Let’s give a silver screen salute to these 5 true-life veterans

“Unbroken”directed by Angelina Jolie
This poignant tear-jerker chronicles the incredible journey of Louis Zamperini, an Olympic athlete turned World War II bombardier. From his rebellious youth in California to his harrowing experiences as a POW in Japanese camps following a plane crash in the Pacific, Zamperini’s resilience is astounding. Despite enduring unimaginable suffering, including torture and starvation, he ultimately finds redemption back home. This one’s a must-see.

“Lone Survivor”directed by Peter Berg
Based on the true story of Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell and his team’s ill-fated mission in Afghanistan, “Lone Survivor” recounts the events of Operation Red Wings. Tasked with capturing or killing a high-ranking Taliban leader, Luttrell and his three fellow SEALs face a deadly ambush, leaving him as the sole survivor. His journey through hostile territory, both physically and emotionally, is a testament to the indomitable human will.

“Blackhawk Down”directed by Ridley Scott
This gripping drama depicts the 1993 raid in Somalia gone awry, trapping American forces in Mogadishu. “Blackhawk Down” perfectly captures the disorientation and chaos of battle when things go wrong. Amidst the chaos and carnage, the bravery of soldiers like delta Sgts. Gary Gordon and Randy Shughart, who sacrificed their lives to save others, underscore the true cost of warfare.

“Hacksaw Ridge”directed by Mel Gibson
This biographical war drama chronicles the true story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector who served as a medic during World War II. Despite facing ridicule and opposition for his refusal to carry a weapon due to his religious beliefs, Doss single-handedly evacuated 75 wounded soldiers from behind enemy lines during the Battle of Okinawa. Unarmed and under constant enemy fire, he repeatedly returned to the battlefield, risking his own life to save others. Doss’ extraordinary physical strength combined with his unparalleled courage and selflessness earned him the Congressional Medal of Honor.

“American Sniper”directed by Clint Eastwood
This is a harrowing portrayal of the realities of modern warfare. “American Sniper” depicts the life of Navy SEAL sniper Chris Kyle, known as the most lethal sniper in U.S. military history. The film chronicles Kyle’s tours of duty in Iraq, where he because renowned for his accuracy in eliminating enemy combatants. Kyle grapples with the moral and psychological toll of war and struggles to balance his duties as a soldier with his responsibilities as a husband and father.