The military represents a community titled with the utmost respect and bravery. The members of this community accredit their success and respect to their strict discipline. Through the military, humans have learned that discipline is the key to success. Without discipline, a military is nothing more than a bunch of animals. We see this exemplified by the black “soldiers” led by Colonel Montgomery. Lacking discipline they are classified as animals who unjustly commit violent acts.

During the Civil War, diversity within the military was frowned upon due to the backwards belief black soldiers were useless and should only be used for labor work. Colonel Shaw however, was able to use his skills as a leader and applied strict discipline to prove to the entire nation that all soldiers were equal. Diversity in the military was necessary to win the Civil War and is necessary in any situation. It gives an army more fighting strength and also especially during the Civil War, gives an army more motivation. The morale in the colored regiment was exceptionally high because they had a good reason to fight for. Diversity brings all sorts of motivation to an army and these motivations united can give an army more strength on the battlefield. Diversity can also bring a variety of skill sets. For example, one of the privates in the regiment, (I cannot recall his name) brought expert shooting accuracy. This can be extremely beneficial in a time where sniper rifles and scopes did not exist.

I believe that through the sacrifice the 54th made, the entire nation was able to see that soldiers are soldiers no matter what color. Colonel Shaw was able to achieve his success by training his regiment through strict discipline. He turned a group of unfit men and made them into a respectable and brave regiment. He proved that his colored regiment was just as strong and skilled as any white regiment.  Connecting the movie to everyday life, I believe that discipline is the key to any success. In our lives, disciple can make us mentally stronger and can make us limitless. When I say limitless, I mean that any goal is within our reach. When I say discipline I mean getting up early, keeping your room clean; having a daily routine. With this, humans can reach success no matter how hard. Having discipline in our lives will keep us going through life like an army through battle.

Sources:

http://digitalcampus.swank.com/stonybrook/SDC/Watch.aspx?v=a38693032c1d44a68c95f9ef7ee1add2

Glory