Ep 2. Two Wars

In season two, episode two of This American Life, titled "Two Wars," we are taken on a journey through the lives of two very different individuals who have both experienced war. The first half of the episode focuses on a man named Lewis and his experiences serving in World War II. Lewis shares his memories of the war, both the good and the bad, and we hear about the toll that it took on his mental health.

Lewis's story is told through a series of interviews with him, as well as through conversations with his wife and children. We hear about his time as a soldier, his encounters with enemy combatants, and the relationships he formed with his fellow soldiers.

At the same time, we also hear about the aftermath of Lewis's service. We learn about his struggles with PTSD, which he only realized he had years after returning home from the war. We also hear about his relationships with his family and how his experiences in the war impacted those relationships.

The second half of the episode shifts focus to a younger person, a woman named Carmen who served in the Iraq War. Carmen shares her story of joining the military, her experiences as a woman in the military, and the challenges she faced when returning home from Iraq.

Carmen's story is told through a series of interviews with her, as well as through conversations with her family. We hear about her time in Iraq, including the highs of being promoted and the lows of being injured in combat.

We also hear about Carmen's struggles with PTSD and how it affected her life upon returning home. We learn about the challenges she faced in getting the treatment she needed and the stigmas she faced as a result of being a woman veteran.

Throughout the episode, we are given a glimpse into the lives of two individuals who have experienced war in different eras and in different roles. We hear about their triumphs and their struggles, and we are left with a deep appreciation for the sacrifices that all veterans make in service of their country.

Overall, "Two Wars" is a powerful episode that shines a light on the experiences of veterans and the impact that war can have on their lives. It is a reminder of the great cost of war and the importance of supporting those who have served.