*Footage of this era and subject is rarely available in high-resolution scans.
WARNING: GRAPHIC MATERIAL
Title:
Midnight — U.S. Armed Forces and World War II War Bonds Film
REEL ID:
L071R006
RUN TIME:
00:08:22
FORMAT:
16mm motion picture film
FILM TYPE:
Black-and-white film (theatrical / promotional stock)
SOUND:
Sound (original synchronized audio)
PRODUCTION:
Government / wartime promotional film
Description:
This reel titled Midnight presents scenes featuring the United States Navy, United States Marine Corps, and the United States Coast Guard, assembled as part of a World War II–era promotional and morale-building motion picture. Shot on black-and-white 16mm film with synchronized sound, the footage reflects the visual language and urgency of wartime propaganda.
The film includes scenes depicting military readiness and service during World War II, emphasizing cooperation among U.S. armed forces. These sequences are structured to reinforce national unity, duty, and preparedness during the war years.
A central component of the reel is a segment explicitly promoting the purchase of War Bonds, encouraging civilian financial support for the war effort. This advertising footage aligns with the broader U.S. government campaign to fund military operations and sustain morale on the home front.
As a historical artifact, Midnight functions both as wartime media and as a visual record of how film was used to mobilize public support during World War II. The reel offers valuable insight into mid-20th-century propaganda techniques, military representation, and the intersection of cinema and national service.
Tags:
World War II, WWII, War Bonds, Wartime propaganda, U.S. Navy, U.S. Marine Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, Military film, Government film, Black and white film, 16mm film, Sound film, Home front, Mid-20th century, Historical footage, Archival film, Americana, Military history
