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Entitled "SNAFU", this wonderful WWII training film (1943; TF 21-1007) is part of the "Fighting Men" series, designed to psychological prepare troops for the rigors of combat and Army life. It features various scenarios about SNAFUs -- situation normal, all fouled up (or "f-d" up!) As the narrator says "in war, the abnormal is normal. You can't predict the turns of battle." Rifles can jam, bridges will not be ready, food won't be delivered on time. The point of the film is that troops have to be prepared for bad times, bad situations, and keep their morale up and keep fighting no matter what.
The film portrays the chaotic and unpredictable nature of war, highlighting the frustrations of soldiers facing logistical delays, poor leadership, and shifting battlefronts. Soldiers are repeatedly reminded that war doesn't follow a strict schedule, and resources like food, weapons, and reinforcements are often unavailable or unreliable. They must adapt to unexpected situations, such as missing bridges, destroyed infrastructure, and last-minute orders. Despite the chaos, soldiers must press on, learning to accept the abnormal as the norm in combat. The narrative reflects the constant surprises and challenges in war, where even the most well-laid plans can be disrupted, and survival often depends on dealing with the unforeseen. (Features footage of air combat, African American engineering troops building a bridge while singing (5 minute mark)).
00:00 - 1:07
Main titles. A military convoy is pushing forward despite exhaustion, emphasizing the necessity of delivering supplies for the war effort.
1:07 - 2:23
Soldiers discuss inefficiencies and frustrations, including logistical delays and command mistakes. They are reminded that war is unpredictable and never runs on a strict schedule.
2:23 - 3:45
A commanding officer explains that the uncertainties of war affect everything—food, weapons, rest, and survival. Strategic movements, even if they seem illogical to soldiers, are often based on evolving battle conditions.
3:45 - 5:00
Reinforcements such as tanks and planes are sometimes unavailable due to shifting priorities, but they are always in action elsewhere. Soldiers must adapt to imperfect conditions, including malfunctioning weapons and destroyed infrastructure.
5:00 - 6:45
Unexpected battlefield challenges arise, like a missing bridge due to enemy attacks. Soldiers complain about the apparent disorganization of command, but decisions are made based on broader strategic considerations.
6:45 - 8:05
Anecdotes from past wars highlight how troop movements are dictated by shifting enemy positions, even if they seem directionless or exhausting to the infantry.
8:05 - 9:30
War is full of unforeseen obstacles, such as flooded terrain and misinterpreted reconnaissance. Even well-planned attacks can be upended by sudden environmental changes or enemy countermeasures.
9:30 - 10:30
Soldiers anticipate rest in a recently occupied village but are ordered to sleep outside due to potential booby traps. Disregarding orders results in disaster, proving the necessity of command’s caution.
10:30 - 11:30
A soldier questions why the unit is stationed in an uneventful area, only to realize they are about to encounter enemy soldiers. The unpredictability of war is reaffirmed as the battle resumes.
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This film is part of the Periscope Film LLC archive, one of the largest historic military, transportation, and aviation stock footage collections in the USA. Entirely film backed, this material is available for licensing in 24p HD and 2k. For more information visit http://www.PeriscopeFilm.com