The Best John Wayne War Movies

John Wayne films are must-see viewing for Veterans Day 2023. Here are a few of the Duke’s best outings in military-themed movies.

‘The Green Berets’

Wayne symbolized American red-blooded patriotism in his five-decade Hollywood career. He was renowned for his westerns and also starred in a dozen World War II movies. However, he did manage to make a Vietnam-era war picture.

In 1968’s The Green Berets Wayne aimed to change public opinion about the Vietnam War. Wayne, who co-directed the film, took a heavy-handed patriotic stance, but critics criticized his attempt to claim the moral high ground. Decades later, The Green Berets may have faced harsh criticism. While it may have downplayed American soldiers’ misconduct, it highlighted the Viet Cong’s atrocities against civilians and efforts to counter Communist expansion in Southeast Asia. The film may seem overly supportive of American intervention, but its intense battle scenes make it worth watching.

‘The Alamo’

The Alamo, directed by John Wayne, cleverly blends his iconic Western and War themes. It depicts the one-sided struggle for Texas freedom in 1836. This epic took fourteen years and twelve million dollars to create. The movie showcases the Duke’s trademark elements, like jovial camaraderie and playful banter.

However, the 1960 film truly shines in the second half with intense battles between the brave resistance and the tyrannical army. It brilliantly portrays the heroic last-ditch efforts of Texas resistance soldiers, led by General Sam Houston, against the formidable Mexican army commanded by Santa Anna. The film captures the chaos and sacrifices made by these fighters in their quest for a brighter future, making it a must-see.