Citizen Soldier

This film shows the reality of armed conflict for everyday people, no propaganda, just a documentary showing the realities of army reserve part time soldiers with normal civilian lives in the thick of the Afghanistan war. Afghanistan is one of the most volatile places on this earth and the documentary covers the rawness of its actuality. It isn't just a video of their job, but a film depicting the real emotions of the war such as the loss of a fellow solider or the high emotions of adrenaline filled firefights. If you want to see something that depicts the war for what it really is, without any dramatizations or additional patriotism, then this is a perfect documentary for you. Being a ex soldier of the Australian Army with a combat deployment to Afganistan and currently in Baghdad, Iraq as a private contractor this films relates to me in many ways. It also helps people that are unaware of the situations and the reality of what veterans have encountered whilst on combat operations. Absolutely recommended. David Salzberg has done wonders again to show the reality of war. Well done.

I recently watched this film that was nothing short of superior. It was a true portrayal of the bravery, spirit and brotherhood of our soldiers fighting for our country. No propaganda, no crafted protagonists, no censorship - just raw footage of ordinary citizens being extraordinary heroes. Post 9/11, a group of Soldiers in the Oklahoma Army National Guard was deployed to one of the most dangerous parts of Afghanistan. This is not only their story; it's their reality. When I watch classic war movies such as Saving Private Ryan and Full Metal jacket, they definitely prove to be entertaining, however I always wonder how close to reality they touch. In Citizen Soldier, there is never a doubt. As seen from a helmet cam, you not only watch the constant danger and uncertainty these soldiers face but also experience it. The reoccurring theme of comradery is prevalent in the periodic interviews with the soldiers as they recollect their thoughts and feelings. Each soldier had one thought on their mind, and that was to keep each other safe. Citizen Soldier is an incredibly crafted documentary with real depth that will give you an overwhelming sense of appreciation for our military.

A revealing insight into the experience of this undoubtedly brave group of men. What I found to be the most surprising insight was that of the level of experience and competency of these part time soldiers. No one can doubt their dedication or committment. However, to be put in these situations without the necessary skill sets is desperately worrying. I don't know if this is the norm on terms of standard and I absolutely mean no disrespect to them or their fallen comrades. The way they operate, the speed they do it, their drills & tactical awareness, their comms and cohesiveness are below a standard required to execute what is being asked of them...I enjoyed this documentary but my heart goes out to them.

In the documentary Citizen Soldier, Directors David Salzberg and Christian Tureaud deliver an astonishing film about the Oklahoma National Guard's deployment in one of the harshest regions of Afghanistan. This film transcends the boundaries of a typical military film by using footage from helmet cameras to provide audiences with an immersive look at life and war overseas. As I watched from their perspectives, I couldn't help but feel like I was a part of their fight. Audiences get to see seemingly ordinary citizens transform themselves from strangers into a family of brave men and women known as "Citizen Soldiers". It amazed me to see what these men and women experience while deployed. They're thrown into hostile environments and must deal with adversity as a team. The most moving part of this film was watching these real people, in real combat, willing to put their lives on the line for their fellow soldiers. Through all of the victories and losses, they form an unbreakable bond that lasts long after they return home to their civilian lives. Not only is Citizen Soldier a moving documentary, but I think it's also an outstanding way to show appreciation to these soldiers, and all citizen soldiers. It's a fantastic film and I highly recommend it.

Citizen Soldier is set in post-9/11 and is about a group of Oklahoma men and women in the National Guard who get deployed to fight in the most menacing areas of Afghanistan. Go-pro helmet cameras were used incredibly in the making of this documentary because it gave a more personal look in to the soldier's tour of duty. This film included honest and genuine interviews from the National Guard members, which added a more inclusive and emotional element to the film. It stands out amongst all other military films because it is not simply a documentary about violent warfare or pro-war propaganda, but instead it shows the dramatic transformation of average civilians to National Guard soldiers fighting tirelessly in Afghanistan. It is focuses on the brotherhood and bond shared between these brave soldiers and defines what it truly means to have a fellow soldier's back while on the battlefield. The leadership and bravery that the armed troops of our country possess truly amazed me. I thought it was a heartfelt film.