I have another movie recommendation for you, but it's one you need to watch with a box of tissues right next to you.
Based on an article by Marine Lt. Col. Michael Strobl, this HBO original film tells the story of Strobl's emotional experience traveling across America as a volunteer escort officer for the body of fallen 19-year-old marine Chance Phelps. The 2004 journey was made especially significant by the fact that both Strobl and Phelps shared the same hometown.
I'll be honest. Being this was an HBO film, I was expecting to see a more negative film where Americans are always the villains (as Hollywood has spit out on a regular basis in recent years), but that wasn't the case. This was an emotional film that honored the sacrifice of a young American who lost his life in Iraq, serving a country he loved. Kevin Bacon is amazing in his role as the escort of the young marine's remains.
As I watched this film, it made me want to once again say "Thank you" to all the men and women who are serving or who have served in any and all branches of the U.S. military. Thank you for fighting to keep America and Americans safe.
Perhaps this movie was all the more emotional for me because on Thursday I attended the funeral of a Korean War veteran. At the graveside service, an ambassador from South Korea was there to pay tribute to a man who helped make his country free. Because the ambassador didn't speak English, his words were translated by the chaplain, also a South Korean, who conducted the service. I can't tell you how amazing that was, to hear words of thanks from both of these men. There are so many times all we hear are the criticisms of America. It's good to know that they appreciate the sacrifices that have been made.
~robin
