Earl Granville, a decorated veteran, had a life-altering moment during his final tour when a roadside bomb claimed his left leg. Beyond the physical challenges, he also grappled with the heart-wrenching loss of his twin brother Joe, who tragically took his own life while in active duty. Despite these hardships, Granville transformed his personal odyssey into an empowering message of resilience and positivity.

Now a highly sought-after, award-winning motivational speaker, Granville is an inspiration to many. He is a multiple marathon runner and recipient of the Bronze Star medal, dedicating his time to speaking at events nationwide. After serving nine years as a staff sergeant, he continues to work closely with veterans’ groups and national non-profits such as Operation Enduring Warrior, the Oscar Mike Foundation, and Warrior Strong.

“Almost Sunrise” chronicles the extraordinary journey of Iraq veterans Tom Voss and Anthony Anderson. Struggling with years of post-war depression and on the brink of suicide, they embark on a life-altering 2,700-mile expedition from Wisconsin to California. This poignant documentary, a multi-festival award winner, delves into the harsh realities of war while shifting its focus towards optimism, highlighting the potential of holistic healing.

The film “Almost Sunrise” sheds light on the profound psychological wounds known as “moral injury” suffered by returning soldiers. It advocates for alternative therapies like meditation and nature therapy, addressing the pressing issue of veteran suicides — approximately 22 veterans per day. This acclaimed documentary urges a reevaluation of mental health approaches and offers a beacon of hope and redemption.

This event marks Casino Star Theatre’s inaugural live event of the performance season and the first collaboration between these two local nonprofit entities. United We March, now in its fifth year, is committed to fundraising for veteran programs and organizing an annual march and awareness campaign. The Casino Star Theatre Foundation, established in 2004, serves as a vital community arts agency, dedicated to restoring the cherished cinema house and enriching the valley with wholesome arts and entertainment.

Admission to this event is free, and contributions to the Casino Star Theatre Foundation and United We March are warmly welcomed. Donations can be made in person or through casinostartheatre.com or unitedwemarch.us. The upcoming events in Casino Star Theatre’s Live Series feature the western music ensemble Bar D Wranglers on Nov. 8, followed by Utah’s beloved Kurt Bestor on Dec. 18.

Don’t miss this remarkable opportunity to witness the inspiring journey of Earl Granville and experience the transformative documentary “Almost Sunrise.” This event stands as a testament to the resilience of the human spirit, showcasing the power to overcome challenges, heal, and find hope in the face of adversity.