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G.I.s IN SWITZERLAND (1946)

1946 · Short film · 18 min

  • War
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Synopsis

Made in 1946, "G.I.s in Switzerland" shows a post-WWII program in which American G.I.s and servicewomen are taken to Switzerland for rest & relaxation in a nation not affected by the devastation of the war. The film was made by Hermann Haller and David Wechsler, most likely as a propaganda effort on behalf of the nation of Switzerland. The Swiss endured criticism during the war for their neutral stance and were viewed in some quarters as Nazi collaborators who benefitted from the German plunder of European wealth. The film documents the journey of American GIs traveling to Switzerland for a vacation after the end of World War II. The soldiers, having endured the hardships of war, are greeted with warmth and hospitality as they arrive in Switzerland, where they explore picturesque towns like Lugano, Lucerne, and Zurich. The video highlights Switzerland’s unique role in global diplomacy and its peaceful post-war recovery. It also emphasizes the strong ties between Switzerland and the United States, as the soldiers reflect on shared ideals and the return to peace. 00:00-0:46: Narrator introduces the theme of American GIs traveling to Switzerland for a vacation after the war. 0:46-1:19: The narrator describes the departure of American soldiers from southern Italy to the Milan airport on a special vacation trip. A sense of optimism fills the air, as they prepare for a peaceful retreat. 1:19-2:01: The GIs are greeted at the Milan airport, and the group arrives at a meeting point,…

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Details

Running time
18 minutes
Collection
Ephemeral Films

Subjects on the Internet Archive

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