It is with great pride to introduce to you an unique insight into the 457th Bomb Group, station 130, during the years 1944 and 1945.
It was during these years that the photo section of the base filmed scenes around the base and during missions. The films were brought back to the US by the photo section officer Duane Zemper. His family has given us the films that were made then to share with you.
Zemper film; Glatton 1944 – 1945 (click)
Documentary: WWII Through the Lens of Duane Zemper
The films you’ll find below are not 457th Bomb Group related. These films were shot during the war and give a great insight into the air force and are a ‘must see’ for everybody who is interested.
MEMPHIS BELLE OUTTAKES
Recently the Memphis Belle Outtakes appeared on YouTube. Here is the complete collection of Memphis Belle Outtakes. Please note that these are silent films.
A documentary showing a typical mission from wake up call to debriefing.
A documentary made by Lt. Clark Gable. Filming started in 1943 but was released in 1945.
USAF Training Film for Downed Airmen (1957)
Although this documentary is not WWII it does give a good idea about what aircrews could do after they were shot down over enemy territory.
A scene that was not unknown to Glatton. This crash landing was filmed at an unknown base by Pathé.
“B 17 Waist Gunner” Position Firing
A B-17 waist gunner position firing training cartoon. The voice over is by Mel Blanc.
Training film for pilots on how to start and fly a B-17. Actor Arthur Kennedy plays the role of flight instructor.
Instruction film for pilots about FLAK.
In November 2010, History aired WWII in HD: The Air War, focusing on the Eighth Air Force’s strategic campaign against the German Luftwaffe in the months leading up to D-Day. The special, using never-before-seen 8mm color footage, centers on the firsthand experiences of B-17 bombardier Joe Armanini (Casey Affleck), P-47 fighter pilot Steve Pisanos (Sean Astin), B-17 pilot John Gibbons (Chris O’Donnell), and Stars and Stripes correspondent Andy Rooney (Elijah Wood).
Training film and explanation about the Nordon Bombsight. Explains all the basics you need to know to drop that pickle in a barrel from 25.000 feet.