Citizen Soldier

Citizen Soldier is a gripping documentary feature film from 2016, directed by David Salzberg and Christian Tureaud, with a cast that includes ordinary men such as James Tyler Brown, Martin Byrne, and Jared Colson, who were transformed into American soldiers. Its raw and immersive narrative expertly captures the heroic acts of bravery and brotherhood on the battlefield.

The film's main focus is on the Oklahoma Army National Guard’s 45th Infantry Brigade Combat Team, collectively known as the 'Thunderbirds.' It sheds light on these men's dedication and commitment as they strike a balance between their civilian lives and their military duties. Primarily known as weekend warriors, these soldiers juggle family, work, and school within their pursuit of service to their country. In the blink of an eye, these men and women are called away from the comforts of their day-to-day lives and asked to serve on the frontline.

The story of Citizen Soldier is seen through the lens of a ‘band of brothers’ within the Thunderbirds, the 45th's Alpha Company, also known as the 'Dog Faced Soldiers.' What makes this feature unique is the perspective it brings – it is told by the citizen soldiers themselves. Unique footage from soldiers' cameras gives the viewer an immersive experience of the harsh realities faced by these brave individuals on the front lines.

James Tyler Brown, Martin Byrne, and Jared Colson play central roles not as actors, but actual members of this brigade. Their real-life experiences relay a more personal narrative, making the film an experience of truth and valor, far from any Hollywood interpretation of war.

One of the most striking aspects of Citizen Soldier is its exploration of the grit and fortitude shown by these soldiers, who must transition from ordinary citizens to warriors fighting in some of the most dangerous terrains of Afghanistan. As part of Operation Enduring Freedom, these soldiers are thrust into a daunting war zone, and the film offers a closer look at their deployment, where they fought some of the war’s heaviest combat.

Notably, the film highlights the distinct difference between trained, full-time soldiers and National Guard members, who are often civilians holding regular jobs. This group of guardsmen, deployed to one of the most dangerous areas in Afghanistan, had to swiftly adjust to highly stressful and life-threatening situations. The audience gets a firsthand look at their journey, their struggles in the line of duty, and their personal sacrifices.

Understandably much of the film is hard-hitting and emotionally fuelled, portraying the harsh realities of war, the risks assumed, and the encounters faced when fighting against hard-line insurgents. At the same time, it underlines the deep bond shared by these soldiers, tying them together in their shared experiences. It's a striking portrayal of camaraderie, unity, and shared responsibility that carries them through their darkest hours.

Citizen Soldier does an outstanding job of placing viewers in the soldiers' boots. The intense heat, ear-shattering sounds of gunfire, the weight of the gear, the fear, the fatigue – this immersive experience seeks to offer an understanding of what these courageous individuals have lived through.

The film also draws attention to the aftermath of war. It sensitively deals with aspects like post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), showcasing the mental and emotional toll that the experience takes on these soldiers and underscoring the sacrifice they make as part of their service.

While it can be a challenging narrative to follow due to its unfiltered look at the realities of war, Citizen Soldier serves as an essential reminder of the courage displayed by the men and women put in harm's way. Through the personal lenses of James Tyler Brown, Martin Byrne, and Jared Colson, and numerous other soldiers, it's a testament to the American spirit of resilience, determination, and honor in the face of adversity. This documentary hits hard, not just as a war film, but as a poignant portrayal of fellowship, loyalty, and the sacrifice made by those who serve.

Overall, Citizen Soldier is a heartfelt salute to the brave citizen soldiers among us, who step up, put on their fatigues, bear the weight of the nation on their shoulders, and fight for freedom, their comrades, and every citizen back home. The result is a touching tribute and an invigorating call to appreciate and honor their unwavering determination and valor.