"THE HIGHEST TRADITION" AFRICAN AMERICANS IN U.S. NAVY IN WWII 1946 DOCUMENTARY 22514

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Presented by the Associated Producers of Negro Motion Pictures, produced and directed by African American filmmaker William D. Alexander and narrated by Fredric March, "The Highest Tradition" (1946) tells the story of African Americans participating in WWII. This includes Joseph Cross, Doris "Dorie" Miller, Leonard "Roy" Harmon, Elbert Oliver (who won the silver star), and more. Hampton Institute in Virginia and the Great Lakes facility in Illinois are shown where African Americans were trained for service. African American women who served in the WAVEs are also shown, as are the men in the ordnance battalions. The film particularly focuses on the attack on Pearl Harbor and highlights individual acts of heroism, such as Doris "Dorie" Miller's bravery at Pearl Harbor and the efforts of African American sailors who volunteered in large numbers after the Navy opened up recruitment to them. The narrative emphasizes the diverse range of roles played by sailors, women in the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), civilian workers, and those on the front lines, all contributing to the success of the war effort. The Navy's rapid mobilization and the collective sacrifice of its personnel, from shipbuilding to combat, were crucial in securing victory, especially in the Pacific theater. The legacy of these efforts continues to be a proud chapter in American history, with future generations learning from the bravery and unity displayed during this critical time.

00:00 The lasting significance of December 7, 1941, the day of the Pearl Harbor attack, and its impact on world history. Future generations will learn about this pivotal event alongside other key historical moments.

1:01:The story highlights individual acts of heroism during the war, such as Doris Miller’s courage during the Pearl Harbor attack, earning him the Navy Cross. Joseph Cross of New Orleans also receives the Navy and Marine Corps Medal for heroic actions during submarine patrols.

2:00:The USS Harman, a destroyer escort named after Leonard Roy Harman, who was killed protecting a shipmate, is mentioned as an example of self-sacrifice and bravery. The sacrifices of many sailors are acknowledged, including those who fought on despite injuries.

3:00:The Navy begins to recruit African American volunteers in 1942, leading to the establishment of training camps. Thousands of volunteers respond and are trained in various specialized roles, including navigation, aviation, and gunner duties.

5:01:New recruits undergo intensive training in a variety of skills necessary for modern warfare, including navigation, engine maintenance, and military signaling. They are prepared for action to become part of the powerful Navy force.

6:00:The significance of the Navy's quick development is emphasized. Every sailor's job, no matter how small, contributed to the Navy’s success, and without their effort, the course of history could have been different.

7:00:The role of various personnel, including photographers, sailors, and those building and maintaining the ships, is highlighted. Women, part of the WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service), took on critical roles in administrative, medical, and instructional positions, contributing to the war effort.

9:02 :Civilian workers in naval yards played a crucial role in constructing and repairing ships. The organization and effort behind the Navy’s success are detailed, showing how men and women worked in concert to maintain the fleet’s fighting capabilities.

10:21:The Navy's contributions to the Pacific campaign are discussed, particularly how it enabled successful island-hopping strategies, with Marines and construction battalions playing key roles in securing and building airstrips on newly captured islands.

11:28:The essential role of the Navy in winning World War II is underscored. The Navy's efforts were integral to the success of the Allied forces, with the diverse, collective efforts of Americans coming together to defeat the enemy.

12:37:The narrative concludes by recognizing the Navy as a symbol of America's unity and resilience during the war, with every individual’s contribution playing a part in the ultimate victory. The history of the Navy's achievements is preserved for future generations.

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