POV Season 30 Episode 19 Almost Sunrise

This episode of POV follows two veterans, Tom Voss and Anthony Anderson, as they embark on a 2,700-mile journey on foot across America. The journey is not just a physical challenge but also an emotional one, as both men are struggling with the effects of post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) after serving in Iraq.

Tom and Anthony meet in Milwaukee, where they begin their trek towards the Pacific Ocean. Through interactions with locals along the way, they explore the concept of moral injury - the internal conflict that arises when soldiers engage in actions that contradict their internal moral compass. They also discuss the negative effects of the military's culture of invincibility and the difficulty of seeking help for mental health issues in a society that often stigmatizes these vulnerabilities.

As they walk, Tom and Anthony begin to confront their own demons and the guilt and shame they carry from their time in combat. Along the way, they draw inspiration from the majestic American landscapes they encounter and the kindness of strangers who support their journey.

The film also features interviews with mental health experts, veterans, and family members affected by suicide among veterans. It explores the critical need for mental health care for returning veterans and the lack of resources and government support in addressing this issue.

Ultimately, Almost Sunrise is a poignant and hopeful portrait of two veterans on a mission to heal themselves and raise awareness about the mental health crisis facing our nation's veterans. Through their journey, Tom and Anthony demonstrate the power of human connection, the healing potential of nature, and the importance of confronting one's own vulnerability in seeking peace and redemption.