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- In 1866, as the U.S. modernized its military, the Army Reorganization Act allowed Native Americans to enlist as scouts, heralding a profound era of change. Amidst this backdrop, the film unfolds the story of Baptiste Garnier, a half Oglala Sioux, half French-Canadian scout known as "Little Bat." Torn between his Sioux roots and his U.S. allegiances, he navigated the brutal Indian wars and was at the heart of pivotal battles, including the tragic Wounded Knee massacre. Although perceived as a bridge between two worlds, Baptiste's duality often led him to make heartbreaking decisions. By the time of his untimely death in 1900, shot by a white bartender over a bar tab dispute, he epitomized the complex weave of identity and legacy, raising questions about the cost of serving two peoples in a divided America.
- In this dynamic and dramatic short film, an African American veteran takes us on an extraordinary journey through the twists and turns of his life. From a chance visit to the Pentagon, where he stumbles upon a hidden photograph from his Marine Corps days, to growing up in a vibrant integrated neighborhood, his story is one of resilience and inspiration. Fueled by the determination to seize educational opportunities, he enlists just in time to experience the racial divisions of his era before Truman desegregates the military. Thrust into the brutal chaos of the Korean War, the weight of combat becomes an indelible part of his soul. Returning home, he embarks on a new path as an architect and discovers unexpected connections in far-off Pakistan. As his family expands, his sons, one a passionate paleontologist and the other a curious astronomer, reflect on the man who raised them and the legacy he instilled. This captivating film unearths the essence of the Black experience in the early 20th century, paints a vivid portrait of the unforgiving Chosin Reservoir, and unravels the intricate tapestry of race, family, and personal growth, revealing the immeasurable strength and wisdom gained along the way.
- Casey Conklin joins the 3rd Ranger Battalion as a medic, because he always believed they were the toughest group around. After having experienced the Battle of Mosul in Iraq and receiving his Ranger Tab, he doesn't question how tough he is. But returning home, he finds that he still must challenge himself, and does this with long distance running, and studying Health Education at San Francisco State. Even though Casey has proved himself as a medic in intense war situations, he knows that he must continue to prove himself when he joins worldwide disaster relief efforts.
- Using obscure archival footage, animated illustrations and interviews, this film tells the story of the Vietnam War from the perspective of five Vietcong veterans: a soldier, an officer, an informant, a guerrilla, a My Lai survivor, and the leader of the Long Hair army.
- In the midst of World War II, the 6888th Central Postal Directory Battalion, an all-female African-American unit, undertook the monumental task of sorting and delivering a massive backlog of mail for the U.S. military. Despite facing deplorable working conditions and the pervasive dual discrimination of race and gender, these women served their country with unbreakable determination and pride. Led by the formidable Major Charity Adams, they not only achieved their mission in half the expected time but also broke barriers, standing firm against inequality and inspiring future generations. Tragically overlooked for years, the story of the 6888th sheds light on a remarkable, untold chapter of American history, reflecting both the triumphs and injustices that shaped the nation's path towards civil rights. Their courage and resilience continue to resonate, a poignant reminder of the societal strides still needed to fully recognize and honor their invaluable contribution.
- Combining unseen period footage with original scores from that era, 'Syncopated Ragtime' tells the story of Noble Sissle incredible life journey that spans "The Harlem Hellfighters" of World War I, Broadway Theatre, the Civil Rights movement, and decades of Black cultural production.
- The dark recesses of American history unfurl as "The Sioux: From Red Cloud to Wounded Knee" delves deep into the U.S-Indian wars, an era often shrouded in misconceptions. This cinematic journey uncovers the shifting attitudes towards Native Americans, oscillating between the revered "Noble Savage" and the feared "Savage Savage." As the U.S. expands westward, encroaching on Native lands, tensions surge, leading to the strategic establishment of the Bozeman Trail through Sioux territory. Chief Red Cloud's fierce resistance culminates in the Treaty of Fort Laramie, a significant but fleeting victory for the Sioux. However, the promise of peace shatters with the U.S.'s relentless intrusion into the sacred Black Hills, pushing both sides to the brink. The narrative takes a poignant turn when the Ghost Dance religion emerges, a spiritual outcry born from despair and a yearning to reclaim a lost world. The climax is a heart-wrenching recollection of the Wounded Knee Massacre, where the deaths of innocent Sioux tribesmen, predominantly women and children, serve as a haunting reminder of the tumultuous relationship between the settlers and the Native Americans. Through intense dialogues and reflections, the film challenges viewers to confront the moral complexities of war and ponder the cost of progress. As modernity dawns, the shared pain of Wounded Knee remains an indelible scar, urging societies to remember, reconcile, and respect.
- After a stellar high school career as a top marksman and leader in the JROTC program at San Diego High School, Jennifer Moreno, a warrior, nurse, and US Army captain, became a core member of the Cultural Support Team in Afghanistan. The joint, elite female squad took part in the most dangerous combat operations in war-torn Afghanistan while providing allied forces a means to communicate with the women of that country. Her mentor, battled buddy sister remember her life and legacy from an underprivileged background, her career in the military, to her sacrifice in the line of duty.
- An extraordinary tale of resilience unfolds against the backdrop of intense political rivalry and media scrutiny. Joanne Conte, the indomitable child of Italian immigrants, weathers the storm of public vilification as her past is unceremoniously plastered across the front pages of Colorado papers and on The Maury Povich Show. Yet, this assault on her character is not enough to halt the unwavering march of her life of service. She breaks barriers as the first transgender person to be elected to a city council in U.S. history, but her identity extends far beyond this groundbreaking accomplishment. As a valiant soldier, an impassioned activist, and a tenacious politician, Conte carves out a formidable legacy. Later in life, she reinvents herself yet again as an investigative journalist, proving her mettle in yet another challenging arena. This is an emotionally charged and evocatively detailed portrait of Joanne Conte, a multifaceted individual who lived her life far beyond the simplistic narratives of headlines. Her story resonates with resilience, defiance, and unflinching dedication to public service, providing a testament to her unique and enduring impact on American history.
- Over the serene and verdant landscape of Northern California, a man with an everlasting childlike spirit lived his last years in a cabin. A story of friendship and loneliness, George Carl Wenzlaff was a Navy veteran and postal service worker with unique artistic talents and an amazing past.
- Set against the backdrop of the pivotal repeal of the "Don't Ask, Don't Tell" policy, the film chronicles the evocative journey of Lt. Col. Linda Campbell, an Air Force veteran who grappled with hiding her true self during her service tenure. While the national policy shift towards LGBTQ+ rights marks a progressive era, Linda's personal story serves as a powerful testament to the individual battles fought in the shadows of such policies. Subjected to suspicion, prejudice, and threats from her comrades due to her perceived homosexuality, Linda's resilience and unyielding spirit remain undeterred. Her unwavering love and commitment to her partner, Nancy Lynchild, culminate in a poignant milestone: their eternal rest together in Willamette National Cemetery, symbolizing the culmination of a personal and societal journey towards acceptance. Intertwined with this narrative is the heartfelt account of Linda's brother, Bob Campbell, who delves into their family's conservative roots, Linda's tumultuous coming out, and the eventual familial reconciliation that showcases the transformative power of love and understanding. The film is a touching exploration of the intersections between national policy changes, personal identities, and the unbreakable bonds of family and love.
- In The Singer: A Montford Point Marine, the enthralling journey of Henry Charles Johnson, one of the first African Americans in the U.S. Marine Corps, unfolds. Lured by the dignified Marine uniform and the allure of the G.I. Bill, he's abruptly thrown into the bare, segregated world of Camp Montford Point, a far cry from the lush expansiveness of Camp Lejeune he'd imagined. The harsh realities of Southern segregation strike a jarring contrast to his accustomed diversity of Manhattan, escalating further with hostility from drill instructors. Undeterred, his resolve is galvanized by the dream of donning the Marine uniform and the prospects following discharge. Post-discharge, Johnson immerses himself in New York's music scene, enchanting audiences with his soulful, Sinatra-esque timbre. This riveting narrative portrays the unmatched fortitude of the Montford Point Marines, representing a crucial African-American, American, and globally relevant human experience.
- Buffalo Soldiers: George Jordan and the Indian Wars is a poignant examination of the marginalized history of the Buffalo Soldiers - African American servicemen who bravely served in numerous conflicts, only to face scorn, ridicule, and suppression of their stories back home. The film's epicenter is George Jordan, a formerly enslaved man turned soldier, whose exemplary courage in battles etches a stark contrast against his forgotten legacy. Juxtaposing the resistance of Apache Chiefs and braves with Jordan's unwavering will to protect his comrades and white settlers, the narrative challenges us to reconcile with the oft-overlooked aspects of the formation of the West. With a stark reminder of Jordan's decline due to his heroic yet under-acknowledged efforts, the refusal of the Army to provide him with care, the film crescendos into a plea for recognition of the Buffalo Soldiers, ultimately asking us what we can give to make our country better, inspired by these unsung heroes.
- In a tapestry woven from heartfelt moments among family and friends, a series of events paint a profound narrative on love, loss, and resilience. At the core of these memories is Kcey, a spirited young woman of Puerto Rican and African American heritage. Her infectious spirit and uniquely endearing laugh became her signature, filling every room with infectious energy and joy. As a child, Kcey's spirited antics foreshadowed her future strength; she later emerged as a formidable member of the Air Force. Recollections from her mother, father, sister, childhood friend, and a battle buddy capture the essence of Kcey, from her infectious laughter to her cherished moments under the Afghan sunsets. Each memory serves as a testament to a life lived passionately. However, heartbreak strikes when, amid war, a plane crashes, claiming Kcey's life. As they grapple with this devastating loss, her loved ones oscillate between despair and denial, occasionally seeking refuge in work or the numbing embrace of alcohol. Yet, as they collectively mourn, they discover solace in their shared memories of Kcey's radiant spirit. They make a choice: to live every day with Kcey's presence alive in their hearts, ensuring her laughter, joy, and zest for life are never forgotten.
- A former U.S. Air Force air tanker navigator, Lt. Col. Ken Murray's career takes us from the horrific accident that killed 70 people at an airshow demonstration in Ramstein, Germany to Operation Just Cause in Panama to the Iraq War. Through it all we experience air operations, post-deployment divorce, a new career as a famed sports photographer to new loves.
- Maria Zoe Dunning is a U.S. Naval Academy graduate and gay rights activist. She is known for being the only openly gay person remaining on active duty following a series of lawsuits against the U.S. Military and the Don't Ask, Don't Tell policy during the 1990s. This is her story.
- In the poignant and thought-provoking short film, a distressed mother, Velda, takes center stage as she recounts the tragic tale of her son, Michael, who battles inner demons after being sent to war. As she navigates through the gut-wrenching chronology of his enlistment on the eve of 9/11, his traumatizing experiences in combat, and his futile attempts at readjustment after returning home, the narrative unravels to reveal the silent and insidious toll of war on the mental health of soldiers. Compelled by her son's devastating suicide, Velda transforms her grief into a call for action, articulating her concerns about the military's approach to mental health issues in a letter to the president. This heart-rending short film underscores the often overlooked consequences of war, giving voice to those left in its devastating wake.
- Alene B. Duerk: The First Woman Admiral is a short documentary that tells the story of how Alene Duerk overcame gender stereotypes in the military to accomplish the highest rank ever achieved by a woman in the history of the US Navy. It took the Navy almost two hundred years to promote a woman to flag rank. Alene Duerk, the first female Navy admiral, earned this title after several years of hard work and dedication to the US Navy. From a registered nurse to an Admiral, Duerk was one of the first nurses to serve during three wars: World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War. This short documentary recounts how she overcame gender stereotypes to become a historical icon.
- On April 18th, 1906, San Francisco witnessed its most devastating natural disaster, yet gathered civilians to fight the fire, patrol the streets, and rebuild the city. Frederick Funston was in command of the Presidio of San Francisco.
- In this short documentary, John Baumhackl recalls the early days of the Vietnam War when more and more troops were being sent into combat every month. In 1968 John's number came up and he was drafted into the conflict. Buying a camera at his company store before shipping off, he captures many of the battles of the war while flying high in a helicopter. John is near the front lines when, in 1969, President Richard Nixon made the controversial decision to push into Cambodia. In John's view, this saved American lives.
- Performed by Constance Smith, a Union Spy tells us why Abraham Lincoln granted her the rank of Major.
- The story of Vietnam War veteran Tim Kochis, who earned a Purple Heart after being wounded in action. Kochis is a world-renowned wealth manager living in San Francisco, California. In this film he tells us how to remain calm during dire circumstances, to be careful what you wish for, and why he is grateful to the Veterans Administration in supporting his educational goals after Vietnam.
- Tian Soepangat joins the U.S. Navy out of a commitment to helping others. As a Muslim, Tian is uncertain of his shipmates' attitudes toward his religion, and so he hides it. Eventually discovering he doesn't have to hide his faith, he is free to express pride in his heritage.
- In the midst of World War II's turmoil, the quaint British town of Bury St. Edmonds becomes a focal point where lives intersect and secrets unravel. An 18-year-old woman, finds herself caught in the throes of a great wartime secret - the breaking of the German Enigma code. Her recruitment into the "Ultra" program brings her to the heart of Bletchley Park's most clandestine operations, where Alan Turing and his team forge the world's first computer in a bid to crack the ever-changing German codes. Every day, she grapples with the weight of the secret, which is so profound that even her family is oblivious to her covert role. Meanwhile, amidst the dances and interactions in the town, she captures the heart of an assertive American soldier. Their whirlwind wartime romance culminates in a heartwarming union, facing the challenges of the Official Secrets Act that surrounds her duty. The soldier, persistent and deeply in love, goes to great lengths, even penning letters to officials, in order to secure her release from the program and to solidify their commitment to one another. They eventually marry and cross the Atlantic to build a new life in the US, where they raise children who, years later, come to discover the incredible stories of their parents' contributions during the tumultuous war years.
- Fighter Pilots of Vietnam is a short documentary that tells the of a gathering of American and Vietnamese fighter pilots almost fifty years after the end of the Vietnam War in 1975. Veteran pilots talk of their mutual respect as pilots despite their training, aerial combat encounters, and getting shot down. Today, they are friends.