9 movies to watch this Memorial Day weekend

Amelia Hamilton, Rare Contributor

This weekend isnʼt all about cookouts and time on the lake. Itʼs about remembering those who gave it all for us — those who lost their lives in battle to protect freedom.

There are so many movies that tell of the struggle those who serve endure. Here are a few movies you might want to watch in your quieter moments this weekend:

View the story "10 movies to watch this Memorial Day weekend" on Storify10 movies to watch this Memorial Day weekendStorified by CMGNationalNews· Thu, May 26 2016 03:50:17

1. We Were Soldiers

We Were Soldiers (2002) Official Trailer #1 - Mel Gibson Movie HDMovieclips Trailer VaultThe story of the first major battle of the American phase of the Vietnam War and the soldiers on both sides that fought in it.

2. The Longest Day

The Longest Day (1962) TrailerDanios12345The events of D-Day, told on a grand scale from both the Allied and German points of view.

3. They Were Expendable

They Were Expendable Theatrical Movie Trailer (1945)Michael AppertA dramatized account of the role of the American PT Boats in the defense of the Philippines in World War II.

4. A Bridge Too Far

A Bridge Too Far Official Trailer #1 - Sean Connery, Michael Caine Movie (1977) HDMovieclips Trailer VaultAllied airborne troops are dropped behind enemy lines in an attempt to seize several bridges during World War II.

5. 30 Seconds Over Tokyo

Thirty Seconds Over Tokyo - Trailer (1944)AdlerangriffeThe amazingly detailed true story of “The Doolittle Raid.” Colonel Jimmy Dolittle, a former air racer and stunt pilot, devises a plan for a daring raid on the heart of Japan itself.

6. Run Silent Run Deep

Run Silent Run Deep Official Trailer #1 - Clark Gable Movie (1958) HDMovieclips Trailer VaultA U.S. sub commander, obsessed with sinking a certain Japanese ship, butts heads with his first officer and crew.

7. Twelve O’Clock High

Twelve O'Clock High Theatrical Movie Trailer (1949)Michael Appert“Twelve O’Clock High” tells the story of an American Bomber Group low on morale and performance after heavy losses over the skies of Germany.

8. The Patriot

The Patriot (Extended Version) - TrailerSony Pictures Home EntertainmentIn 1776 South Carolina, widower and legendary war hero Benjamin Martin (Mel Gibson) finds himself thrust into the midst of the American Revolutionary War as he helplessly watches his family torn apart by the savage forces of the British redcoats.

9. Flags of Our Fathers

Flags of Our Fathers (New US Trailer)Jean-Louis Nguyen“Flags of Our Fathers” recounts the life stories of the six men who raised the flag at the battle of Iwo Jima, a turning point in World War II.BONUS!
In the mood for a marathon? Try a miniseries:

1. Band of Brothers

Band of Brothers TrailerC GasparThe story of Easy Company of the U.S. Army 101st Airborne Division and their mission in World War-II Europe from Operation Overlord through V-J Day.

2. The Pacific

The Pacific: Trailer (HBO)HBOA 10-part miniseries from the creators of “Band of Brothers” telling the intertwined stories of three Marines during America’s battle with the Japanese in the Pacific during World War II.