Elliott McKenzie - Gunshots (Feat. The Marine Rapper)

STREAM GUNSHOTS ON SPOTIFY: open.spotify.c...
The song is available in all digital music stores such as itunes, google play, spotify, etc..... All you have to do is search for "Elliott McKenzie Gunshots" in that specific store and it will come up.
FOLLOW ELLIOTT ON IG: @elliott_mckenzie
FOLLOW THE MARINE RAPPER ON IG: @themarinerapper
This is the powerful, intense, and emotional music video for my song about having PTSD called, "Gunshots" featuring The Marine Rapper! Meant to open the eyes of the world to the issue of combat related PTSD, "Gunshots" tells the story that many combat veterans go through on a daily basis while fighting their PTSD demons. The song is dedicated to all those struggling with PTSD who have served our great nation! Keep fighting brothers and sisters!!
--------------------------------------------CREDITS: --------------------------------------------
-- Videographers: Ezra Thorne Media & Doza Digital
--Editor: Ezra Thorne Media
-- Director, Creative Director, Screenwriter, Treatment Writer, Casting Director, Logistical Operations Manager: Elliott McKenzie
--Makeup Artist: Danielle Blazer
--Rap Artist: The Marine Rapper
--Cast: Chris Bast, Stephen Williams, Mark-Ian Carreon, Keith Weber, Will Weed, Tara Keen, Paola Valadez, Darvin Quevedo, Aimee Mendez, KyleAndrew Carreon
-- Store: M&I Military Surplus Store/Outdoor Gear, Pomona, CA
-- School: Mt. San Antonio College, Walnut, CA
----------------------------------------------------Be sure to visit my website below!!----------------------------------------------------
www.elliottmckenzie.com

[@heidiholdridge]

Awesome song- people don’t understand PTSD. God bless all who have served.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@independentthoughtsnotthot9030]

Or Traumatic Brain Injury resulting from constant jolting of your brain due to explosions of every kind, or any trauma that severely shakes your head. A lot of times, Leading to PTSD.

[@xii_bones_iix5051]

@@independentthoughtsnotthot9030 just found scarring in my frontal lobe last week, how it went unnoticed til now is unreal man

[@hazen4410]

Just discovered you and the Marine Rapper a couple days ago. You two are great and I appreciate you putting your and many others feelings to music. I'm a long term recovering alcoholic and music is a huge part of my continued sobriety. I'm so grateful and appreciative that I found you both. Thank you and Semper Fi my Marine Brothers!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@superwallaby6954]

Holy shit, I always wondered if music like this existed. This hit home, other day I was carrying balloons into the house for my kids birthday and they scraped the top of our overhang on the porch, like two of them poppped and my wife found me white as a ghost crouched down in front of our front door and gave me a hug and snapped me out of it. My tour was in 2013 but sometimes it still feels like yesterday. Thank you for making this type of music and I'm glad that I finally found it!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Comments and instances like THIS are why I do music bro!! Thank you so much!!!

[@crackheadmkufams]

Marines put the capital M in MAN. Thank you for your service to the greatest Nation in the World.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

The pleasure is mine!!

[@konnect777hustlaroffaith6]

Shout out to my country men who sacrificed their life and even their sanity!

[@Tacit_Tern]

GD, bro. This song slaps as hard as it hits. .....And I say that as a Pastor. I loved my Marines. FMF Corpsman 2nd Battalion 1st Marines. God bless, man.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks brother!!

[@heavygunz0331]

This song took me to a place I haven't Felt in a long time. Thanks. I just found out about your work today. on ABC 7 News special.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

HEAVYGUNZ05 Thanks so much!! I am glad you like it!!

[@smokenwheels5642]

Yup goosebumps

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@ericbeauchamp7385]

Semper Fi brother!! I Co 3/5 05-06

[@jasonwilson3057]

It's not inevitable death that a warrior fears, it's the thought of not living long enough to make a difference that terrifies him! It's not the lives hes taken that haunt the warrior, it's the faces of fallen brethren. We must fight and let the fear of failure fuel us until we have achieved victory or earned death. Every American must lay a sacrifice at the alter of freedom and nourish the tree of liberty; for it's blood, not good intentions that they demand. Thomas Paine said: "If there must be war, let it be during my time, so my children may know peace". I shall stand 6' above American soil as a free man or earn my place 6' below it. May the American people reign forever!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!

[@brandondavis5596]

Fucking HOOAH

[@ShadowWolf357]

Me explaining to my Marine brother's new wife why he acts "that way". ....thank you. -Sister of a U.S. Marine

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@mjo0311]

I'm a country boy raised on country music. This song hit me and took me to places I try to push down. Thanks y'all.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Pleasure is ours bro!!

[@ngb2279]

You never seved in the military did you

[@edrobinson2522]

I have a hard time watching this. TMR is my brother. I know what he saw was horrible. My Brother.

[@edrobinson2522]

Me too man. Just learning. My eyes are opened. I love it. These brothers are freaking right on. The Viking lullaby in that song "The Patriot * was bone chilling. I am of Viking decent and was blown away. These guys do their homework. Freaking Warriors! HOOOAH!

[@daviddonpelleyable]

I'm a country boy 28 years in . Out 2012 due to injury. 3rd marines

[@sirflame4376]

Thank you for your service! Nobody knows what you going through over there unless they lived it

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@richardcopus5556]

This is for the marine rapper ... 2021. And i can still hear and smell 07 ... That line man thank you for being a voice. SEMPER FI

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@gypsypath1]

As someone with PTSD from another cause, I’m so glad I found this song. Lip service is often paid to PTSD, but lasting treatment seems just out of reach.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

I'm so glad you came across the song!! I'm honored it is able to make a difference for you!!

[@wilhallman2890]

Wow. One of the most powerful songs I've heard in a long time.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@williamdee3080]

Wow first time I watch this video I wish the Useless who occupy the White House would read the part NEVER LEAVE ANYONE BEHIND SMH .RIP to the 13 service members who was in Afghanistan

[@XIXKyleXIX]

God Bless all the combat veterans! Thank you for the service 🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you! The pleasure is mine!

[@XIXKyleXIX]

My brother is a combat vet... I’m sending him this song now.. thank you Elliott

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@XIXKyleXIX thank you for helping spread the word through my song!! 🙏🏽

[@prestigeworldwide2898]

Every like is respect given to the brave men and women who fight this countries battles.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!!

[@jasonwilson3057]

Q: Whats the difference between cover and concealment? A: About 7.62 millimeters.

[@Blktxdom2004]

Glad to have come across this track. I’m going to try to get this for myself and the few veterans that I know at the Milwaukee VA. This is a powerful song depicting a message.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

So glad you like it Earl!!

[@gm-zf8nq]

Take care of each other at zablocki. Haven't been over there much.

[@kentonmiles]

Respect. Took five years after for me to ease up.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

ChopStick Pony Thanks!! Took me 7

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@SerenitySheri]

This is beautifully done on a subject not too many understand unless they've been in those boots, or have a family member whose been those boots. My son inlaw served 2 tours in Afghanistan, and came come with a purple heart and PTSD. Reintegration is not easy. Thank you for your service. 🙏🏼❤

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

I'm so glad the video and song are close to home for you and you can see the purpose! Your support is much appreciated Sheri!

[@kathyborthwick6738LakotaEmoji]

Thank You! Military family and this song touches on a very very important issue! PTSD is very real! #SoldiersSuffering

[@DHARK1873]

So grateful for our all our troops and vets. This reminds me that sometimes , for some of them, the very freedom they fought so hard to give us, they then lose themselves. That feeling of absolute security - we’re all still free here, so they’re free when they get back home, but they sometimes can’t feel safe IN a place that they MADE SAFE. It’s unfair, and yet still more sign up to do the very same job, knowing the potential losses they may suffer- physical, mental, emotional and everything in between. THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE! ♥️🤍💙

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@franky2shoes660]

Had a buddy from the Canadian airborne, he saw some shit i Cypress. we would go out clubbing back in the day and sometimes something would trigger the guy...I was as if he was there no more...and would go on the offensive.....maximum gonzo he'd call it, first time dealing wiith PTSD...we would help him snap out of it...even caught a hot one once, guy was solid and I know he'd have my back. Max respect to all Vets!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

It's great that he had you there to have his back!!

[@angryodinson]

Just an amazing song props to you and those who suffer every day while back home and the prayers to the ones that never made it back.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

angryodin son Thank you!!!

[@eddiex8542]

Feeling this. Semper Fi

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks brother!! Semper Fi!

[@jkinney0420]

Great song brother! Just came across this one. Been following The Marine Rapper for a little bit, but not long. I served in the Army myself 13 Bravo baby, ARTILLERY!! I was truly lucky though I served in between Iraq and Afghan, so I never got deployed. I was actually in the process of discharging when 9/11 happened. I fully discharged Oct. 4th 2001. Thank you so much for your service to our country and for this AWESOME song! My prayers go out to all who made it home alive but scarred and more prayers for the ones who came home wrapped in a flag and their families and loved ones. God Bless.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much bro!!

[@paytonwalden2821]

This song is amazing and it makes me understand what the they are going through and it makes me want to enlist the marines even more

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

payton walden Thank you!!

[@MrLandslide84]

PTSD song. So sorry for people like my Uncle. Had to deal with it hardcore. No forth of july for him. Mountain side in a cabin. That's where he was. After serving his country... that guy at first looks like Matt Best.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Yes, PTSD can be tough! Hopefully your Uncle is staying strong!

[@historyprofessor1776]

I wish I could like this a thousand times! Thank you for this!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@kodieyates5864]

Millions of brother understand this. Training instant kick in. That's my life these days while everyone is asleep

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Keep up the fight! You got this! And thank you for the support!

[@johnwayne5598]

Yut been listening to this on Apple Music all day

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Good shit bro!! Thanks for the support!!

[@TheMarineRapper]

GUNSHOTS! 🤘🏾👹🇺🇸

[@dustindramer9472]

Gonna be honest, please read the whole comment. I was thinking too much smooth R&B for the content. After listening for a bit (and people judge way too fast) you sang "then I'm back home" Damn. The way you are singing and what you are singing about. Amazing way to portray how people see it compared to what we feel. Love the entire song! People don't understand how shit sticks with you. Call it whatever you like, it's stress and uncomfortable.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

So glad you took the time to listen to that line and like the song!! Your support means so much Dustin!

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@andrewnicholson8491]

Who thumbs this down........ Commies

[@americanti6832]

DemoKKKrats, leftists, libs attack dogs blm & antifa!! Basically the EMPIRE SCUM of America!! Republican Rebel Alliance 🇺🇲

[@moonbeamsinajar3297]

I can't even imagine what it must be like for all our warriors who have been in combat. I honestly thank you from the bottom of my heart. Much luv and respect & gratitude to ALL who have served! God Bless You!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

The pleasure is mine!! Thank you for your support!

[@iand2895]

This Is incredible I am not even a veteran but I have PTSD from my past abuse In my life and this song Is very uplifting letting people like me know that the fight has just begun and that the war can be won just to keep pushing and thriving and I will survive the hardest thing to come thanks so much for your service to the American people and to me my past relatives and my grandpa have served in the navy and I have a family friend who fought at Vietnam who actually has agent orange but Is still living from It thank god for a man like him and men like you god bless!!!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much!!!

[@robertosmith7636]

Thanks for this song and your service

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Of course!

[@tarablake3573]

thank you for your service 11B 4 life

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!!

[@theamericanpatriot6721]

Being a combat vet this really hits home with me great job buddy

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!!!

[@theamericanpatriot6721]

@@ElliottMcKenzie anytime brother

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@theamericanpatriot6721]

@@jkinney0420 it’s my pleasure to continue to serve our great country and its people

[@jkinney0420]

@@theamericanpatriot6721 I am locked and loaded and ready for what happens here at home. I'll stand right next to you brother! I truly hope it does not come to that, but I'm ready if it does. I also served, Army 13 bravo, but was lucky enough to have not been deployed anywhere, being i was in between Iraq and Afghan. Discharged on Oct. 4th 2001 not even 30 days after 9/11 happened. They almost made me stay but I was far enough along in the process they decided to let me continue. I would have been cool either way, but I'm truly happy I didn't have to deploy. Thanks again brother!

[@p4polecatpremiumpodcastspr288]

Thank you! Thank you for a song with a serious message, delivered in a wonderful way. Thank you for sharing your talent. And more than anything else thank you for your service.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

The pleasure is mine!! 🙏🏽🙏🏽

[@relentlessboxing0311]

Semper Fi brothers! 0311 & FAST Co 91'-95'..... Get that rating boys! The Govmnt Owes ya!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks bro!! I was 1st FAST and 0311!

[@relentlessboxing0311]

@@ElliottMcKenzie awesome man. I was in FAST in Mare Island before Clinton shut us down and left us with only the one in VA. Then went to 1/4 in Camp Horno. Keep pressing man!! Semper Fi.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@relentlessboxing0311 thanks dope bro!! Thanks so much for your support!!

[@chuckbarnett_tx]

a lot of people don't realize the war has been here at home for a long time now while our soldiers are off spilling their blood fighting invisible enemies in forever wars. i thank you for your service

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!

[@onthecouchwiththelittlemin422]

Thank you both for your service !!! And the song.

[@SaraTHTM869]

THIS IS BEAUTIFUL!!!!!!! Raymond is a friend of mine and this just showed up, fantastic!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@jasonwilson3057]

I understand there are Americans that love things more than their country, what I dont understand is why?

[@daviddonpelleyable]

Not me not my kin back to the beginning ,we love this land and its people ,and would gladly give our lives to save others , a beautiful death is the ultimate death better tan rotting from cancer like me

[@brandondavis5596]

Accurate description of what it’s like coming home. It almost got me but at the last moment I found Christ. Squared away now.

[@konnect7774]

Amen to that my brother in Christ

[@daviddonpelleyable]

Hoorah

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Hoorah!!

[@PastTheDirtRoad]

Great song man but fuck you got me over here with tears in my eyes. Them lyrics just hit home hard

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks brother!! I'm glad you were able to get it out!

[@RANS87IROCZ]

Damn bro the algorithm doing you wrong, this was amazing!!!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks bro!!!

[@fidelgonzales8152]

For real...

[@notebook2876]

May God bless our troops! Never forget 🇺🇸

[@jimbeam9606]

Never truer words spoken. That feeling never goes away. Never forget your fallen brothers. Decades latter i still have there tags with me.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you brother!!

[@samrichardson6605]

People just don't understand!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks bro!

[@alonzochubb7061]

Wow bro! Thank you.

[@lucask6539]

Been home for a year now, still trying to get used to being here. None of us are alone here, we've got each other's backs, whether we're here at home or not. I love the music you're putting out, please don't stop.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much!!!

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@jerrypacileo6823]

Hey Elliot, I was an army welder but saw my fair share of action. Soldier first. I love the song gunshots. Lost my wife and way of life to PTSD about 5 years ago. I love the way you pull the negatives to positives with your music. I first saw your video on vet tv. I know its cliche, but I really wish I could go back to that life where combat was all I had to worry about. I also heard you were in the army too, igs that true?

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Wow brother that means a lot!! I am glad you found a home in the video!! It's people like you I do this for!

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@quinnsack]

this songs got me choking up. the whole war was part of my growing up and understanding of the world. i sympothize so hard with iraq and afghan vets. people just dont know... but there are civies who get it. there are civies that wanna help these guys.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks man!!! That means so much!!!

[@TheInfantry98]

WE DONT NEED YOUR HELP!

[@quinnsack]

@@TheInfantry98 hey man. It's not a pity thing. It's compassion and respect for our troops. And what the Iraqi war generation of warriors went through not only with combat but the burn pits and everything. Like fuck... thats a different kind of human. And it's all respect. No pity what so ever brother. I hope you're healthy and happy.

[@quinnsack]

@@TheInfantry98 are you OK brother??? I'll let you demean me and talk shit to me if it means I can help you push past your shit.

[@mitchmartin2630]

THEY NEED OUR HELP!!!! Now more than ever.

[@riverbankpsycho]

So real brother found it in my feelings you know the one I lost long ago thanks love it

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks brother!!

[@chrisholmes5667]

Some can not even imagine what it's like having rounds come at you they just cannot comprehend it but once it happens to you it's a sound you'll never forget. God bless all the young men a woman who had served this great beautiful Nation of freedom.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Absolutely! Well said Chris! Thank you!

[@jesuscheerleader4863]

Female Navy veteran here.. I love this

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@jesuscheerleader4863]

@@ElliottMcKenzie 🇺🇸

[@einroselweiss120]

I feel so f*#!ed up right now. Today, I was at memorial service at a church and I somewhat suspected that they would play TAPS and chose to stay in the little chapel as I wasn't feeling to good. Yet, a family member said everyone was waiting on me outside, so I tried to steady myself.... However, I was unaware and completely unprepared for my being placed in the center as ( unbeknownst to only me) I was supposed to receive my Dad's flag. Things took a turn for the worst as a company of 3 airmen would aim their rifles in my direction a fire (blanks) just outside the church doors after the service ended. At first I couldn't move, I stood frozen, shocked staring at the muzzles and pointed my direction...then they fired and I blanked out, I couldn't focus I couldn't breath, part of me knew they were blanks. Yet, part of me was just trying to get the heck away from there and try to process. Some people tried to stop me, I know I yelled and pushed back as I fought my way back to the little chapel where I sat shaking and crying in anger and disbelief as I tried to compose myself. I know no one there understood, to them of course I was just over reacting. But, that famous and foreboding but, I thank God they haven't had to walk in my shoes. Just as I'm thankful not to have walked in other Veterans' or Civilians' shoes. I am still stunned about the events of today, as again I had the muzzle of a weapon pointed in my direction. The last thing I wanted to do is remember my close calls with death, today was supposed to be about honoring my Dad, not me reliving my past and triggering my PTSD. Please, pray for the families of both Veterans and Civilians who lost their lives in wars and/or to domestic gunfire as well as for those who survived both.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much for venting here!!! I'm sorry you went through that but it's a good thing that you recognized it! That is the first step! You are family for us all so always feel free to reach out anytime!! You got this!!

[@einroselweiss120]

@@ElliottMcKenzie Thanks, your right. This was out of the blue and I was caught unaware. In truth, I tried but couldn't talk about this.... but I knew if I didn't vent, it would be worse. I am deeply saddened yet also grateful that you and others understand, again thank you for having my back.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@einroselweiss120 I'm honored that my video gave you a reason to vent!!

[@jimbeam9606]

Shortly afer i got out. One night around 2 or 3 am. Life flight came over the top of my house, to land in the street just behind mine. I woke, came too my senses as life flight was 30 feet above me. I had on my boots and skivvies doing a tight formation, wirh my rifle in hand. I looked up and across the street. My neighbor was on his porch smoking a sigar. I did not back to bed. I was out side in my garage as he was leaving for work. He walked over and told me. That at 6pm I will be ready to go with him, to his group meeting. He looked me in the eyes and told me this is not a request this is an order. I told him I am not in the military anymore. He replied you will be military until you die. I did not under stand then, but i do understand now what he meant. I went to his group meeting and found out I was not alone. There was only vet's in this meeting. I still go to this day. I made it home from the fight, but the war is never over. I would love to tell you it goes away, but it does not! Asked both my grandfather's and my uncle. They were 8n WW II, Korea, Vietnam. It does slowly gets better. I dont wake up punching the wall, or choking my wife, or attacking the person who wakes me up by touching me. You are military. Your mind is strong and disciplined. I wont tell anyone to suck it up. Thats bull s*"t. Find a group near you and go. It took me 5 months before I spoke in group. Those you fell they are in a way the lucky ones. For the war is never over for those who come home. I was asked by many people to raquel glory story's of war. One night at a bar shooting pool I had more then a few drinks down me and couple dudes kept pestering me. I snaped grabbed one of them threw him on top of the table next to him. I got face to face with him and told him about my best friend my brother. I was being carried between two marines. Out in the open here comes a truck with a 50. John saw this and knew we couldn't make it. Cuz we were out in the open. John took off to the right and Drew the drew the fire. He was completely in the open. QqqHe took two rounds blew him to pieces. I faced his wife who i had promised that I would bring her husband back home alive and two year old child that he never got to hold in his hands. This is the move I get to watch in slow motion every night. She finally forgave me about meany of years later, but I have not forgiven myself to this day. Nobody has asked me again for glory story's. John was a 22 year old kid.

[@MrLandslide84]

I know how it is to have your world shaken. Brain injury etc. Waking up different. People don't respect what soldiers go through, like Vietnam part 2. My step-dad was supply and was attacked often in Iraq. They waited until the armor left to attack supply. Subbed.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Yeah war can be a crazy thing!! Thanks for your support!!

[@doctorraccoon333]

@@ElliottMcKenzie , Arant of an old soldier: One family-2 different generations, parent and son. 2 different wars- those declared and those undisclosed. One served in active combat and survived mortar attacks, the other in 'supposed' non-combat related missions still exposed, came face to face with the enemy and was locked and loaded on and for a short time held behind the lines trying to win the hearts and minds. 2 Hearts were breaking as WIAs and KIAs numbers kept growing, yes in 1980s through the 1990s. Yet, both groups in pre-9/11 and post-9/11 the media capitalized on and digitalized...thankfully most people memorialized and honored those who shouldered freedom's cost. But not so for those of the Cold War, where the lives of both soldiers and civilians disappeared, sight unseen, like blips off a radar screen, lists, documents and message traffic shredded and burned, yep like ollie north and fawn hall, so no one heard a word and no one cared, because they didn't dare. Christmas cards from allies, can't send in return to sender. Why, they were executed for treason, the US was the reason. Yet, our politicians lied and widely smiled as they opened their presents during those Christmas seasons.There is no rhyme or reason, did not their lives also have meaning? Why do these modern leaders of today, just like Pontius Pilate and Caesar, dip their hands in water and think they can just wash and absolve themselves of the lives of the innocent. Oh, our is world shaking; pain racked bodies and brains aching. What of the 2 family members? 2 TBIs; 2 explosive/ concusive events over 20 years apart, yes sadly lives were loss and these two survivors count the cost. Both, at first were stunned until the mind numbing training kicked in. Both remember these and other scenes, the people, fire, smoke along with thr smell of buring fuel, paired with the sights and sounds, everything finely etched in the brains! 2 family members with PTSD, one, younger 100% combat related DV, the other striving. 2 Warriors though of different wars, you would think they could connect, that their bond would be stronger, but that is sadly not the case. One strives to carry on...no labeling this one, the younger is a mere shell of their former self.... Ahhh, mercy me, no matter how I try, I can't get close to him, he is so guarded and I can't make it through his defenses, all I can do is wait and do my best to be there for him. So, on this Christmas Eve, I the parent, am grateful my child is alive, but I can't help grieving for the loss of personality which was once my child's, also the loss of my military buddies who seem to check out daily. I am wrestling with anger at myself for not being able to protect my brothers or my beloved child, for not talking my son out of enlisting, for hiding and not sharing the truth of my pain, trauma and PTSD behind a fake smile. I am enraged, disillusioned and terribly sorry that my service and the sacrifice of my Brothers in arms in the previous Wars seemed to be nothing more than a speed bump. That you, our beautiful children, our future had to take our places in the rank and file. As soldiers and parents our mournful cry goes up, "was all for not?" Foolishly, I still wrestle with God and try to carry this burden and I know I am not alone in this...The only thing the quiets my soul, soothes my broken heart and gives me hope in this present darkness, is the still, small voice of the One (Christ) who saved my physical life and spirit. So, after all my ranting and raving is through, my thoughts turn to the Christmas Truce's "Silent Night" and Casting Crown's the song, "I heard the bells.... " So, although my heart is breaking and tears are streaming, this old soldier on bended knees chooses to I lift my voice to worship Him and pray for peace on earth, peace of mind, and good will towards all mankind, especially my Brothers and Sisters in Arms and Christ. Pat

[@stevelayton734]

Song is awesome PTSD is not good it's hard to deal with

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@Derlosviper]

Love this song and people really don’t understand what’s in our heads and what we deal with.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@Mega-y5d]

Yea my first firefight was in Afghanistan will never forget that one lost a brother to

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

I'll never forget the cracking sound of incoming rounds! Glad you made it home!!

[@lanier1000]

Sorry to hear, bud. I'm sure that's tough. .

[@Infantry1182]

Same here bruh..but... 5 hour TIC 11B and 19D scout got PTSD 100% still struggling this video popped up today on the anniversary of my buddies overdose after we got home... RIP JAMIE!!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@Infantry1182 how you holding up bro?

[@Infantry1182]

@@ElliottMcKenzie I'm hanging in there ya know.. staying low.. keep firing and maneuvering..

[@nypatriot9131]

Powerful song! Thank you both for your service to this Great Country

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾🙏🏾

[@anthonyswitzer114]

What an amazing song! This hits home. I've been home since 08 and some days its still like I'm over there.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much!! I'm so glad this song was impactful for you!

[@lanier1000]

Man ! So sad......feel so much for folks going through this. Wonderful song in may ways. .

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@hunterdavis833]

Deep as fuck..

[@kalijames7472]

Real shit being brought to the conversation in this song. Great job and much love❤

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@nicolashendrickson]

I feel this song like so many veterans

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Hey brother! I'm glad this one hit home for you and was able to help you! That's why we created it! Keep up the good fight bro!

[@chadwinstead1153]

PDS PTSD is so hard to treat people to understand

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Yes, if someone hasn't heard of it or isn't educated about it, it can be unique

[@ml4173]

Great way to address this. Thank you for your service. Veterans please talk to someone if you think you have PTSD, you have more than earned it. Our society still desperately needs men and women of your character you after your service.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@zeroxfour]

Straight 🔥. Brought me back to my own struggles in a good way. Thank you for this.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks for your support!

[@mansoormajokavillagevlogs7973]

Nice🌿🌿 My friend 🍀

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!

[@The_Lone_Wolf]

Awesome Video. I am curious if you and TMR are going to do more duets in the future? Would scrap just to see more 😀

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Time will tell!!

[@rowman12]

OORAH!!!

[@derspeer8754]

Retired Army. Great tune!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@beccaleigh6705]

ur calling is calling.. three kids down street

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!

[@cassieblake3927]

Wow!!! ♥

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@aringler811]

Thanks brother I need that.

[@theResidentNut]

For those that think they are “defective” or “fcked up” I would encourage you to read a piece written by Paul R. Allen titled The Warrior’s Code of Honor. The late Mr. Allen addresses a lot of things in his writing. Additionally, Mr. Allen served in the Korean War and Vietnam.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@stephanielloyd6507]

GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU! 🙏🙏🙏THANK YOU FOR KEEPING US SAFE! Your dedication & sacrifices (physically, mentally, & emotionally) Being a mother of 2 veterans, it makes me sick to see the treatment & disrespect of our God, country, soldiers (& families)….. FREEDOM IS NOT FREE! I am sending much love, thanks,& prayers! You will ALWAYS have my family’s support! ❤🙏🇺🇸

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much Stephanie!

[@konnect7774]

❤️

[@tylerkupiec8324]

Straight perfection of all your songs. I honestly wish you the very best with your music career.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!

[@tylerkupiec8324]

You're welcome

[@alexbazin4291]

Great song

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!

[@alexbazin4291]

@@ElliottMcKenzie your welcome

[@geraldfirme1213]

Elliot are You Vet? Damn I need to collaborate with y’all! Ivan help promote for y’all here in San Antonio Texas

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Yeah I am. I served 8 years. Did a tour to Ramadi, Iraq in 2005 with the Marines. This song and music video come from my personal experiences with PTSD.

[@geraldfirme1213]

@@ElliottMcKenzie Bro. I feel you. I’m having a hard time collaborating with people here who rap also. I transitioned from ALASKA last October here to Texas near Lackland. I finally retired 20years. In local area. I’m originally from Oxnard CA. Childhood friends with Madlib, Kankick, D.J. Babu if you follow them. Almost had a record desl, but joined the AF 98 for a HIGHER PURPOSE. People won’t understand unless they been where we been. Mostly my career I was attached to the Army and Marines so I’m not your normal Air Force Vet. I’m supporting y’all. I hope to collab with y’all. I have to learn to record myself cuz my boys back in Cali said I been in the studio long enough I got the creativity already. I get headaches cuz I’m starting from scratch. Ok bro I’ll let you go. Stay up! I cu all someday. Represent!! GI-Swift Don’t Aim High! Aim Higher! I Salute You For Your Service!!!

[@KennyIISan11]

Bruh, this song 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥 thank you for this💯💯💯

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Pleasure is mine brother!

[@KennyIISan11]

Just heard your new album. Saved my life. Thank you for your music. We need it. Keep it coming brother.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@KennyIISan11 I'm so so glad my music can help you brother!!! Keep fighting back!! You got this!!!

[@KennyIISan11]

@@ElliottMcKenzie Absolutely bro, Gunshots, Fight Back and Know Your Not Alone are 🔥💯🔥💯🔥 I'm going to pass these along to my buddies.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

@@KennyIISan11 just FYI, I just got your comment tatted on my arm. I'm honored that my music inspired you to keep going bro!

[@jujubee2024]

😢🥺 Thank you for protecting us, much love to all who serve. May the good Lord heal your mind bodies and souls 🙏🏻🙏🏻🙏🏻 ❣️

[@johndavy9102]

Just found this wish I knew about this song when I came home.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Well you know now brother!! Spread the word!!

[@jkinney0420]

Thank you for your service! I truly appreciate you...God Bless

[@remy3854]

found this guy through my dna matches on 23andme very good voice!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Haha are we family? Haha

[@dorothypedersen449]

♥️🤗🇺🇲🙏 Thank you!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@madisonsandlin4845]

This amazing!!! Thank you for your service and it means a lot...great job at directing this...My uncle was a Marine he has bad PTSD...I haven't seen him 5 years...he isn't the same & this video helps understand what he goes through...just wanted to say thank you so much

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you so much!! Your comment means a ton!! This is why I created this song and video!! Glad to see the message is getting across!!

[@madisonsandlin4845]

Elliott McKenzie Elliott McKenzie your very welcome!!! I sent it to him and called me crying cause it hit home pretty deep & your amazing at it please keep going and making more...I can't stop watching it :)

[@boris2873]

👏 👏👏👍 Thanks for Your Service Sir!

[@pjg9256]

This is freaking awesome Elliot! I loved it! I sent it to my nephew who was also in Iraq

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks!!

[@Jen-qr5dh]

💞

[@xcederamusicgroup]

I see you bro...

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks bro!! I gotta come through the lab soon!

[@MobyLey]

That was great, keep it up.

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!

[@jeffdaly9365]

Thanks for telling your story and showing this video, last night, at Hollywood Post 43. Like I said, it's always AMAZING to see veterans journeys that end in SUCCESS. Also, y'all are MARINES...ooh rah!

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thanks bro!!

[@combatghost8016]

Good job bro

[@ElliottMcKenzie]

Thank you!!!