Restrepo

February 19, 2011 by Bret L. Simmons · Filed under: Leadership

Restrepo is a documentary that chronicles the 15 month deployment of a platoon of Army soldiers in Afghanistan’s Korengal Valley. If you have not seen it yet, get it because it is excellent.

The scenes from Operation Rock Avalanche were very moving. This is the operation where SSgt Salvatore Giunta earned The Medal of Honor, although SSgt Giunta was not a member of the platoon chronicled in the documentary. I will not soon forget how in the heat of battle, men wept over the loss of their friends, and then they continued with the mission.

They would not want to be thought of as brave for their actions. What they did in the Korengal Valley was their duty. Dealing with life after deployment is the part that is above and beyond the call of duty.

When I go to sleep at night, there are US service men and women around the world living in difficult and dangerous situations. I want to daily be more cognizant and appreciative of how I benefit from the sacrifices they and their families make for our nation.

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6 Responses to “Restrepo”

  1. Bret,

    Thank you for recognizing our military. I have seen this documentary and I highly recommend everyone to watch it. It is told without slant to one opinion or another. It simply let’s you see the human cost of war and conflict. We often forget that these are real people that we are sending into harms way. They have lives that they voluntarily leave to do what they said they would do. I am extremely proud to say that I serve this great nation. I am also very appreciative of people like yourself that recognize that the freedoms we enjoy are never free. Thanks again for this post.

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    Bret L. Simmons Reply:

    It is a great documentary because as you point out, Greg, it is what it is. Thanks for your service! Bret

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  2. Neal Ely says:

    Wow, those video’s bring to light the sacrifices our military men and women make to serve our country. I will definately have to see this film. Thanks for sharing.

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    Bret L. Simmons Reply:

    If you go the the website for the film, there are a lot more of these short interviews. The movie contained interviews, but I don’t remember these from the movie. It’s a very effective movie. Thanks! Bret

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  3. Julio says:

    Hi Bret, I have just seen the documentary. To be honest, this film is phenomenal, impressive, and emotional. In fact, soldiers, who put in risk their lifes on the Korengal Valley through a variety of operations, such as “Rock Avalanche” operation. This is by attaining their objectives and of their country. In addition, this film leaves too much learning about stategy, tactic, teamwork, identification, engagement, heroism, etc. Very Good! Bret.

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    Bret L. Simmons Reply:

    Glad you enjoyed the film, Julio. I think more people should make an effort to see it. Thanks, Bret

    [Reply]

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