(BURBANK, CA ­ March 1, 2002) Colonel David Hackworth, a highly decorated veteran of three wars and best-selling author, will speak Sunday, March 17 at Woodbury University. The popular Hackworth's profile has risen even higher in recent months as journalists seek his expert opinion on America's war against terrorism.

A cocktail and buffet reception will be held from 5:30 to 7 p.m. at Woodbury University, 7500 Glenoaks Boulevard, Burbank. Hackworth will talk about his storied career and receive an honorary degree during an hour-long program set for 7 p.m. Coffee and dessert will be served afterward.

The outspoken Hackworth spent almost 26 years in the Army and more than seven years in combat theaters. The recipient of eight Purple Hearts first came to public attention in 1971 when he spoke out on national television about the Vietnam war, saying, "This is a bad war…it can't be won. We need to get out."

Hackworth is a popular guest on national radio and television shows and served as Newsweek's contributing editor of defense during the 1990s. A syndicated columnist, his books include "Hazardous Duty," "The Price of Honor" and "About Face: The Odyssey of an American Warrior."

Cost is $50 per person for the entire evening or $25 for the discussion and dessert. Student tickets, which include the discussion and dessert, are $10.

For tickets, please call Woodbury University at 818.767.0888, ext. 230. Tickets also will be available at the door. Proceeds from the event benefit Woodbury University's Library Associates, a volunteer organization dedicated to improving library services.

Founded in 1884, Woodbury University is one of the oldest institutions of higher education in Southern California. An accredited, nonprofit university, Woodbury is located on a 22-acre residential campus in Burbank and offers bachelor's degrees from the School of Architecture and Design, Business and Management, and Arts and Sciences. Woodbury also offers a master of business administration as well as weekend and evening study for working adults. A San Diego campus was established in 1998 to offer bachelor of architecture degrees.