Operation Homecoming: Writing the Wartime Experience

“Operation Homecoming: Writing The Wartime Experience” is a unique and compelling documentary that offers an intimate glimpse into the experiences of troops deployed in Iraq and Afghanistan. This extraordinary film is based on the writings of soldiers, Marines, and airmen who have bravely shared their thoughts and emotions during times of conflict. Some of these writings found their way into the New Yorker in the summer of 2006, while a more extensive collection was published as a book by Random House the following September. The documentary draws upon the poignant submissions of these courageous men and women, painting a remarkable portrait of troops at war—one defined by complexity, doubt, and fear, all conveyed with unflinching honesty.

At the heart of “Operation Homecoming” is a profound exploration of the human side of warfare. The documentary presents the multifaceted experiences of soldiers and veterans, giving voice to their innermost thoughts and emotions. Through a combination of interviews with the writers and established American authors who are also veterans, the film delves into the complexities of war, making it an emotionally charged and thought-provoking viewing experience.

The film’s visual approaches are as diverse as the voices it captures. From poet Brian Turner’s raw and direct readings to archival footage that transports viewers to the frontlines, “Operation Homecoming” employs a range of visual strategies to evoke the essence of war. An animated “graphic novel” brings a unique artistic dimension to the storytelling, while a still photo sequence shot by photographer Antonin Kratochvil adds a haunting and evocative element to the narrative.

One of the documentary’s most compelling aspects is its connection to a program by the National Endowment for the Arts (NEA) that established writing workshops at military bases. Following these workshops, soldiers and veterans submitted their writings for consideration in the book, edited by Andy Carroll. The film handpicked 11 pieces from these submissions, each offering a distinct perspective on the realities of war.

There are two versions of “Operation Homecoming” available for viewing—the 81-minute theatrical release and the 53-minute version that aired on PBS as part of the “America at a Crossroads” series in April 2007. It’s important to note that this documentary should not be confused with the similarly titled “Operation Homecoming” from 2007, directed by Lawrence Bridges, which was produced by the NEA as a documentary about their writing workshops.

In summary, “Operation Homecoming: Writing The Wartime Experience” is a powerful and emotionally resonant documentary that delves deep into the psyche of troops and veterans. Through the written words of those who have served on the frontlines, this film offers a poignant and unfiltered look at the human side of war.