Da Hawg Frog Blog

Someone said that combat is the only situation where ordinary men find themselves in extraordinary circumstances. Those experiences haunt the men, and now women, who experience them for the rest of their lives.

So much of the world’s greatest literature is born of the experiences faced by combat veterans. War and Peace, Red Badge of Courage, Thin Red Line and Rumors of War all were the result of ordinary men who found it in themselves to put their thoughts, emotions and experiences on paper. Though there was great horror and the task was difficult we have all been blessed by these brave authors who have bared their souls so the rest can learn.

I was watching a movie the other night. It was “Home of the Brave” and about several veterans from our present conflict. Even through the jaded eyes of someone who saw their combat nearly 45 years ago this veteran realized the almost mystical nature of the experience. Universal truths are revealed to those who experience it. I understood full well the doctor who came back and drank away his memories. I empathized with the young black man who in his frustration pulled a gun to settle his impass with a lost lover. I was humbled by the young woman who lost an arm to an IED and learned to love again. And I knew why the young warrior reenlisted to be with his brothers in arms.

Home of the Brave is an excellent film and I recommend it to everyone. Even those who have been there and got the t-shirt. It is an eyeopener and a reminder of the cost of freedom. You will be overwhelmed by the sacrifice of today’s generation of warriors. All I can say is . . . welcome home and thank you.