The 1980s was a great decade for movies. Classic, well-known films were released during that time period, and military veterans were perfectly depicted in many of them. Whether it was Rambo fighting the enemy in Afghanistan or soldiers coming home from Vietnam in Full Metal Jacket, these movies showcased the life of a military veteran in a way that was both accurate and entertaining. So if you’re looking for an insight into military veterans’ life, check out these five classic films from the 80s!

Rambo (1982)

Rambo is a classic action movie starring Sylvester Stallone as John Rambo, a Vietnam War veteran. The film follows Rambo as a group of American soldiers recruits him to rescue some of their own who have been captured by the Vietnamese. Rambo is an excellent example of a military veteran who has seen and done it all. He’s tough, resourceful, and knows how to do the job against the odds. So if you want to see what it’s like for a military veteran to fight against overwhelming odds, this is the movie for you!

Full Metal Jacket (1987)

Full Metal Jacket is another classic military film that stars Matthew Modine as a Private Joker. The film is set during the Vietnam War and follows Joker as he goes through basic training and then heads off to fight in the war. Full Metal Jacket is an excellent example of what it’s like for a military veteran to come home from war. The film shows how many veterans struggle to readjust to civilian life after seeing and experiencing so much violence. So if you want to understand what military veterans go through when they come home from war, this is the movie for you!

Platoon (1986)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WanUg9SCuXM

Platoon is another classic military film that stars Tom Berenger as Sergeant Barnes. The film is set during the Vietnam War and follows a group of American soldiers as they fight their way through the jungle. Platoon is an excellent example of military veterans’ horrors during the war. The film also shows how soldiers can be changed by the violence they see and experience. If you want to understand what it’s like for a military veteran to go through combat, this is the movie for you!

The Deer Hunter (1978)

The Deer Hunter is another classic military film that stars Robert De Niro as Michael. The film is set during the Vietnam War and follows a group of American soldiers as they fight their way through the jungle. The Deer Hunter is an excellent movie about complex experiences veterans experience on the battlefield. The film shows how soldiers can be changed by the violence they see and experience. If you want to understand what it’s like for a military veteran to go through combat, this is the movie for you!

Apocalypse Now (1979)

Apocalypse Now is another classic military film that stars Martin Sheen as Captain Willard. The film is set during the Vietnam War and follows a group of American soldiers as they fight their way through the jungle. Apocalypse Now shows you the fears veterans face and how they overcome them on the battlefield. If you want to understand what it’s like for a military veteran to go through combat, then this is the movie for you!

Weekend Binge-watching

These five movies are just a small sampling of all the great military films out there. If you’re interested in learning more about military veterans and their lives, then check out these classics! 

Thanks for reading! I hope you enjoyed this compilation. If you have any questions or recommendations, please leave your comments below or send me a chat in our SOFREP Team Room. 

Tars out!