i asked kagi ai to clarify and expand on what i wrote above. i think it's spot on 🤙

The movie First Blood explores the lack of respect that many American veterans faced when returning home from the Vietnam War. Even though they fought for their country, many Americans did not believe in or support the Vietnam War.

In the movie, there are clues that provide insight into Sheriff Teasle's character and why he dislikes Rambo. Teasle is a veteran of the Korean War, as evidenced by the medals in his office. However, unlike the Korean War, the Vietnam War was very controversial in the US. Many saw Vietnam veterans as "war criminals".

Teasle looks down on Rambo for fighting in the Vietnam War, which Teasle did not support. As a veteran himself, Teasle could relate to the difficulties of returning from war but did not show Rambo any respect or understanding as a Vietnam vet. This subplot highlights the deeper theme of how American society failed to properly welcome home and support those who fought in the Vietnam War.

The movie uses the interaction between Rambo and Teasle to convey an important message about the lack of respect and poor treatment that many Vietnam veterans faced when they returned home. Beyond just being about police violence, First Blood critiques how Americans viewed and rejected those who served in the Vietnam War.