War has to be the strangest human institution. It brings out the the most brutal territorial animal and tribal human in us. It also showcases extremes of selflessness, courage, and even compassion. Today, in the United States, we celebrate our warriors in a manner that, all too often, centers on the “glory” of death in battle. I’d like to extend this tribute to our living warriors — the ones who came home — and the battles they never left.
I think this clip from a longer film demonstrates what war is in the most eloquent manner I’ve ever seen; and it’s done without words. It’s about 10 minutes long, but worth viewing for many of us. If you don’t want to watch that long, scrub ahead to around 6:08, and if you’re really pressed for time, go to 7:22, but I warn you; the impact will be greater if you don’t scrub ahead.
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The Bob Edwards Show on XMPR did a magnificent piece on the 3rd Medical Battalion’s service during the Vietnam War. You can read about it and download the pod cast here:
http://www.bobedwardsradio.com/bob-edwards-weekend/
You’ll agree with me – if you needed medical attention, you’d want these doctors on your side.