"Mommy, Did Daddy Rape People in the War?"

I imagine this question will be heard in homes across America in years to come. And why not? We’ve been told by Hollywood that members of our military are rapists, cold blooded killers, and more. They are taking part in an illegal war, bombing villages and torturing innocents. I mean, why would they make movies about such things if they weren’t true?

I’m constantly amazed by the attitudes of some in our industry toward the military. Personally, the fact that I’m a former Marine is often met with incredulity. Apparently, I’m “pretty cool for a Marine” and I “seem so normal”. My favorite is the look on someone’s face when they ask, “Why would you join the Marines?” while they visually inspect for some previously undetected mental defect.

Being both an actor and a veteran allows me to come at this issue from a different angle. I know the men and women that we, in this industry, often portray. To say that, thus far, we have done them a disservice is an understatement.

It would be a travesty to allow our brave men and women serving in the Global War on Terror to be remembered in the way they are currently being represented by the films coming out of Hollywood. The extended families of our military members number in the millions. We’re basically telling them that their loved ones (their mothers, fathers, sisters, brothers, sons and daughters) are pieces of shit. Not only is this reprehensible, it’s not good business.

I remember reading an article about the lack of box office success of Iraq War films. The writer stated that, despite big stars and bigger budgets, the films just couldn’t find an audience. One of the people interviewed said that they’d “tried everything” but that America “just isn’t ready” for this subject matter. I thought, “Have you tried making a film in which we are the good guys?” I bet you’d find an audience then, genius.

There are thousands of stories of heroism, courage, sacrifice and honor to be told. And guess what? You don’t even have to hurt your head trying to make them up because they actually happened. Gravy.

Here’s my challenge to my colleagues in the entertainment industry… Tell the tales of sacrifice and bravery that are so abundant. Honor our soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines. It’s up to us to make sure they are remembered as the heroes they are.

Semper fidelis.