A new documentary titled American Sons explores the enduring connections among veterans and their families, years after their service in the War in Afghanistan. While the conflict officially ended over four years ago, many veterans continue to grapple with the psychological and emotional aftermath of their experiences. The film focuses on the life of JV Villarreal, a Marine from San Antonio, Texas, who passed away shortly after returning from deployment in 2010, and emphasizes the importance of community support for veterans.
Produced by Laura Varela and reported by Andrew Gonzales, the documentary sheds light on the struggles faced by veterans and the families who support them. It features poignant footage shot by Villarreal himself during his time in Afghanistan, which his mother, Yolanda Villarreal, encouraged him to capture. The film presents a narrative not only about loss but also about the bonds formed between service members.
Documentary’s Personal Focus
In American Sons, Villarreal’s mother reflects on her profound loss while celebrating the new connections forged with her son’s Marine brothers. Gonzales points out that these relationships are emblematic of the tight-knit bonds formed during military service. “Yolanda lost her son but gained all of these new sons, which are JV’s Marine brothers,” he explains, highlighting the idea of surrogacy and remembrance that the documentary conveys.
The film emphasizes the daily struggles veterans face as they reintegrate into civilian life. Varela notes the critical role of reconnection in aiding their healing process. “These Marines trained for combat must navigate numerous challenges upon returning home,” she says, underscoring the significance of community support in confronting grief and trauma.
Addressing the Veteran Crisis
The ongoing issue of veteran suicides remains a pressing concern, with the number of service member suicides continuing to rise. Varela advocates for better mental health care for veterans, urging society and leaders to recognize the long-lasting effects of combat service. “It’s important for us to take care of them… because it’s not just them; it’s their families and communities that feel the ripple effects,” she states.
Gonzales adds that peer-to-peer support has proven to be effective in preventing suicides among veterans. He calls for more engagement from leaders to ensure veterans receive the necessary mental health services. “There’s just no excuse for the number of suicides occurring,” he asserts. The documentary aims to raise awareness about the importance of these connections and encourage veterans to reach out for support.
The PBS airing of American Sons is just the beginning of its journey. Gonzales reveals plans for an impact campaign, which will involve screenings in veteran-centric communities across the country. These events will facilitate connections among veterans and provide information about available local resources.
Through its narrative, American Sons not only commemorates the lives of those who served but also seeks to foster a broader understanding of the challenges faced by veterans. By sharing these personal stories, the documentary aims to encourage dialogue and compassion for those who have sacrificed so much in service to their country.
