A group of Columbus, Ohio, cultural institutions have come together to host a free virtual screening of the “National Veterans Film Festival Presents Series,” from Sept. 17 -26.
The multi-day event connects Americans to veterans’ voices and stories by celebrating their contributions and resiliency.
“There is so much more that unites Americans than divides us,” said retired Army Lt. Gen. Michael Ferriter, president, and CEO of the National Veterans Memorial and Museum in a VA blog post. “By screening films made by veterans or that tell stories about veterans, this festival can address their human experience and inspire a dialogue about what it means to serve our nation and commit to something larger than yourself.”
The film Modern Warrior LIVE is narrated by co-creator Jaymes Poling, who spent three years in Afghanistan as an infantryman with the 82nd Airborne Division.
The production details Poling’s time in the military and his subsequent transition back home through spoken word and music. It was shot during the pandemic in 2020 and includes performances by internationally acclaimed musician, Dominick Farinacci. It also features an appearance by Vietnam veteran and news anchor, Leon Bibb.
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Watch the trailer here.
The film seeks to build dialogue between the veteran and civilian communities through education, entertainment, and empowerment. Irs' focus on post-traumatic growth aims to destigmatize the veteran community through a deeper understanding of their experiences.
The film also explores the psychological weights of war, the challenges of reintegration as a civilian, and the potential for positive personal and communal growth.
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A taped panel discussion will follow the screening and VA resources will be provided.
The screening series is a partnership of some of Ohio’s leading arts and culture organizations, including the National Veterans Memorial and Museum, Gateway Film Center, and the VA Ohio Health Care System – including Columbus, Chillicothe, and Cleveland Whole Health teams.
Registration for the free film screening and additional information about the National Veterans Film Festival can be found here.
Reach Julia LeDoux at Julia@connectingvets.com.
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