This is Part 2 of our discussion with Keith Nightingale and Joey Ivanov as we approach the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.  

In this episode of "Front to the Films," hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall, we count down to the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Normandy. With the expertise of guests Keith Nightingale and Joey Ivanov, both veterans with extensive backgrounds in military operations and history, we delve into the strategic planning and heroic actions of Operation Overlord. As we journey back to June 6, 1944, we aim to uncover the strategic brilliance and raw courage that defined one of the most critical military operations in World War II.

This fascinating discussion focuses on the strategic decisions that led to Normandy being selected as the site for the Allied invasion. We discuss the strategic imperatives and the associated challenges of this choice.  Joey and Keith then examine Operation Fortitude, the extensive deception strategy used to mislead the German forces, which was crucial for the Allies' success. This discussion extends to explore how the selection of Normandy influenced the broader Allied campaign in Europe, including the subsequent Operation Dragoon in Southern France. This segment provides listeners with an in-depth understanding of the meticulous planning and execution that set the stage for this historic day.

We'll continue the discussion with Joey Ivanov and Keith Nightingale in the next episode, where we continue to explore the complexities and impacts of Operation Overlord. Stay tuned for more insights into the tactical maneuvers, personal stories, and the broader implications of the Normandy invasion on subsequent military strategies and operations.

Join us for this educational and reflective journey into one of the most significant events of the 20th century, brought to you by "Front to the Films."

In this first episode of a new season in our "Front to the Films" Podcast, we sit down with Christian Blauvelt, author of the new book, "Hollywood Victory: The Movies, Stars, and Stories of World War II," to explore an era when Hollywood played a crucial role in the war, not only on the screen, but on the battlefield as well.

Christian Blauvelt shares behind-the-scenes stories of how the film industry joined forces with the government, offering a unique blend of entertainment, patriotism, and activism.  This fascinating discussion uncovers the impact of Hollywood's golden age on the war effort and how these actions still resonate within the industry today--a truly fascinating chapter of film and world history!

This Women's History Month, the World War II Foundation highlights the diverse roles women played during the war through "Her War, Her Story." This clip introduces Marjorie Giamo, a "Rosie the Riveter" from Waltham, MA, who took on the critical role of welder, contributing to the war effort on the home front. Alongside her, Rae Curovick shares her experiences growing up in England and serving in the Ordnance Corps, showcasing the global impact of women's contributions during WWII. Their stories reflect the strength, resilience, and versatility of women who stepped into roles traditionally held by men and played a pivotal part in supporting the war efforts.

#WomensHistoryMonth #WWII #RosietheRiveter #HerWarHerStory #WomensContributions

Continuing our observance of Women's History Month and honoring the enduring spirit of our Greatest Generation, the World War II Foundation presents a memorable clip from "Her War, Her Story." In this segment, Kathleen McElaney shares her experiences growing up in England during World War II. From the trials of rationing to the united efforts and common purpose that galvanized the country, McElaney's reflections offer a poignant glimpse into the day-to-day realities faced by those on the home front. Her recollections serve as a testament to the resilience and solidarity of a nation under siege. This clip is a tribute to the strength and perseverance of women who lived through these challenging times.

#WomensHistoryMonth #WWII #HomeFront #Rationing #Unity #HerWarHerStory

Barbara Kotinek was just a young girl when the Japanese attacked Pearl Harbor on December 7, 1941. She got an up-close view of the Japanese pilots when they flew over and the devastation along Battleship Row, especially the flaming USS Arizona. When the enemy flew over her Naval housing, they even waved to her and smiled. She climbed a clothesline to get a better view.

Her family was so certain that the Japanese were going to invade Oahu, that her father gave the young girl a gun so she could do the unthinkable: Shoot herself and her mother if Honolulu was invaded.

This short clip is from a searing, personal interview full of emotion, even decades after that “Day of Infamy.”  Watch the full film here:  

#HerWarHerStory #WomensHistoryMonth #WWIIFoundation #GreatestGeneration #PearlHarbor #Resilience #Courage

In the powerful finale episode of the "Echoes of Valor" podcast series, host Colonel Tom Rendall brings together historian John McManus and Rebecca Hutchinson, youngest daughter of World War II navigator Harry Crosby, to reflect on the acclaimed Masters of the Air television series.

Their extraordinary discussion sheds light on the intense complexity of the bombing missions over Europe, weaving together the broader historical context with deeply personal narratives of the brave airmen involved. John McManus talks about how the series captured the unimaginable challenges faced by bomber crews, offering a visceral look at the air war's toll.

Rebecca Crosby Hutchinson's first-hand connection further brings that story to life. Her father Harry's memoirs in "A Wing and a Prayer" provided crucial inspiration for Masters of the Air and the portrayal of the legendary 100th Bomb Group, nicknamed "The Bloody Hundredth" for their staggering casualty rate. Hutchinson shares her profound experience watching her father's harrowing experiences reenacted on screen and the impact it had on her family.

This final episode of our special series also reflects on the larger significance of accurately depicting WWII history through renowned works like Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan and Masters of the Air. As John McManus explains, these powerful films and shows play a vital role in educating future generations and ensuring the immense sacrifices are never forgotten.

With the finale, "Echoes of Valor" concludes its gripping companion series that has paid tribute to the Masters of the Air while allowing you--our listeners--to step into the shoes of the "Masters" themselves. The stories demand to be told and the legacies upheld. By giving voices to soldiers, historians and family members, this special series of our "Front to the Films" podcast will keep the "echoes of valor" resonating for countless future listeners to experience.

Thank you for joining us!

The World War II Foundation's "Front to the Films" Podcast will now continue in the lead up to a multitude of 80th Anniversary events of World War II.  In the weeks ahead, our podcast episodes will focus on D-Day and the Battle of Normandy.

This Women's History Month, our latest clip from "Her War, Her Story" focuses on the diverse and poignant experiences of three women growing up in Nazi Germany: Irmgard Schmid, who seeks redemption for her country's past; Anna Arbeiter, a Holocaust survivor; and Helga Schmid, who shares her childhood memories from that era. Their stories offer a window into the emotional toll of World War II on young girls.  All three women discuss their unique paths through the same historical landscape. These stories provide deep insight into the emotional scars left by the war and the strength required to navigate its aftermath.

#HerWarHerStory #WomensHistoryMonth #WW2 #Survivors #WWII #WWIIFoundation

In our latest episode of "Echoes of Valor," we're treated to an engaging, often compelling, conversation that bridges the historical and the contemporary aspects of military aviation as Masters of the Air winds down. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall in partnership with The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and The World War II Foundation, this episode features two great United States Air Force leaders: Brigadier General Paul W. Tibbets IV (USAF Ret.) and Lieutenant Colonel Fred Swan (USAF Ret.).

This episode is especially compelling because it carries the legacy of the Mighty Eighth Army Air Forces during World War II, through to the evolution of airpower, and the impact of these experiences on future generations of airmen.  

Brigadier General Tibbets, with a lineage deeply rooted in our nation's military history, shared insights from his illustrious career, which includes over 4,000 flying hours in B-1 and B-2 bombers. As the grandson of Paul W. Tibbets Jr., the pilot of the Enola Gay during the Hiroshima bombing, General Tibbets carries forward a legacy of critical importance in the realm of nuclear deterrence and strike readiness. Beyond his military career, Tibbets also serves as the President of the 8th Air Force Historical Society.

Lieutenant Colonel Fred Swan discusses his experiences drawn from his 20-year service in the Air Force, including a critical mission during Operation Iraqi Freedom. As a weapons systems officer aboard a B-1B Lancer, Swan played a key role in a precision strike aimed at decapitating the Iraqi leadership. Now, as a Senior Systems Engineer for Military Flight Simulation at Rockwell Collins, Colonel Swan contributes to the advancement of today's Air Force pilots, ensuring they are equipped to meet modern warfare's demands.

In an October, 1998 file photo, retired Brig. Gen. Paul Tibbets Jr., left, and his grandson, then-Capt. Paul Tibbets IV, fly the last flyable B-29 Superfortress, ‘Fifi,’ in Midland, Texas. (Photo courtesy DoD)

General Tibbets shared how his grandfather's legacy shaped his approach to leadership within the Air Force, while Swan reflected on how his leadership roles prepared him for high-stakes missions around the world. 

The preservation of our nation's military history and legacy was another focal point. Both guests discussed their roles in ensuring that the history of the Eighth Air Force and military aviation's technological advancements are shared with new generations.  This episode of "Echoes of Valor" serves as a reminder of the enduring legacy of military aviation and its vital role in shaping our past, present, and future.

In this short clip from our film, "Her War, Her Story," we hear from two women as they discuss their emotional journeys through and after World War II. The documentary, narrated by Jane Lynch, includes stories like Irmgard Schmid's, who seeks redemption for her country's past while living in England and France, and Anna Arbeiter, a Holocaust survivor, who shares the pain of being a 14-year-old girl in Auschwitz, forever marked by the experience. These narratives reveal the strength and resilience of women who endured the war's darkest hours.

This impactful film conveys the experiences of women who faced the turmoil of history's most violent conflict, through the voices of those who both served and lived through it, illuminating the profound effect World War II had on their lives and highlighting their remarkable resilience amidst adversity.

#HerWarHerStory #WomensHistoryMonth #WW2Survivors #WWII

Tune in to a captivating episode of 'Echoes of Valor' featuring LTC Harry T. Stewart Jr., one of our nation's most distinguished veterans, and one of last two surviving Tuskegee Airman--brought to you in collaboration with The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and The World War II Foundation. Your host, Colonel Tom Rendall, unpacks the gallantry, trials, and historical impact of the Tuskegee Airmen through the personal experiences of Colonel Stewart, a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross.

Colonel Harry T. Stewart Jr. stands as one of the most honored members of the Tuskegee Airmen. Born on July 24, 1924, in Newport News, Virginia, his family relocated to Queens, New York, when he was two, near North Beach Airport. This proximity sparked his lifelong passion for aviation as he gazed at the planes flying above. At 17, sensing his forthcoming draft into World War II, he excelled in a military examination that singled out prospective pilots, which led to his enlistment in the US Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet.

Stewart earned his pilot wings at Tuskegee Air Field, Alabama, and, still in his teens, received his commission as a second lieutenant. He underwent combat fighter training in the P-40 Warhawk and P-47 Thunderbolt, and in 1944 he was deployed to Italy with the all-black 332nd Fighter Group. Stewart completed 43 combat missions in the P-51 Mustang. His most notable combat success occurred on April 1, 1945, as then First Lieutenant Stewart and other P-51 pilots protected B-24 Liberators during a bombing mission. The engagement that followed saw Stewart down three FW-190s, securing him the Distinguished Flying Cross.

The episode recorded on March 3rd explores Stewart's rigorous training, pivotal combat encounters, and his triumph in the inaugural Air Force "Top Gun" competition of 1949. Stewart, as one of the last Tuskegee Airmen, provides invaluable insight into their contribution to military aviation history.

Midway, the episode features spotlights on the Mighty Eighth Air Force and The World War II Foundation, then resumes with a discussion on the timeless relevance of the Tuskegee Airmen’s heritage in today’s military and aviation realms. In the final segment, Colonel Stewart offers advice to young military and aviation hopefuls, contemplating the strides made and the distance yet to be covered.

Seize the opportunity to engage with Colonel Stewart's profound legacy and the collective story of the Tuskegee Airmen. Immerse yourself in a significant slice of World War II history and gain a deeper perspective by reading “Soaring to Glory.”

'Echoes of Valor' continues to narrate tales of airborne bravery. Stay tuned for more stories that are bound to captivate and motivate.