Description: This documentary explores the rich traditions of the British Royal Navy, from its historical roots to its modern-day practices, showcasing the enduring legacy of naval customs.

Fact: The film was produced with full access to the Royal Navy's archives, providing never-before-seen footage of naval ceremonies.

Description: This documentary traces the military traditions of the French and Indian War, focusing on the Mohican tribe's role and their unique customs in warfare.

Fact: The film features reenactments by descendants of the Mohican tribe, ensuring authenticity in depicting their military traditions.

Description: An in-depth look at the British Army's traditions, from the iconic red coats to the Changing of the Guard, highlighting the historical significance of these practices.

Fact: The documentary includes interviews with veterans who share personal stories of how these traditions were upheld during their service.

Description: This film delves into the samurai's code of honor, Bushido, and the military traditions that shaped Japan's warrior class for centuries.

Fact: The documentary was filmed in collaboration with the descendants of samurai families, providing a firsthand look at their traditions.

Description: Focused on the Anzac Day tradition, this documentary explores the enduring legacy of the Australian and New Zealand Army Corps and their impact on national identity.

Fact: The film includes archival footage from the Gallipoli campaign, offering a poignant look at the origins of Anzac Day.

Description: A look into the secretive world of the U.S. Army Special Forces, highlighting their unique traditions, training, and missions.

Fact: The documentary was made with the cooperation of the U.S. Army, providing an insider's view of Green Beret traditions.

Description: This documentary explores the military traditions of the Scottish Highland regiments, from their distinctive tartans to their battle cries.

Fact: The film features reenactments of historical battles, showcasing the Highlanders' unique military customs.

Description: An exploration of the Gurkha soldiers' traditions, their fierce loyalty to the British Crown, and their unique military practices.

Fact: The documentary includes interviews with Gurkha veterans, offering personal insights into their traditions.

Description: This film delves into the traditions of the United States Marine Corps, from their iconic motto to their rigorous training and esprit de corps.

Fact: The documentary was filmed at various Marine Corps bases, capturing the daily life and traditions of the Marines.

Description: A look at the Cossacks' military traditions, their role in Russian history, and their unique customs that have persisted through the ages.

Fact: The film features reenactments of Cossack military drills and ceremonies, providing a vivid portrayal of their traditions.

Description: This documentary critiques the Vietnam War, exploring its impact on both American and Vietnamese civilians, soldiers, and policymakers. It's a powerful examination of the war's moral and political implications.

Fact: The film was highly controversial upon release, with some scenes being censored. It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: While not directly about military history, this documentary captures the behind-the-scenes political maneuvering during Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, offering insights into the "war" for political power.

Fact: The film was directed by Chris Hegedus and D.A. Pennebaker, who are known for their cinéma vérité style. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This documentary provides an intimate look at Robert S. McNamara, the U.S. Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War, offering his reflections on war, morality, and decision-making. It's a must-watch for understanding the psychological and ethical dimensions of military leadership.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: Ken Burns' epic documentary series examines World War II through the personal stories of citizens from four American towns, providing a comprehensive look at how the war affected everyday lives.

Fact: The series took over six years to produce and features over 1,500 hours of archival footage. It was also one of the most expensive documentaries PBS has ever produced.

Description: Shot by John Ford during the actual battle, this documentary provides a rare, real-time look at one of the most pivotal naval battles of World War II, showcasing the bravery and chaos of war at sea.

Fact: John Ford was wounded during the filming, and the footage was used for training and propaganda purposes. The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary in

Description: This documentary series focuses on the Eastern Front of World War II, highlighting the Soviet Union's role in the conflict, often overlooked in Western narratives. It provides a different perspective on the war's scale and brutality.

Fact: Narrated by Burt Lancaster, the series was a joint Soviet-American production, making it one of the first major collaborations between the two superpowers during the Cold War.

Description: Another masterpiece by Ken Burns, this 10-part series explores the Vietnam War from all sides, including the perspectives of North Vietnamese, South Vietnamese, and American soldiers, as well as civilians.

Fact: The series took 10 years to make and includes interviews with over 80 witnesses from all sides of the conflict. It was also the most expensive documentary PBS has ever produced.

Description: Filmed in Afghanistan, "Restrepo" follows a platoon of U.S. soldiers in the Korengal Valley, capturing the raw, unfiltered reality of modern combat. It's a poignant look at the human cost of war and the bonds formed in the face of adversity.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, the latter of whom was killed in Libya while covering the civil war there. It won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival.

Description: This series uses colorized footage and personal accounts to bring the Second World War to life in a way that feels immediate and personal. It's an excellent choice for those looking to understand the war from the perspective of the soldiers on the ground.

Fact: The series was the first to use colorized archival footage extensively, providing a vivid visual experience. It also includes interviews with veterans who were in their 80s at the time of filming.

Description: Although not strictly a documentary, this film uses a documentary style to depict the Algerian War of Independence, offering a raw and realistic portrayal of urban guerrilla warfare.

Fact: The film was banned in France for five years due to its sensitive subject matter.

Description: This documentary provides a behind-the-scenes look at Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, focusing on the strategists and the war-like atmosphere of political campaigning.

Fact: It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: Directed by Errol Morris, this film features interviews with Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, reflecting on his role in WWII, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the Vietnam War, offering insights into the decision-making processes during these conflicts.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: Ken Burns' epic series examines World War II through the personal accounts of citizens from four American towns, providing a grassroots perspective on the global conflict.

Fact: The series took six years to produce and features over 140 interviews.

Description: This documentary tells the stories of five Hungarian Jews who survived the Holocaust, focusing on the final days of World War II and the liberation of Auschwitz.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This film explores the experiences of Finnish soldiers during the Continuation War against the Soviet Union, focusing on the personal stories of soldiers and the harsh realities of the Eastern Front.

Fact: It was one of the first Finnish films to depict the war from the soldiers' perspective.

Description: This documentary follows a U.S. platoon in the Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, capturing the daily life, combat, and emotional toll of soldiers in one of the most dangerous places on Earth.

Fact: The film was shot over a 15-month deployment and named after a soldier who was killed early in the deployment.

Description: This Danish documentary follows a group of soldiers on their mission in Afghanistan, offering an unfiltered look at modern warfare, the camaraderie among soldiers, and the moral dilemmas they face.

Fact: The film sparked controversy in Denmark for its portrayal of soldiers' actions.

Description: John Pilger's documentary examines the role of media in war, focusing on how conflicts are reported, manipulated, and often censored, from Vietnam to Iraq.

Fact: The film features interviews with journalists and former military personnel who discuss the manipulation of information during wartime.

Description: This documentary delves into the critical naval battle of Midway in 1942, which turned the tide of World War II in the Pacific. It features interviews with historians, veterans, and uses archival footage to recreate the intensity of the battle.

Fact: The film was produced with the cooperation of the U.S. Navy, providing access to previously unseen footage.

Description: This documentary follows the training of U.S. Army Rangers, highlighting their intense physical and mental preparation.

Fact: The film was praised for its raw portrayal of the training process, including the high dropout rate.

Description: This film explores the history, training, and operations of the Navy SEALs, revealing the extreme physical and mental challenges they face.

Fact: The documentary includes interviews with SEAL veterans, providing firsthand accounts of their experiences.

Description: Civilians are put through a condensed version of Special Forces training, highlighting the physical and psychological endurance required.

Fact: The show was inspired by the French version of the same name, which was also a hit.

Description: This series provides an in-depth look at the U.S. Special Operations Forces, detailing their training and missions, showcasing the elite level of preparation.

Fact: The show was produced with the full cooperation of the U.S. military, offering unprecedented access to special operations.

Description: This documentary follows civilians as they undergo basic training with the British Army, offering a unique perspective on the intensity of military life.

Fact: The series was so popular that it led to a follow-up show where participants revisited their training experiences.

Description: A rare glimpse into the secretive world of the U.S. Army Special Forces, showing their grueling selection process and training.

Fact: The documentary was filmed over several years to capture the full scope of the Green Berets' training.

Description: Follows recruits through the rigorous 13-week training at Parris Island, capturing the transformation from civilian to Marine.

Fact: The film was shot with the cooperation of the Marine Corps, giving viewers an authentic look at the process.

Description: Focuses on the British Royal Marines Commandos, detailing their training and operations, showcasing their elite status.

Fact: The documentary was filmed in various locations around the world where the Commandos operate.

Description: Chronicles the journey of recruits in the Israeli Defense Forces, focusing on their rigorous training and the cultural aspects of military service in Israel.

Fact: The film provides insight into the mandatory military service for both men and women in Israel.

Description: Continuing the exploration of military training, this season follows civilians as they experience training with different military units around the world.

Fact: The second season expanded to include training with various international forces, broadening the scope of the series.

Description: Although primarily a feature film, this documentary-style movie covers the D-Day invasion, showcasing the planning and execution of one of the most significant military operations in history.

Fact: The film was shot in black and white to match the archival footage, and it features interviews with participants from both sides of the conflict.

Description: While not exclusively about military victories, this documentary features Robert S. McNamara, the former U.S. Secretary of Defense, reflecting on his role in WWII, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and Vietnam, offering insights into the decision-making process behind military successes.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature. It's known for its candid interviews with McNamara, who discusses the ethical and moral dilemmas of war.

Description: This series covers the Eastern Front of World War II, focusing on the Soviet Union's fight against Nazi Germany, showcasing the resilience and ultimate victory of the Red Army.

Fact: Narrated by Burt Lancaster, the series was originally aired in the U.S. to educate Americans about the Soviet contribution to the war effort. It includes rare archival footage.

Description: This Soviet documentary provides a detailed account of the brutal urban warfare and the eventual Soviet victory at Stalingrad, which was a major turning point in WWII.

Fact: The film was made shortly after the war and includes interviews with key Soviet military leaders and soldiers who fought in the battle. It also features reenactments and archival footage.

Description: This documentary recounts the pivotal air battle that prevented Nazi Germany from invading Britain, highlighting the Royal Air Force's heroic defense.

Fact: The film features actual pilots from the battle, including interviews with German pilots. It also includes footage from the film "Battle of Britain" (1969) for dramatic reenactments.

Description: While not a traditional victory, this documentary tells the story of the Irish UN peacekeepers who successfully defended their position against overwhelming odds during the Congo Crisis.

Fact: The film is based on the book "The Siege at Jadotville: The Irish Army's Forgotten Battle" by Declan Power. It highlights the bravery and tactical ingenuity of the Irish soldiers.

Description: This documentary provides an in-depth look at one of the most significant naval battles of World War II, where the U.S. Navy turned the tide against the Japanese Imperial Navy. It's a tale of intelligence, courage, and strategic foresight.

Fact: The film uses real footage from the battle, including some never-before-seen material. It also features interviews with historians and veterans who provide firsthand accounts.

Description: This documentary explores the largest tank battle in history, where the Soviets managed to repel the German offensive, marking a turning point on the Eastern Front.

Fact: The film uses extensive archival footage and interviews with veterans to provide a detailed account of the battle. It also discusses the strategic planning and the impact of the battle on the overall war.

Description: Although not directly about military conflict, this documentary provides an inside look at Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, showing the strategic battles and political warfare that occur behind the scenes.

Fact: The film won the Grand Jury Prize at the Sundance Film Festival in

Description: This documentary explores the life and career of Robert S. McNamara, who served as the U.S. Secretary of Defense during the Vietnam War. It provides an intimate look at the decision-making process during one of the most controversial conflicts in American history.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This film challenges the perpetrators of the Indonesian mass killings of 1965-66 to reenact their crimes in the style of the movies they love, providing a chilling insight into the psychology of killers.

Fact: The film was banned in Indonesia but has won numerous international awards, including the European Film Award for Best Documentary.

Description: This documentary captures the Egyptian Revolution of 2011, focusing on the ongoing struggle for democracy in Egypt, from the fall of Mubarak to the rise of the Muslim Brotherhood.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2014 and provides a firsthand account of the events through the eyes of activists.

Description: This 10-part series by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick offers an exhaustive look at the Vietnam War, exploring its impact on both American and Vietnamese people through personal stories and historical analysis.

Fact: The series took over 10 years to produce and includes interviews with over 80 witnesses from all sides of the conflict.

Description: This documentary recounts the chaotic final days of the Vietnam War, focusing on the evacuation of Saigon and the desperate efforts to save as many South Vietnamese allies as possible.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: Embedded with the 2nd Platoon, Battle Company of the 173rd Airborne Brigade, this film captures the daily life of soldiers in the Korengal Valley, Afghanistan, one of the most dangerous places on Earth.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Sebastian Junger and Tim Hetherington, the latter of whom was killed while covering the Libyan Civil War in

Description: Following a Danish platoon in Afghanistan, this film provides a raw, unfiltered look at the daily life and moral dilemmas faced by soldiers in combat.

Fact: The film sparked controversy in Denmark for its portrayal of soldiers' actions, leading to debates about the ethics of war reporting.

Description: This film documents the non-violent resistance of a Palestinian village against Israeli land confiscation, capturing the struggle through the lens of five cameras, each one eventually destroyed in the conflict.

Fact: The film was co-directed by Emad Burnat, who used his own footage, and Guy Davidi. It was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This documentary chronicles the events of the Euromaidan protests in Ukraine from November 2013 to February 2014, capturing the spirit of a nation fighting for its future.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This documentary focuses on the Manhattan Project, which was centered at Los Alamos, a secretive military base. It examines the moral and ethical dilemmas faced by scientists involved in creating the atomic bomb.

Fact: The film includes interviews with key figures like Robert Oppenheimer and features rare footage from the Manhattan Project.

Description: This film compiles archival footage from the 1940s to the 1960s, showcasing the U.S. government's efforts to reassure the public about nuclear safety, often filmed at military bases or during military exercises.

Fact: The film uses no narration, relying entirely on the juxtaposition of archival footage to convey its message.

Description: While not strictly a documentary, this film is based on true events and offers a satirical look at the development of the Bradley Fighting Vehicle at the Pentagon, showcasing the bureaucracy and inefficiencies of military projects.

Fact: The film is based on a book by Colonel James Burton, who was involved in the actual testing of the Bradley. It stars Kelsey Grammer and Cary Elwes.

Description: While focusing on Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, this documentary provides insights into military strategy and the role of military bases during the Vietnam War and the Cold War.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This film, while a comedy, is inspired by real events and explores the U.S. Army's New Earth Battalion, which aimed to develop psychic abilities for military use. It provides a humorous yet insightful look into unconventional military experiments.

Fact: The film is based on the book by Jon Ronson, which details his investigation into the U.S. military's psychic spy program.

Description: This documentary addresses the global threat of nuclear weapons, with significant attention to military bases where these weapons are stored and maintained.

Fact: The film features interviews with former U.S. Secretary of Defense William Perry and other experts on nuclear policy.

Description: This documentary explores the most famous military base in the world, Area 51, known for its alleged UFO sightings and secret government projects. It delves into declassified documents and interviews with former employees to uncover the truth behind the myths.

Fact: The film features interviews with Bob Lazar, who claims to have worked on alien technology at Area

Description: This documentary series covers various CIA operations, including those related to military bases. It provides an in-depth look at the agency's covert activities, including the use of military bases for training and operations.

Fact: The series includes rare footage from the CIA archives and interviews with former CIA operatives.

Description: This episode of the series explores the Viking military base in Greenland, revealing how these Norse warriors established and operated their settlements.

Fact: The documentary uses archaeological evidence to reconstruct the life and military strategies of the Vikings.

Description: This documentary features writings by U.S. soldiers from various military bases and combat zones, offering a personal perspective on military life and the impact of war.

Fact: The film was inspired by a writing program initiated by the Department of Defense to help soldiers cope with their experiences through writing.

Description: This documentary series profiles recipients of the United States' highest military decoration, the Medal of Honor, detailing their extraordinary acts of valor.

Fact: The series was narrated by Gary Sinise, who is also known for his role in "Forrest Gump" and his support for veterans.

Description: A tribute to the highest military decoration awarded for valor in the British and Commonwealth forces, this film tells the stories of its recipients.

Fact: The documentary was produced to coincide with the 150th anniversary of the Victoria Cross.

Description: A look at the Purple Heart, one of the oldest military decorations, this documentary examines its history and the stories of those who have received it.

Fact: The film includes interviews with recipients from various conflicts, including Vietnam and Iraq.

Description: Focusing on the recipients of the Navy Cross, this series provides an in-depth look at the bravery of U.S. Navy SEALs and other special operations forces.

Fact: The show was created by the same team behind "SEAL Team Six: The Raid on Osama Bin Laden."

Description: This film explores the story of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, detailing the history and the ceremonies surrounding this monument to unidentified soldiers.

Fact: The documentary features interviews with the guards of the Tomb, known as the Sentinels.

Description: This documentary focuses on the Medal of Honor recipients from World War II's Pacific Theater, showcasing their incredible acts of bravery.

Fact: It includes rare footage from the National Archives, providing a visual history of the battles.

Description: This documentary provides an overview of the Medal of Honor, its history, and profiles of some of its most notable recipients.

Fact: It features interviews with historians and Medal of Honor recipients.

Description: This film explores the French military decoration, the Croix de Guerre, and the stories of those who earned it during World War I and II.

Fact: The documentary was made in collaboration with the French Ministry of Defense.

Description: A documentary about the Distinguished Flying Cross, awarded to aviators for heroism or extraordinary achievement while participating in aerial flight.

Fact: The film includes interviews with pilots from various eras, including Vietnam and the Gulf War.

Description: This documentary delves into the history of one of the Soviet Union's highest military decorations, awarded for bravery in combat.

Fact: It features archival footage and interviews with veterans of the Soviet military.

Description: Featuring former U.S. Secretary of Defense Robert McNamara, this documentary explores his role in major military decisions, offering insights into the complexities of war strategy and ethics.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: This film examines the early stages of the Iraq War, focusing on the planning and execution of the invasion, and the subsequent chaos due to lack of post-war planning.

Fact: The documentary includes interviews with key figures involved in the decision-making process, providing insider perspectives.

Description: Addressing the epidemic of sexual assault within the U.S. military, this documentary highlights the systemic issues and the fight for justice by survivors.

Fact: It led to significant policy changes in the military regarding sexual assault prevention and response.

Description: Journalist Jeremy Scahill investigates America's covert wars, revealing the hidden operations and the moral ambiguities of modern warfare.

Fact: The film was nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature and sparked discussions on the ethics of drone warfare.

Description: This documentary delves into the story of U.S. soldiers accused of war crimes in Afghanistan, exploring the psychological and ethical pressures of combat.

Fact: It provides a chilling look at how group dynamics can lead to moral disengagement in war zones.

Description: Investigating the death of an Afghan taxi driver in U.S. custody, this documentary sheds light on the use of torture and the moral implications of military interrogation techniques.

Fact: It won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in 2008 and was praised for its investigative journalism.

Description: This film follows a platoon of U.S. soldiers in Afghanistan's Korengal Valley, capturing the daily life, combat, and emotional toll of war. It's a raw, unfiltered look at modern warfare.

Fact: The film was named after PFC Juan Sebastián Restrepo, a soldier killed early in the deployment. It was also nominated for an Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature.

Description: This Danish documentary provides an intimate look at a group of soldiers in Afghanistan, focusing on their camaraderie, fear, and the moral dilemmas they face in combat.

Fact: The film sparked controversy in Denmark for its portrayal of soldiers' behavior, leading to debates about military ethics and media portrayal.

Description: Soldiers from the New Hampshire National Guard are given video cameras to document their experiences in Iraq, providing a personal perspective on the war.

Fact: This was one of the first documentaries to use video diaries from soldiers to tell the story of the Iraq War, offering an unvarnished view of military life.

Description: This film explores the emotional and psychological impact of war through writings by soldiers, showcasing the power of storytelling in understanding conflict.

Fact: The documentary was inspired by a project where soldiers were encouraged to write about their experiences, leading to a book and this film.

Description: Although a dramatization, this film is often studied for its depiction of urban guerrilla warfare and counter-insurgency strategies during the Algerian War of Independence.

Fact: The film was used by the Pentagon for training purposes due to its realistic portrayal of urban warfare.

Description: A critical look at the Vietnam War, this documentary explores the psychological and strategic aspects of the conflict, showing how both sides viewed the war and its impact on civilians.

Fact: It was the first documentary to win the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: While not strictly about military strategy, this documentary captures the political strategy behind Bill Clinton's 1992 presidential campaign, showcasing the tactics and strategies used in political warfare.

Fact: The film provides an inside look at the campaign's "war room," where key decisions were made, offering a parallel to military strategy rooms.

Description: This documentary delves into the life and lessons of Robert S. McNamara, former U.S. Secretary of Defense, offering a firsthand account of the strategic decisions during the Vietnam War and the Cuban Missile Crisis.

Fact: The film won the Academy Award for Best Documentary Feature in

Description: Ken Burns' documentary series examines WWII through the personal accounts of American soldiers, offering insights into the strategic decisions and their human consequences.

Fact: The series was a massive undertaking, involving over 40,000 hours of archival footage and interviews.

Description: A classic documentary that provides a detailed account of the pivotal naval battle during WWII, showcasing the strategic planning and execution that led to a decisive American victory.

Fact: This film was made during WWII and was used as propaganda to boost morale. It includes actual combat footage from the battle.

Description: This 20-part documentary series details the Eastern Front of World War II, focusing on Soviet military strategy and the immense sacrifices made by the Soviet Union.

Fact: Narrated by Burt Lancaster, it was one of the first major Western productions to explore the Soviet perspective of WWII.

Description: This comprehensive documentary series by Ken Burns and Lynn Novick explores the Vietnam War, focusing on military strategy, political decisions, and the human cost of the conflict.

Fact: It includes interviews with over 80 witnesses from all sides of the conflict, providing a balanced view of the war's strategy and impact.