Fighting Americans

After the attack on Pearl Harbor, Americans from all walks of life enlist in the armed forces. Aspects of the induction and training of many black men and women are shown. At a typical induction center, men are X-rayed, given overall physical examinations and participate in job classification interviews. Uniforms are handed out and the new soldier discovers the wonders of army cooking and the pleasures of the recreation center. However, endless drills are the new recruit's major occupation, preparing him for the day he will tramp down the streets of Berlin and Tokyo. Later, the men participate in simulated warfare exercises in Louisiana, and newspaper reporters from all over the United States are invited to observe the maneuvers. Brigadier General Benjamin O. Davis, Sr., the highest ranking African-American officer, is guest of honor. Truman K. Gibson, the acting civilian aide to the Secretary of War, and Lieutenant Carroll Fitzgerald are also present. While their men train to protect their homes and loved ones, the women of America are also playing their part, and many have joined the Women's Army Corps and have learned to perform a number of vital tasks, including driving and maintaining jeeps and other vehicles and the preparation of large quantities of meals. Other activities include a gas attack drill. Off-duty hours are devoted to letter writing, swimming, dances at the "Non-Com Club" and attending church services. Several WAC companies take part in a drill competition, and the winning company is congratulated by the battalion commander. The training of African-American cadets at the Tuskegee Army Flying School in Alabama is also shown.