Their fight didn’t end
on the battlefield.
The Second Battle for Ramadi was fought during the Iraq War in 2006. It was one of the most brutal and deadly battles of that war.
Many U.S. Army soldiers who took part in that war returned home with deep emotional scars rooted in their traumas.
This is the story of how some of those heroes conquered their inner demons and are now leading fulfilling lives.
Out of the FIRE into the LIGHT
OUT OF THE FIRE INTO THE LIGHT is a powerful documentary that delves into the struggles, resilience, and triumphs of veterans from the Second Battle of Ramadi —one of the most intense and pivotal conflicts of the Iraq War. Through raw and unfiltered storytelling, the film sheds light on the physical, emotional, and psychological challenges these warriors faced, both on the battlefield and in their fight to rebuild their lives after service.
Our Mission:
Beyond the harrowing realities of war, Out of Fire Into the Light is a story of transformation and hope. It highlights the strength of the human spirit, the bonds forged in combat, and the path to healing through support, purpose, and resilience.
This documentary not only honors the sacrifices of those who fought in Ramadi but also serves as an inspiration for our first responders, who continue to put their lives on the line every day.
Our Vision:
Through personal accounts, expert insights, and moments of profound transformation, this film is a tribute to those who have served and a beacon of encouragement for those still in the fight — whether on the battlefield, in emergency response, or in the battle for mental and emotional well-being.
This FILM is for YOU if you are:
• A U.S. military veteran and/or other armed forces member currently in service.
• A first-responder, whether law enforcement, medical, fire, rescue or engaged in any high stress occupation.
• Families, loved ones, and caretakers of individuals suffering from intense traumatic stress.
• U.S. Military mid to high command officers, elected officials, and civilians committed to the caring of members of the military, veterans, first responders, and their families.
• Individuals and organizations that could benefit from team-building and trauma management solutions.
• General audiences.
What you will HEAR and See:
PROPOSED DURATION: 48 to 58 minutes.
Interviews with actual veterans of the Second Battle for Ramadi during the Iraq war using actual photos and moving images taken by these veterans during the conflict.
Available news broadcast materials in order to place their stories in the proper historical context.
No dramatizations will be produced that could distort perceptions, glamorize war, and ultimately dishonor the true nature of their experiences.
Actual names, units, ranks, and or operations may have to be withheld in some cases to protect their safety.
Sponsors
Join the growing group of individuals and organizations that are supporting these veterans in sharing their stories of bravery and resiliency!
LOGO OF THE KEY BISCAYNE COMMUNITY FOUNDATION
Donations
Help us bring this documentary into the light! Your TAX DEDUCTIBLE CONTRIBUTION will make it possible for us to produce this important film and help us reach the largest audience we can. Any amount helps no matter how small.
Donations are processed through the Key Biscayne Community Foundation, a 501(c)3 charitable organization, proud sponsors of Healing Corp., our non-profit corporation registered in the state of Florida. Healing Corp. is dedicated to helping military and first responders heal their emotional wounds and lead productive lives.
Production Team
Out of the Fire and Into the Light is being created by a group of professionals who’s background includes serving in the military and police as well as years of experience in documentary production as well as emotional and spiritual practices.
Robert Asencio
EXECUTIVE PRODUCER
Robert Asencio creator and host of Vets And Badges Podcast, is an accomplished career public servant with over 36 year of experience. He's a US Army Reserves veteran who served with the Special Operations Community, a retired Police Captain from the Miami-Dade Schools Police Department, and a former member of the Florida House of Representatives (District 118).
Robert's diverse experiences provide a unique lens for exploring the challenges of mental health and recovery for first responders, military veterans, and the broader community.
Vets And Badges provides powerful insight(s) through candid conversations with real-life heroes sharing their triumphs and tribulations.
Ernesto Morales-Ramos
WRITER / DIRECTOR
Ernesto Morales-Ramos has been delivering unique, inspiring, and successful messages via a multitude of media for over 40 years. He has developed, written, directed, and produced award winning advertising campaigns, TV programs, radio shows, music videos, corporate, political communications, and special events.
Ernesto’s client roster has included Fortune 500 companies and Hispanic enterprises based in Puerto Rico, the Caribbean, and the US mainland.
Ernesto is also a Family Constellations facilitator certified by the Hellinger Institute in Canada, using systemic techniques to help heal deep seated traumas and other life obstacles.
Johanna Vega
PRODUCER
Johanna Vega enjoys a distinguished career as an award-winning Multimedia Executive Producer, with an extensive background in film and TV production for over twenty years.
Johanna has led the production team of FUXION as Executive Producer of the award winning documentary "Crossing Overtown," the Emmy nominated "State of Rodeo," and 8 Emmy Award winner, "Kid Stew," with renowned author, James Patterson. Her most recent project, "Women of the Watershed," has been awarded an Emmy Award and was broadcast nationwide by American Public Television through PBS.
As a bi-lingual Community Outreach Specialist, Johanna contributes her expertise with UNICEF, WHO (World Health Organization) and PAHO (Pan-American Health Organization).
She also holds a specialization in Vedic Sciences (Ayurveda-Yoga-Vedic Psychology), and International certifications in different modalities.