The story
This War Department enlistment film aims to recruit African Americans in its World War II engagement.
The documentary has as its framework a black minister's explanation to his congregation of the reasons they should join the armed forces to fight the Nazis. The viewer sees historical re-enactments of African Americans as valued participants in U.S. armed conflicts dating from the American Revolution. Scenes also detail Black accomplishments in the country's history, with footage of Blacks as they served as judges and school teachers, conducted orchestras, played football, and served the U.S. Army in World Ward II.
Footage is included of Jesse Owens and other Blacks as they competed in the 1936 Berlin Olympics. "The Negro Soldier" was produced by Frank Capra and directed by Stuart Heisler, with music by Dimitri Tiomkin.
There's more to discover
You have arrived at just one small part of Back to Normandy — a personal project dedicated to preserving stories, images, music and memories of the Second World War.
Every record is a doorway to a larger story. Explore Back to Normandy to discover more, or visit Fred Vogels' personal website to learn about the person and the projects behind it.