SAN DIEGO -- Two student filmmakers are bringing the stories of U.S. Marines wounded in combat in Iraq to light.

It started out as a student communication's project, but it could blossom into national recognition for two students at California State University San Marcos.

"I couldn't expect or believe this would ever happen … that they would invite us. I mean, we're students," said student Ryan Smith.

Smith and fellow student Sebastian Maselli entered their documentary, "The Blood We Shed," for consideration in the national G.I. Film Festival and it was accepted.

The festival, now in its fifth year, draws entries from professionals, as well as top film schools, but this was a project both were connected to.

Maselli spent seven years as a Marine and was among the first wave of troops sent to Iraq in 2003. He finished his active duty tour at the Wounded Warrior Battalion at Camp Pendleton.

Smith's mother is a case manager at the Battalion and told her son about some of the stories Marines would share.

"The Blood We Shed" is a documentary featuring three Marines who were all injured in Iraq. Smith and Maselli said it's their stories in their words.

"At times, I had to stop editing," Smith said. "I'd have to stop and take a breather because listening to it was the real truth."

Smith and Maselli will leave for the festival in Washington, D.C., next week.

If selected, their film could air on the Military Channel in November.