Antonio FatenThe sacrifices that encourage bravery, determination, and resolve are awe-inspiring in many ways. But sometimes, those sacrifices leave a heavy scar that cannot simply be bandaged. Specifically, this applies to war veterans within U.S. soil and from all corners of the globe. Within the ranks, a soldier must protect the countries they represent from external and internal threats. Sometimes, those responses to said threats involve being out in danger.
Imaginary Illusion
Because of the perception of veterans and how some battles are glorified on the silver screen, there is a misconception that military life is all about following orders, getting out in the field, neutralizing any opposition, and completing the mission. But, like many things, it’s not so cut and dry. The constant deployments that these veterans face daily are rife with danger and challenges physically and psychologically. Veterans globally have PTSD (Post Traumatic Stress Disorder) due to long-term exposure to dangers and witnessing many atrocities. Therapy can tend to those mental scars, but in truth, those scars can last a lifetime.
General Aid
Adding more to the concept of scars, many veterans also deal with even more significant hardships when it comes to being physically disabled in the line of duty. When veterans become amputees, they constantly deal with what’s known as “phantom pain,” which is when one has a painful perception of a limb that’s no longer a part of their body. Those scars are visible and bare for all to see. Around 1811, in the 19th century, the U.S. federal government authorized the first domiciliary and medical facility for veterans. These nationwide assistance programs include services to veterans, dependents, and widows.
Yet, despite the spread of veteran programs, as of 2021, access to these programs has declined due to counselor shortages, which only spiraled down further with the pandemic. Without proper care for these men and women, it’s only a matter of time until their diagnosis worsens. Although these programs are to assist veterans with their struggles, regrettably, not every veteran receives the help they are due. Circling back to the silver screen, perhaps the most affected by these portrayals on film and television are not the general audience but the veterans.
Opinion on the Matter
To veterans, there are mixed responses regarding the film industry’s perception of warfare. One example is that of Sgt. Neil Gussman, an Army National Guardsmen who enlisted in the Army during the Vietnam War and served as a Tank commander in Europe in the 70s and re-enlisted in Iraq from 2009 – 2010, expressed that movies like “The Hurt Locker” and “Saving Private Ryan” as silly movies. Going further with his statement, he was critical of the portrayed inaccuracy. Contrast to this was one Kyle Hausmann-Stokes, a veteran who spent five years in the U.S. Army Airborne and also served in Iraq. From his perspective, he hopes there are inaccuracies, hoping the industry doesn’t “give away” actual military tactics. He even praised miniseries like “Generation Kill” and “Homeland,” mainly for being authentic regarding dialogue and atmosphere.
Hope for Tomorrow
Many veterans have their viewpoints of the world, and their processes differ for each individual. Yet, despite their challenges at the forefront of service or home, many are still willing to help. Their eagerness to assist other veterans is a blessing and a demonstration of how comradery and community can go a long way. Now, more than anything, Veterans can be given the hope they need after so many years on duty. Let’s give these brave men and women the honor they deserve by showing them that they have a purpose for living, not to fight but to strive for a better tomorrow.
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