Jason Hall, writer and director of the film 'Thank You for Your Service', here for a Q&A Wednesday. What questions do you have for me?

Jason Hall — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 16:04:50 -0400

*RP Staff will be monitoring this conversation*

Jason Hall is an Academy Award-nominated filmmaker whose films seamlessly blend incisive social commentary with emphatically human stories turning real people and challenging issues into gripping, entertaining cinema.

Hall is the product of a military family: his grandfather was a WWII vet; his uncle was a Marine in Vietnam; and his half-brother was disabled in the Army during Desert Storm. Having witnessed the effects of war on those who fight, he was inspired by the remarkable story of Chris Kyle. After meeting Kyle and hearing his story firsthand, Hall was honored to be entrusted with authentically rendering his journey on screen. AMERICAN SNIPER, written and executive produced by Hall and directed by Clint Eastwood, was released in 2014 by Warner Bros. and earned six Academy Award nominations including Best Picture and Best Adapted Screenplay for Hall.

Following the final untold threads of a life that was tragically cut short, Hall turned to a similarly true military story for his next project, THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE. Based on the David Finkel book of the same name, the film intimately tracks the lives of a battalion of combat veterans returning home from the grueling surge in Baghdad as they struggle to reintegrate while battling the lingering effects of war. Hall both wrote and directed the project, which was produced by Steven Spielberg and stars Miles Teller as the central figure, Adam Schumann. Universal will release the film in October 2017.

Hall currently has several diverse projects in development, including RASPUTIN for Leonardo DiCaprio’s Appian Way.

Born in Lake Arrowhead, Hall attended Philips Exeter Academy and USC. He began his career working as an actor before transitioning to filmmaking. Additional filmmaking credits include his debut feature, SPREAD, produced by and starred Ashton Kutcher, and the thriller PARANOIA starring Harrison Ford and Gary Oldman.

Hall currently resides in Los Angeles with his wife and three children.

Response by Capt Dwayne Conyers made Oct 20 at 2017 4:13 PM

Capt Dwayne Conyers — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 16:13:03 -0400

I met him at a Hollywood premiere of his film. Very nice guy. We had an opportunity to chat at the bar afterwards. Yeah... the theater had a bar. Fancy that...

Response by SGT Mark Halmrast made Oct 20 at 2017 5:09 PM

SGT Mark Halmrast — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 17:09:59 -0400

Mr. Hall, thank you for joining us on RP.

Please talk about how you decide if/when/where to take artistic or dramatic license in shaping a story like Chris Kyle's and the stories of those in your upcoming film.

Thank you for your service in applying your talent to soldiers and their stories.

Respectfully,
Sgt Mark Halmrast

Response by SGT Dave Tracy made Oct 20 at 2017 5:33 PM

SGT Dave Tracy — Fri, 20 Oct 2017 17:33:39 -0400

We recently had another guest on RP who works with the entertainment industry to address what he sees--correctly I would add--as the two main viewpoints about veterans and service members that Hollywood has and thus presents to the public. In essence, those being the extremes of the noble warrior hero or the broken individual with little reflection of the real lives of the vast majority in between. (Though to be fair to the industry, no one will pay for a ticket to watch a 20 year old PFC pick up cigarette butts outside a barracks for 2 hours!)

How do you feel about these types of portrayals in general and where do you see yourself when considering these issues?

Thanks!

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Oct 23 at 2017 10:34 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:34:43 -0400

First, I wld like to thank you for doing these types of films in a way that respectfully brings to light a obvious problem. With that being said, I know that American Sniper was based on a true story about Chris Kyle. Is this new movie based on any specific people or person? Or is it based on the real issues and not any specific person?

Response by SFC Charles McVey Sr. made Oct 23 at 2017 10:38 AM

SFC Charles McVey Sr. — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:38:48 -0400

I think the best way for me to say anything about my time in Nam would be to send him a copy of a very short book of free verse poetry I wrote and self published "Vietnam A Remembrance of Hell." It is out of Print because I never could interest any publishing company to publish it. I have few copies but they are currently in storage and I will be able to go and get a few copies on or about the 31st. My wife does not like for me to engage in any conversations about Nam, simply because it brings back the Nightmares.

Response by SPC Brett Curry made Oct 23 at 2017 10:39 AM

SPC Brett Curry — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:39:35 -0400

First, thank you for doing these types of films in a respectful way that bring light to a obvious problem.
I know that American Sniper was based on a specific individual. Is the new film, Thank you for your service, based on any specific person or people? It is it based on the issues and not any specific person or company?

Response by LTC Chuck Arneson made Oct 23 at 2017 10:41 AM

LTC Chuck Arneson — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:41:01 -0400

What was your greatest challenge in making the movie... how do you capture its authenticity?

Response by LTC John Griscom made Oct 23 at 2017 10:44 AM

LTC John Griscom — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:44:27 -0400

I grew up with the movies about World War I and World War II (the John Wayne type movies) and the Hollywood Canteen stories that showed Hollywood as supporting our troops. I don't see that very much in Hollywood any more.

Any chance that things may change where we see an improvement in attitude toward the military?

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 10:46 AM

LTC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:46:48 -0400

We can all agree that the biggest critics of any military film will be Veterans. (my wife can attest to this). What steps have you taken to ensure accuracy and realism; with the sets, props, and actor's performances? Did you need to make any changes or adjustments to the story for the civilian audience?

Response by SGT Robert Kromminga made Oct 23 at 2017 10:49 AM

SGT Robert Kromminga — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:49:30 -0400

Mr. Hall;
I can say that I have not yet seen this movie but am interested in it. As some have stated Hollywood does show to sides of the soldier - the hero or the broken individual, what they don't see is that these are often the same person. That individual who wonders around the house at night because he can't sleep, or sleeps only 2 hours at a time, that person who is struggling to pay his own bills will give up his food for those that need it most. The individual who seems to have it all, nice house, nice car, loving wife, kids but he to has problems, he works no stop, always at the office, always working the hours nobody else wants, working the jobs nobody else will do, why? Because these are the same people, the person who is hero for standing watch for hours so others are safe, the person who works that weekend or holiday so others can be home. But yet they watch and see their friends, battle buddies getting killed, injured and for what. I know when I think about it, I didn't join for God and Country, I joined because during high school, I didn't know what I wanted to do afterwards, what I wanted to go to college for. I joined to get away from everything I knew and find out who I was. I learned that in war there is nobody else you can count but yourself and those next to you, I didn't care what Washington said or did, I stood the line so that some day my children wouldn't have to. But I see that we must always have these "broken heroes" to stand that line between good and evil, between love and hate and I am proud to be one of these "broken heroes" but I am most proud to be something few in this country can be, part of a brotherhood that transcends time and place. Only a veteran knows what a veteran has done and sacrificed. If you want to understand a soldier - then be one.

Response by AN Christopher Crayne made Oct 23 at 2017 10:55 AM

AN Christopher Crayne — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 10:55:33 -0400

Mr. Hall,
Thank you for your wonderful work! I have nothing but respect for you. You nailed the quote below on taking authorship in writing, your work exudes it. Thank you. I look forward to hearing more from you.
Respectfully,

Quoting you from flickreel.com,
“I think once you start writing you take authorship of what you’re going to say. As an actor, you are interpreting someone else’s message, someone else’s story. I think as a writer you start to develop that. So I would say it was more as a writer I started to figure out that I could tell a story and articulate some meaning or opinion through that story.“

Response by SP6 Ron W. made Oct 23 at 2017 11:01 AM

SP6 Ron W. — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:01:32 -0400

I wish you the best with your film & thank you for making it. The last movie I went to was American Sniper with my former Special Forces brother. We both had lots of tears. If he wants to go see yours, I will go with him. Tears don't hurt. The only things that hurt would be the demeaning of our country and/or our military.

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 11:03 AM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:03:18 -0400

As a commander in Iraq, I know PTSD is a real problem. I'm just concerned about the public thinking all soldiers come home broken. PTSD is a wide spectrum. It happens to the best of us. I just worry that these movies are not balanced with the overwhelming who come home OK.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 11:14 AM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:14:27 -0400

Chief Collins' comment is exactly what my concern is. Not all Soldiers that experience horrific acts of war come back with PTSD. I don't want the left wing liberals to attempt to take away my 2nd amendment right to bear arms because I'm a returning war veteran. They're already trying to do it with some veterans with PTSD. What's your take on this issue and the public opinion that movies like this create about returning vets?

Response by CCMSgt James Helms made Oct 23 at 2017 11:34 AM

CCMSgt James Helms — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:34:57 -0400

I understand why the entertainment world places priority on what the general public will respond to in the most favorable way.However, when covering such issues as PTSD and suicide very little emphasis is placed on the fact that it is a strong person who finds the courage to seek help. Yes, the admirations placed on those who are stronger and more resilient are good role models; however, those who are not should not be portrayed as weak.
Additionally, a major concern I have is the almost nonexistent coverage of Agent Orange/herbicide related illness that continue to plague almost all Vietnam War veterans. Those defoliants were also use heavily in Thailand (and to some degree in Laos and Cambodia as part of the US “secret war”) exposing thousands of veterans outside of Vietnam. Unfortunately, until just recently, the VA policy for defoliant related injury/illness has maintained the policy of “Boots on the Ground” (if not in physically Vietnam all claims were denied). Even today, the majority defoliant illness veteran claims that don’t fit the boots on the ground criteria are rejected.
Finally, more of an emotional issue than the actual war fighting one is the sacrifices endured by family members of the military. For example, I gave my country 33 years of my life and only a fraction of that time to my family. To be on a remote assignment or temporarily deployment, missing marriage anniversaries, birthdays, Christmas and children’s sports activates were common place. This was most clearly and painfully brought to my attention when my wife was given the podium to speak during my formal retirement ceremony. When my wife was called to the podium to speak ,she said, ”…yes, you the Air Force have had my husband for 33 years and according to my calculations, he was away from me and our children for about 12 of those years.” This personal experience is commonplace within the military and has more of an impact on family members than seems to be accredited.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Oct 23 at 2017 11:38 AM

SFC Stephen King — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:38:11 -0400

Jason Hall Thank you for joining us here on Rally point. I have enjoyed your perspective in portrayal's of the Military in the past. I look forward to seeing your next project. Did you find it hard depict the effects of PTSD?

Response by LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD made Oct 23 at 2017 11:39 AM

LTC Terrence Farrier, PhD — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:39:40 -0400

Hi, Mr. Hall...glad you are here. Pain that can lead to PTSD is not always borne of the enemy without. It can also be caused by the enemy within. There are stories that are not always glamorous, but can be just as devastating. Leadership can help sway those things from happening. You have to develop inner strength to overcome those things that will otherwise destroy you. I would be happy to expand on this with Mr. Hall. Do you drink coffee?

Response by MSgt Peter Vatistas made Oct 23 at 2017 11:39 AM

MSgt Peter Vatistas — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:39:57 -0400

Am I doing something wrong, or am I in the wrong place? I'm not seeing any interaction coming from Mr. Hall. Anyone?

Response by SPC Kari Grove Wright made Oct 23 at 2017 11:45 AM

SPC Kari Grove Wright — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:45:13 -0400

Is there any future to showing what the military life is like for females? I find that even at the VA, parades and civilian life female service members/vets are over looked. Can this be shown in a film without the Hollywood spin in it?

Response by Sgt Mathew Meyer made Oct 23 at 2017 11:47 AM

Sgt Mathew Meyer — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:47:00 -0400

Sorry Jason. You might be a nice guy and a good director, but I have no interest in seeing a movie starring faux "patriot" millennials, who have no idea about military service, trying to burnish their reputation with vets. I'm speaking specifically about Amy Schumer. Frankly, it reminds me of Shia LaBeouf and his despicable antics, all while he wanted us to watch his "Marine" movie, "Man Down." Frankly, Hollywood is a large place, with lots of actors who are not overtly politically offensive, perhaps even veterans trying to break into the business. Why cast these bozos?

Response by CWO2 Shelby DuBois made Oct 23 at 2017 11:56 AM

CWO2 Shelby DuBois — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:56:37 -0400

I am going to echo what a few have said in that I'm also concerned with what the public's perception will be to a constant barrage of films where all our military members are heroic, yet broken. I've met civilians hiring managers who have built their perceptions of the military based on 'American Sniper" "Hurt Locker" and "Lone Survivor". The vast majority of military is support roles and yes, I agree, no one wants to make a movie about policing the area or installing engines or tracking down spare parts...but maybe fictional Rambo's are better 'entertainment' than watching our people suffer at home. I'm looking forward to your film and wish you great success.

Response by SP5 Rod Bernsen made Oct 23 at 2017 11:58 AM

SP5 Rod Bernsen — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 11:58:04 -0400

Mr. Hall, Please tell us if you encountered difficulty in financing , distributing or exhibiting your film?

Response by SMSgt Sheila Berg made Oct 23 at 2017 12:02 PM

SMSgt Sheila Berg — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:02:39 -0400

Looking forward to seeing the Movie. Hope it will address issues the civilian population should understand.

Response by LTC Charles T Dalbec made Oct 23 at 2017 12:04 PM

LTC Charles T Dalbec — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:04:25 -0400

Please read read read further about this Man. A complete disaster to himself. His country and his former wife who he failed to provide medical care for her. Ross Perot (sp) provided the funds fir now Mccains deceased wife.

Response by SFC William Stilley made Oct 23 at 2017 12:13 PM

SFC William Stilley — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:13:42 -0400

I look forward to watching this film, this really hit home with me. I just separated the Army with 11 years of service and what I saw in the trailer was moving. I can’t wait to watch this film.

Response by MSgt Frank Martin made Oct 23 at 2017 12:18 PM

MSgt Frank Martin — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:18:12 -0400

I will try to be on.

The idea is interesting.

Response by GySgt William Hardy made Oct 23 at 2017 12:22 PM

GySgt William Hardy — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:22:02 -0400

Welcome aboard! I am always looking for another great military movie.

Response by PO1 Donald Hammond made Oct 23 at 2017 12:36 PM

PO1 Donald Hammond — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:36:29 -0400

There is a segment of the military that is pretty much ignored. The submariner. Our world is one of secrecy, especially the nuclear trained, so most people don't think about us unless they are seeing a movie which doesn't really show reality. Everyone looks at those who were face to face with the enemy. But think about what it means, at least during the Cold War, to know that at any moment you could be ordered to blow the world up.
The stress of a submarine is enormous. 24/7. And the effects might not manifest until years later. Nightmares are becoming more frequent as are flashbacks. The flashbacks may not be of horrible things, but just a smell, or a sound can put me back on a submarine for a split second.
It would be a worthwhile project to look at the life of submariners during and after their service.

Response by CPT Brian Delrosario made Oct 23 at 2017 12:39 PM

CPT Brian Delrosario — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:39:30 -0400

I enjoyed your adaptation of "American Sniper." Can't wait to see this next movie.

Response by A1C Dustin DeMoss made Oct 23 at 2017 12:54 PM

A1C Dustin DeMoss — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:54:15 -0400

Firstly, Thank you for your service to the vet community. Secondly, Hollywood seems to have arbitrary ways of getting funded or even getting a film to production or green lighted, how have you been able to do this in the past? My friend tried making a movie about someone I knew from the military (on IMDB 'Light Wounds') and he had a heck of a time. It seems that movie won't happen.

Response by MAJ Montgomery Granger made Oct 23 at 2017 12:59 PM

MAJ Montgomery Granger — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 12:59:29 -0400

Hi Jason! Thank you for sharing your valuable time with us! Congratulations on so many important and well done films. I am looking forward to "Thank You for Your Service;" looks like a "Band of Brothers" for the Global War on Terror bunch. I have seen some pro-mo's and get chills from them remembering my own experiences in Iraq in 2004-2005, and then the highs and lows of returning home to civilian life. My question is, would you ever consider doing something on the U.S. military detention facility at Guantanamo Bay, Cuba (established in 2002, and still operating today), from a U.S. military perspective? I think the history of military incarceration, from the German Stalags of Hogans Heroes, to the incredibly heart wrenching experiences of the Civil War's Andersonville and Japanese internment present incomplete images of an operation that was like no other before it. Thank you again for your valuable time and kind consideration of my question. Sincerely, Montgomery J. Granger, Major, U.S. Army, Retired, former ranking U.S. Army Medical Department officer with the Joint Detainee Operations Group, Joint Task Force 160, Guantanamo Bay, Cuba, and author: "Saving Grace at Guantanamo Bay: A Memoir of a Citizen Warrior." http://sbprabooks.com/montgomeryjgranger/

Montgomery J. Granger | Official Author Website

About the Book U.S. Army Reserve Captain Montgomery Granger found himself the ranking Army Medical Department officer in a joint military operation like no other before it – taking care of terrorists and murderers just months after the horrors of September 11, 2001.

Response by SGT Raquel Zornes made Oct 23 at 2017 1:03 PM

SGT Raquel Zornes — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:03:13 -0400

Thank you for telling our stories. I have yet to watch any movies regarding war. Just a lot of different emotions about them. I am grateful that there are people like you that take the time to put heart in your craft with all of us in mind.
My question to you: what would you say to a service member that is thinking of stepping into the acting field or interested in writing their own story?

Sincerely,

Raquel Zornes
OIF Veteran

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 1:16 PM

SSG Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:16:33 -0400

Mr. Hall- Thank You For Your Service!
All soldiers are normal everyday human beings, and in the United States, they are Americans, Or are they. There are so many ways our Service Members can be portrayed, both honorably and dishonorably, which can hold true when held up to the limelight. The struggle is to tell the Truth of the story, and as long as you hold that near and dear to your heart while you present our stories, then the world will listen to what you have to say. Honor us as real people, and we will honor you as a real person. Got your six

Response by SPC Erich Guenther made Oct 23 at 2017 1:27 PM

SPC Erich Guenther — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:27:42 -0400

Congratulations on directing your first solo movie. Personally, I am going to skip it as I do not see any movie based on PTSD being entertaining and I am pretty confident I will either leave the theater mad or disappointed. I think if Hollywood must do military movies it should stick to a positive theme and perhaps attach the negative issues to specific characters in that positive theme. To me that would be a better overall movie experience than just focusing on PTSD. Why not do a movie on one of the most recent CMOH awardees for example and how they survived their experiences or how they live with the award? It is depressing for me to go to a war movie in the first place, even more depressing when that movie unloads nothing but problems on me the viewer.

Response by SFC Joseph A. Anderson made Oct 23 at 2017 1:32 PM

SFC Joseph A. Anderson — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:32:59 -0400

Mr. Hall, thank you for putting another movie together that displays what military members encounter when they return from a combat zone. At some point , I would like to see some interaction in a movie with the Department of Veterans Affairs. I believe this would bring some light into what else happens when our Veterans try to access medical services and disability benefits.

Response by MSG Stan Hutchison made Oct 23 at 2017 1:48 PM

MSG Stan Hutchison — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 13:48:36 -0400

I must echo my brothers and sisters here when it come to the two types show in military-related movies, the hero and the broken individual.
A point seldom if ever mentioned (though mentioned often here) is the "support" type troops. In Vietnam, for every one combat soldier, there were seven support troops. I know the numbers were different for the other services, but the point is the same.
I do not suggest a movie be made of some boring desk clerk shuffling papers, but it could be added as "background" or some such. If this is done, that soldier should not be presented as a fool or a tyrant, strictly following regulations.
How can we show a complete, accurate picture of military service if we do not show how that service is in real life?

Response by SGT Tim Falletti made Oct 23 at 2017 2:05 PM

SGT Tim Falletti — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 14:05:01 -0400

Hello Mr. Hall, thank you for doing an AMA here on Rallypoint. My only question about the movie would be if you incorporated 'The Good Soldiers" into this film as well as "TYFYS". I feel they both go hand-in-hand and "TYFYS" in my eyes is the "sequel".

Anyway, I know this movie (if anything like the book) is going to be a tear-jerker and an eye-opener for civilian audiences and I really hope it does well to raise awareness of PTSD and TBI. Go, go, go, go!

Response by SP5 Robert Ruck made Oct 23 at 2017 2:47 PM

SP5 Robert Ruck — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 14:47:33 -0400

Does your movie reflect the impact that family and pre-service friend’s attitudes toward the service member upon their return from duty have on the soldiers reacclimation to civilian life?

Response by CW3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 2:57 PM

CW3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 14:57:01 -0400

While the author is a great writer (I read 'Good Soldiers'), I won't watch this film due to the deplorable Amy Schumer being in it. I won't watch anything with Hanoi Jane Fonda or anyone like her or Schumer.

Response by SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres made Oct 23 at 2017 3:06 PM

SGT Jose Perdelia-Torres — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:06:01 -0400

Hello,

Thanks for reaching out to our Veteran Community here at Rallypoint! I have a question for you Sir. How is it that the uniforms and metals, are never accurately portrayed correctly in movies? Is their a reason other than incorrect information?

Very Respectfully,

Jose

Response by PO1 Todd Hack made Oct 23 at 2017 3:48 PM

PO1 Todd Hack — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:48:10 -0400

It's too bad that smellivision hasn't arrived because the sights, sounds and smells all make the movie more real for the viewer. Good luck with the film.

Response by SPC Harold Bustamante made Oct 23 at 2017 3:54 PM

SPC Harold Bustamante — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:54:54 -0400

As a member of VFT, Veterans in Film and Television, LA Chapter. I see this is important to bring more awareness of our veteran needs not just via VA problems but the destress of life itself on the streets of this country. I myself as an indy filmmaker /producer have been dealing with the non-existent support system or care/compassion of this society. I can not expect or speak about every region or community but as a Gulf Era/Infantry scout sniper veteran I have dealt with the nieve and privileged culture of this economic ignorant world. I have fought hard to keep my head above water from my own PTSD flashes and depressions that have come on from relationships and economic shifts that it's not been an easy task after 20+ years. We all have different realities and family support systems. So many veterans on the road or on the streets would benefit if there was a new level of American legion or Other org support with places to shower, store gear, networking, economic advisory and housing that is more in line with respectful living and not low income mentally ill style housing that I have come across and choose not to use. Tiny home villages, camp ground style camps etc that veterans can feel safe and return into service with a local of national organization be it disaster relief or other. I myself spent 4 months houseless in Colorado, trying to establish with outdated VASH program that was not financed for the local area's housing cost and the ignorance of the local Veteran advisor to my needs. I left Colorado to explore other regions and hopefully return into my filmmaking community. Possibly LA again.. but even that seems un-reachable. I have not seen the film but as a veteran I already feel this topic... this film... I hope this film can be used to help us veterans that are staying afloat barely to live a normal life and maybe set tone towards a progressive way to help veterans no matter what age accomplish... many of you have your savings or family or good jobs and move on..I had that, in my 40's my life changed and here I am again humping a rucksack weighing 200 pds up a steep ridge. I'm focused on my mission and it would be nice if there was realistic back-up or re-enforcements besides the bullshit counseling from not experienced people that have no idea of the life we live thru. 9-5 counselors, especially comfortable veteran counselors that have never been where I have don't do anything except make me want to never ask... I have my own motivation to live on... and succeed.... pass all bullshit politics and civilian fake promises or thank you for your service comments.. we need real tangible progressive action NOW for the thousands of Veterans and the Millions of citizens on the streets, displaced citizens from disasters and economic shifts. If other countries can have Refugee camps why can't we???

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 3:58 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 15:58:14 -0400

Mr. Hall, thanks so much for doing this. What advice do you have for a budding writer that is looking to get into the entertainment industry?

Response by SSgt Joe Chenelly made Oct 23 at 2017 4:08 PM

SSgt Joe Chenelly — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:08:56 -0400

Thank you for the work you're doing in veterans advocacy, Jason. Through your work we at AMVETS met Kerry Cahill and work with her now to raise awareness on mental health issues and combat suicide. Is there a particular veterans issue you focus on?

Response by LTC John Wilson made Oct 23 at 2017 4:31 PM

LTC John Wilson — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:31:50 -0400

Is their a special section devoted to the families of these troops that served so honorably. I feel proud of what you have emphasized so far and will go to see your movie.

Response by MSgt Raymond Hickey made Oct 23 at 2017 4:38 PM

MSgt Raymond Hickey — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:38:03 -0400

Mr. Hall...

Thank you for your movies...My question and statement are brief, but very heartfelt. I am a 20 year veteran and Vietnam veteran of the USAF I spent 16 years as a Security Policeman, Security Specialist and 4 years as an AF Recruiter, 3.5 of those years as an Officer recruiter. My ;question is simple, over the past 15-20 years people are coming up to veterans and thanking us for our service, WHY...back in the 60’s - 80’s we were the forgotten generation, and even in the past 10 years, again the military is a political whippin[g boy, need more money for welfare, take it from the military. Saying Thank You, is not enough, myself and many Nam veterans still have hollow places in our hearts, we still live the war both physically and mentally.

Saying Thank You feels good for a moment and then the moment passes, does it make the person saying Thank You feel better or is this just a bunch of “feel good” political thing

When we came home no one welcomed us...while a recruiter in the early 809’s, I was called a baby killer and a whole lot more by the people, under 22 years old, who knew nothing about the military, me or what I had experienced...to me, saying Thank You means nothing, because it is not REAL

Again my ;question is why?

Response by CPO Nate S. made Oct 23 at 2017 4:42 PM

CPO Nate S. — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:42:56 -0400

Mr. Hall,

American Sniper was great. I am looking forward to this new movie - Thank you for your service.
I especially like movies such as Hacksaw Ridge about our military medics another of whom is to receive our nation's highest honor (50 years post event). I also enjoyed the movie Home of the Brave a few years back staring Samuel L Jackson.

Frankly, our military medics and corpsman, don't get a great deal of respect in the civilian community for the skills they bring to the table, generally speaking. But, this is slowly changing.

I hope you might consider doing a documentary on the success of schools like Shenandoah University, METC and others who are working to advance the training of military medics and corpsmen. These brave men and women, especially our newer crop of medics and corpsmen, could use help in clarifying how well they are trained and the value they bring to commercial healthcare. A great program like the MMAC Program managed by the Virginia Department of Veteran's Services is also taking a bold step to facilitate the hiring and retraining of these valuable human assets to help fill short fall roles in commercial healthcare.

As a retired Corpsman, I have run into many of my "fellow Docs" who have struggled. Thanking them for their service is not enough as many want to continue to serve in healthcare. Embossed on a 35 year t-shirt that hangs in my home office is a picture of a Navy Corpsman seated holding a wounded marine with words over the picture "Doc... Toughest Job in the Corps". The story and struggles of these "Warrior Healers" must continue to be told. BTW, Sgt Tracy is very correct - "In essence, those being the extremes of the noble warrior hero or the broken individual with little reflection of the real lives of the vast majority in between." But, stories of young medics/corpsmen such as those deployed on our two Hospital Ships have a story. Might be good to have another movie - call it "Hospital Ship" and tell the story of Dr., Nurses and especially the Navy Corpsmen the live and work on the ships of mercy.

In closing, I grew up on movies like MASH and still enjoy them. While mostly funny they dealt with issues still germane to military healthcare. Hope you consider continuing to tell the story of men and women who work very hard to give embattled soldiers and sailors the chance to return home to family and friends, albeit broken but alive, if not for their heroic and superhuman efforts.

Response by SPC Franklin McKown made Oct 23 at 2017 4:43 PM

SPC Franklin McKown — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:43:54 -0400

I am weird as a person, so bear with me sir...I wonder why the word "SERVICE" is used?
I am not servicing anything ,I was combat arms,Cav, so the job description at it's basic form ,is an demographic, embarrassment to discuss,amongst those who haven't CHOSEN a life of combat.
It's offensive to be thought of as vulgar by many but I for one refuse to harbor any shame pf it. HOWEVER on doing so some lose parts of us that connect ,parts that trust and have trouble standing down. The proper word is "sacrifice" alone to me.
The job of being a lethal sin eater has no virtue among the sinners,until the bill becomes due.
ANYWAY that is MY view from the sharper end of it I JOINED to fight as best I could. TROUBLE IS ...I didn't know WHY until about 95 when I became computer literate and a conspiracy fan.My trust in others was surgically removed by my personal history anyway,I trusted MY platoon.

Response by Cpl Tim Callahan made Oct 23 at 2017 4:45 PM

Cpl Tim Callahan — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 16:45:59 -0400

Do you have any family currently in the military?

Response by MAJ Deanna Sinclair-Parker made Oct 23 at 2017 5:02 PM

MAJ Deanna Sinclair-Parker — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 17:02:32 -0400

Hi Jason,
I am a female veteran from the Vietnam Era, on through to 2004 when I retired. I started out as a private, went through OCS (Army), and retired as a Major. So, I know both sides of the fence, so to speak. I never forgot where I came from. I took care of my soldiers.
My question to you:
Have you considered the military sexual trauma, MST, PTSD which runs rampant in our military veterans. This a the silent. hush hush, that neither men nor women veteran wants to talk about. AND especially our CONGRESS AND SENATE, it can't be happening in OUR military!!! Well, guess what folks IT DOES!!!
Been there, been in rehab with men and women. It's especially difficult for men to talk about. It's not any easier for women.
Then after the service it can leads to the same issues as combat PTSD. Just a different type of internal combat.
Do you think you'd ever address an issue like this. There are soldiers with these
issues whose spouses don't 'get it', same as combat veterans with PTSD.

Response by SPC Margaret Higgins made Oct 23 at 2017 6:06 PM

SPC Margaret Higgins — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:06:58 -0400

Jason Hall: WELCOME TO RALLY POINT, SIR! Sir, I just would like to Congratulate you and your family members for serving this great nation of ours.
I must see "AMERICAN SNIPER". Especially, since it was directed by Clint Eastwood.
THANK YOU SO VERY KINDLY FOR JOINING US Jason Hall!
-Most Sincerely, Margaret C. Higgins U.S. Army Retired

Response by CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern made Oct 23 at 2017 6:23 PM

CPO Robert (Mac) McGovern — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:23:26 -0400

Mr. Hall, thank you for a very interesting, stimulating, and educational discussion. I will be an enthusiastic supporter of the movie and encourage all my friends to attend. It sounds like it will be a very moving story...I can't wait to see the movie. Bravo to you.

Response by SGT Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 6:24 PM

SGT Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:24:39 -0400

Mr. Hall,
Thank you so much for bringing awareness to soldiers who have a real need and also for bringing it into perspective for people who might not know what a struggle it is. What was the hardest thing for you making this movie? Also, what research did you have to do in the making of the movie?

V/R
Sgt Marks

Response by Lt Col Paul Freed made Oct 23 at 2017 6:26 PM

Lt Col Paul Freed — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:26:37 -0400

Jason. My active service date when I began was 1980. Choices for verification only go back to 1985. Retired in 2002

Response by SSgt Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 6:42 PM

SSgt Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 18:42:19 -0400

I don't know how this forum works, because I responded a little while ago and then this screen popped up telling me to respond to your message. So I will definitely continue to write! But what if you have already completed a couple of drafts on a few different scripts? How does one gain representation?

Response by LTC Stephen F. made Oct 23 at 2017 7:12 PM

LTC Stephen F. — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 19:12:29 -0400

Thanks Jason Hall for taking the time to respond to questions on RallyPoint. Veteran's Day 2017 is 19 days away at this point. At this time of year we tend to reflect on our own military service and those who have passed on before us.
I note that grandfather was a WWII vet; his uncle was a Marine in Vietnam; and his half-brother was disabled in the Army during Desert Storm.
I expect that you were raised to respect the military service members.
Hollywood and the film industry seems to veer away from glorying the military service members at times. You have been involved in some films which are focused on bring truth to the screen about military service.
1. What advice can you give us to break the ice with those who are anti-military so that we can bring light instead of heat to the discussion?

Response by CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 7:20 PM

CWO3 Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 19:20:06 -0400

Jason Hall, I thank you for your involvement with RP but also with our service men and women who are constantly on the front burner as we talk. We who have gone before have seen many different versions from Hollywood depicting our service men and women from all the generations of service men and women during and after conflicts. Just like today 34 years ago, we lost a lot of good men in Beruit, Lebanon. My question to you Sir is how do you see Hollywood movies portraying our Disabled Veterans of this current war and the future? Thank you again

Response by A1C Dustin DeMoss made Oct 23 at 2017 7:51 PM

A1C Dustin DeMoss — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 19:51:00 -0400

Thank you for answering our questions, Jason. Personally, I look forward to viewing the film. Even for people (like myself) who were far removed from the front lines these movies are very personal and often lead to a teary eyed response because we love all our brothers and sisters and their pain is our pain.

Response by PO1 Joseph Plachinski made Oct 23 at 2017 8:09 PM

PO1 Joseph Plachinski — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 20:09:49 -0400

I entered the wrong rating ---- I was a MS - Mess Management Specialist. How do I correct this error?

Response by CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols made Oct 23 at 2017 8:54 PM

CPO Amb. Terry Earthwind Nichols — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 20:54:24 -0400

Can't wait to see the movie! I have retired USN with my own baggage. I also work with those with PTSD, Sexual Trauma, Suicide Ideation and alcoholism to mention a few.
My question is: have you heard of The CR Process of stopping these mentioned behaviors in one session? We do it without counseling or therapy and no office visits. Perhaps it could be of value to someone you will meet in the coming days. Thanks...

Response by PFC Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 9:24 PM

PFC Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 21:24:11 -0400

This looks a great film I look foward to watching it seems like it talks about great subject matter and I love the fact that it focuses on the average infantry for a change.

Response by SGT Steven Ransbottom made Oct 23 at 2017 9:26 PM

SGT Steven Ransbottom — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 21:26:47 -0400

I look forward to seeing this film, thanks!

Response by CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member made Oct 23 at 2017 11:51 PM

CPL(P) Private RallyPoint Member — Mon, 23 Oct 2017 23:51:05 -0400

Mr hall,
I have a question. Before I ask it I hope you do not mind me giving you a brief history of myself. I entered the Army at 18 years old. By the time I was 22 years old I had earned my Combat Infantry Badge in both Iraq and Afghanistan. We lost brothers, we are still losing brothers on home soil. I had almost succumbed to my demons numerous times over the last 5 years since my return. I have seen red more times than I would like to forget. I have now been winning that battle, and putting my demons aside, where they belong. I'm confident I will continue to keep them there. We aren't broken, we just fall down sometimes. Those of us who persevere, and do not pull that trigger, do not take those pills, or crash that car are stronger for it. My daughter, photography, and other intelligent people reminded me of the strength I've always had inside of me but failed to tap into. I have a camera, I have a car, an I have passion. I do not mind work, idle minds are the devils playground. If there is any way I could come work with you and your crew on anything to further harness my natural talent in photography and to learn cinematography I sure would appreciate the opportunity?

Thank you for your time if RP passes this along for you to read.

I know not the questions you were referring to RP. To be blunt, I once read in an old book that you can not receive if you do not ask. Seize the moment.

Response by AA Whitney-Elizabeth Moates made Oct 24 at 2017 1:08 AM

AA Whitney-Elizabeth Moates — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 01:08:13 -0400

Mr. Hall,
Considering the name of your film, Thank you for your service, and the fact that you are basically going to be attempting to 'show' the struggles that veterans have coming home from their service. Which, honestly, if you come from a military family you probably understand that most of us veterans don't enjoy reliving events that occurred during our time. Their already is a stigma against us, especially the ones who have been diagnosed with PTSD, Toxic exposures, panic disorders, insomnia, etc. And the public already at each others throats do not need to think that their soldiers, sailors, the ones who sacrificed, are a new threat to our already crumbling and fragile society.
And there is one big thing that is bugging me, you haven't mentioned about any proceeds from this film being donated to any veteran causes. There are many disabled veterans who are homeless and suffering, many families hurting, because they are being pushed off or denied by our own Veterans Affairs. Maybe instead of the huge salaries these actors request and receive, plus proceeds, could ya'll consider the veterans you are thanking for their service and present some valid, decent non-profits to in order to help some of the veterans in need?

Response by Maj Densel Galloway made Oct 24 at 2017 7:41 AM

Maj Densel Galloway — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 07:41:56 -0400

Mr. Hall, we applaud you for your efforts and wish you the best with the movie. I believe that the story will be incomplete without a picture of the plight of the families we left behind during our service or what happened to us when we returned. Many of us are dying as a result of neglect as a result of the failures of the VA in delivering the services we deserve. Many of us are dying as a result of that neglect and at our own hands as a result of our ailment when we returned.... Please show the whole picture of our plight including the vision and reality of those that have made it...

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 24 at 2017 9:07 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 09:07:25 -0400

I'll be first in line at the theaters to see this movie. Looks awesome.

Response by SPC Louis Miller made Oct 24 at 2017 4:21 PM

SPC Louis Miller — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 16:21:29 -0400

An inquiry I would posture would be if any future plans were in consideration for the Cold War veterans being shown and/or depicted on screen for their efforts in strategically bringing the notions of reformations, Glasnost, and Perestroika into the thoughts of the former Soviet leadership. I will expound below.

As a proud Pershing-II veteran, I have had the opportunity to discuss former "matters at hand" with individuals from Russia and can state that I clearly remember how the world anxiously watched for the Soviet Union to strategically start the annihilation of Poland when, in sweeping elections, they voted in a non-communist opposition government to continue in ousting regimes that had withstood Westernization for an extended time. Because of my affiliation, many people I have spoken with knew of the nuclear missile system I and many others worked with. What was clearly evident was that they also know of its accuracy and shear capabilities at destruction. Additional dialog always would acknowledge our (Cold War veterans) capabilities but VERY little has been "harvested" by media and/or has been cause for celebration.

I can certainly tell you that I will NEVER forget the tears of the Eastern Germans while I was at the wall and, at first, watching then helping tear it down. The families I saw reconnecting, emotions of knowing SO much pain was over, visions of progress in livelihood being shown then are something I, to this day, keep telling my children. The other parts of discussion with them and others are of the INTENSE amounts of knowledge and training it took to have these capabilities. Very few of the individuals, within my personal training, were outside of Special Forces, Air Borne, Vietnam Conflict, and truly gifted men and women who trained some of the best men and women in our military at that time. Multitudes of them went on to serve in Desert Storm and beyond. My hopes are that these portions of the Cold War are shown to the world. Ask any Cold War vet if they perceive that their roles of servitude and honor in signing up to risk their lives within the time frames of the Cold War are being given the amount of credit due. What would you think their answers would be?

Respectfully and with best regards,

Louis Miller

"Be encouraged"

Response by SSG Eduardo Ybarra Jr. MS Psyc made Oct 24 at 2017 7:47 PM

SSG Eduardo Ybarra Jr. MS Psyc — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 19:47:11 -0400

Mr. Hall, while I commend you on your efforts to bring to light some of the difficulties many of my brothers and sisters have faced while trying to transition into a foreign world we once left. I often find it more disparaging when those whom we hold close to us sometimes feel ambivalence towards our reintegration. Meaning that Soldiers, Sailors, Marines and Airmen face their own demons, those of us in the role of Infantry have had to compromise our morality in order to be among the living; however, this not without a cost to who we are and who we once were. Due to these choices we are viewed with a certain stigmatism which can lead some to begin to question their own self worth. I understand that it is sometimes difficult to portray certain aspects of another's life in a context where others can follow. As mentioned I applaud you for your efforts, I will; however, leave you with a note: there are no fading trumpets on the battlefield when we lose one of our own, just a memory (noise, smell, sight and the feeling of loss) that will forever haunt us.

Response by SSgt Bill Humphrey made Oct 24 at 2017 8:27 PM

SSgt Bill Humphrey — Tue, 24 Oct 2017 20:27:33 -0400

I am trying to verify witth you but your service dates only go back to 1985. I discharged in 1983. what now?

Response by SSgt John Humphrey made Oct 25 at 2017 3:58 AM

SSgt John Humphrey — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 03:58:38 -0400

I entered into the air force 24 July 1984 and you don't have that as an option

Response by SGT James Murphy made Oct 25 at 2017 1:24 PM

SGT James Murphy — Wed, 25 Oct 2017 13:24:08 -0400

What did you think of the Final Cut of the Movie done about Chris Kyle and do you think it was an accurate representation?

Response by CPT Aaron Kletzing made Oct 26 at 2017 10:22 AM

CPT Aaron Kletzing — Thu, 26 Oct 2017 10:22:41 -0400

Man, Jason Hall may have had the best Live Q&A ever on RallyPoint. At least in a very long time. Seems like a really good dude. Hope the movie does great- and now I am going to tell all my friends to make sure they go see it.

Response by SFC Stephen King made Nov 2 at 2017 6:31 PM

SFC Stephen King — Thu, 02 Nov 2017 18:31:19 -0400

Jason Hall My Wife and I went to the movie this weekend. We both enjoyed the portrayal of the Military by the actors. The storyline was well developed and the characters as well. Overall, it reminded me of my trip downrange and friends who have had similar experiences depicted in the film. Thank you for the attention to the subject that few people really understand.

Response by SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM made Nov 8 at 2017 8:33 AM

SFC William Stephens A. Jr., 3 MSM, JSCM — Wed, 08 Nov 2017 08:33:37 -0500

Mr. Hall, I have not seen your movie yet but I have seen many clips and I am hoping soon to get out and see this movie, I myself have been working on a book for our fellow veterans about PTSD called THE MIRROR that is due to launch on BLACK FRIDAY. A lot of my book is same same to the story you tell and it is nice that we are trying to tell the story to the ones who are stuck on the couch. I lived as well but in a different way. I hope you can grab a copy of my book I tell my story through poetry and short story. I hope you enjoy it and movies are just Hollywood visions you told a true story and I am proud of you my brother.

Response by SFC William Farrell made Nov 20 at 2017 12:48 AM

SFC William Farrell — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 00:48:19 -0500

Jason Hall Thank you for what you do for veterans. I'd love to see something positive on Vietnam veterans.

Response by SPC Chelsea Fernandez made Nov 20 at 2017 8:44 PM

SPC Chelsea Fernandez — Mon, 20 Nov 2017 20:44:15 -0500

What was your inspiration behind the movie?

Response by LTC John Wilson made Dec 12 at 2017 2:55 PM

LTC John Wilson — Tue, 12 Dec 2017 14:55:44 -0500

I am happy to see more credit being given to our present day heroes and those that died for this great country. I have become obsessed with a Series on TV called, "The Long Road Home." it shows so many different emotions, graphic firefights, and unfortunately the death of American Soldiers.
It reminds us older veterans of the ugliness of war, the tearing apart of close families and the unrelenting sacrifice of so many of our young men and women. Thank you for your Service is among those films that tell the real story and the after affects of post war trauma. God bless you and your writing and may it bring this nation closer to the military families that give so much everyday.

Response by PFC Donnie Harold Harris made Jan 21 at 2018 4:47 AM

PFC Donnie Harold Harris — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 04:47:29 -0500

Why this film? Why now?

Response by PO1 Kevin Arnold made Jan 21 at 2018 9:57 PM

PO1 Kevin Arnold — Sun, 21 Jan 2018 21:57:54 -0500

I watch these films and realize that they have to make it for Hollywood. Do Directors or film makers do any research on these stories? Are they based on all of the facts or are they changed to fit the story?

Response by SP6 Ron W. made Feb 11 at 2018 9:16 AM

SP6 Ron W. — Sun, 11 Feb 2018 09:16:31 -0500

I watched your movie a couple of nights ago. I'll probably watch it again. It was raw and I found myself yelling, "no, no, don't do that." I was never a warrior. I did like that at least a couple of them made their lives worthwhile. Good job.