dual personalities

Memorial Day (or Decoration Day) is the federal holiday in the United States when we remember the men and women who died while serving in the country’s armed forces.

So today I recommend watching They Were Expendable (1945), John Ford’s loving paean to the U.S. Navy, specifically the PT boat unit, Motor Torpedo Boat Squadron Three, defending the Philippines from Japanese invasion during World War II. It is a case study in how to do wartime propaganda, but it is beautifully understated and moving.

Robert Montgomery was never better.

[After the U.S. entered World War II in December 1941, he joined the U.S. Navy, rising to the rank of lieutenant commander, and served on the USS Barton (DD-722) which was part of the D-Day invasion on June 6, 1944. He knew all about PT boats and the men who served on them; he helped direct the movie.]

John Wayne is, of course, terrific:

And the supporting characters are played by John Ford regulars, including Ward Bond, Jack Pennick, and the always wonderful Russell Simpson. Here he is watching the departing sailors after he refuses to go with them, preferring to stay and defend his property from the Japanese who are closing in.

Has “Red River Valley” ever been used more effectively? John Ford always gave his supporting players a chance to shine and they really do in this movie.

Gracious God, we give thanks for military men and women, both from the past and present, and for their courageous service and sacrifice to our country and its people to secure the blessings of life, liberty, and justice for all. May our remembrance be a timely reminder that our freedom was purchased at high cost, and should not be taken for granted. Give us resolve to labor in faithful service to you until all share the benefits of freedom, justice, and peace; through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen (BCP)

Enjoy the rest of the three-day weekend!