"Washington DC: Strongly condemning the Nazi invasion of Holland and Belgium, President Roosevelt tells the 8th American Scientific Congress that the Americas are shocked and angered by Hitler's newest attack!" (only sound of FDR speech) (2) "Washington, DC: Reverberations of the 'Blitz-krieg' stir America! Envoys of Belgium and Holland say their nations will resist to the last! State Dept. and Cabinet officials call at the White House to discuss U. S. strategy in the latest war crisis!" scenes of envoy speaking, says that the Netherlands are resisting the German attack; another envoy speaks, says that King Leopold, like his father King Albert, opposes German invasion of Belgium. (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: Pres.Roosevelt tells Congress that the U.S. must prepare to turn out a vast air fleet to safeguard America from hostile invasion. He requests an additional Billion Dollars for defense! Heads of the aviation industry meet to discuss means of meeting the 50,000-plane figure. A spokesman for the group says it can be done!" (speech sound) (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: In a stirring appeal to the public to donate $10,000,000 to the Red Cross War Relief Fund, Mrs. Roosevelt says that the horrors of war abroad make necessary contributions from all Americans!" (sound of Eleanor Roosevelt speaking) (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: Pres. Roosevelt tells the United States that it must be on guard against enemy agents and spies! He warns against prejudices which might be exploited by Fifth Columnists and pleads for aid and for peace for the entire world!" (speech sound) includes scene from Fireside Chat #15 and silent newsreel ending "Talk of the World" (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: Gen. John J. Pershing, commander of the A.E.F. in France, says the 'Allies are fighting a war for civilization' and urges the country to send them unlimited supplies of planes, arms and ammunition!" (speech sound) (partial newsreel)
"England: Queen Elizabeth is an interested spectator at a colorful parade of 'Wats,' Women Auxiliary Territorial Service units, and cheers them with a spirited message of victory for the Empire!" (speech sound) (partial newsreel)
"Universal City, California: Deanna Durbin takes time off from production of her new picture, 'Spring Parade,' to make an appeal for donations to the war relief fund." (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: Historic scenes as the first peace-time draft in the U.S. gets underway! Secretary of War Stimson draws out the first number, No. 158, and as Pres. Roosevelt broadcasts a message to the country, America's youth prepares to answer the call to arms!" (2) "Philadelphia, PA: Exclusive pictures of the metal drum used as a draft lottery bowl during the Civil War. It was unearthed along with old recruiting posters." (mostly silent except speech sound) (partial newsreel)
(1) "Washington, DC: President Roosevelt tells the world that the U.S. is determined to aid Britain, that the Americas will be in constant danger if the Axis poers win the war, and that the United States must become a great arsenal to supply England with arms." scenes of FDR speaking at his desk, Fireside Chat #16 (2) North Sea Action - "Thrilling scenes as Nazis attack a British convoy. A warship commanded by the king's cousin is hit by a Nazi E-boat. Daring rescue work follows and other ships tow the crippled destroyers safely back to port." (partial newsreel)
(1) "Los Angeles, CA: Winners of Motion Picture Academy awards, including Ginger Rogers and James Stewart, hear President Roosevelt speak from the White House during colorful presentation ceremonies." scenes of FDR speaking about the motion picture industry; Oscars given to Jimmy Stuart for Philadelphia Story, acceptance speech by Ginger Rogers; (2) Santa Anita Handicap - horse race, shows crowd, George Raft, Bing Crosby (only crowd sound); (3) British Forces Rout Italians, Take Prisoners in Libya - "Spectacular pictures of the British 'blitz' drive against Fascist stronghold in Libya. Following a barrage, tanks and troops take the fortifications and pour into the city. Thousands of prisoners are taken!" (4) Bombay: "Far from the theatre of war in Africa, thousands of Fascist soldiers arrive under heavy guard, headed for prison camps in India. Britain gets them away from the danger zone!" (partial newsreel)
"Noroton, CT: Several hundred enlisted men complete a course in radio engineering at the U.S. Navy school here and graduate as radio operators. Listen to them as they learn their 'Da-Dit-Das'." includes some sound of Morse code. (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: The Senate chamber, following passage of the much-debated bill to aid England. Spokesmen of opposing factions comment on the outcome!" (speech sound) (partial newsreel)
"New York, NY: Britain's Ambassador, Lord Halifax, addressing the Pilgrim Society on the British war situation, says the British spirit is such that the threatened Nazi invasion of England is doomed to failure." (speech sound) (2) "Newark, N.J., When Bruiser Burns meets 'Blimp' Levy in the Laurel Gardens ring, anything goes. No holds barred and the rougher the better. So when 'Blimp' Levy is tossed out of the ring, the house, literally, almost comes down." wrestling scenes include crowd sound. (some parts silent in this partial newsreel without narration)
"Washington, DC: President Roosevelt warns of longer hours and lower profits and calls upon all Americans for 'all out effort' to build arms for the democracies. He warns the Axis powers that America is pledged to resist all aggressor nations." scenes of FDR speaking to audience that "we in the United Nations realize the danger, and the democracies have gone into action." (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: Signing of an agreement between the U.S. and the Danish Minister in this country is a vital step in hemisphere defense. Despite Nazi-inspired threats from Denmark, the treaty will probably stand. Danish Minister Kauffmann explains the agreement." (2) World of Sports - "Washington, DC: President Roosevelt throws in the first ball as the Big League season gets underway. The N. Y. Yankees and the Washington Senators trade wallops, with the Yanks winning, 3-0." some baseball crowd sound, with several scenes of FDR at game, silent newsreel ending "Talk of the World" (some parts silent in this partial newsreel without narration)
1) "Washington, DC: First of the Treasury Department's 'defense' financing stamps and bonds roll off the presses. Treasury Secretary Morgenthau urges all Americans to enlist in the drive, scenes of bonds being printed, Henry Morgenthau speaks on buying "a share in America" (2) "Washington, DC: The first big move to prevent run-away prices during the defense boom, is the new 'Office of Price Administration,' created by president Roosevelt. Leon Henderson is head of the group." Henderson speaks. (partial newsreel)
(1) "Spectacular scenes test the air defenses of New York City. From civilian 'spotters,' word comes to the plotting board in Manhattan, where officers direct the activity of interceptor planes from Mitchel Field. (2) "England: Countless hundreds of British fliers have been saved by speedy 'crash' boats of the R.A.F. Thrilling rescue at sea, as aviators are picked up from their liferafts after being shot down." - PT boats used to rescue sailors. (3) Locals: "wrecked freighter salvaged to supply materials for war" - ship salvaged in New Zealand; "news cameramen risk their necks 'shooting' the war" - bridge blown up, newsreel cameraman was injured, other Universal cameramen injured. (partial newsreel)
(1) "Cordell Hull Urges 'Quick' Aid To Britain "without hesitation" - "Washington, DC: American aid must get England , the Secretary of State declares at a meeting of the Society of International Law." (2) More Taxes For Defense - "Washington, DC: American taxpayers will face the prospect of much higher taxes next year, Treasury Secretary Morgenthau tells Congress committee. Americans are willing to pay the price for adequate defense, he says." (partial newsreel)
President Launches Sales Campaign For Nat'l Defense Bonds - "Washington, DC: President Roosevelt purchases the first 'defense' bond from Treasury Secretary Morgenthau, and issues a dramatic appeal to all Americans to back their country's national defense savings drive 100 per cent." FDR speaks on defense bonds and defense saving stamps. (partial newsreel)
"New York, NY: Hundreds of thousands of patriotic Americans jam Central park for 'I Am An American Day' rally, in a dramatic outpouring of faith and allegiance to the U.S. in its gravest hour since 1917." scenes include sound of pledge of allegiance recited. (2) Atlantic City, NJ: Representatives from theatres and film exchanges assemble for the Variety Club Convention, for a gala parade and presentation of the club's award, this year to Dr. Carver, Negro educator." George Washington Carver speaks, was born in 1861, is 80 years old. (partial newsreel)
Mayor Samuels of Philadelphia speaks. (partial newsreel)
(1) Help For Democracies - America's answer - ships, tanks, guns and planes for the brave actions fighting aggression. As the Arsenal of Democracy, the U.S. delivers the goods!" - scenes include FDR speaking to Congress (2) The 3rd Term - "Unprecedented third term for President Roosevelt! Franklin Delano Roosevelt takes office at gravest crisis in America's history." (3) Sabotage and Strikes - "Flames of destruction destroy vital American factories and supplies. Strikes too cripple defense production, but the advent of war brings epic settlement." (4) The Flight of Hess - "Rudolph Hess, the mystery man of the year. His flight might have been the act of a desparate man to gain peace!" (5) No Oil For Hitler - "The Middle East theatre of war! Britain's occupation of Syria and Iran forestalls Nazi drive into the rich oil fields. (6) Selassie on Throne Again - "in Ethiopia, Hailie Selassie returns to his throne." (7) US Occupies Iceland - "American troops take over Atlantic outpost to counter Nazi drives towards this hemisphere and to protect shipping lanes." (8) Kearny Torpedoed - "Destroyer Kearny is torpedoed, first U.S. naval victim of the war." (9) Russian Victories - "Germany's invasion of the Soviet backfires! heroic defence by the Russians puts the Nazi invasion in reverse. Good news in 1941!" (10) British Win In Libya - "Britain's second drive into the North African country bodes well for the Allies. Imperial forces spread annihilation of Axis forces." (11) Japan's Treachery - "America is drawn into the world-wide war by Jap infamy and treachery in the Pacific. Dastardly dawn attack on Honolulu unites all Americans in vengeful determination to crush the war-lords of Japan. Get behind your President! Work for Victory! Buy Defense Bonds and Stamps!" ends with Victory for America logo. (complete newsreel)
(1) National Defense Highlights - "New York, NY: Addressing 15,000 parents, wives and sweethearts at the opening meeting of the United Service Organizations campaign, Thomas E. Dewey urges everyone to 'get behind' our fighting forces." Dewey speaks on the debate on foreign policy, "America stands united" (2) "Los Angeles, CA: Those laughable 'Buck Privates' Abbott & Costello who next are 'In The Navy' take a more serious view of national defense and urge all Americans to back the defense bond drive." (sound but poor video quality) (3) Outlines Woman's Role In War [correct date for this story is 5/27/41] "Atlantic City, NJ: Mrs. John Whitehurst, new president of the Federation of Women's Clubs, tells of the roles mothers, daughters and sweethearts will play in defending America. They'll even shoulder a gun if need be." sound of Mrs. Whithurst speaking, urging women to buy bonds, and other jobs woman can do. (partial newsreel)
(1) German Invasion of Russia - "The war's most amazing about-face! Nazi Germany and Red Russia, partners in crime for the Polish campaign, are engaged in a life-and-death struggle along 2,000 miles of frontier. Millions of men and thousands of tanks and planes lock forces in what may well be the turning point of the war. " scenes include stock pictures of Russian farms, military, tanks, Molotov and Japan sign treaty (some sound) (2) "Washington, DC: The Russian envoy, Ambassador Oumansky, presents his country's views on the latest war move. He says that the Nazis have tackled something too big for them this time. Uncle Sam's position in the newest crisis is explained to the press by Undersecretary of State Sumner Welles. The administration says our immediate aim is to 'stop Hitlerism'." sound of Oumansky speaking (3) Canadian local: "U.S. Stars of Stage, Air, and Screen back War Loan Campaign." scenes include Donald Duck puppet (some sound). (partial newsreel)
(1) "Washington, DC: Nation-wide drive to collect scrap aluminum is announced by Civil Defense Chief La Guardia, who urges all citizens to doneate old pots and pans for campaign starting in July." sound of La Guardia speaking and asking for old aluminum to make planes. (2) "Washington, DC: The Capitol's largest family, Mr. and Mrs. Wm. White and 17 of their 18 children, purchase defense stamps en masse. From 'Baby' to 'papa,' they're patriotic in a big way." sound of father speaking. (3) Local: Pa. Gov. James issues call for young men reaching draft age, speaks on registration day. (partial newsreel)
Britain's Prime Minister reviews U.S. and British troops at Iceland on way home from historic meeting - " Iceland: Prime Minister Churchill gets warm welcome from hardy Icelanders as he arrives on 'Prince of Wales.' He reviews U.S. Marines now sharing in defense of strategic island. On way home, his ship passes big convoy, and in London, he is met by Mrs. Churchill and high British officials, as cheering crowds hail his return." sound of Churchill speaking. (partial newsreel)
President Proclaims Nat'l Defense Week For All Americans - Hyde Park, NY: sound of FDR speaking, declares week of Nov. 11-16 as National Defense Week, says we are united against the "would-be dictators of the world." (partial newsreel)
Mayor Samuels of Philadelphia speaks. (partial newsreel)
(1) Help For Democracies - America's answer - ships, tanks, guns and planes for the brave actions fighting aggression. As the Arsenal of Democracy, the U.S. delivers the goods!" - scenes include FDR speaking to Congress (2) The 3rd Term - "Unprecedented third term for President Roosevelt! Franklin Delano Roosevelt takes office at gravest crisis in America's history." (3) Sabotage and Strikes - "Flames of destruction destroy vital American factories and supplies. Strikes too cripple defense production, but the advent of war brings epic settlement." (4) The Flight of Hess - "Rudolph Hess, the mystery man of the year. His flight might have been the act of a desparate man to gain peace!" (5) No Oil For Hitler - "The Middle East theatre of war! Britain's occupation of Syria and Iran forestalls Nazi drive into the rich oil fields. (6) Selassie on Throne Again - "in Ethiopia, Hailie Selassie returns to his throne." (7) US Occupies Iceland - "American troops take over Atlantic outpost to counter Nazi drives towards this hemisphere and to protect shipping lanes." (8) Kearny Torpedoed - "Destroyer Kearny is torpedoed, first U.S. naval victim of the war." (9) Russian Victories - "Germany's invasion of the Soviet backfires! heroic defence by the Russians puts the Nazi invasion in reverse. Good news in 1941!" (10) British Win In Libya - "Britain's second drive into the North African country bodes well for the Allies. Imperial forces spread annihilation of Axis forces." (11) Japan's Treachery - "America is drawn into the world-wide war by Jap infamy and treachery in the Pacific. Dastardly dawn attack on Honolulu unites all Americans in vengeful determination to crush the war-lords of Japan. Get behind your President! Work for Victory! Buy Defense Bonds and Stamps!" ends with Victory for America logo. (complete newsreel)
"The cleverest anti-Nazi propaganda yet! You will howl with glee when you see and hear what our London newsreel friends have cooked up for Hitler and his goose-stepping armies. The 'Nasties' skip and sway in tune to the Lambeth Walk!" - humorous editing of German newsreels to make fun of Hitler and the Nazis. (partial newsreel)
(1) Over The Atlantic: "Britain's Prime Minister takes the controls of the huge flying boat that brings him home safely after the triumphal tour in America. His arrival in London is a bright moment for his admirers everywhere." scenes of Winston Churchill (some sound) (2) World of Sports - "Wembley, England: 66,000 fans forget the war for a brief moment of sporting thrills as the English 'football' team tackles the Scotsmen and win, 3-0. Mrs. Churchill gets a big hand from the fans." (some sound) (partial newsreel)
"Fort Slocum, NY: Modern 'Doughboys' doff their usual khaki and don, of all things, wome's clothes to star in their own version of 'Swing Fever.' Singing and dancing a la Broadway. You'll howl!" men dress as women for stage show (some sound) (partial newsreel)
"Washington, DC: President Roosevelt appeals to nation, urging citizens to save and turn in all scrap rubber to Government for use in vital war industries." sound of FDR speech. (partial newsreel)
(1) "Mediterranean: Amazing pictures of the great air-sea battle between an Allied Convoy to Malta, and Axis forces. Allied guns fill the air with bursting steel that brings many Nazi and Italian aircraft to sudden destruction. Allied marksmen thwart suicide attack of Italian torpedo plane." - naval combat footage of attacks on the Alexandria convoy (2) Local: Scots Cheer Royalty. (partial newsreel)
(1) "Huge United Nations convoy is attacked by Nazi's bombers off Scandinavian north capes. A terrific battle ensues, but the enemy is finally driven off." (2) Greatest Tax Bill In History For Americans - "Washington, DC: With the greatest tax bill in the history of the United States about to be passed, Senator George and Congressman Doughton speak for the men who have labored to keep the nation's economy strong." (some sound from 2 men speaking) (3) Aussie Joins U.S. Army - "Somewhere in Australia: First Aussie to join the American Army is Buddy Barker, a dog... who is ceremoniously elevated to a sergenacy PDQ as a reward for his victorious all-out offensive against the camp mice." (4) Local: Tuning Up The Tanks - for the British 8th Army. (partial newsreel)
On location with Loretta Young filming the movie "China," and the actress speaks about Women At War Week begins Nov. 22, a "call to arms for all American women." (partial newsreel)
The momentous Ottawa conferences are brought to a stirring clase as President Roosevelt advises the Fuehrer to surrender now or face the calamitous ruin which has just been planned for him." - FDR, Churchill at the first Quebec (Quadrant) conference, sound of FDR speech. (partial newsreel)
Late King Boris - "Historic photographs show scenes from the stormy reign of Bulgaria's ill-fated King Boris, who made a deal with the Nazis and lost." (partial newsreel)
"The fifth year of the war sees invincible Russia triumphant over the enemy as the Nazis are steadily repulsed and forced to retreat from every front." scenes with some sound include artillery and injured infantry; fighter plane shot down; tanks advance, cavalry, flamethrower, dead soldiers. (partial newsreel)
(1) - "Pres. Roosevelt cites Italy's capitulation as a victory for the Italian people, as well as for Gen. Eisenhower, as he officially opens the Third War Loan Drive." includes scenes from Fireside Chat #26 and speech sound announcing Italian surrender (2) Churchill at Harvard - "Harvard confers its coveted degree upon Winston Churchill. In his speech, the Prime Minister pledges that England will march side by side with the U.S. to complete victory." (3) Blast Nazi Strongholds - "The R.A.F. roars over the North Sea in Boston bombers, and plants destructive delayed-action bombs on Valenciennes, France. Incredible speed marks the whole venture." (partial newsreel)
(1) Battle for Rome - "While action see-saws at the Italian Front, hordes of Germans are shown marching in one direction, to our rear. They are prisoners of the Yanks and of the French. Nor is their stubbornness diminished by the sight of numerous German dead." (2) Nazis Wreck Warehouse - "Nazi bombers set off a fire which consumes one of our warehouses in Italy. In a tight squeeze, a truck full of G.I. shoes are saved." (3) Bomb Rome Rail Yards - "Flying Fortresses fly over Rome, then blast selected outlying districts, in another of their preceision raids." (4) Rooms of Tomorrow - "Toledo, Ohio: The House of Tomorrow is filled with mirrors which lend dimensional depth to the interior, and set off to particular advantage any beauty who reclines in their range." (5) Boys' Pennies Buy Canteen - "The Boy's Clubs of America earned $2,500 at odd jobs here and there. Without fan fare the youngsters turn over the funds to the American Red Cross for the purchase of a deluxe Mobile Cantieen." (6) Roller Romp - "Roller skating really goes big time as a huge skaters' review is staged for a capacity audience in Madison Square Garden. The beauty and ease with which things roll along, will please you." (7) Colored Paratroops - "Fort Benning, GA: Graduation jumps are made by the first all-colored parachute unit, who have just completed their training." (8) Springboard To Truk - "As the American victory mounts, island by island, in the tremendous Marshall campaign, we watch the Marines in some of their high-powered handling of the resisting Japs, at Kwajalein. The Devildogs pour lead into burning block houses, and the shrinking remnants of the garrisons come reeling out, to surrender. So many dead Japs are lying around that hurried arrangements are made to bury them. And broken to bits, lying all over the ground, are new Tojo type planes and Zeros. The American dead are interred at a military cemetery. America's new hero, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet, rides into view in a jeep. Accompanying him are Admirals Hoover and Turner, and Generals Holland Smith and Harry Schmidt. Shortly after the Stars and Stripes are placed in postiion over the Atoll, the electrifying news from Truk comes in, and a fuller significance is given to this marvelous victory in the Marshalls."
1) "Sue Ann, a juvenile infantile paralysis victim, limps to the camera to thank all moviegoers for their contributions in the recent drive." March of Dimes girl with crutches speaks [sound] (2) Recapture of Kiev "Russia's armies roll on. Stalin's dependence on artillery is dramatically demonstrated as huge batteries of guns roar into action against Kiev, the capital of the Ukraine. Russian infantry creeps into the outskirts of the metropolis, which the retreating Nazis had put to the torch, and Soviet tanks speed into the city, with the populace shreiking its welcome. Returning native women wail in anguish at the murder and the atrocities which have been committed by the enemy. But Kiev is captured." [sound, Russian] (3) Help Save Rubber Now. (partial newsreel)
1) "General Douglas MacArthur, after 19 months of creeping warfare, is seen on the bridge of a plunging flagship, heading into one of the boldest moves of his South Pacific campaign. And a new type of landing operation is up for trial dependence is to be placed on surprise, rather than on pulverizing naval bombardment. Los Negros Island, in the Admiralties, is sighted, and the 5-inch guns of Uncle Sam's destroyers bark into action. Low flying bombers carefully drop their bombs, then race away. Landing barges are chugging ashore, filled with the unmounted ranks of the U.S. 1st Cavalry. Landed, they leap into the brush and proceed to exterminate Japs. Their kill runs to over 3,000, and Momote airfield is captured. Soon, we see Gen. MacArthur ashore, disdainful of snipers. He inspects the entire area, which has been so quickly captured. Then we learn one secret of this 3-star general's tremendous popularity with his men. He is sincerely grateful for their prowess at arms and he tells them so. Rabaul is doomed, and the Philippines are endangered." (2) China's Air Force Grows "'The Composite Wing' Southwest China Young Chinese aviators, under joint Yank and Chinese leadership, are visited by Generalissimo and Mme. Chiang Kai-shek. This air group is a nucleus for the growing air strength against Japan proper." (3) Nazi London "Bombing of London While London rocks to ack ack fire, Nazi bombers start some spectacular fires in the metropolis. Populace takes it manfully and is visited by the King and Queen." (4) 20 Children At Once "Kids by the Score Kent, Wash., Wilber Arketa and wife, fresh from their missionary work in Alaska, bring 20 assorted children, ranging from 2 to 18 in age, into the States with them. Adoption completed, they plunge into the vegetables. And they all acknowledge that Arketa is their daddy." (5) Deadliest Explosive "Ottawa: Canada announces successful production of R D X, the most powerful military explosive in the world. Dramatic tests force T N T to take second position." (6) Where Scrap Paper Goes (Exclusive) "Whippany, NJ: Huge paper mill of McEwan Bros. shows how scrap paper is re-processed into boxboard to provide packaging for war shipments and essential civilian goods." (7) News in Hair Do's (Exclusive) NYC: Appropriate hair do's for women's various activities of the present day are presented. Stealing first attention is the '7th Column,' a lacquered pompadour, which is designed to insure hair safety for war plant workers." (8) Our Mighty Navy Grows "Ship of Two Cities Quincy, Mass.: Hull of U.S.S. 'Springfield,' a 10,000 ton cruiser, is jointly sponsored by Miss McCurley of Springfield, Ill., and Mrs. Bertera of Springfield, Mass., as the ship is named for both cities." (9) Blimps Fly In Formation "In California, they do it the hard way again, U.S. Navy training blimps are flown in precision formations, despite their unwieldiness." (complete newsreel)
(1) "We accompany one of the 2,000 American plane formations that are bringing ruin and panic to Berlin. Miles of vapor-streaks are trailing after the huge Flying Fortresses, winging through the frigid sky. Crews are 'on oxygen.' Then Berlin is sighted and the bombs start cascading downward. The scene below is like a field of mushrooms. Flak comes up, and one of our motors goes dead. We head back to Blighty. Some shops drop flares announcing wounded aboard, and instant medical care is waiting, when the ships roll to a stop. Colonel Mumford interviews some of the other participants in the raid. They give their crisp, spicy version of this one, and ask for return assignments." (2) Prisoners of War in U.S. "Michigan: Nazi prisoners of war volunteer for forest duty in the north woods. Warmly clothed, they work like beavers. Then they devour their food, and return to the recreation rooms for checkers, ping pong and music by a Germand band." (3) Nazi Rubber Captured "Fortaleza, Brazil: Native fishermen ask no questions as they haul in bales of valuable rubber wafted to their shores by sea currents in which Nazi blockade runners had been sunk." (4) Women In The News "A giant U.S. Army transport lands at a Caribbean base and out steps Eleanor Roosevelt on a good-will mission in this vital defense area. 'H.M.S. Bataan' New South Wales, Mrs. Douglas MacArthur very appropriately launches this defiant new Australian destroyer." (5) Task Force Routs Japs "Our cameras open on a huge task force. War ships plunge through the waves, and a liberal sprinkling of big, graceful aircraft carriers races along. Truk has just been abased by a similar task force. The goal for this force is Saipan and Tinian Islands, in the lower Marianas (only 1,500 miles S.E. of Tokio). The Japs roar out to meet us. Hundreds of our carrier-based planes are awaiting their onset, and the killing drum fire of a staggering number of American ack ack guns starts taking its toll of the skulking Japs. They plummet into the sea like meteors. Some of them explode under water, adding fire works to their death at sea. And secondary explosions are caused as huge Jap bombs are flung upward by the sinking Jap planes. The sky is clouded with flak bursts, and streaked with tracer bullets. Box score 29 Jap planes are shot out of the sky." (6) Irish Have Their Day "Fifth Avenue: The lovely Irish take over on St. Patrick's Day. O'Brien and Kelly were there, Doran, LaGuardia and Sweeney, too. Sure the harp got a bit wet, and some of the lads wobbled a bit but wasn't it a lovely day? Yes it was." (partial newsreel)
(1) Hara Kiri in Admiralties "General MacArthur stated to his troops in the Admiralties 'it is imperative that we hold this position against any attack. LST boats, bristling with Yanks, in Los Negros. Supporting their advance, naval guns blast into action, and damaging hits are recorded. Infantry advances, scattered Jap corpses. Manos airfield is reached. Wounded are hastily brought out as the Medical Corps springs to their aid. Transfusions are given and the surgeons operate in field tents. Jap reinforcements from nearby islands enter the battle. Piles of Jap corpses, in grotesque positions are discovered. A high percentage of them are victims of the fanatical Jap self-destruction rite Hara Kiri. Yank hand grenades and machine guns exterminate the remaining Japs. Los Negros, Mamote airfield and the valuable Manos airstrip are taken, and General MacArthur's orders are carried out." (2) Parachute Supplies In Jungle War "Huge C-47 Troop Carrier planes drop parachute-bales of food to isolated units, from low levels, with Norden bomb sight accuracy. Elaborate smoke or cloth panel signals reveal the presence of Allied troops, whereupon transport crews heave and kick the bales overboard, out of their tail-assembly's way. A dramatic instance of Yank air supremacy playing an effective role in the Burma drives." (3) New War Machines "Fort Benning, GA: U.S. Army reveals a mystery weapon, a grenade attachment for the .30 calibre carbine which increases the destructive power of a U.S. Carbineer in numerous ways." M-8, Auto Tank U.S. Army discloses another secret weapon a 7-ton, high speed, 6-wheel, armored truck, with a 'turtle top,' armed with a 37 mm. cannon and a machine gun. Ford Motors mass produces these vehicles, then submits them to the punishing 'proving ground tests.'" (4) Basketball (5) Kelly, One Man Army Honored "Sergeant Charles Kelly of Pittsburgh accumulated a variety of weapons in Italy, then single-handed, in one day's fighting, he killed 40 Germans. General Mark Clark rewards this hero, by personally decorating him." (6) Dewey Gives Press Oscars "NYC: Press Photographers hold their annual exhibit and Governor Dewey distributes the prizes. Exhibit is crowded with choice news pictures and some excellent novelties." (7) Hero Nurses Honored "Guadalcanal: Flight nurses are decorated with the Air Medal and Oak Leaf Clusters for their heroic work in the tropical outposts." Newsreel ending with music. (complete newsreel)
The U.S. Navy makes history as a huge task force assembles to attack the highly publicized 'impregnable fortress of Truk.' Planes zoom from expansive carrier decks, and before long, Truk is observed, stretched out below like a diagram on a drafting table. Japan interceptors bear in for the attack, and they are blown out of the skies, by uncanny machine gun fire, and clouds of rising anti-aircraft fire .Planes dive on acres of grounded Jap planes and riddle useless. They dive on oil tanks until they burst into flames. Freighters are split in two and destroyers are destroyed, and bombed. Back on a carrier, two damaged U.S. Navy planes land, one comes in on one wheel, and from the other, a seriously wounded pilot is carried away. Over 200 Jap planes are destroyed, forty vessels are sunk or badly damaged, and Truk is proved vulnerable to superior American equipment and men.(partial newsreel)
(1) Jungle War In Burma "Lord Louis Mountbatten, Commander-in-Chief of the Southeast Asia Armies, forces down Burma's western shores in a master plan to regain Burma. A bird's eye view of the difficult terrain. Tommies in the jungle brush, as their tanks blaze forth with supporting fire. Formations of Allied bombers bomb loads on the resisting Japan army and British artillery and machine guns finish the 'clearing out' job. The infantry cautionsly advances to carefully examine the prizes of their victory. Guns and helmets and other war materiel are taken, together with Nipponese battle flags and communications. Prisoners are hauled out of fox holes, and the seriously wounded are littered to the rear for treatment. Insight into the difficult task which confronts the Allies in reconquering Burma, a land infested with Fifth Columnists and spies." (2) Arabs Form Desert Unit " Arabia: The British native fighting unit, which utilizes mechanized equipment that matches their fighting zeal, in ruggedness and dogged determination." (partial newsreel)
(1) "Lest secret information of the Allied moves be smuggled into neutral Eire by Axis agents, Yank and British patrols are on the double alert on the border of North Ireland, Ulster and Eire. The innocent native folk cheerfully produce their identifications, amid the rustic beauty of their quiet countryside." (2) Bombs fail to crack Cassino "2,500 Tons of Bombs on Cassino (These historic pictures will be studied by military students for generations to come) Stubborn Germans are so strongly entrenched in fortress city of Cassino that the Allies turn 550 huge bombers loose on a target area measuring 1,400 yds. by 410 yds. , the heart of the city. Stick after stick of gigantic bombs fall into the area, and debris flies sky high. The surface town is reduced to rubble. Services are held at American graves. (partial newsreel)
(1) Rout Jap Naval Force "Rabaul Harbor: Attacking plane knocks the wing off of a Jap fighter plane, then the cruiser below is attacked with high explosive bombs. We see hits and near hits, and leave the spoiled sea beauty, wreathed in smoke." 4. "Movies in War Bond Drive (2) Movie Report On 4th Loan "NYC: Sec. Henry Morgenthau, Jr. accepts giant record book from Charles Skouras, Movie Magnate who directed the Motion Picture Industry's 4th War Loan Drive to success. Book gives graphic record of the entire drive." (3) Easy On The Eyes (Exclusive) "College Inn, Chicago: Stunning girls delightfully pose in latest type bathing suits, divided into two pieces. A flash-back reveals early 20th century bathing beauties, buttoned up from chin to shoe tops.
(1)1944, an election year, finds America buzzing with the question 'What about MacArthur?' The General appears in Australia, the continent saved from the Jap. He speaks with all conviction and honesty of which a human being is capable, reiterating his promise that he will return to the Philippines. (2) Mighty Plane Sets Record "Constellation Record Maker Washington, DC: the new Lockheed C-69 crosses the U.S.A. in 6 hrs. and 58 min., non-stop. Powered by four 2,200 horsepower Wright radial engines, with a troop capacity of 100, this huge 'Flying Shark' now enters upon U.S. Army transport duties." (3) Heroes Are Decorated "Halloran General Hospital, NYC: Paratrooper Leonard of Buffalo and Private Zyeh of Staten Island receive Purple Hearts from Major Jeannette Bleeh." (partial newsreel)
(1) Campaign in Burma "In Burma we see Admiral Lord Mountbatten, the late Major General Wingate and the ace air-director, Colonel 'Flip Corkan' watching Colonial troops depart for heavy action. We move out into the muddy combat areas and watch air transport drop bales of rice and munitions. Allied tanks and infantry are slogging through. Further afield we encounter General Stilwell's Chinese armies (armed with Yank equipment), then we watch them advance through the jungle country. The refugees pour in, and they hungrily seize the rice issued them. All of which gives one a better insight into these vital Burma campaigns which are aimed at driving a wedge into the present Japanese Empire. 'Vinegar Joe's Birthday North Burma: General Stilwell, 61, receives a birthday cake with the inscription 'Happy Uncle Joe.' He slices it and hands a chunk to a Colonel, his son. Then the entire staff pitches in." (2) Plane Parts Salvaged "Alameda Naval Air Station, CA: Damaged combat planes provide tons of valuable parts, in huge salvage program. And Butch O'Hara's famous bullet riddled plane provides inspiration as well as salvage parts." (3) The Italian War Front " At Anzio, the British press their speedy rocket guns into action providing eerie, flashless night pictures. Shamrock Decorations Cassino Front: General Alexander engages in the ceremony of the shamrocks, on March 17th, with an Irish Regiment." (4) Victories At Sea "Shipan Island, Marianas: A Yank task force meets Jap air opposition. Long rows of anti-aircraft guns blaze away, 5-inch guns on the carriers roar. The sky is filled with tracers and flak bursts, and we see Jap planes diving head on, deep into the Pacific Ocean. Explosions mark their watery graves. Nazi Sub Battle A Nazi sub surfaces in the Atlantic, and begins a battle royal with a U.S. Navy seaplane tender. The sub loses." (partial newsreel)
(1) A Great Day For The Kellys "Commando Kelly Returns Home Sergeant Charles Kelly, 23, recipient of the Congressional Medal of Honor for exterminating 10 Nazis in one day, finally returns to Pittsburgh, Pa. His whole excited family is there, Mom and his six brothers, and apparently everyone in the Smoky City. Pittsburgh gives its hero the keys to the city, then a parade takes place, to end all parades. Our microphones caught the globe-trotting Sergeant at Washington, D.C., in his simple recital of a fighting soldier's creed 'they all are fighting to come home.'" (2) War Ballot Applications "G.I. Vote Applications Washington, DC: 37,000,000 postal card applications for November voting ballots roll off the U.S. Government printing presses." (3) Tirpitz Bombed "Norway: A mighty Carrier Force unleashes scores of planes which straddle the hiding Nazi battle wagon with 8 tons of bombs. 24 direct hits are made." (partial newsreel)
(1) The Arsenal For D-Day "Equipment for Invasion In a U.S.A. port we see the materials of war being feverishly loaded into vessels. Planes are lifted to the decks of bulging ships, ships that are loaded to the water line with freight for the invasion. Slowly, then, the ships converge, to set sail in convoy. In Bratain we come upon acres and acres of piled up materiel and equipment, for the invasion armies on the Second Front. Tires, soap, tobacco, candy and refuse cans form part of the military chattels. Rolling stock (for continental railways!), tanks, ducks, pontoons, trucks, ambulances, guns and bombs are seen. The unending rows of planes show that the battle of production has been won in America. Now the military takes over." (2) Lend-Lease Flat Top Gets Planes "Canada West Coast: Aboard one of the 38 Yankee-built aircraft carriers of the 10,000 ton class (which the U.S. has furnished the British Navy under Lend-Lease), we watch a cargo of Yankee-built planes swoop aboard their new nest. They fold their wings and take the elevator to the storage deck below." (partial newsreel)
(1) War News--All Good "Modern Yank Artillery In Italy, enemy positions are plotted out in checkerboard style, then pattern barrages are laid down, in which each gun destroys its particular target square. Eisenhower with the 9th In England, General Eisenhower accompanied by Lt. Gen. Spaatz and Lt. Gen. Brereton, inspects the U.S. 9th Air Force. From the cockpit of a fighter plan he fires the wing guns exubertantly, then he watches Marauder formations take off for invasion objectives. Air War in Europe Sight Aiming Point cameras reveal Yank daylight destruction of Nazi fighters and transport planes, and merciless strafing of Nazi planes at enemy air bases. Ground flares sputter a lighted path for the returning Yank planes at dusk. Then, huge British Lancasters lumber out to enter upon their nightly tasks of destruction. At Sables Sur Sarthe, France, the Lancasters set off an ammunition dump. The resulting explosions turn night into day for the unhappy Germans far below."(2) Capitol Hails Yank Air Aces "Washington, DC: Captains Don Gentile and John Godfrey, are destroyers of Nazi planes, are honored by their mothers, and official Washington." (partial newsreel)
"Heroes with the Camera In England, Universal Newsreel pays its respects to the heroes who risk their lives to film the war. We see groups of the Navy camera men, Army combat photographers, aerial combat camera men, and several of the ace newsreel men. Each has his steel helmet adjusted and his camera loaded. Their feats of the past will be surpassed by their efforts in the future." (2) Invaders From The Sky "Lauringburg-Maxton Army Air Base, NC: With D-day approaching hourly, an unusual interest attaches to America's air borne troops as they apply the 'finishing touches' to their training. We watch camouflaged men file into gliders, ground crews stow jeeps and other mobile equipment into other gliders. Nylon ropes for towing, are adjusted. Then giant C-47 transport ships take up two gliders at a time. Over destination, parachutes plummet out of the gliders, then more chutists pour from the transport ships. Other gliders swoop to earth like angry impatient birds. Fully equipped carrier troops leap out to instantly spring to their assigned tasks. American soldiers from the sky are more than ready for invasion." (partial newsreel)
(1) Advance on Rome "With tremendous armies poised on all of Germany's borders, the signal is given the Allied armies to the south, to being their destruction of the Nazis in Italy.Nazi positions by enormous concentrations of field guns, howitzers, mortars and machine guns. Heavy Allied equipment rumbles forward, helping to carve a path for the advances. The British break through the Gustav Line and capture destroyed Cassino, with the broken walls of the gutted Benedictine Abbey overshadowing the desolate scene below. French troops break through and capture Castelforte (little Cassino). The Americans push up the Tyrrhenian and engulf the Nazis in operations which resulted in a junction being effected with the troops from th Nazis beachhead. Thousands of Nazis are captured, and bedraggled natives return to their towns, to get in line at the soup kitchens. (2) Devastation Of Berlin "From Nazi films we see the devastation that has been wrought in Berlin by the continuous Allied bombings. Herr Goebbels looks on in alarm." scenes of city ruins from captured German films. (partial newsreel)
"After the ruins, which had been Cassino, are entered, we see the Allied Generals Alexander, Mark Clark, Truscott, Juin et al in conference. As we roll forward with their troops, significant signs mark out enemy mines, booby traps...and the road to Rome." (partial newsreel)
Eve of Battle "Universal Newsreel, in full co-operation with the War Department, presents official pictures of the final military preparations for the launching of D-Day. A host of nations engage in the huge task. The invasion, in truth, is a United Nation's effort." (complete newsreel)
"The Greatest co-ordination of arms ever portrayed on any motion picture screen in the world. Every scene made during the greatest victory of Allied power. 11,000 Allied planes plant their tons of pulverizing bombs on shore installations, strategic roads and bridges, then swoop down to strafe enemy trains, ships and planes. In England, the daredevil paratroopers sail away to their designations and the air-borne troops follow in their gliders. 4,000 ships set sail for the Cherbourg peninsula. The guns of the invasion navy roar into action. Assault boats bounce through the heavy sea...shore is reached and the intricate Nazi defences are penetrated. Nazi prisoners are rounded up, and the many Allied and Nazi wounded are treated and returned to England. Allied heavy equipment rumbles by and the French natives welcome their liberators. Supreme Commander Dwight Eisenhower visits the scene and is welcomed by Generals Montgomery and Bradley. The air poundings continue, and the mop-up search for snipers is on. The invasion is successful." (partial newsreel)
"The Fortunes of War at Rome Beneath the century old Colliseum in Rome, the Nazis are shown triumphantly parading American and British prisoners, captured in the ferocious action at Anzio. Field Marshal Kesselring takes a good look southward through his field glasses, where the Allied drive is. A forced evacuation of Rome is ordered. Beneath the same century old Colliseum in Rome we see Allied heavy equipment rolling in, with General Mark Clark, the center of attention for all the cheering Romans. The allied advance rolls through Rome, and we see the effects of Allied naval shelling. Nazi heavy equipment is utterly destroyed, becoming dead symbols of a dead cause." (partial newsreel)
B-24 Liberator rolls off San Diego Consolidated "San Diego, CA: Off the assembly line comes the 5,000th B-24 to go to war. The famed bomber, nicknamed the Liberator, is ready to be off to the wars and further victories for the plane." (2) First Movies Of Gen. Tito Of Yugoslavia "Somewhere in Yugoslavia: For the first time, Marshall Tito is photographed by the motion picture camera. His Partisans have been a thorn in the Nazis' side since the day the Germans over ran the country." (partial newsreel)
(1) Battle for Rome - "While action see-saws at the Italian Front, hordes of Germans are shown marching in one direction, to our rear. They are prisoners of the Yanks and of the French. Nor is their stubbornness diminished by the sight of numerous German dead." (2) Nazis Wreck Warehouse - "Nazi bombers set off a fire which consumes one of our warehouses in Italy. In a tight squeeze, a truck full of G.I. shoes are saved." (3) Bomb Rome Rail Yards - "Flying Fortresses fly over Rome, then blast selected outlying districts, in another of their preceision raids." (4) Rooms of Tomorrow - "Toledo, Ohio: The House of Tomorrow is filled with mirrors which lend dimensional depth to the interior, and set off to particular advantage any beauty who reclines in their range." (5) Boys' Pennies Buy Canteen - "The Boy's Clubs of America earned $2,500 at odd jobs here and there. Without fan fare the youngsters turn over the funds to the American Red Cross for the purchase of a deluxe Mobile Cantieen." (6) Roller Romp - "Roller skating really goes big time as a huge skaters' review is staged for a capacity audience in Madison Square Garden. The beauty and ease with which things roll along, will please you." (7) Colored Paratroops - "Fort Benning, GA: Graduation jumps are made by the first all-colored parachute unit, who have just completed their training." (8) Springboard To Truk - "As the American victory mounts, island by island, in the tremendous Marshall campaign, we watch the Marines in some of their high-powered handling of the resisting Japs, at Kwajalein. The Devildogs pour lead into burning block houses, and the shrinking remnants of the garrisons come reeling out, to surrender. So many dead Japs are lying around that hurried arrangements are made to bury them. And broken to bits, lying all over the ground, are new Tojo type planes and Zeros. The American dead are interred at a military cemetery. America's new hero, Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, Commander-in-Chief of the Pacific Fleet, rides into view in a jeep. Accompanying him are Admirals Hoover and Turner, and Generals Holland Smith and Harry Schmidt. Shortly after the Stars and Stripes are placed in postiion over the Atoll, the electrifying news from Truk comes in, and a fuller significance is given to this marvelous victory in the Marshalls."
"The Fortunes of War at Rome Beneath the century old Colliseum in Rome, the Nazis are shown triumphantly parading American and British prisoners, captured in the ferocious action at Anzio. Field Marshal Kesselring takes a good look southward through his field glasses, where the Allied drive is. A forced evacuation of Rome is ordered. Beneath the same century old Colliseum in Rome we see Allied heavy equipment rolling in, with General Mark Clark, the center of attention for all the cheering Romans. The allied advance rolls through Rome, and we see the effects of Allied naval shelling. Nazi heavy equipment is utterly destroyed, becoming dead symbols of a dead cause." (partial newsreel)
"Allies Advance in France, Shortly after United Nation troops establish their beachhead, King George visits the front and General Charles De Gaulle is cheered by local populace. Thousands of prisoners are captured at Cherbourg." (partial newsreel)
(1) "Germany's 'Secret' Weapon England: Here are the first motion pictures of the Nazi robot bomb, launched from the French coast and scattering death and destruction over a large section of southern England. Anti-aircraft fire brings the rocket bombs down as home defenses are tightened against this new menace." (2) The Allies Take Elba "Veteran French commandos and colonial troops supported by Americans. British and French warships invade this island off the Italian coast famed as Napoleon's home-in exile. Meeting fierce resistance, the invaders kill 500 Germans and take nearly 2,000 prisoners." (partial newsreel)