American Sniper

There was an unusually large crowd in our local movie theatre. Understand that this historic building is a local treasure and a gathering place for movie buffs who prefer to see a movie on a large screen in, an at-times, cold surroundings among friends and neighbors who chat amiably before and after the movies. Unlike many of the large city movie houses, the local crowd is politely quiet during the movie, respecting the rights of the other attendees.

We were greeted by many as we took our seats for the second-night showing of American Sniper. The line for the popcorn was so lengthy that we skipped the usual movie treats while choosing preferable seats among the locals sharing the latest scuttlebutt.

There were many in the theatre wearing hats or jackets that identified them as a veteran. That was no surprise; we are, after all, the Veterans Town, with both a VA facility and a State Home for Veterans. We are also still in the battle to try to save our very special VA in this peaceful, rural setting, conducive to recovery of those suffering from PTSD or other emotional issues.

The movie began, taking us all into the midst of the war in Iraq with soldiers going door to door, breaking down the doors they believed hid the armed enemy soldiers. The hero of the movie was a famed sniper who carefully took down any who threatened his fellow soldiers. The movie also drew us into the affect of his four tours on his wife and his increasing PTSD.

There was not a sound from the audience around us during the film, with the exception of one veteran who suddenly left the theatre. The movie was over and the audience filed out silently. I heard none of the usual light exchanges of banter. I do not know the feelings of the rest of the crowd. I only know that this movie sent me a strong anti-war message and I felt an even greater empathy for combat veterans and their families.

I do wonder about our veterans suffering from PTSD. How will this movie affect them? At this time I am not ready to ask them....not now, but maybe soon, or never.