# WWII COMBAT FATIGUE & IRRITABILITY PTSD U.S. NAVY FILM 29504

Made during WWII in 1945, this United States Navy training film looks at Combat Fatigue Irritability, or shell shock, now known as PTSD. This is a very rare film, the type of which was, like John Huston's landmark "Let There Be Light", not widely shown due to the effects it could have on morale. Most likely it was only shown to those suffering from combat fatigue, and those who were working to help alleviate it. Oversimplistic in its approach, compared to what we know today, the film provides a fascinating glimpse into how PTSD was perceived in the 1940s, and how primitive the psychological tools were that the "greatest generation" had at their disposal. At mark 01:00, we have Navy men in resting rooms and also in sickbays. At mark 02:40, we have an interview between the fireman of the USS Montana, named Lucas, who survived the sinking of the ship, and his doctor, Dr. Bush. Lucas complains to him about being fed up, says no one knows what it feels like to be a fireman except a fireman. He complains of having burning feelings and his hands shaking. At mark 5:15, Dr Bush advises him to fight against his fear and conquer it. At mark 6:20, we have Lucas and his friend talking about their fears and things bothering them. At mark 9:50, we have all the men in a discussion with Dr Bush, all putting down how they feel. The doctor advises them on their conditions, their fears. They talk about their 30 day leave which they had. Lucas explains his trip as been lousy. At mark 11:57, we…

- Kind: Film
- By: PeriscopeFilm
- Genres: War, Industrial and advertising
- Archive: [Internet Archive](https://archive.org/details/29504combatfatigueirritability)
- Licence or status: none stated by the archive
- Who can watch: Teens profiles and older (the archive gives no rating; placed by Invisible Network from its collection and subjects)

[Watch now](https://invisiblenetwork.ai/watch/archive/ia/29504combatfatigueirritability?play=1)