If, as the saying goes, a picture really is worth a thousand words, the images recorded by Canadian soldiers serving in Afghanistan could fill volumes.
Growing numbers of soldiers are now using hand-held digital video cameras to record their experiences on the frontlines, creating an accurate picture of what it looks and feels like to be in the midst of battle.
And the footage serves as more than just a compelling memento of an adventure. It can also be used to train new troops, providing the frontline experience to new recruits who are still far away from the battle zone.
Canadian troops in Afghanistan recently recorded their experience as they engaged in combat, later showing the footage to CTV's Steve Chao. The video was shot virtually down the barrel of a gun as the troops traded fire with suspected Taliban militants.
"You can see bullets flying by us right there," said one soldier, as they reviewed the video.
"Wow's that's close," said another, surprised by the proximity of the bullets being fired in their direction.
The footage provides the gritty reality of the frontline experience, said Bombardier Eric Coupal of India Company.
"Instead of just talking about it, now I can show this is actually what happens, so they have a better idea and can grasp what we are actually doing when we do go into combat," Coupal told Chao.
In addition to the practical benefits of the footage, it can also serve as a record of the lighter side of a soldier's life, and capture the fascinating intricacies of a foreign culture.
One soldier's 'video journal' showed images of dancing police officers and troops, and soldiers' spoof version of the popular MTV Canada show "Cribs."
Others recorded the day-to-day living conditions for troops serving in Afghanistan.
Sean Maloney, a military historian, said soldiers have the ability to capture history as it happens for future generations.
"I'm very encouraged by this. The technology now exists where we'll be able to capture a wide variety of experiences," Maloney said.
All in all, the footage adds up to serve as an accurate historic snapshot of the experience, and a moving memoir for soldiers to share their experience with family and friends.
"This is something I can add on to my family history," Coupal said.
With a report from CTV's Steve Chao
