Hacksaw Ridge is a film dedicated to telling the story of Desmond Doss, a conscientious objector in the Battle of Okinawa. A Virginian Seventh Day Adventist, Doss felt the need to serve in the military, but refused to pick up arms throughout his training and during battle. Facing criticism on many sides, Doss continued to stand by his beliefs and was able to save the lives of 75 men without ever taking up arms.

Having never heard of Desmond Doss, I was completely astounded by his story. Considering the pressure that people are put under during a war and the additional pressure Doss faced for being a conscientious objector, I also found it inspiring that Doss was able to stand by his beliefs. As a Virginian myself, I’m surprised that I have not heard about his story and the way that he had an impact on the lives that he saved on Hacksaw Ridge. While the religious take on the film may not be to everyone’s taste as was mentioned in the discussion after the film, I think that most people can agree that there is courage in not falling under pressure and standing by your beliefs, whether it be religious or not.