POV Season 22 Episode 17 The Way We Get By

The POV season 22 episode 17 titled "The Way We Get By" is an emotional and heart-warming documentary that follows the life of three senior citizens who greet American troops at the Bangor International Airport in Maine. Despite being close to their end of their own lives, these elderlies greet the young troops who are set to leave for their deployment. For the past decade, the three of them have been at the airport every time a troop comes home or leaves for deployment, no matter the time of day or night.

The documentary captures the earnest emotions and motivations behind the trio's dedication to their service. For many years, Joan Gaudet, Bill Knight, and Jerry Mundy have been volunteering as part of the Maine Troop Greeters for 24 hours every day, 365 days of the year. Each of them has been personally touched by the sacrifice, courage, and patriotism of the troops, and their gratitude knows no bounds. As the documentary progresses, viewers get a closer look at the daily struggles and triumphs of these volunteers who have touched the lives of thousands of troops and their families.

The documentary explores the backstory of each of the volunteer greeters, their individual struggles, and how volunteering has given them a sense of purpose in their lives. The Way We Get By delves into themes such as aging, community service, and military service, and highlights how every act of kindness can make a profound difference. The documentary also gives a glimpse into the lives of the troops who are coming home, providing a unique perspective on the sacrifices and hardships of military life.

The Way We Get By is an uplifting tribute to the commitment, courage, and resilience of the elderly greeters who have stood in support of troops for over ten years. The emotional and compelling documentary showcases the passion and dedication that motivates these volunteers to put their own lives on hold and welcome the troops as if they were their own family.

The POV season 22 episode 17, The Way We Get By, is directed by Aron Gaudet and Gita Pullapilly, produced by O’Malley Creadon Productions, and co-presented by PBS Distribution and American Documentary | POV. The documentary has received critical acclaim and has won several awards, including a nomination for a Primetime Emmy in the category of Outstanding Arts and Culture Documentary.

Overall, The Way We Get By is a moving and inspiring documentary that highlights the selfless service of ordinary citizens who make an extraordinary impact on the lives of others. It is a story of courage, compassion, and community service that will leave viewers feeling grateful and inspired.