On Sunday, 21 May, at 8:00 pm HBO will air Baghdad ER for the first time. It will air periodically after that. The website is here at
HBO: Baghdad ER.
A bit from the synopsis says
"BAGHDAD ER allows viewers to experience the physical and emotional toll of war by capturing soldiers and care providers in personal moments amidst intense crises inside the 86th Combat Support Hospital. Located in Baghdad's Green Zone, the facility was formerly the site of an elite medical center for Saddam Hussein's supporters. Thanks in part to the skill and dedication of trauma center teams like the one depicted in the film, wounded troops in Iraq have a 90 percent chance of survival - the highest rate of war survivors in U.S. history. The selflessness and dedication of those caring for wounded Americans and Iraqis stands in sharp contrast with the chaos of war."
Like several other recent documentaries and webshows HBO is leveraging access to the wards of a combat hospital (like the MASH units of old) to demonstrate the power of the war. Power to destroy lives and bodies, power to engender heroism and skill, power to shock and horrify the viewer. The show has attracted the attention of the Army and the commanding general of the Medical Command issued a letter to subordinate commands warning them about the effect of this show on some troops and their families.
"The film will have a strong impact on viewers and may cause anxiety for some Soldiers and family members. I ask that your medical treatment facility be prepared to provide the support mechanisms for those who seek assistance.
...
The film gives us an opportunity to reflect on the proud traditions of military medicine and the extraordinary care we provide but it also provides a reminder of the great sacrifices of those who go in harm's way in this Global War on Terrorism."
I can't remember another piece of media expected to have this kind of impact or another letter of this sort ever going out. Although I pass up seeing these shows and wonder if we aren't normalizing the experience of war and the tragedies suffered there - this one might wake up a few living comfortably in the shadow of the flag.