Posted on Jan 20, 2015
SGT Ben Keen
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American sniper
There is no doubt that this movie is making a lot of waves right now. The build up to it's nationwide release has been huge. It's been nominated for several Oscars. And people are sharing a lot of different views about the movie. I went and saw it last Saturday ahead of special screening of the movie that my nonprofit organization is hosting this coming Saturday. After viewing the movie, I took to my computer and wrote down my thoughts. Rather than just posting them here, I figured it would be a great opportunity to launch a new incentive for the organization and today we launched "Radio Check: Writings by Veterans". Anyways, I figured I would share my thoughts with you all here on RallyPoint. I really hope that the writing and the movie serve as an outlet to show Veterans having a hard time adjusting back to "normal life" that they are not alone.

You can view what I wrote by visiting: steelcityvets.org/rc/americansniper
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Responses: 5
PO2 Jonathan Scharff
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SGT Ben Keen I read your piece and I'm glad you took the time to write it down. I did not serve in combat and I don't have PTSD. But, I wanted to let you know that that doesn't mean that we aren't willing to hear your thoughts and feelings and do what we can to lend a helping hand. I think everyone on RP feels that way.

I work in health care helping those physically injured from disease, illness or accident. Most people try to be helpful but they really just don't understand how to help someone. One of the things that I have learned is that you often have to find your own way. The thing that helps one person may exacerbate problems for another. What I mean is, if writing is helping you please write on. I enjoyed reading your piece.

As far as the movie goes, I thought it was excellent. My wife had a hard time seeing it as we have a son SM. Lots of emotions.
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SSG General Services Technician And State Vehicle Inspector
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Good stuff, Ben. I'll be checking it out as well. Looking forward to seeing the movie too.
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SGT Ben Keen
SGT Ben Keen
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SPC Scott Mayhew - While I understand where you are coming from, I think that the movie should be screened when the individual Veteran feels ready. This movie is very raw both with what it shows about combat and what it shows about CK's transition home. During the scene where the movie goes over CK's last fight in the stand storm, I felt my throat go drive, my eyes started to burn and my skin took on a different feeling.
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LTC Cavalry Officer
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Thanks SGT Ben Keen, I will be following.
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SGT Ben Keen
SGT Ben Keen
10 y
Thanks LTC (Join to see). I know from my interactions on here, Veterans have a lot to say and we are hoping that Radio Check just gives another approach to process our thoughts. It took me several hours to write that piece but I feel so much better after writing down those thoughts.
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