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African Americans in Wwii U.S. Navy Film "The Negro Sailor" Xd12654 (1945)

1945 · Short film · 26 min

  • Documentary
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Synopsis

The Negro Sailor is a 1945 documentary short film made for the U.S. Navy, which was segregated during WWII. It was directed by Henry Levin. The film attempts to emphasize integration, advancement based on ability, equal treatment, and team work in the Navy. The plot revolves around an African American newspaper employee who is drafted. All phases of Navy boot camp are represented as integrated and equal. Shows physicals, clothing procurement, barracks inspection, KP and social activities. Names black non-combatants who received distinguished Navy Service Awards for bravery: Doris (Dorie) Miller, Elbert H. Oliver, William Pinckney, and Leonard Roy Harmon. Points out that all Navy ratings are open to black Americans and shows black sailors learning navigation, radio operation, aviation mechanics, and other specialties. On a destroyer with a predominantly black crew, blacks fill all positions except commissioned officers. Shows ship in battle action and blacks in Ordnance and CB battalions. The film closes with commentary on how blacks and whites have fought side by side to keep America free throughout history. The United States Navy presents, The Negro Sailor. All scenes depicting Navy personnel and activities are either scenes of actual Naval units photographed by Navy camera crews or authentic incidents recreated to conform exactly with conditions existing in the Naval establishment at the time of filming. The film opens with people walking by the front offices of The Herald…

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Details

Running time
26 minutes
Collection
Ephemeral Films

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