Thoughts on "American Sniper"

2015-01-20T09:25:26-05:00

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

Response by LTC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2015 9:26 AM

2015-01-20T09:26:41-05:00

Thanks SGT Ben Keen, I will be following.

Response by SSG Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 20 at 2015 9:36 AM

2015-01-20T09:36:50-05:00

Good stuff, Ben. I'll be checking it out as well. Looking forward to seeing the movie too.

Response by PO2 Jonathan Scharff made Jan 20 at 2015 10:32 AM

2015-01-20T10:32:43-05:00

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.

Response by SSG Stan Morrison Jr made Jan 30 at 2015 9:25 AM

2015-01-30T09:25:40-05:00

I've been reading a lot of negativity regarding the movie, and Chris Kyle on social media the past few days. People Magazine is running a story about Chris and his Wife and kids. A lot of the comments on the story are very negative, how Chris was a murderer, loved doing his job, and is definitely not someone that the public should revere. I realize these negative comments are coming from people that have never been in the military, nor do they understand the meaning of brotherhood. Even realizing that these people didn't walk in our shoes, it is still appalling how these folks perceive their military. Don't get me wrong, there are Many, many good comments. But the less than good ones, really strike home. To me, Chris was an outstanding sniper, that apparently had an overwhelming drive to help his fellow soldiers. He did nothing wrong but follow orders. God bless his family as they continue to deal with his loss. Hope he is at peace. Thanks for listening everyone!

Response by SFC Private RallyPoint Member made Jan 30 at 2015 10:39 PM

2015-01-30T22:39:35-05:00

Good article. I haven't seen the movie yet, but I do intend to see it soon. I spent three tours in three different combat zones, each one more intense and dangerous than the previous. I came under fire in my first one. My vehicle got hit by an IED in the 2nd and came under mortar fire from time to time in the 2nd, and the third I don't even want to talk about.

Anyway, thanks for the post.

I do look forward to seeing the movie, though I'm not sure how I'll handle it.