Man of honor

Sometimes you come across some good movies which are very touching, just like reading a good book; it often leads to some soul searching. Man of honor, stars Cuba Gooding Jr. and Robert De Niro is such good example. I have seen this movie many times, not that I like it so much but rather coincidental that many a time when I was staying in hotel during my out-station assignment, HBO was showing this movie. I often finished watching it despite of seeing it for many times.

This movie revolves around two men of honor; their relationship, their ups and downs and triumphs. Carl Brashear played by Cuba Gooding Jr. determined to become the first African American Navy Diver in a time where racism was strife. Leslie Sunday played by Robert De Niro, on the other hand was his embittered trainer who determined to see him fail. However, fate, challenges and circumstances draw these two men together in a tale of turbulence and these equally hardcore stubborn navy officers eventually helped each other to overcome their respective failures.

Carl’s leg was seriously injured as a result of an accident occurred during a diving operation searching for a missing bomb. He was forced into retirement but Carl wanted to return to full diving duty and therefore requested that his injured leg been amputated and fitted with a prosthetic leg. Sunday on the other hand was going through rehabilitation to overcome alcoholism, and volunteered to help training Carl before a hearing with the Chief of Naval Personnel. A month later, Carl appeared before the Naval Personnel to ascertain his possible return. Carl was requested to put on a new diving suit, weighing at 290 pounds and he was requested to take 12 steps inside it on land to prove that he is capable of doing the diving work with the prosthesis. Carl, seeing that his wife and son were in the audience, volunteered to take the 12 steps right then and there. He struggled initially but his steel determination got him through.

The top rank Navy Personnel were moved with Carl’s determination and asked why was he so determined to return to a full diving duty despite of the mishap, to which Carl said; “Forgive me sir, but to me, the Navy isn't a business. It's an organization of people who represent the finest aspects of our nation. We have many traditions. In my career, I have encountered most of them. Some are good, some not so good. I would, however not be here today were it not for our greatest tradition of all.” The Navy Chief then asked; “What would that be, Chief Brashear?" Carl Brashear unwavering answered; “Honor, Sir” To me this is the most touching part of the movie.

As Carl rightfully put it, Navy isn’t a business. Similarly, Police, Army are not a business. Men and women wearing uniforms must have honor to discharge their duties or otherwise these people will one day become so corrupted that they could even sell the country. Just look at what’s wrong with RMAF’s missing jet engines. It could just be another tip of iceberg.