A short documentary exploring the lives, deep friendship, and resilience of six Black West Point graduates against the backdrop of America's War on Terror. Filmed remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, the film blends intimate remote interviews, archival military footage, presidential speeches, and personal photos. It chronicles their time at the United States Military Academy, deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, and South Korea, and transitions into successful civilian careers and graduate school. Notably, the documentary highlights the group's diversity by embracing its LGBTQ+ members. By celebrating profound male bonds, Black Knights challenges traditional narratives and preconceived notions about who serves in the U.S. military and what military service means for America.

Black Knights (2026)

A story of love, friendship and inclusion in the shadow of America's War on Terror.

August 14, 2026 38 min

Documentary

Director: Stephen Sowers

A short documentary exploring the lives, deep friendship, and resilience of six Black West Point graduates against the backdrop of America's War on Terror. Filmed remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic and the U.S. withdrawal from Afghanistan, the film blends intimate remote interviews, archival military footage, presidential speeches, and personal photos. It chronicles their time at the United States Military Academy, deployments to Iraq, Afghanistan, Kuwait, and South Korea, and transitions into successful civilian careers and graduate school. Notably, the documentary highlights the group's diversity by embracing its LGBTQ+ members. By celebrating profound male bonds, Black Knights challenges traditional narratives and preconceived notions about who serves in the U.S. military and what military service means for America.

Director

Stephen Sowers