Vietnam Vet's Black Unit Story Finally Told

Filmmaker Ed Emmanuel, a Vietnam veteran, has finally brought his documentary "Soul Patrol" to the screen after years of effort. Premiering at the Sundance Film Festival, the film shines a light on the experiences of an all-Black special operations team during the Vietnam War.

Directed by Jason Harper, the documentary utilizes Super 8 film shot by the soldiers, archival footage, and interviews to recount their stories. It delves into the challenging reality of being Black soldiers fighting in a pivotal war, highlighting their camaraderie and the distinct challenges they faced.

Beyond recounting their wartime experiences, "Soul Patrol" also addresses the enduring trauma of combat that continues to affect Emmanuel and his fellow veterans. The film's release coincides with ongoing efforts to address the historical erasure of Black soldiers' contributions to American military history, a concern echoed by journalist Jesse Lewis.

Harper emphasized the timely nature of the film, noting that some veterans featured had passed away before the reunion interviews could be conducted. The documentary serves as a crucial record, preserving the legacy of these brave men and ensuring their stories are not lost to history, especially as deliberate efforts to erase Black narratives persist.