The War

The War is a multi-part documentary on PBS chronocling World War II from the perspective of troops on the ground from four particular U.S. towns. It has been riviting to me, although I can't articulate just why.  I've never been a military history afficianado, but time working for the military has given me an appreciation for the physically and mentally demanding work that soldiers, sailors, airmen, and marines have to do. Still, that appreciation alone is not enough to support the viewing of ~15 hours of graphic, gut-wrenching  footage. 

My impression of WWII has been heavily influenced by romaticized versions in the media, fractured rememberings of friends and relatives, and anonomous names on town square monuments. Often, these stories and names represent the experiences of individuals dissociated from the larger military or histroric context. The War presents these stories with that context still intact. 

Perhaps this is where my interest comes from. All too often, people get focused on the strategic and operational levels of warfare. The tactical, the pointy end of the spear is appropriately pushed aside so the overarching goals can be clearly seen. Unfortunately, that serves to depersonalize. As a counterpoint, The War's personalization is a welcome reminder that war is fought by people, not by politicians.