From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast Tim Gray

In this first episode of a new season in our "Front to the Films" Podcast, we sit down with Christian Blauvelt, author of the new book, "Hollywood Victory: The Movies, Stars, and Stories of World War II," to explore an era when Hollywood played a crucial role in the war, not only on the screen, but on the battlefield as well.

Christian Blauvelt shares behind-the-scenes stories of how the film industry joined forces with the government, offering a unique blend of entertainment, patriotism, and activism.  This fascinating discussion uncovers the impact of Hollywood's golden age on the war effort and how these actions still resonate within the industry today--a truly fascinating chapter of film and world history!

This Women's History Month, the World War II Foundation highlights the diverse roles women played during the war through "Her War, Her Story." This clip introduces Marjorie Giamo, a "Rosie the Riveter" from Waltham, MA, who took on the critical role of welder, contributing to the war effort on the home front. Alongside her, Rae Curovick shares her experiences growing up in England and serving in the Ordnance Corps, showcasing the global impact of women's contributions during WWII. Their stories reflect the strength, resilience, and versatility of women who stepped into roles traditionally held by men and played a pivotal part in supporting the war efforts.
#WomensHistoryMonth #WWII #RosietheRiveter #HerWarHerStory #WomensContributions

Continuing our observance of Women's History Month and honoring the enduring spirit of our Greatest Generation, the World War II Foundation presents a memorable clip from "Her War, Her Story." In this segment, Kathleen McElaney shares her experiences growing up in England during World War II. From the trials of rationing to the united efforts and common purpose that galvanized the country, McElaney's reflections offer a poignant glimpse into the day-to-day realities faced by those on the home front. Her recollections serve as a testament to the resilience and solidarity of a nation under siege. This clip is a tribute to the strength and perseverance of women who lived through these challenging times.
#WomensHistoryMonth #WWII #HomeFront #Rationing #Unity #HerWarHerStory

Barbara Kotinek was just a young girl when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. She got an up-close view of the Japanese pilots when they flew over and the devastation along Battleship Row, especially the flaming USS Arizona. When the enemy flew over her Naval housing, they even waved to her and smiled. She climbed a clothesline to get a better view.
Her family was so certain that the Japanese were going to invade Oahu, that her father gave the young girl a gun so she could do the unthinkable: Shoot herself and her mother if Honolulu was invaded.
This short clip is from a searing, personal interview full of emotion, even decades after that “Day of Infamy.”  Watch the full film here:  
#HerWarHerStory #WomensHistoryMonth #WWIIFoundation #GreatestGeneration #PearlHarbor #Resilience #Courage

In the powerful finale episode of the "Echoes of Valor" podcast series, host Colonel Tom Rendall brings together historian John McManus and Rebecca Hutchinson, youngest daughter of World War II navigator Harry Crosby, to reflect on the acclaimed Masters of the Air television series.
Their extraordinary discussion sheds light on the intense complexity of the bombing missions over Europe, weaving together the broader historical context with deeply personal narratives of the brave airmen involved. John McManus talks about how the series captured the unimaginable challenges faced by bomber crews, offering a visceral look at the air war's toll.
Rebecca Crosby Hutchinson's first-hand connection further brings that story to life. Her father Harry's memoirs in "A Wing and a Prayer" provided crucial inspiration for Masters of the Air and the portrayal of the legendary 100th Bomb Group, nicknamed "The Bloody Hundredth" for their staggering casualty rate. Hutchinson shares her profound experience watching her father's harrowing experiences reenacted on screen and the impact it had on her family.

This final episode of our special series also reflects on the larger significance of accurately depicting WWII history through renowned works like Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan and Masters of the Air. As John McManus explains, these powerful films and shows play a vital role in educating future generations and ensuring the immense sacrifices are never forgotten.
With the finale, "Echoes of Valor" concludes its gripping companion series that has paid tribute to the Masters of the Air while allowing you--our listeners--to step into the shoes of the "Masters" themselves. The stories demand to be told and the legacies upheld. By giving voices to soldiers, historians and family members, this special series of our "Front to the Films" podcast will keep the "echoes of valor" resonating for countless future listeners to experience.
Thank you for joining us!
The World War II Foundation's "Front to the Films" Podcast will now continue in the lead up to a multitude of 80th Anniversary events of World War II.  In the weeks ahead, our podcast episodes will focus on D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.

This Women's History Month, our latest clip from "Her War, Her Story" focuses on the diverse and poignant experiences of three women growing up in Nazi Germany: Irmgard Schmid, who seeks redemption for her country's past; Anna Arbeiter, a Holocaust survivor; and Helga Schmid, who shares her childhood memories from that era. Their stories offer a window into the emotional toll of World War II on young girls.  All three women discuss their unique paths through the same historical landscape. These stories provide deep insight into the emotional scars left by the war and the strength required to navigate its aftermath.
#HerWarHerStory #WomensHistoryMonth #WW2 #Survivors #WWII #WWIIFoundation