Then when I went to Iraq and saw the strength and character the men and women in our military service exhibit every day and their belief in what they’re doing, I knew I wanted to get that on film and share it with everyone. They are my inspiration.

In this remark, Nichols frames a personal turning point: direct exposure to U.S. troops in Iraq transforms abstract patriotism into a concrete artistic mission. He emphasizes “strength,” “character,” and “belief” as everyday, lived qualities rather than slogans, suggesting admiration rooted in observation. The desire to “get that on film” signals an intent to translate witness into representation—using media to bridge the gap between civilians and deployed service members. Calling the troops his “inspiration” positions them as the moral and emotional impetus for his work, and implies a duty to honor their commitment by making their experiences visible to a wider public.