Taking Chance - Chance Phelps [Archive] - Professional Soldiers ®

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Sweetbriar

02-15-2009, 10:29

I stumbled over this link (http://www.hbo.com/films/takingchance/) and now may have to sign up for HBO just to see it.

You may have read the original article (http://www.chancephelps.org/?page_id=126) at the time, which I remember well. There is also now a Facebook page (http://www.facebook.com/pages/Taking-Chance/55367435827) which has additional links and info.

I'm glad the respect most of America feels for our troops' sacrifices is being shown in a mainstream outlet. I really believe the casual vulgarity that the MSM and Hollywood have towards our servicemen is an outlying attitude. As this is a true story, perhaps it will yank a few chains that need to be brought up very tight indeed.

mcarey

02-15-2009, 11:18

After checking out the link and reading the story, I am reminded of my fallen brothers and tears flow easily. I hope all of our fellow "citizens" understand a bit more about their responsibilities and enhance their respect for those who gave all......perhaps HBO has done a service this time. I hope those who have never served "get it".

Scimitar

02-15-2009, 12:29

Interview with Bacon and the LTC.

Youtube Link (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7iphqTnVkOA)

Another Interview (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ew6kVB0I3L8)

S

JJ_BPK

02-15-2009, 14:34

Very Moving,,

Thanks for the reminder and links..

Vaya con Dios, PFC Chance Phelps

Saoirse

02-20-2009, 13:17

For anyone interested, the movie will be on HBO February 21st. at 2000 hrs

purgatory

02-20-2009, 14:18

Sweetbriar,

Thanks for sharing those links. I've never read the original article until now. It made the eyeballs sweat quite a bit. Hopefully the movie will find its way to AFN.

FMF DOC

02-20-2009, 14:32

Thanks, seen an extended preview the other day and an interview with Kevin Bacon, very moving, already got it save on my Nexflix file and will try to get to the neighbors to catch it on HBO. Thanks for posting

Puertoland

02-20-2009, 18:16

Watching it tomorrow night, something my girl and family have been looking forward to. She cries just watching the commercial.

I have no doubt it will be an excellent film. The story which it is based on surely is amazing enough.

Sweetbriar

02-23-2009, 11:54

Apparently they did it right. Here's a blogger's review of the film, along with info on repeat air dates and when the DVD comes out. If I can do the HBO On Demand thing, I will, both to see it sooner and to send a message to HBO that good movies make more money.

JammieWearingFool (http://jammiewearingfool.blogspot.com/2009/02/took-chance-on-taking-chance.html)

Paslode

02-23-2009, 12:45

I watched Taking Chance twice this weekend, I was astounded with the respect and care that is given to the fallen. It is an incredible movie that I found elevating and quite heart wrenching at the same time.

echoes

02-23-2009, 13:05

Thank you for posting the information, Sweetbriar. I read this letter, off of the link provided. Very moving, IMHO.

http://www.chancephelps.org/news.html
Dubois, WY

February 1, 2009

Dubois, Wyoming is a special place. Not just because it’s the place of rest and a boyhood home to LCpl Chance Phelps. The town has a feeling; a way about it. This feeling is touched on in LtCol Strobl’s Taking Chance.

The following was written by a friend of Kelley Orndoff, Tom Stout, shortly after his first visit to Dubois and the funeral of LCpl Phelps. This letter was sent to the Dubois mayor and published in the Dubois Frontier.

Thank you Tom.

"To The Citizens of Dubois, Wyoming,

A week ago today, I was in your town attending the funeral of Chance Phelps, PFC, USMC. It was certainly a sad weekend, for as a retired soldier, I have seen and participated in too many such events. However, this funeral had an effect on me that no other did; an effect for which I want to thank the people of Dubois.

My father was career Air Force and therefore, I have traveled from one base to another and one post to another all my life until recently. I have never had the opportunity to live or spend any length of time in a small town. In spite of this, I would like to say that I have always believed in the ethereal concept of “Americana”, the core belief system portrayed in Norman Rockwell’s wonderful paintings…things such as patriotism, independence, a belief in progress through hard work, community spirit, and a bond between neighbors. It is such a wonderfully powerful thing to believe in. It was a strong enough belief for me to want to dedicate my life protecting it.

Unfortunately, never did I see it until last weekend. One might ask, how did I see it? I saw it when I first drove into Dubois and noted the many flag poles, all at half mast. I saw it in the hushed, sad, reverent tone of everyone in the town the entire time my wife and I were there. I saw it in the faces of the people lining the street. I saw it in the respectful way the two high school girls stood there with flags in hand, not giggling with each other, not talking to boyfriends on their cell phones, but both respectful and both close to tears. I saw it in the face of the many “Marlboro Men” standing there with their hats over their hearts, and the look of genuine grief. I saw it in the face of the young woman who had her baby on her left hip, and flag in her right hand, consciously or not, teaching her child an early lesson in patriotism. I saw it in the face of the older woman in pink who was standing at the video store, shivering, but standing there nonetheless.

I saw it in the face of the 16 or 17 year old blond Boy Scout, who also had a large flag in hand. He wasn’t there to socialize. He wasn’t there to earn a merit badge. He was there to pay respect for a brave American who embodied everything the Boy Scouts stood for and who died for them. That wouldn’t be cool in a big city. I saw it in the volunteer fire department standing there respectfully. It was apparent in the determination of the members of the VFW to once again be sharp in their “about face” in spite of old wounds and age. I saw it in the long lines of tables, covered with food. Food that didn’t come catered or boxed from a business or grocery store, but was cooked in a hundred kitchens and in casserole pots with family names on them. It was shown by the fact that the Motel 8 owner and kind clerk didn’t charge my wife and me for the room that night because we were there for the funeral. I heard it in the patriotic music playing in the Water Wheel store and the genuine kindness with which the store owner spoke of the entire family. I felt it in the honest welcome my wife and I received wherever we went in Dubois.

Last Saturday was a very sad day for me, but it was also a good one. I gave over 20 years of my life; and much more, Chance gave one year AND his life, to preserve it. Thank you Dubois. Thank you for confirming to me that Americana really exists. I’ll never forget you and hopefully, will come back to visit someday during a happier time.

And thank you Chance."

~Thomas Stout

Puertoland

02-23-2009, 14:05

The film left me and everyone watching with me with an even greater sense of pride after we saw the honor and respect given to our fallen men/women in the service.

Every five minutes was something touching or inspiring, I already decided I'm buying this film.

greenberetTFS

02-24-2009, 13:48

I don't have HBO, but I'm waiting until it's available for purchase ..............

GB TFS

Gypsy

02-24-2009, 19:16

I don't have HBO, but I'm waiting until it's available for purchase ..............

GB TFS

I don't either, so a friend was kind enough to record for me (VHS). If you'd like, after I watch it I can send it to you.

HQ6

02-24-2009, 23:39

I don't have HBO, but I'm waiting until it's available for purchase ..............

GB TFS

Also I have been told they have it on Netflix already.

I watched it this evening. I was afraid I wouldn't make it through the movie after this last weekend, but I watched it to the end.

I am not surprised at the reactions or those who were touched by Chance while he was being escorted home. People have shown me unbelievable kindness when I was traveling alone with my mom (who is in a wheelchair) and the kids (infant and toddler at the time) to meet the better half. This country really does have an incredible capacity for kindness and giving to those who have served, and I am blessed to say to their families.

Thank you to PFC Chance Phelps for your sacrifice. Thank you to LTC Stout for honoring him and being his witness.

ZonieDiver

02-24-2009, 23:49

Also I have been told they have it on Netflix already.

I watched it this evening. I was afraid I wouldn't make it through the movie after this last weekend, but I watched it to the end.

I am not surprised at the reactions or those who were touched by Chance while he was being escorted home. People have shown me unbelievable kindness when I was traveling alone with my mom (who is in a wheelchair) and the kids (infant and toddler at the time) to meet the better half. This country really does have an incredible capacity for kindness and giving to those who have served, and I am blessed to say to their families.

Thank you to PFC Chance Phelps for your sacrifice. Thank you to LTC Stout for honoring him and being his witness.

My older daughter recently married an SF officer (also a member of this site) in Las Vegas. He was in dress blues. At one point their photographer wanted to leave the hotel in which the wedding was taking place and walk across the street to get pictures with the fountains of the Bellagio in the background.

I feared the worst - Viet Nam era - yet was pleasantly surprised by the reaction of people in the street. I am not sure if they were respectful of the uniform, the bridal gown, or both. Kind words were passed. Applause was heard. People moved out of the way of the picture-taking, and at an inconvenience to THEIR own view, remained out of the way.

The average American gets a bad rap for their behavior, methinks.

dennisw

02-24-2009, 23:57

I watched the movie tonight with my wife and a friend who served with me some 30+ years ago. It's a fantastic movie, but very emotional. I'm still amazed it was on HBO. I wonder if they will get some flack over this.

Kevin Bacon did a terrific job, but the story is the movie. Definitely, two thumbs up.

greenberetTFS

02-25-2009, 06:42

I don't either, so a friend was kind enough to record for me (VHS). If you'd like, after I watch it I can send it to you.

Thanks Gypsy, I'd really appreciate it if you would send me a copy. I'll PM my address to you.........:D

GB TFS

doctom54

02-25-2009, 07:34

Gypsy

02-25-2009, 18:25

Thanks Gypsy, I'd really appreciate it if you would send me a copy. I'll PM my address to you.........:D

GB TFS

My pleasure! Received and responded.

Puertoland

02-26-2009, 00:52

I watched "Taking Chance" last night with my wife. It is a powerful movie.
It was a little surprising to me that universally the average American reacted, with respect and thanks. We have a truly great nation.

A distinctive trait amongst Americans, when we are doubted, we can overcome all expectations.

A fine nation, and a fine people.

You wouldn't know it if you watched the news.

Defender968

02-26-2009, 08:45

Anyone who missed it but has HBO they'll be replaying it on 1 Mar 09 from 1430 to 1600, I was out of town but visiting my in-laws (who don't have HBO) but will be watching Sunday.

dennisw

02-26-2009, 11:31

If you have HBO, you may also have HBO on demand where much of their programming can be viewed at your leisure. Taking Chance is currently listed in their movies on demand.

JForms

02-26-2009, 15:43

Watched it today. Very moving movie.

Thanks to all who serve and who will serve. God bless.

-J

TrapLine

02-28-2009, 13:16

I am not one to cry during a movie, but this was a tough one for me. I am glad to see that others out there share my appreciation for the heroes in uniform regardless of what the MSM would lead me to believe.

I hope I am not stepping out of my lane or misunderstood when I say that the most moving scenes of all where the pictures of PFC Chance at the end. His life looked a lot like mine growing up. That he gave his life is humbling to me. Thank you PFC Chance and all who serve. Rest in peace, you will not be forgotten.

Gypsy

02-28-2009, 21:25

The program is now available on DVD.

http://store.hbo.com/product/index.jsp?productId=3473175&cid=&gclid=CL6K1rWZgJkCFZtM5Qodal6amQ

greenberetTFS

03-08-2009, 14:05

My pleasure! Received and responded.

Lorene,

Thanks again for sending me the tape. Your absolutely right hollywood did get it right this time, the movie was very moving and touching. I was amazed at how well it was put together. If anyone would like to see it and don't have HBO let me know and I'll send this copy to you ASAP......................

Teddy

Alterflow

03-08-2009, 14:35

This movie was very touching. It was very tasteful and honorable. It is on HBO on demand right now if you have Time Warner Cable. I would suggest thinking it over before watching with loved ones, my wife took it very hard.

SF_BHT

03-08-2009, 14:54

I ordered it from Amazon and I just got an advisory that it was on back order. :mad:They sais it would not be available until 27 May 09.
HBO will not ship until 5/19/09.....

I am looking for another option if any one can recommend one.

greenberetTFS

03-08-2009, 16:13

SF_BHT

03-08-2009, 17:05

SF_BHT, PM me with your address and it will be out to you tomorrow............:D

GB TFS :munchin

PM Sent, Thanks for the help.....

Gypsy

03-08-2009, 17:10

Lorene,

Thanks again for sending me the tape. Your absolutely right hollywood did get it right this time, the movie was very moving and touching. I was amazed at how well it was put together. If anyone would like to see it and don't have HBO let me know and I'll send this copy to you ASAP......................

Teddy

Teddy, glad I had a buddy tape it and that I was able to share it with you. Seems like it will now travel around the globe...next stop to SF_BHT. :)

SF_BHT

03-08-2009, 17:54

Teddy, glad I had a buddy tape it and that I was able to share it with you. Seems like it will now travel around the globe...next stop to SF_BHT. :)

Thanks Guys I will also share it with our Marines... HBO Here is great but the international version did not show it yet. Lots of Sex and Violence but not that show.

Thanks Again

PSM

03-08-2009, 18:09

Lots of Sex and Violence...

Thanks Again

Have any tapes you'd like to share? :confused:

Pat ;)

Alterflow

03-08-2009, 18:16

lol

Gypsy

03-08-2009, 18:45

Thanks Guys I will also share it with our Marines... HBO Here is great but the international version did not show it yet. Lots of Sex and Violence but not that show.

Thanks Again

Excellent B, that's perfect.

Have any tapes you'd like to share? :confused:

Pat ;)

LMAO!

SF_BHT

03-08-2009, 18:54

Have any tapes you'd like to share? :confused:

Pat ;)

Yes I do but the ERA would get me for distributing video that shows women can still be sexy and Hot.....;)

SF_BHT

03-22-2009, 12:36

greenberetTFS

I would like to say thanks. I just arrived back from TDY and had the DVD on my desk. Popped it in a little while ago and have really enjoyed the show.
Thanks for the help.

Also Thanks to the others who offered to help also.

greenberetTFS

03-22-2009, 13:28

SF_BHT

03-22-2009, 13:49

It's what the brotherhood is all about,right? :D

GB TFS

Yes it is.
Again Thanks, that was one of the best things I have seen put out from Hollywood in a long time...... I can say my eye's were not dry. It was one of the most respectful depictions of the Military without some political agendia.....

LR27

03-22-2009, 19:59

Wow, the preview is powerful. Can't wait to snatch this up on DVD. Have to wait until May 12th.

Unless I can buy a copy from someone who already has it...:munchin

armymom1228

03-22-2009, 21:05

Wow, the preview is powerful. Can't wait to snatch this up on DVD. Have to wait until May 12th.

Unless I can buy a copy from someone who already has it...:munchin

www.mininova.org you can download your own copy or if you are around DC I will give you mine.. I saw it... spent most of the show teary eyed..

st1650

03-24-2009, 18:38

It deserve to be seen.
Dedicated server link: st1650.com/tc.avi (use VLC player to play it ( http://www.videolan.org/vlc/))

Mods/Admins feel free to delete if it's inappropriate.

Scimitar

03-24-2009, 20:40

Just saw it.

Very well done, very poignant.

Will be showing it to my Father next week; 20 year retired officer of foreign military, VN Vet, and served 4 years with US military. He's really looking forward to it.

Never thought I'd say this, but well done Hollywood....(don't let it go to your head. :rolleyes: )

S

Sweetbriar

05-26-2009, 20:09

It's out for rent on/in redbox now. (Red vending machine just outside Walmart.)