Last semester I took a class called Single Cam, where as a film student were were instructed to shoot short films and create documentaries. I had never shot a documentary, yet when the time came I wanted to ensure it was important to me. I also felt it was important to encourage or inform viewers. I chose the direction to pursue a documentary focusing on a family friend named Ron Murray.

Ron is in his 80s, and he loves to fish and cook. Yet one of the most important attributes is that he is a hero. Ron served in the Vietnam war. He faced numerous trials and hardships, for he lost friends along the way. I wanted to share his story to honor his sacred moments and to share with my class some of his stories he was willing to share. A highlight prior to recording his story was when I arrived at the Murray’s house hold. I did not preface a specific attire for Ron, but when I knocked on the door with my equipment in hand, a soldier had opened the door to enter. Ron had decided on his own to wear his military uniform with many badges, patches, and metals. He had the biggest smile on his face and you could tell that he was so eager for his moment.

Once filming was in progress, Ron narrated his experience serving in Vietnam. It was emotional to hear about some of his stories about how he had lost a best friend, yet he did what he could to conclude on a positive note. He discusses his faith rooted in Jesus Christ and how that relationship has allowed him to grow and to perceiver through adversity. In my documentary I included photos that visualize Murray’s stories. I feel this ties to the American Dream due to Ron serving for his country to allow opportunities and freedom for his family and friends. It was an honor to share his story. Attached is my final edit of the documentary to view.