Watch The Last Ridge: The Uphill Battles of the 10th Mountain Division
The Last Ridge: The Uphill Battles of the 10th Mountain Division is a documentary film that portrays the bravery and determination of the soldiers of the 10th Mountain Division, who fought against the Nazi forces during World War II in the mountains of Italy. The film is directed by Abbie Kealy and produced by award-winning filmmaker Chris Valentini.
The film starts with an introduction to the 10th Mountain Division, a unique military unit, comprising skiers, mountaineers, and other skilled men, who were given specialized training to fight in the mountainous terrain. The documentary explains the challenges that the soldiers faced while training, including the harsh weather conditions, steep terrain, and the physical demands of carrying heavy equipment.
As the war progressed, the 10th Mountain Division was sent to fight in Italy, where they were tasked with the difficult mission of breaking through the German defenses in the rugged Apennine Mountains. The documentary follows the soldiers as they engage in intense battles against the enemy, often fighting uphill, and against the odds.
The Last Ridge beautifully captures the scenic beauty of the Italian mountains, while also highlighting the dangers that the soldiers faced, including avalanches, frostbite, and sniper fire. The film includes interviews with surviving members of the 10th Mountain Division, who share their experiences and emotions about the war.
One of the key features of the film is the use of rare and never-before-seen footage, taken by the soldiers themselves, which provides a unique perspective on the war. The footage captures the daily life of the soldiers, their camaraderie, and their sense of humor amidst the chaos of war.
The Last Ridge also explores the impact of the war on the soldiers, both physically and emotionally. The documentary discusses the psychological trauma that many soldiers faced, including post-traumatic stress disorder, and how the 10th Mountain Division played an instrumental role in the development of modern military medicine and rehabilitation.
Overall, The Last Ridge is a powerful and moving film that pays tribute to the brave men of the 10th Mountain Division, who fought in some of the most challenging conditions during the war. The documentary serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by these soldiers and their contribution to the Allied victory in Europe.
