As the Gulf War progresses, Anthony Swofford (played by Jake Gyllenhaal) and his fellow Marines experience a mix of anticipation and anxiety while stationed in the desert. They undergo grueling training exercises and endure the harsh desert conditions, all while waiting for orders to engage the enemy.
Eventually, the Marines receive orders to participate in the Battle of Kuwait International Airport. Swofford and his comrades, including his friend Troy (played by Peter Sarsgaard), gear up for combat and head into battle. The scene is chaotic and intense, with explosions, gunfire, and the chaos of war surrounding them.
During the battle, Swofford and his unit engage in combat, witnessing the destruction and violence firsthand. They encounter Iraqi soldiers and face the grim realities of war, including the loss of lives on both sides.
Despite the initial excitement of finally seeing action, the battle ends quickly, leaving the Marines feeling a sense of confusion and disillusionment. Swofford and his fellow Marines return to their base, where they begin the process of demobilization and preparing to return home.
As Swofford reflects on his experiences, he struggles to come to terms with the emotional toll of war. He grapples with feelings of emptiness and detachment, realizing that the war has changed him in profound ways.
Back home, Swofford finds it difficult to adjust to civilian life. He struggles with insomnia, nightmares, and flashbacks to his time in combat. Despite attempts to reconnect with friends and family, he feels isolated and alienated from those around him.
In the final scenes of the film, Swofford finds solace in writing about his experiences. He channels his emotions and trauma into his memoir, using it as a way to process his thoughts and feelings about the war. Through writing, Swofford begins to find closure and a sense of purpose, ultimately coming to terms with his experiences and finding a way to move forward with his life.
Overall, the ending of “Jarhead” offers a poignant exploration of the psychological impact of war on soldiers, highlighting the struggles of returning veterans as they navigate the challenges of reintegration into civilian life.