While this weekend may mark the unofficial start to summer, the real reason why Memorial Day exists is to take a day to honor our those in the armed forces who put it all on the line to keep us safe.

Before you head to your first BBQ of the season in your best red, white and blue, kick back with some popcorn and salute or troops by watching some of the most iconic military-themed movies from our time.

Let us know your favorite film by sliding into our DMs on Instagram or by sending us a tweet at @celebsecrets.

Cadet Kelly 

It’s very rare that we get a female lead in a military movie, but Cadet Kelly gave us just that. Hilary Duff starred as the free-spirited and clumsy Kelly Collins, who was forced by her stepfather to enroll in the Washington Military Academy to learn some discipline.

Kelly’s life becomes a battlefield taking on the fierce Cadet Captain, Christy Carlson Romano and desiring to impress her parents. Cadet Kelly has a special spot in our Disney hearts.

American Sniper

American Sniper is the true story of the “Most Lethal Sniper in U.S. Military,” Chris Kyle. The biographical war drama, was directed and produced by Clint Eastwood, Bradley Cooper and U.S Navy SEAL Chris Kyle.

His mission? To save lives. Throughout the action-packed film, we are taken on a journey with Kyle’s four tours in Iraq, as well as the life he leaves behind. In this movie, we can see the casualties of war beyond death. It’s no wonder it landed an Academy Award nom for “Best Picture.”

Unbroken

Also a true story and produced by Angelina Jolie, Unbroken is the ultimate story of redemption.

Louis Zamperini was a troubled boy, but he channels his energy into running and qualifies for the 1936 Olympics. When the second world war breaks out “Louie” enlists in the military. You wouldn’t believe the things that he faces…. from a plane crash to suffering in a POW camp, “Louie” has to use all of his might to rise above.

Dear John

 Dear John followed the lives of soldier John Tyree (Channing Tatum) and college student, Savannah Curtis (Amanda Seyfried) through their budding romance. The couple is separated when John deploys in Afghanistan, issuing the most romantic long-distance relationship in history.

The two send letters back and forth over the seven turbulent years, only seeing each other once in a while. Our heart breaks for John and Savannah and I strongly suggest some tissues.

Avengers: Endgame

While Avengers is not your traditional military movie, we can all understand the metaphor comparing soldiers to superheroes.

In the final installment of phase three of The Marvel Cinematic Universe, half the universe is wiped away and the remaining Avengers are forced to take on Thanos to save the world. With the epic ending battle and the loss of some of our greatest soldiers, this blockbuster giant will have you glued to the screen for the entire 3 hours.

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  • Leslie Dominique

    Leslie Anne Dominique is an outgoing and ambitious African/Haitian American young woman who is ready for the fast-paced world of Broadcast Journalism. Born in New York and raised in New Jersey, Leslie has always looked to reporters such as Robin Roberts and Sade Baderinwa for inspiration. Her passion for news production extends from hard to entertainment news. She is a rising senior at the University of Miami, majoring in Broadcast Journalism with minors in International Relations and Psychology. Leslie has a strong background in reporting, editing, and producing for various University of Miami television shows, as well as Instagram Television Productions. Leslie’s work also extends to social media, where she has managed multiple social media pages. Her written work has been published in print and digital media. Leslie’s interests currently lie within Broadcast Journalism and Media Relations and she is prepared to be a voice to the people.

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