memorial day

Memorializing the Deadly Myth of John Wayne

May 26, 2007
On the 100th anniversary of John Wayne's birth, falling as it does on Memorial Day weekend, Truthdig presents two pieces connecting the hype of the celluloid "war hero" who never fought to the hard human costs of war. It was the Duke's deadly myth, after all, that would lead young men like Ron Kovic to sacrifice life and limb in needless wars.