In honor of Memorial Day, Mrs. Pants and I try to have a greater appreciation for our freedom. Mrs. Pants granfather fought in World War II and was wounded. When he returned to the U.S. he got Gang Green and eventually died. Mrs. Pants mom was just a child but still has his American flag displayed in their living room. That is quite a sacrifice. A childhood without a father. A wife without a husband. A grand-daughter who would never know her grandpa. These were just some of the sacrifices made by the soldiers family.

Our soldiers have made sacrifices for us since 1775, when the Revolutionary War began. To honor the soldiers, Mrs. Pants and I start watching our top 10 soldier movies the week before Memorial Day. We find thanking the servicemen and women a lot easier when it's fresh on your mind. Every soldier takes the thanks differently. My favorites are the WWII and Vietnam vets. The Vietnam guys didn't have the most welcome return home and it is still something that upsets me, the idea of them being spit at upon their return. I had friends who served over the last 30 years and have heard horror story after horror story about PTSD. My friend Mike served in Iraq and Afghanistan. Since he has returned to civilian life, whenever there is a loud thunder clap, he grabs his wife and rolls off the bed. This is a common occurrence among soldiers and their families. It's not just those who made the ultimate sacrifice who were heroes and it's not just those who served in wartime.

Here are my top 10 soldier movies in honor of Memorial Day weekend.

#10. Apocalypse Now (1979)

#9.The Patriot (2000) -

#8. Heartbreak Ridge (1986)

#7. Braveheart (1995)

#6. Schindler's List (1993)

#5. Full Metal Jacket (1987)

#4. Behind Enemy Lines (2001)

#3. Saving Private Ryan (1998)

#2. Platoon (1988)

#1. Band of Brothers (2001)

There are many I haven't seen and I would love to hear your favorites. Post your favorites in the comments or send me an email: joey.pants@townsquaremedia.com

Get up with Deb and Joey 6-10 am weekdays.

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