shelter. As a result, she founded the non-profit Final Salute, Inc., aimed at transitioning our lady warriors into homes. But her commitment to never leave a fallen comrade doesn't stop there.Her most recent project focuses on the entire veteran community. "Discharged" takes the stage as an animated comedy described as the love child of “Family Guy,” "Friends," and "Full Metal Jacket" all rolled into one, and aimed at providing relief for her brothers and sisters in need of a laugh. Jas states she has found laughter more therapeutic than any medication the VA has ever prescribed her. As the wife of a Marine Combat Veteran and mother to an Airman, she also wanted to create an outlet for all veterans that struggle with an illness, injury, disability or who feels alone after leaving their military family. “I’ve been to that very dark place where I considered suicide as an option; I just wanted the pain to stop”, said Boothe. Jas then started writing the about disastrous and entertaining parts of her journey, and "Discharged" was born. Boothe is using "Discharged" as her Buddy Check. The shenanigans of the characters serve as a holistic-comedy, termed "homedy" by Boothe.

The show centers around main character Axel, a Marine combat veteran, who struggles to find work until he lands a lucrative contract as a Hollywood stuntman. He brings with him a colorful cast of characters, all fellow veterans. Major is Axel’s bodyguard and former Military Officer, who was convicted of but later pardoned for double murder. Jesus, pronounced Hey Zeus, is Axel’s agent and an iron-jawed no-nonsense ex-drill sergeant who is known for his uncontrolled outbursts and basic-training flashbacks. Brandon is Axel’s best friend, former Airman, personal assistant and the resident POG (personnel other than grunt).Discharged places these military veterans into hilarious civilian situations. Infused with dark humor, patriotism, pop culture and VA medication, Discharged is an animated comedy about the 1%, that soon becomes the new animated series that the 99% tunes in to watch!"Discharged" is currently raising funds for animation and production costs via Kickstarter and has only until April 3 to do it. Think you, or a loved one would enjoy "Discharged?" Donate $5 today to help make "Discharged" a reality!