Veterans Day is upon us, and there are a slew of military movies to watch to remember those who served. Here are some of our favorites that honor our military’s valor.

‘The Great Escape’

Drawing inspiration from Paul Brickhill’s 1950 book, John Sturges’ The Great Escape spins the tale of spirited Allied prisoners of war scheming and embarking on their audacious “great escape” from a German P.O.W. camp during World War II. This 1963 war epic stars the legendary trio of Steve McQueen, Charles Bronson, and James Garner. Of course, it also delivers some of the most jaw-dropping motorcycle stunts in cinematic history. It’s currently streaming on Tubi and Pluto TV.

‘The Best Years of Our Lives’

Released in 1946 after World War II, The Best Years of Our Lives captivated audiences and won seven Academy Awards. This poignant film follows three soldiers, Frederic Marsh, Dana Andrews, and Harold Russell, as they return to their small town, each facing unique challenges. By depicting the struggles of veterans during that time, the film deeply resonated with viewers, becoming a timeless portrayal of the post-war experience. Homer’s homecoming is still one of the most heart-wrenching scenes in cinema history. It showcases the strength and sacrifice of those who serve. The film is currently streaming for free on Pluto TV.

‘Patton’

Released in 1970, Patton won Best Picture at the 1971 Academy Awards. Franklin J. Schaffner’s war drama is a biopic about U.S. Gen. George S. Patton, chronicling his controversial career and rise and fall during World War II. George C. Scott delivers an unforgettable performance as Patton, particularly in the opening monologue against a massive American flag, earning him the Best Actor Academy Award. The film is not available to stream for free, but can be rented across several platforms such as Amazon Prime.

Turner Classic Movies Veterans Day Triple Feature

However, if you would rather have a network curate your Veterans Day movie experience, TCM has you covered. Starting tomorrow afternoon, the network celebrates Veterans Day with classic films about American veterans and their engagements abroad. In the 1951 action drama The Steel Helmet, Americans battle Communist troops in an abandoned Korean temple. The Samuel Fuller-directed film stars Gene Evans and Robert Hutton. Next, fighter pilots (Robert Stack and Edmond O’Brien) prepare for D-Day in the 1948 World War II epic Fighter Squadron. The evening concludes with the previously listed The Best Years of Our Lives.