Los Angeles Times photojournalist Luis Sinco documented the marines assault on Fallouja in November, 2004. While capturing the ferocity of the conflict, he made a photograph of Marine Lance Corporal James Blake Miller.
Miller, weary from the battle, lit a cigarette, and Sinco's photograph of that moment became an icon of the Iraq War. But the connection between Sinco and Miller runs deeper. After returning from Iraq, Miller tried to return to his previous life but found his nights haunted by images of war and his life fractured by depression.
This is the story of how Miller struggles to heal his scars of war. But it is also a story of how two disparate lives became connected on a rooftop in Fallouja, and how they both continue to struggle with what happened.
Los Angeles Times photojournalist Luis Sinco's photograph of Marine Lance Corporal James Blake Miller became an icon of the Iraq War. This is the story of how Miller tries to heal the scars of war and how two lives became connected by a photograph.
Note: Not all comments will be posted due to space and time constraints.
Matthew -- San Jose, California, USA
May 19, 2009 at 1:27 PM
This is one of the most powerful multimedia stories I have watched. To delve into the life of James Blake Miller and show the reality of his situation and what he has and continues to go through; a struggle that is not just unique to him but an all too common reality for other veterans is so extremely important to the fabric of humanity as it grips with war. Being awarded with James' trust and friendship is a gift that only Luis Sinco knows, but that relationship is evident for all us to see in this piece, and thank god for that.
Hans -- San Francisco
May 19, 2009 at 1:07 PM
Wow. Thank you Corporal Miller and thanks MediaStorm for inspiring me with this great project. I worked some years ago on one of the worlds tallest sailing ships. Every day was an adventure and we often risked our lives. We went through gales and storms and traveld to amazing places. I witnessed so much, including a beautiful young woman falling eighty feet to her death. My life has never been the same, and I don't know that it ever will be. Since I got back, I have a tough time relating to 'regular ' people, and I've no one to share with who really understands. So, in that sense, I can relate and I sympathize completely. Thanks again.
Joao Mendes -- Santos, Brazil
Apr 30, 2009 at 2:48 PM
Great work, very strong images and a human vision of a concerned photographer. Thank you very much.
Charlie Pycraft -- Ondon
Apr 15, 2009 at 1:05 AM
That is very powerful journalism and the reason I picked up a camera 23 yrs ago....I haven't always been true to myself but this kind of work reminds me what I am supposed to be doing and why...that there is a legacy that I can leave for someone else to be inspired by and they in turn can inspire someone else...the lineage and legacy of life. Thank you
Annabel -- Syracuse, NY, USA
Apr 13, 2009 at 11:07 PM
When journalism and art come together at this level, it's-- it's just incredible. What a service. Mr. Sinco and Corporal Miller, thank you. Bless you.
Dennis Stock/Magnum Photos -- Woodstock, N.Y. USA
Apr 9, 2009 at 1:39 PM
Luis, You are a very fine human being and an excellent photographer. Every politician should see your essay and learnwhat damage they do. Snap away, you make me proud to be a member of our profession.
Gary Maguire -- Ontario, Canada
Feb 11, 2009 at 10:47 PM
I can't believe this. I thought i knew what these marines are dealing with, since i've seen war movies and the like. this story is so compelling.
Barbara Sendrea -- Caracas, Venezuela
Feb 11, 2009 at 1:03 PM
My country is divided in two types persons; the first believes that the war is the best manner for the resolving our politic problem... Thanks God, exist the second persons ... They believe in the peace and equality... If for one second, the first persons, had known this film, of course, your opinion about the war and PEACE, would be different.
Nic -- Berlin, Germany
Jan 13, 2009 at 3:02 PM
Very emotional and moving, beautifully sad. Too bad these kind of films, people and their stories don't get more attention.
m.t. -- madison, wi usa
Dec 4, 2008 at 11:58 PM
this is what recruiters should show men and women before they [literally] sign their life away.mr. millers story is very tragic and is the result of one man's hubris.very powerful photography by mr. sinco... bravo!
Pierre -- France
Sep 4, 2008 at 10:45 AM
Impressive work. Congratulations to everyone involved.
Scotty Gottwald -- Hamburg, Germany
Aug 28, 2008 at 7:18 AM
Many Thanks for this! It's so moving and a strong message against war. Politicians should be forced to view this!
Marilyn M -- Honiara, Solomon Islands
Aug 20, 2008 at 1:50 AM
The cover photo itself drew curiosity in me to click on this and watch. The best part was how the story was told. There is something about the story, music and images that brought this story to life - making me feel as if i'm a part of it. It made me realise how much pain soldiers like James go through. Hollywood hasn't portrayed what Sinco and MediaStorm have captured and put together.I'm out of words for what James has experienced, but i would like to thank the producers of "The Marlboro Marine" for letting me see the life after war in Iraq for soldiers, and the values we currently support verses the sacrifices individuals and families make for these values. You've told a story no one else can tell.
Thorsten -- Cologne, Germany
Jul 31, 2008 at 4:15 AM
This is a sad, sad story, although it's beautifully done.It's a crime what's being done to these kids, to their families and friends. Not to mention the devastation this senseless war has left behind in the region.
Raj -- Australia
Jul 30, 2008 at 1:01 AM
James and Luis and Jessica - thanks. You are fine people. I am indebted to your bravery, honesty, images and words. May the road rise up to meet you one and all. James, if that was your music? Can you share some more of that with us?
Lou -- Chester, VA, USA
Jul 26, 2008 at 7:30 PM
James, Suck it up and keep moving,! enjoy the simple things on earth as long as you can.. Great Photo. "Semper FI" Rock on!
john mccorsley -- erwin, nc
Jul 10, 2008 at 10:58 AM
only two words needed to express my response to this story: Tearfully Powerful!
Lcdr G. P. Wilson, USN (Ret) -- Memphis, TN, Shelby
Jul 9, 2008 at 4:56 PM
L/C Blake is as honest with himself as he can be. Trouble is that he was not prepared by the USMC for the carnage he became a part of and he was not counseled after the battle to understand the nature of what he had gone through. Gen Sherman said "War is hell." THIS is what he was talking about. This is what the Vietnam Vets have been trying to tell us for 35 years. Ignore the comments by those who haven't been there, who haven't a clue and who think everything is politics and ideology. Those who have combat PTSD and/or TBI know they have been transformed. Things do not seem the same as before- it is like a different person looking at the same things but seeing them anew. The old reference points- morals, what we take for granted, what is common to all at home- have been overtaken by the changes wrought by combat. Combat is elemental- get them before they get you- and its stresses take us back to our most primitive emotions. That is why they are so deep and so unique feeling. What L/C Blake needs is the comradeship of those who have been there to help him understand that he has a new outlook and that it need not be self destructive. He needs to help others to help himself. I salute Lance Corporal Blake for the sacrifices he continues to make on behalf of this nation. All our casualties are not physically wounded. Don't give up. I quote Winston Churchill, who in the darkest hours said, "Never, never, never,never, never quit!" That is the truest fidelity to this country. SEMPER FI !
Rosemary Sheel -- Camarillo, Ca USA
Jul 9, 2008 at 3:48 PM
James, I thank you for the sacrifice you made for your country and I hope you will find a way to see it as honorable . That is the way I see it. You did a man's job and you did it well.
nir -- China
Jul 7, 2008 at 11:18 PM
amazing, as a photographer myself, this is way beyond photography, this is so close, so presentless and really a driven piece.
My heart weeps for you, the despair that you feel inside. I know that if you preserve GOD will relieve you of you pain thru Christ and his word. The world doesnt seem to make sense with all the pain and suffering abound, but remember that we are not just a physical person but we are in a spiriitual realm as well. Let go and let GOD, once a man told me this, and he was right.
Bridget -- Fairport, NY, USA
Jun 28, 2008 at 11:04 AM
Messages such as this only continue to define this tragedy. I can see no good coming of this or any other war. Lives on both sides have been destroyed forever. The leaders who sent these people need to see these stories -- themselves, not through their PR people. We have enough trouble in our own backyard -- we should stay home and work on our own problems for a while.
deb -- oxford ms
Jun 27, 2008 at 12:11 PM
james thank u for ur service to us. my brother went to iraq and came back with some pretty gross videos, pics and stories. I think i can relate to u a little. i think the pastor told him that god excuses those that have to fight for their country because that was their service. just pray about it and talk to your pastor It will work out for you.
Pieter -- UK
Jun 20, 2008 at 6:04 PM
Milller and the other soldiers who participated in the heinous war crime that was the massacre of the people of Fallouja, have not borne one thousandth of the suffering of the men women and children who were murdered by the US soldiers.What is worse , to die screaming as the flesh is burnt from your bones by banned ordnance like White Phosphorus munitions or to face the living death of the realization of your crimes?Was there liberation their death?Were the people of Fallouja liberated from the occupation and rape of their country?There is great irony that the only weapons of mass destruction in Iraq were those used used by their invaders and occupiers.The future of this country is children malformed in the womb from the Depleted Uranium rained upon the towns, cities and countryside. God curse the United States of America.
Mark Barmore -- Louisville KY USA
Jun 16, 2008 at 9:57 PM
This is in response to Gaylas message, and is for James. Read her post, dude. I live in KY also, and we need a guy like you around. You have fufilled a need that is not common. There will be a moment later in your life, when this might make more sense. You gotta stick around to find out.
Anthony Thompson -- Senoia, Ga. USA
Jun 14, 2008 at 2:09 AM
James, Words cannot express my graditude, and my sorrow for you. You have a burden to carry that few can say they understand. But know that there are many people who can help, and want to see you live a brighter day tomorrow than the darkness you feel today. Drive on, and look for the answer to cure your pain.
Chris -- Cocoa Beach, FL
Jun 14, 2008 at 1:23 AM
Extraordinary photos. Thank you very much...
Thankful -- Gresham, OR, USA
Jun 13, 2008 at 8:23 PM
Our soldiers killing others that would do us harm is the toughest job. Thank you for your service, of which the result is our freedom.
Ryan Walker -- Battle Creek, Michigan
Jun 13, 2008 at 4:20 PM
This Marine seems so lost and hurting, I pray that God helps him find the old James Blake Miller. I am not a vet and have absolutely no idea what he saw or experienced in Fallouja. I just hope he realizes that all Americans know what he did for his country, and thank him from the bottom of our hearts, and wish him peace and love in his life. Thank you so much James for your sacrifice and your love of country.
bejani -- saint louis, mo
Jun 13, 2008 at 3:56 PM
Mr. Miller, Thank you for your service and dedication. But the self pity and self loathing is a little contrived. i believe you all need more help than you are getting, but cowboy up. The only thing that i get from this video is that you would rather be dead. WTF, WTF, you made it, you made it, and now you feel like a piece of shit for killin some sheet head MF'ers that would have KILLED YOU. I will never understand a combat situation and hope to never have to, but god damn it to walk a way and still be able to enjoy a Harley ride, or the love of a good woman; god damn you couldn't slap the smile off of my face.
Kevin R. -- Wake Forest, North Carolina USA
Jun 13, 2008 at 2:24 PM
Thanks for sharing this James and Luis. You can beat this James. There will be times and places and people and things that haven't happened yet that will make things good. The pain and loss can't be fixed but there will be things that make you OK. You aren't and never can be the same guy from before but you can be somebody else that grows past this crap. Don't give up James - there will be more sunrises. ~ Semper Fi from one grunt to another.
vic anselmo -- leesburg, florida, USA.
Jun 13, 2008 at 2:15 PM
This was more than a well told story though pictures, this was laying a person open for all to see. Lance Corporal Blake is feeling this pain because of his humanity. for him to not "feel" would be a worry for us all, death whether of a friend or enemy is a very personal thing, to cause that death even more so. i hope that L.C. Blake gets the help he needs, and finds peace with his demons. personal message for L.C. Blake, thank you son, for your service. it does mean something, you mean something. without you, we all would be less. if you ever get the itch to ride on down to florida, would be proud to have you stay with us (and have a bike too, so we can ride).
thickestskin -- Sydney, Australia
May 15, 2008 at 8:16 PM
This is fantastic. Thank you for making this available. It's poignant, provocative, beautifully made, and important. I wish all those vets out there the very best and you have my ultimate respect.
Shels -- Australia
May 14, 2008 at 3:06 AM
okay it's 3am and having now watched the video The Marlboro Marine I got to say to James I feel your sadness and pray that you will forgive yourself as God has through His love to you through Jesus Christ. You are not alone you have a friend in Jesus.
Pat Mayall -- Roscommon, Michigan
May 8, 2008 at 8:15 PM
I cried to think of what this brave American did for this county. I am ashamed that a U.S. Congressman would not take the time to speak with this brave marine. I do not know what to say may god bless this hero.
Wayne R. -- FrenchLick, Indiana USA
Apr 22, 2008 at 12:07 PM
I was touched very deeply by this story, and you the sad part of it is that this is just one story being told. Think of all the stories that are not told and probaly are very much the as this one. Another thaught that comes to me , just think about the stories that can not be told of the men and women that have died, "and for what" I'm not sure. And most likely are men and women don't no either, but they do what they have to do for our Country and Us ALL. I will pray for them all. "Please bring them home"!!!
Gayla -- Topeka, KS USA
Apr 5, 2008 at 7:06 PM
I was married to a vet who did commit suicide and so this has touched me in a way few things do. There is another story here, the story of the woman who loves him. My heart hurts for both of them but if he does kill himself, he will miss so much. My Jimmy missed our kids growing up and missed all the important milestones like graduations, weddings and now grandbabies. I have remarried and have had so much joy in my life that he could have shared with me but he made his choices just as this yoiung man is making. Instead of asking God why he survived, he should ask himself why he shouldn't have survived. I know that with all he has seen and done he thinks of himself as a man but from where I stand he is still a boy finding his way in life. He's way too young to throw away the gift of life. Since those long ago times when my James threw his life away I have known so many who have died wishing they had just one day more with those who love them. Suicide is such a cruel hoax. He thinks he will not have to think but he's so wrong. He will be in a place where his hell will be hearing his children cry for him. He will have to watch them struggle through life w/o the guidance a dad should have been there to give them. He will have to watch as his widow lays in the arms of another man and wishes it was him. And how, 42 years later, he will have to see the tears tears like I'm shedding as I wish I could hold this young James in my arms and tell him that it will get better, that life is worth living and that God loves him enough to forgive him for the things he isn't able to forgive himself for. He has already thrown away the woman who loves him. Please tell him not to throw away anything else he can't replace.
Mike -- Fort Wayne, Indiana
Feb 19, 2008 at 3:38 PM
I think using the word "troops" to describe or talk about our soldiers makes them seem a little further away and not as personal to all of us. It makes them sound more of a machine than a collective of individual Americans. I think we should go back to calling them our soldiers. It seems like it would keep them a little closer to us in our hearts and not so easy to forget or marginalize what they are doing or going through. I think they all should be brought home NOW. This illegal and misled war is insane! My nephew, AJ, just shipped out to Iraq last week. He is a soldier in the US Army.
cathy -- miami, fl
Feb 14, 2008 at 7:39 PM
I am an addict. THANK YOU FOR THAT EXPERIENCE. HAPPY V-DAY TO ALL OF US HUMAN BEINGS. I lOVE US.
Will Robinson -- Denver, CO
Feb 8, 2008 at 1:55 PM
First, I would like to recongnize the tremendous effort of those involved with the creation of this piece. Personal battles are so often forgotten in the big picture, this is something that we as a country are starting to recognize. Second, for PFC Graver I would like to say that I applaud your conviction and your esprit de corp. I also would like to warn you against the assumption that because of these you are immune to the realities of the world in which you live. When you enter this war you will be faced with that you can only imagine and it is at that point your being will be tested, as will your conviction. There is no self loathing in Miller's story, just the conflict between a good man, a righteous man and the unavoidable regret that comes with ending a persons' existence. I have my opinioins about the war and I will keep those to myself, once you have entered it I imagine yours may shift. I have served this country and have my own demons. I believe in our ability to do right as a country and hope we excercise it with thoughtful consideration, because in the future I will still be in the fight. Cpl. Robinson U.S.M.C. 97-05
Gilberto Garcia (Combat PSG) -- Colorado City, CO. Pueblo county
Feb 6, 2008 at 11:07 PM
We all come out of war with guilt and remorse, why me? How can I foreget? I was sopose to die there too! Why did I servive and not some of those good men that died? The one that I lievewith is even worst: Why did I have the power of life and death over all those good men? being a senor NCO does not make meerror proof, some died following my orders, was I right? did I make a mistake, why didn't I have some one ordering me to give the order? The only consolation I have is that the enemy killed my men not me, But , I put them where they died. the blame should go to the Democrets that held our trigger fingers.We had the men power, we had the will, we had the resorses to win all we were lecking was our Washington Politicians not having the will to win nor to quit.
Gunner -- New Hampshire, USA
Feb 6, 2008 at 3:55 AM
Hang in there, Jarhead. FTW...
PFC Jeff Graver, 68W (combat medic) -- Raleigh, NC
Jan 27, 2008 at 8:37 PM
I feel for the guy, really I do, but the video is a lot of self pity/self-loathing. I believe you need to go into any war before hand knowing what you are doing and knowing you feel justified. Our country was not founded upon "woa is me" stories, it was founded upon people who were willing to give their life and didn't want people to feel sorry for them. The sacrifice was well worth the cost, and they knew that. People do not realise that today, which is very sad. They were preserving freedom, which is what we are doing now. See, he feels guilty and he feels like, "what have I done" but God called so many people in the old testament into war and they didnt have self pity and self-loathing that I think weakens this great nation. I have the Lord and the Holy spirit in my life so going into this war will be completely different for me. I know what is at stake, and I know questions like "why did God let me live" will not be on my mind if my buddies around me die. And I would hope that self-loathing would not be on the minds of my fellow battle buddies if I were to pass. They need to realise that I realised before I joined that the risk and sacrifice was well worth the cost, and I believe that today. If I have to die so my kids/wife/relatives can be free, I will do it gladly. Besides, the other side (heaven) will be great! It is a win, win! If God so chooses to let me live, praise be to Him! If God allows me to pass, then so be it. A marine asking why he was chosen to live is like asking why God alows sin in the world. You know? So although many people may like the movie, and again, I do feel for the guy, it isnt the best representation I think of people in that situation. I hope you dont think this was an arrogant opinion. I just want you to consider it.
chris leslie -- Glasgow, Scotland, UK
Jan 31, 2008 at 5:11 AM
In response to Jeff Graver's thoughts ...dont wrap yourself up in the idea that you or James were defending your freedom in anyway by fighting in Iraq. James is clearly messed up because he realises his time and his colleagues deaths mean't nothing in the end. If Iraq was hellbent on invading the US and stealing its resources then perhaps you and he would have some justification and peace. James story is important as is this piece of work as its not just about one man and 'self pity/self loathing' as you call it - his story is that of thousands of service men and women across the US and other countries who return home to a life they struggle to lead. You have your beliefs in God which gets you through life, but some people dont, so remember that, but most importantly remember that invading Iraq was never about yours or anybody else's freedom.....
william davis -- LR., AR
Jan 28, 2008 at 2:50 PM
Great msg, Mr. Miller isn't the only one out there. It's no differant than the vetenam war.You fight the enemy and you fight the gov't. If the gov't isn't on the vet's side, who's side is the gov't on. Do they (the gov't) become just another enemy?
yoheee -- Hong Kong
Jan 26, 2008 at 1:56 PM
"a picture tells a thousand words", simply stunning.
Dave Campbell -- Currituck, NC USA
Jan 22, 2008 at 9:55 PM
My Brother, Daniel, Four tours Vietnam, Agent orange contributed to is early death ar age 54, at his funeral they read his , record, He had served his country and comrades well. Yet he never spoke of any of it. I am sure he took lives and i am also sure that he saved many, That is war, He never spoke ill of his country . would not even ask for help, and the war eventually killed him. No name on the WALL.But killed in action.
victor -- roseville calif united states
Jan 22, 2008 at 2:55 PM
Blake please hold on for your sake and for your family no matter where you are just remember as a fellow Marine we are brothers and we all feel the pain nomatter when where or how we feel your pain . As time comes and go it will ease somewhat but that pain will be there and we will share pain with you my brother in arms. Sgt Victor Vonzell Camp U.S.M.C 1978-1986 SEMPER FI (Always Faithful)
Jeff Engel -- Branson, MO USA
Jan 19, 2008 at 2:35 PM
When people are confronted with the realities in which a lot of individuals live thier daily lives, it is brought to us in a way that draws out judgement instead of compassion. It has been presented without a sense of a real human connection. I lived in that world of addiction for 15 years. I applaud the authenticity and path you provided for the others to connect with people that exist in our world and need our help not our condemnation
Eric Schmid -- Zurich, Switzerland
Jan 16, 2008 at 7:26 AM
Very impressive story! There should be more photographers out there who tell a different story about world events like the Iraq war. I know, I am European, we do see this war in a completely different light, not attached to poor guys like Miller, and also not so much manipulated by an US Covernemt and Pentagon. Mediastorm is doing a great job teaching the American People, that what you hear day in day out in the national news is far removed from reality. It is a good way to show all the lies who have let to this absolutely injust war. Luis, keep up your brilliant photography, i am an advertising photographer, but really been touched by your work and Millers story. good luck!
Travis -- Stockton, Ca. USA
Jan 12, 2008 at 12:21 AM
This short documentry is spot on to what we go through, I didn't have the combat engagements this young man had. However I'm fresh from the combat zone (1month) and to say the least I know exactly what he is going through. Its like the hammer hitting the nail when he talks about the depression. Damit what have we gained versis what we have lost is the hardest hitting point that chokes me up.
Rebecca Drobis -- Washington DC USA
Jan 10, 2008 at 6:27 PM
This is the most powerful and memorable piece of journalism I have seen yet.
francis r. malasig -- philippines
Dec 17, 2007 at 12:56 AM
AMEN......
Frederic Belge -- Bangkok, Thailand
Dec 13, 2007 at 10:30 AM
Great piece of photojournalism.Great job Luis and nice editing .. congrat for the team of Mediastorm. I'll check your other works but i'm already amazed by this one.. Congratulation again, that's journalism as we wish to see more.Long life to all of you..Good luck to all veteran of all wars.. Wars sucks.
Jim Berkes -- Frankfort, KY, United States of America
Dec 11, 2007 at 7:24 PM
Good job on documenting what is helping to bring down this once great nation. And no it's not apathy, or social injustice ...it's simply self pity and cowardice.
This piece is absolutely amazing and should be broadcast for all to see and hear. The insight to the stuggles and pain that haunt veterans should be shouted from coast to coast. Touching to the core.
Roland Van Deusen -- Clayton, NY, USA
Nov 24, 2007 at 1:05 PM
There are 4000 nationwide free, anonymous support groups that can also help w/PTSD at www.celebraterecovery.com. I told VA headquarters about this six months ago and they ignored me, probably because it came from Veterans For Peace. See the current SYRACUSE UNIVERSITY MAGAZINE, p. 45.
John A Signorelli -- Olmsted Falls, Ohio, USA
Nov 23, 2007 at 8:53 PM
I am 66 years old and a Viet Nam Vet. Once A GI always a GI. I didn't have it anywhere near as bad as Cpl Miller, but after 40 years the memories are still there. There are still men from Nam languishig. I cried when I read this article today in The Plain Dealer, and I hope and pray that this press will ignite the national conciousness that these men and women have a great problem that must be dealt with without the politicians screwing it up.
Noreen Cuglewski -- Seven Hills, OH USA
Nov 23, 2007 at 8:50 AM
Thank you for this wonderful story of this one solldier. In our busy lives we sometimes forget what they are going thru in Iraq and at home. This story brought me to tears. Thank you James we care about you please take care of yourself. Thank you Luis Sinco for sharing these pictures and story with America. Hope to hear more from you.
Lauren Grabelle -- NJ, USA
Nov 17, 2007 at 11:52 AM
Watching the pain of Marine Lance Corporal James Blake Miller, I kept thinking that it would be wonderful if he could find a way to distract himself from his pain, busy himself with life, his life now. Then I noticed his credit at the end and I know that he can. If the music was his, he has found his therapy that can be completed while at home in the hills of Kentucky and can ease him forward in his meaningful life.
Thomas Pickard -- Christchurch, Canterbury, New Zealand
Nov 16, 2007 at 5:48 PM
It is because of multimedia pieces like this, that the world needs an organisation like MediaStorm.
Paula Lerner -- Belmont, Massachusetts, USA
Nov 16, 2007 at 12:53 PM
This is a moving, thought provoking story, beautifully executed with excellent photography, great audio, and high quality editing. I'm glad I took the time to view it. I hope James Blake Miller is finding his way.My compliments to all who put this feature together. It inspires me to view and produce more packages like this one. And my heart goes out to all the James Blake Millers of the world.
