There are three points of reference required to complete this essay exam question. First, there is the presentation of information/data provided to you through the PowerPoint presentation segment of this class period. Second, there is the content presented through the film, The Wounded Platoon." Finally, there is the general content of this class covered during the previous lectures/presentations.
You will be expected to apply material drawn from all three points of reference in an essay that addresses several specific issues:
• Cultural distinction between civilian and military culture
• The possible influence of war experiences on criminal behavior
• The possible problems veterans may be confronted with when they return to the civilian culture
• The knowledge of military culture by the majority of people in the civilian culture who did not serve/have not served in the military or in a war zone environment
• American criminal law (including options available for veteran defendants as defense options)
Taking these factors into account, you must present and defend two arguments:
1. Veteran status and military experiences should be considered factors in cases involving veteran defendants.
2. Veteran status and military experiences should not considered factors in cases involving veteran defendants.