Yeah, Turner screwed with the truth when it came to Lee and especially Armistead, but it was an inspiring movie.
The Flying Tigers
Where Eagles Dare
From Here To Eternity - I think what people don't realize about the US Military is prior to WW II, being a serviceman was looked down upon. The book touches on this more than the movie, but being a soldier, Marine, or sailor - prior to WW II - you were looked upon by society as on par or one step below actors. There was also a strong caste system within the military - not just between Officer and Enlisted but between the enlisted too. The book and movie also gives an historical perspective of what it meant being a enlisted man prior to WW II - the duty, the long hours, the pay, the recreation, the mind set. I have read the book three times and while writing this I am thinking of reading it again.
Once An Eagle - very similar to From Here To Eternity except it is from the Officers point of view.
In Harms Way - I have always loved this film.
Kelly's Heroes - a great flick from the view of war weary men now fighting for themselves. One of the rare war flicks that is funny and serious at the same time - it's excellent when someone can pull that off.
The Sands of Iwo Jima
Heartbreak Ridge - another serious and funny movie. You have the nervous humor of being a witness to Sgt. Highway whip his platoon into shape. Again it is about duty. And the lessons learned in Recon can help you in all aspects of life - adapt - overcome - improvise.
Patton
The Sandpebbles - similar to From Here To Eternity and Once An Eagle but from the sailors perspective.
Mister Roberts
The Caine Mutiny
The Fighting 69th - James Cagney as a loudmouthed coward who discovers courage, honor, and duty.
Some of the others on the list - 12 O'Clock High, et al - I have not listed because I have not seen them.
Netflix reminder bump! ;-)
King Rat and Sahara
One you gotta see even if it isn’t in there, is “The Boys in Company C”
Das Boot.
Grey Lady Down.
Run Silent Run Deep.
130 posts and nobody has mentioned one of my favorites: “A Gathering of Eagles”: minimum interval takeoffs by B-52s and massive amounts of black smoke and jet noise!
It’s not a military movie per se, but the scene in The Wind and The Lion where they “Land the Landing Force” and capture the palace is really good stuff.
Red Dawn. . .
For obvious reasons.
tehDeetz
The ultimate leadership study.
Striking contrast between effective and ineffective leadership.
Just watched 12 O Clock High on DVD a few nights ago.
No “The Longest Day”?