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Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th and 11th and 12th and 13th and 14th and 15th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

During World War II, as men were deployed to combat roles, the United States faced an urgent need for personnel to support the war effort on the home front and overseas. To address this issue, the U.S. Coast Guard established the Women’s Reserve, commonly known as SPARs. This all-female unit played a significant role in ensuring the efficiency of the Coast Guard’s operations and paved the way for greater integration of women in the military.

The Origins of SPARs

The name “SPAR” was derived from the Coast Guard’s motto, “Semper Paratus” (Always Ready). The establishment of SPARs was authorized on November 23, 1942, when President Franklin D. Roosevelt signed Public Law 773, allowing for the creation of a women’s reserve in the Coast Guard. This move followed the example set by the Navy’s WAVES (Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service) and the Women’s Army Corps (WAC).

Captain Dorothy C. Stratton, formerly the Dean of Women at Purdue University and an officer in the WAVES, was appointed as the first director of SPARs. Under her leadership, SPARs recruited thousands of women eager to serve their country.

November 1943 issue of Topside. Topside was a monthly publication of the United States Coast Guard Auxiliary, 4th Naval District. Item from U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Records (#559), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Recruitment and Training

Women who joined SPARs underwent similar rigorous training as their male counterparts. Initially, recruits trained at Hunter College in New York before moving to specialized training schools at various locations across the country. SPAR officers were trained at the Coast Guard Academy in New London, Connecticut, marking the first time women were permitted to train at a U.S. military service academy.

To join SPARs, women had to be U.S. citizens between the ages of 20 and 36, have completed at least two years of high school (though most had more education), and pass strict physical requirements. The Coast Guard sought women with professional and technical skills, including those with experience in clerical work, communications, engineering, and maritime-related fields.

Roles and Contributions

SPARs were assigned to various duties that freed up male servicemembers for combat roles. They took on administrative, clerical, and operational responsibilities, including:

• Radio Operations and Communications: Many SPARs worked as radio operators, deciphering and transmitting critical messages.
• Storekeeping and Supply Chain Management: They ensured that supplies and equipment were effectively distributed to support Coast Guard operations.
• Yeoman Duties: SPARs served as secretaries, typists, and clerks, handling essential paperwork and logistical tasks.
• Health and Medical Services: Some women served as pharmacists, hospital aides, and dental technicians.
• Intelligence and Cryptography: A select group worked in intelligence, assisting with codebreaking and other classified operations.

The presence of SPARs was particularly important in keeping domestic stations operational. Many were stationed at Coast Guard headquarters in Washington, D.C., and at district offices and training centers across the United States. While they did not serve in combat, their work was crucial to maintaining the efficiency and security of Coast Guard activities.

Spotlight on Dorothy Kurtz

One notable member of SPARs was Dorothy E. Kurtz. Born in the Bronx, New York, in 1922, Kurtz enlisted in the Coast Guard Women’s Reserve in 1943 at age 21. She served until 1946, taking on various roles that were essential to the Coast Guard’s mission during the war. Her dedication exemplified the commitment and patriotism of women who joined SPARs.

After her active service, Kurtz remained deeply connected to the Coast Guard community. She was an active member of the Coast Guard Auxiliary, contributing her time and expertise to support ongoing missions. Her involvement extended to the Dolphins Women’s Veterans Organization, where she served as chaplain and historian, preserving the legacy of women veterans.

Kurtz’s commitment to service was evident in her volunteer work beyond the Coast Guard. She dedicated 25 years to the Senior Friendship Center and volunteered with the Red Cross during times of tragedy in Florida. Her life of service left a lasting impact on her community and the Coast Guard family.

Dorothy Kurtz passed away on September 12, 2016, at the age of 93. Her funeral was attended by Coast Guard Auxiliary and active-duty members, who gathered to honor her contributions and legacy. Captain Holly Najarian, commanding officer of Coast Guard Sector St. Petersburg, remarked, “Ms. Kurtz was a trailblazer in not only her words but in her actions. Her dedication to the Coast Guard was evident in her tenacity to spread the word to scores of young up-and-coming service members.”

To see an oral history film, visit https://library.ecu.edu/specialcollections/2025/03/20/spars-the-women-who-served-in-the-u-s-coast-guard-during-world-war-ii/

Overcoming Challenges and Breaking Barriers

Despite their contributions, SPARs faced challenges stemming from societal expectations. Many in the military were skeptical of women’s capabilities in traditionally male-dominated roles. Nevertheless, SPARs proved their value through their dedication and competence. By the end of the war, they had firmly established themselves as an essential component of the Coast Guard.

One of the most significant barriers broken by SPARs was their presence at the Coast Guard Academy. Though women were only admitted as reservists at the time, their success set the stage for the permanent admission of female cadets decades later.

The Legacy of SPARs

By the time SPARs was officially disbanded in July 1947, over 11,000 women had served in the organization. SPARs veterans, like Dorothy Kurtz, continued to contribute to their communities and the Coast Guard Auxiliary, leveraging their wartime experience in new and impactful ways.

SPARs’ legacy continued long after World War II. In 1973, women were officially integrated into the active-duty Coast Guard, building on the precedent set by SPARs. Today, women serve in all capacities in the Coast Guard, including command and combat roles, a testament to the pioneering contributions of SPARs.

Conclusion

SPARs were more than just a wartime necessity; they paved the way for greater opportunities for women in the U.S. military. Their service during World War II proved that women were fully capable of handling critical military responsibilities, helping to pave the way for future generations of female service members. As we reflect on their contributions, we recognize SPARs as an integral part of American military history, embodying the Coast Guard’s motto—”Semper Paratus, Always Ready.”

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th and 11th and 12th and 13th and 14th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

During World War II, the United States military recognized the need for additional personnel to support the war effort. With thousands of men deployed overseas, the armed forces turned to women to fill essential roles. One of the most significant contributions of women to the war effort came through establishing the Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service, commonly referred to as WAVES, program in the U.S. Navy. This initiative not only provided crucial support during the war but also paved the way for the expanded role of women in the military in the decades that followed.

Origins and Formation of WAVES

Before the United States entered World War II, women had limited opportunities to serve in the military outside of nursing roles. However, as the war intensified and manpower shortages became evident, the government began to explore ways to integrate women into the armed forces. The success of the Women’s Army Auxiliary Corps (WAAC) in early 1942 demonstrated that women could play a vital role in military operations.

The WAVES program was formally established on July 30, 1942, with the signing of the Navy Women’s Reserve Act by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. This act allowed women to serve in the U.S. Navy in non-combat roles. Under the leadership of Mildred H. McAfee, the first director of WAVES and the first woman commissioned as a naval officer, the program quickly took shape and began recruiting women across the country.

Recruitment and Training

The WAVES program sought educated and skilled women to fill a wide range of roles. Initially, eligibility requirements stipulated that women had to be between the ages of 20 and 49, hold U.S. citizenship and possess at least two years of college education for officer candidates. Enlisted women must have a high school diploma or equivalent.

Training for WAVES officers took place at Smith College in Massachusetts, where women underwent rigorous instruction in naval procedures, leadership, and specialized technical skills. Enlisted women trained at various naval stations across the country, including the Bronx campus of Hunter College in New York. The training regimen was designed to prepare women for service in administrative, medical, aviation, communications, intelligence, and logistical support roles.

Activities of the Waves, Spars and the MCWR at the Naval Reserve Midshipmen’s School Northampton, Mass, 1943-1944. Item from Ellen Zukunft McGrew Papers (#723), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Roles and Contributions

WAVES personnel took on a wide range of responsibilities within the Navy, proving their capabilities across many professional fields. Some of the most common roles included:

• Clerical and Administrative Work: Many WAVES served as yeomen, handling paperwork, managing personnel records, and ensuring efficient office operations.
• Communications and Intelligence: Women played key roles as cryptographers, radio operators, and translators, helping to decode enemy messages and maintain secure naval communications.
• Medical and Scientific Roles: WAVES nurses, pharmacists, and lab technicians provided essential healthcare services to wounded sailors and conducted medical research.
• Aviation Support: Women worked as aerographers, air traffic controllers, and aircraft mechanics, supporting naval aviation efforts.
• Educational and Training Roles: Some WAVES served as instructors, training naval personnel in various skills, including navigation, gunnery, and engineering.

Despite their valuable contributions, WAVES members were restricted to non-combat roles and were not permitted to serve aboard combat ships or aircraft. However, their work freed up thousands of men for frontline duty, significantly bolstering the Navy’s operational capacity.

WAVES Records in the East Carolina Manuscript Collection

The East Carolina Manuscript Collection has a number of collections pertaining to remarkable women who served in WAVES. One such collection is the Ellen Zukunft McGrew Papers (ECMC #0723). Born in 1919 in Portland, Maine, Ellen Zukunft McGrew completed three years of college and worked as an x-ray technician before joining WAVES in 1942. She underwent naval training in Cedar Falls, Iowa, and Bethesda Naval Hospital in Maryland from 1942 to 1943.

In 1943, McGrew was commissioned as an ensign and was assigned to the 6th United States Naval Reserve District Headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina. She later served at the Naval Training Center in Sampson, New York. McGrew resigned her commission in 1946 but remained in the Naval Reserves until 1957, continuing to contribute to military readiness and medical services. Her dedication and service exemplify the essential roles WAVES members played in supporting the war effort and the post-war Navy.

Another notable collection related to the WAVES organization is the Martha Evelyn Donaldson Papers (ECMC #0517). Martha Evelyn Donaldson was born in 1900 in Lima, Ohio, and raised in Jackson, Michigan. The daughter of a U.S. Army veteran, Donaldson pursued higher education at Oberlin College and later at Columbia University, earning multiple degrees. Before joining the Navy, Donaldson worked as a children’s and reference librarian, taught English and history, and served as a Red Cross Volunteer Motor Corps driver.

Portrait of Ellen Zukunft McGrew as a United States Naval Reserve (USNR) Women Accepted for Volunteer Emergency Service (WAVES) officer, 1942-1946. Image from the Ellen Zukunft McGrew Papers (#723), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Determined to contribute to the war effort, Donaldson enlisted in WAVES on August 22, 1942, just before her 42nd birthday. She received a commission as a Lieutenant Junior Grade and trained at Smith College with the first group of twenty-seven WAVES. She began her service at the Naval Training School at Indiana University before transferring to Glynco, Georgia, where she served as Assistant Supply Officer and Assistant Ships Service Officer and established a 3,000-volume library.

From July 1943 to June 1945, Donaldson was stationed at the Headquarters of the Third Naval District in New York, serving as an assistant to the Commander for Operations and later in the Office of the Port Director. After the war, she was honorably released from active duty in January 1946 but continued her service in the Naval Reserves. Over the years, she worked to establish training programs for Inactive Volunteer Reservists, commanded a Volunteer Composite Unit, and participated in various Mobilization Drill Teams. Donaldson rose through the ranks, earning promotions to Lieutenant Commander in 1948 and Commander in 1955.

Challenges and Overcoming Barriers

Although WAVES was a groundbreaking program, it was not without challenges. Women in the Navy faced skepticism and resistance from some male colleagues who doubted their abilities, forcing women to work twice as hard to prove themselves in their roles.

Additionally, restrictive policies limited the opportunities available to women of color. Initially, WAVES was an all-white organization due to segregationist policies. It was not until 1944, following pressure from civil rights organizations and advocates, that the Navy began accepting African American women into the program. Despite these obstacles, those who joined WAVES performed their duties with distinction.

Impact and Legacy

By the end of World War II, more than 86,000 women had served in WAVES, making an indelible impact on the U.S. Navy and the broader war effort. Their service proved that women were fully capable of performing military duties outside of traditional nursing roles, challenging long-standing norms.

The success of WAVES contributed to the eventual integration of women into the regular armed forces. In 1948, the Women’s Armed Services Integration Act allowed women to serve as permanent, regular members of the military, rather than only in emergency wartime capacities. This legislation was a direct result of the contributions made by WAVES and other women’s service organizations during World War II.

Conclusion

The WAVES program was a revolutionary step in the history of women’s military service. Through their dedication, professionalism, and hard work, the women of WAVES not only helped the U.S. Navy achieve victory in World War II but also laid the foundation for future generations of women in the military. Their legacy continues to inspire women serving in the armed forces today.

Sources:

• Ellen Zukunft McGrew Papers (#723), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• Martha E. Donaldson Papers (#517), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• Johnetta Webb Spilman Oral History Interview (#OH0012), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• National Archives. “WAVES: It’s a Woman’s War, Too!” Prologue: Pieces of History (Blog), March 6, 2024. https://prologue.blogs.archives.gov/2024/03/06/waves-its-a-womans-war-too/.
• Smith, Mildred H. Correspondence and Reports on WAVES Recruitment and Training, 1942-1945. National Archives, Washington, D.C.
• United States Navy. Women in the Navy: WAVES During World War II. National Archives and Records Administration. Accessed January 2025 https://www.archives.gov/research/military/navy/waves-wwii.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th and 11th and 12th and 13th posts. The following post was contributed by Madison Howlett and Patrick Cash.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served.

During World War II, the U.S. Navy B-1 Band made history as the first African Americans to serve in the modern Navy at ranks higher than a messman. Comprising primarily students and graduates from North Carolina A&T College, this ensemble not only showcased exceptional musical talent but also played a pivotal role in challenging racial segregation within the U.S. military.

Formation and Early Challenges 

Profile of the members of the B-1 U.S. Navy Band of World War II, 1942-2001. Item from the Calvin F. Morrow Collection (#908), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

In 1942, the Navy sought to expand roles for African Americans beyond custodial positions. Recognizing an opportunity, a group of talented musicians from North Carolina A&T College, along with nine students from Dudley High School, enlisted to form what would become the B-1 Band. James B. Parsons, the band director at Dudley High School, was appointed as the band’s leader after A&T’s director, Bernard Mason, was unable to pass the required physical examination.

Despite their qualifications, the band members faced systemic racism, including exclusion from the Navy’s School of Music, which did not admit Black students at the time. Instead, they relied on their training and cohesion to prepare for service. After enlisting, they were sent to Norfolk, Virginia, for basic training. Instead of focusing on music, their early days consisted of physical conditioning, drills, and vaccinations. One band member recalled that they “did everything but get up and exercise in the morning” when it came to musical preparation. 

The band members also encountered racism at every turn. Despite being enlisted as musicians, they were not treated as equals to their white counterparts. They were often housed separately, subjected to menial tasks, and denied access to the Navy School of Music. Instead, they had to train among themselves, forging their path in an institution that had not yet recognized their full potential. 

Service in Chapel Hill: The Pre-Flight School Band 

From August 1942 to May 1944, the B-1 Band was stationed at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, where they served as the official band for the Navy’s Pre-Flight School. Their presence at a white university in the Jim Crow South was groundbreaking. While they were not allowed to live on campus, they were given a separate building and provided music for official events, including daily marches and ceremonies. 

Despite their recognized musical talent, the band members continued to encounter segregation and exclusion. A master’s thesis about the Pre-Flight School at UNC-Chapel Hill mentioned a “colored band from A&T” but incorrectly stated that no members could be located for interviews. This is despite many oral histories with members of the B-1 Navy Band available to researchers in the East Carolina Manuscript Collection. This is just one example of how the band members and their contributions have been erased from the official historical records, whether intentionally or by accident.

B-1 Navy Band group photograph from the United States Navy Pre-Flight School Band yearbook, 1944. Item from the Wray Raphael Herring Collection (#810), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Deployment to Pearl Harbor 

In May 1944, the band was transferred to Manana Barracks at Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, the largest posting of African American service members during the war. There, they continued their musical duties, performing for troops and participating in parades. Despite being far from home, the band maintained high morale and professionalism, contributing to the war effort through their performances. Notably, after the original members began mustering out in October 1945, their replacements included saxophonist John Coltrane, who would later become a jazz legend. 

Upon arriving in Hawaii, they quickly realized they were once again in an environment where the Navy did not know how to utilize them. They were placed in deplorable living conditions, housed between two segregated units, and denied their instruments for an extended period. Some were even assigned non-musical duties, such as painting and cutting bamboo for a theater. One member recalled that the band was “out of place” and that the Navy “didn’t know what to do with us.” 

Even in these trying circumstances, the band members found ways to maintain their musical excellence. They performed for hospital ships, officers’ dances, and military ceremonies, proving their worth despite the systemic racism they faced. The band was divided into three musical groups: a full concert band, a dance orchestra, and a show band that performed skits and comedic performances. 

One of the key figures in organizing entertainment was Otto Harris, a talented musician and natural comedian who played multiple instruments. He not only contributed musically but also gave many band members their nicknames, fostering camaraderie within the group. 

The Fight for Recognition 

One of the most striking aspects of the B-1 Navy Band’s history is the lack of recognition they received both during and after their service. Despite being the first all-Black Navy band, their contributions were largely omitted from official records. 

During their time in Norfolk, Navy officials even staged a disturbing event where Black mess attendants were given instruments and instructed to pose as the B-1 Band for photographs—an act that further marginalized the actual musicians and obscured their contributions. Decades later, the band members and historians had to painstakingly gather documentation and personal accounts to prove their existence and service. As stated in the U. S. Navy B-1 Band Group Oral History Interview from the East Carolina Manuscript Collection, “The Navy had no evidence we were there. We were there, but nobody knew we were.” 

[If audio player does not work, you can listen to the interview HERE]

Despite these challenges, the legacy of the B-1 Navy Band endures. Their service paved the way for future generations of Black musicians in the military. They were pioneers in a segregated institution, and their persistence helped break down racial barriers within the armed forces. 

Post-War Legacy and Impact

After World War II, many members of the B-1 Band returned to North Carolina and pursued higher education at North Carolina A&T College. A considerable number became educators, influencing future generations through their dedication to music and teaching. Some members formed the “Rhythm Vets,” a regional band that gained popularity in Greensboro and performed the soundtrack for the 1947 black-cast musical comedy featurette Pitch a Boogie Woogie. This film, shot in Greenville, North Carolina, has been preserved and is included in the 1988 documentary Boogie in Black and White. 

The contributions of the B-1 Band were formally recognized on May 27, 2017, with the installation of a historic marker in Chapel Hill. This date marked the 75th anniversary of their enlistment and honored their role in integrating the U.S. Navy and their impact on civil rights. 

The story of the B-1 Navy Band exemplifies courage, resilience, and the pursuit of equality. Their legacy continues to inspire and serve as a testament to the profound impact that dedicated individuals can have in challenging and transforming institutionalized discrimination. 

Their contributions remind us of the importance of preserving and telling the stories of those who paved the way for progress. Thanks to the efforts of historians and the band members themselves, their legacy is now being properly acknowledged, ensuring that their place in history is never forgotten. 

The B-1 Navy Band may have been overlooked for decades, but their story is now rightfully being recognized as a crucial chapter in the history of the U.S. Navy and the fight for racial equality. 

Visit the Ship’s Log, as well as Joyner Library’s social media channels, to learn more about materials related to World War II that are a part of the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection’s holdings. Joyner Library Special Collections will be displaying an exhibit of items and individual stories related to World War II during the summer and fall of 2025.

Sources:

• Abe Thurman Oral History Interview (#OH0216), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• Calvin F. Morrow Collection (#908), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• John Gilmer Oral History Interview (#OH0214), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• R.A. Fountain. “U.S. Navy B-1 Band – R.A. Fountain,” July 28, 2022. https://rafountain.com/navy/overview/.
• Roy Lake Oral History Interview (#OH0231), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• Simeon O. Holloway Oral History Interview (#OH0215), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• U. S. Navy B-1 Band Reunion Collection (#0971) East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• U. S. Navy B-1 Band Group Oral History Interview (#OH0213), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• Wray Raphael Herring Collection (#810), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th and 11th and 12th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

During World War II, communication between soldiers and their families was a vital morale booster, yet logistical challenges made traditional mail delivery difficult. To address this issue, the U.S. military introduced Victory Mail, or V-Mail as it is often referred to, a secure, efficient, and space-saving method of correspondence that revolutionized wartime communication.

The Need for a New Mail System

Before the adoption of Victory Mail, sending and receiving letters between the battlefield and the home front was a slow and cumbersome process. Traditional letters required significant cargo space, and with millions of soldiers stationed overseas, the volume of mail became overwhelming. The military faced a dilemma: how to ensure troops could stay connected with their loved ones without overburdening supply chains already stretched by the war effort.

Additionally, security was a concern. Mail could be lost, stolen, or intercepted by enemy forces. The need for a faster, more reliable, and more secure method of correspondence led to the implementation of Victory Mail in 1942.

V-mail letter dated April 28, 1944, from Walter Paas to his mother, M. A. Paas in Bronx, New York, N.Y. Item from Walter Paas Papers (#705), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

How Victory Mail Worked

Victory Mail was based on microfilm technology, a process that drastically reduced the physical volume of mail. Here is how it worked:

1. Writing the Letter—The sender would write a letter on a specially designed Victory Mail form, an 8.5 x 11-inch sheet that included space for the address, message, and return address. Due to space constraints, the letters were limited to about 700 words.
2. Microfilming – Once written, the letters were sent to a processing center where they were photographed onto 16mm microfilm. A single roll of film could contain over 1,500 letters, significantly reducing the weight and volume compared to traditional mail.
3. Shipment & Reproduction—The microfilm rolls were then transported to the recipient’s location, whether an overseas military post or a domestic processing center. Upon arrival, the letters were enlarged and printed onto small, 4.25 x 5-inch sheets of paper and then delivered to the recipient.

This system saved valuable cargo space, allowing military planes and ships to prioritize transporting troops, weapons, and medical supplies instead of bags of letters.

The Advantages of Victory Mail

Victory Mail offered several advantages over traditional mail:

• Efficiency & Speed – The reduction in physical bulk allowed letters to travel faster. A full sack of regular mail weighing over 50 pounds could be replaced with just a few pounds of microfilm.
• Security – Each letter was censored before filming to prevent sensitive military information from being disclosed. This reduced the risk of espionage or intercepted intelligence.
• Reliability – Victory Mail minimized the chances of letters being lost in transit, ensuring that messages reached their intended recipients.

Although Victory Mail was widely used, it did have some limitations. The strict formatting requirements and word limits frustrated some letter-writers, and the lack of handwritten personal touches made the messages feel impersonal.

Impact on Morale

Despite its limitations, Victory Mail played an essential role in maintaining morale among both soldiers and civilians. Letters from home provided comfort and motivation, reminding troops of what they were fighting for. Similarly, families on the home front found solace in receiving updates from their loved ones, even if the messages were brief.

The U.S. military and the postal service worked hard to promote the use of Victory Mail, and it became a widely accepted part of wartime life. More than a billion Victory Mail letters were sent between 1942 and 1945, demonstrating their effectiveness in keeping communication lines open during a time of global conflict.

A V-mail Easter greeting dated April 7, 1943, from Staff Sgt. Jack W. Mitchell to his wife in Bedford, Va. Item from Saunders Family Collection (#964), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Victory Mail Present in the East Carolina Manuscript Collection

The East Carolina Manuscript Collection has several examples of Victory Mail found throughout several World War II related collections. These pieces of wartime correspondence include a Happy Easter card dated April 7, 1943, sent by Staff Sgt. Jack W. Mitchell to his wife in Bedford, Virginia. Staff Sgt. Mitchell was stationed in England at the time he sent this Victory Mail card. Additional examples of Victory Mail can be found in collection #189: Fairfax Kirkwood Dillon Papers and collection #705: Walter Paas Papers. Patrons interested in reading examples of this wartime correspondence between servicemembers and their loved ones can schedule an appointment to see the physical item by visiting our website at https://library.ecu.edu/specialcollections/ or view digital scans in our Digital Collections repository.

Legacy of Victory Mail

Although Victory Mail was phased out after World War II, it paved the way for advancements in secure and efficient military correspondence. The use of microfilm technology in mailing documents inspired later innovations in document storage and digital communication.

Today, historians and cultural heritage repositories treasure surviving Victory Mail letters as poignant artifacts of wartime history. These documents offer valuable insights into the thoughts and emotions of soldiers and civilians alike, preserving a personal side of World War II that might otherwise have been lost. Victory Mail remains a fascinating example of how technological ingenuity and logistical innovation can solve real-world challenges, even in the most difficult circumstances.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th and 11th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

The Battle of Iwo Jima, one of the most pivotal engagements of World War II, epitomized the bravery, endurance, and sacrifice of the United States military. Fought between February 19 and March 26, 1945, this bloody battle between American forces and the Imperial Japanese Army unfolded on the small, volcanic island of Iwo Jima in the Pacific Ocean. The iconic image of the American flag being raised on Mount Suribachi became a symbol of hope and determination, encapsulating the larger struggle of the war.

Photograph of Flag Raising on Iwo Jima, February 23, 1945. Image Courtesy of the National Archives Identifier: 520748/Local Identifier: 80-G-413988.

The Strategic Importance of Iwo Jima

Located approximately 750 miles south of Tokyo, Iwo Jima was strategically significant for both the United States and Japan. For the Japanese, the island served as a vital early warning station, detecting American bombers en route to the Japanese mainland. For the United States, capturing Iwo Jima meant securing a critical base for fighter escorts and an emergency landing site for damaged bombers returning from missions over Japan. 

Despite its small size—just eight square miles—Iwo Jima was heavily fortified by the Japanese under the command of General Tadamichi Kuribayashi. The island was riddled with a network of bunkers, tunnels, and hidden artillery designed to inflict maximum casualties on any invading force. 

The Battle Begins

The American assault on Iwo Jima commenced with a massive naval and aerial bombardment, intended to weaken the island’s defenses. On February 19, U.S. Marines from the 3rd, 4th, and 5th Divisions landed on the island’s black volcanic sands. The terrain posed immediate challenges, as the soft ash made movement difficult and offered little cover from Japanese gunfire. 

The Japanese defense strategy was unconventional; rather than meet the Marines at the beaches, they waited until the Americans advanced inland, where they could ambush them from fortified positions. The result was a grueling, attritional battle. Marines faced fierce resistance, including machine-gun fire, sniper attacks, and kamikaze tactics. Casualties were immense on both sides, with over 6,800 American servicemen killed and nearly 20,000 wounded. Japanese losses were even more staggering, with almost the entire garrison of 21,000 soldiers killed.

The Flag Raising on Mount Suribachi

One of the early objectives of the American assault was capturing Mount Suribachi, a 554-foot dormant volcano at the southern tip of the island. After four days of relentless fighting, U.S. Marines reached the summit on February 23, 1945. There, they raised a small American flag, signaling their hard-won victory. 

A few hours later, a second, larger flag was raised to make the symbol visible across the island. Associated Press photographer Joe Rosenthal captured this moment in a single iconic image. The photograph, showing six Marines struggling to plant the flag amidst the chaos of battle, became an instant sensation. It won the Pulitzer Prize for Photography in the same year and inspired the Marine Corps War Memorial in Arlington, Virginia.

The significance of U.S. Marines raising the flag atop Mount Suribachi and the impact it had on the morale of Allied servicemen is perhaps best described in the Richard E. Foster Oral History Interview (#OH0142). In his remarks, Foster recalls being topside aboard the USS Vicksburg with his binoculars pinned on Mount Suribachi at the time that the flag was raised. Foster continues to explain how he later wrote his wife back home and described the whole event as “the most inspiring thing I’d ever seen,” a feeling shared with many who witnessed the event firsthand or saw the published photograph later.

The USS Saratoga’s Role

The USS Saratoga (CV-3), a battle-hardened aircraft carrier, played a crucial role in supporting the invasion of Iwo Jima. As part of the U.S. Navy’s Fast Carrier Task Force, the USS Saratoga provided air support for the Marines, launching bombing runs and strafing missions against Japanese positions. Its aircraft targeted fortifications, artillery emplacements, and supply lines, helping to reduce Japanese resistance.

However, the USS Saratoga also endured significant hardships during the campaign. On February 21, 1945, while stationed near Iwo Jima, the USS Saratoga was attacked by Japanese kamikaze aircraft. Despite its formidable anti-aircraft defenses, the carrier was struck multiple times, causing extensive damage and killing over 100 crew members. Remarkably, the crew managed to contain the fires and keep the ship afloat, allowing it to return to the United States for repairs. Damage to the USS Saratoga resulting from Japanese kamikazes can be seen in the Milton P. Fields Papers (#0754).

Images from the first Kamikaze hit on the USS Saratoga during Battle of Iwo Jima, February 1945.. Images from the Milton P. Fields Papers (#754), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

The USS Saratoga’s resilience exemplified the determination of the U.S. Navy during the Pacific War, and its contribution to the Battle of Iwo Jima was instrumental in securing the island.

The Legacy of the Battle 

The capture of Iwo Jima was a critical milestone in the Pacific Theater, but it came at a tremendous cost. The tenacity and courage displayed by American forces highlighted the human toll of war and underscored the challenges that lay ahead in the eventual invasion of Japan. Iwo Jima also provided a stark warning about the ferocity of Japanese resistance, influencing the decision to use atomic bombs later that year. 

The flag-raising photo remains one of the most enduring images of World War II, symbolizing not only the sacrifices made by American servicemen but also the broader ideals of unity and perseverance. The six men in the photo—three of whom later died in the battle—became national heroes. Their story has been immortalized in books, films, and memorials, ensuring that the sacrifices of those who fought at Iwo Jima are never forgotten. 

In the end, the Battle of Iwo Jima and the flag-raising on Mount Suribachi serve as poignant reminders of the cost of war and the resilience of those who fight to preserve freedom.

The following candidates will be on SNCA members' ballots this spring for open Executive Board positions. Per the Society bylaws, this information will be posted for 30 days, until April 26. SNCA members will get an email ballot on April 26, and elections will be open from the evening of April 26 until the evening of May 10.

President candidate (1 year position): Patrick Cash

Serving as a member of the Society of North Carolina Archivists during my career as an archivist in both western and eastern North Carolina has been a great pleasure. During my time in SNCA, I have served on the Education Committee, assisted in planning the past three annual conferences as a member of the Programming Committee, served as the Membership Chair, and for the past year, have had the honor of acting as Vice President/Programming Committee Chair. I look forward to welcoming all of my peers to Greenville, North Carolina for the 41st annual conference this May.

As President, my goal is to continue the Executive Board's work on identifying ways in which the organization can support our state’s archivists and other cultural heritage workers through professional development, continuing education, mentorship, and community building amongst peers. Furthermore, I hope to collaborate with my fellow executive board members to develop ways in which we can strengthen the relationships between SNCA and library science/public history programs across our state. By doing so, we hope to better support students and aid in preparing them to enter the professional field. I look forward to working with each member of SNCA as we continue the outstanding work of past Presidents. I anticipate seeing you all in Greenville, either in person or virtually, on May 21.

Vice President/Program Chair candidate (1 year position): Alston Cobourn

I first became involved with SNCA as an MLIS student in 2008. Since then, I've served as Membership Committee chair (2009-2012), Nominating Committee member (2020, 2023-2025), Archives Month Committee member (2020-2021), and Conference Programming Committee member (2024). SNCA has helped me forge valuable relationships with other archivists across the state and grow in my career. I am running for Vice President because I want to serve this organization that has given me so much in a new way. I believe my previous service work in SNCA and professional connections will be an asset in this role. Additionally, I've helped plan annual conferences for the North Carolina Preservation Consortium and Mid-Atlantic Regional Archives Conference and often plan events at work. In the role of VP, I will draw upon my planning experiences and utilize both the skills and lessons they’ve taught me.

Secretary candidate (2 year position): Samantha Crisp

I have served as secretary of SNCA since spring 2023 and am happy to continue in this position if the membership will have me. I've been a SNCA member since 2012, and served on the SNCA board previously as a grad student in 2013-2014 as electronic resources chair. In my first term as secretary, I have worked hard with my fellow board members to improve and standardize documentation, clean up files, and maintain an accurate record of SNCA's business meetings. I hope to be able to continue this work in my next term.

Archives Month Chair candidate (1 year position): Jennifer Daugherty

My name is Jennifer Daugherty and I'm the Head of the North Carolina Collection at East Carolina University. Outreach and engagement are essential in advocating for archives and the archival profession, and I am eager to contribute to these efforts by running for Archives Month Chair. I hold a Master's in Library Science with a Certificate in Archives and Records Management from Indiana University Bloomington. I've been a member of SNCA for over 15 years and have served on various committees during that time. I also serve as an officer for the NC Preservation Consortium, a director for the Special Collections Section of the North Carolina Library Association, and the Eastern Membership Director for NCLA.

Development Chair candidate (2 year position): Amy Archambault

I am seeking to get more involved with this community after joining as a member this past year. I am new to the archival career field after a 20 year career in online education in higher ed. Becoming development chair would be a great experience and allow me to get to know more about the members, vendors, awards and conference, as well as seek ways to connect others with this amazing community. I started a new, full-time position at Western Carolina University in February and am excited about meeting other new and experienced archivists and historians around the State.

In terms of experience, I am currently a member-at-large with the Society of American Archivists Student and New Professional (SNAP) group. On that committee, I'm serving a one-year term, helping the committee organize and archive their Google drive content. In the past, I've served  on the By-Laws committee for the Association of Educational Technology and Computing (AECT), served as Engagement Steering Co-Chair for Online Learning Consortium, and was secretary for the NC Community College Association of Distance Learning.

Education Committee Chair candidate (2 year position): Kristen Daniel

My name is Kristen Daniel and I am the Special Collections Instruction and Outreach Librarian at East Carolina University's Joyner Library. I have been a member of SNCA for roughly 1.5 years, and I am very interested in becoming the next Education Committee Chair. I have a Bachelors Degree in Music Education and worked as a public educator for two years from 2017-2019. As part of my current position, I teach a variety of instructional sessions and work with ECU's students, faculty, and staff daily. I believe my background in education and current job responsibilities provide me with knowledge and experience that will allow me to be an effective Education Chair. Additionally, I have experience with committee work, programming, and outreach related to educational opportunities. If I were to be awarded the role of Education Chair, I would use my prior experiences to promote the education-related activities of SNCA and serve the organization to the best of my ability. If you have any questions, please don't hesitate to let me know. Thank you for your consideration! 

Electronic Resources Chair candidate (2 year position): John Dunning

My name is John Dunning, and I am the Digital Archivist for Special Collections at East Carolina University’s Joyner Library. I have been in this position since 2023 and worked as a Special Collections Cataloger prior to this role. I am interested in the position of Electronic Resources Chair as I want to contribute to the work SNCA does, and have an opportunity to network with my peers across the state. I have been a SNCA member since 2024 and have been involved with the association helping to plan the 2025 Annual Meeting. My other committee work in the field of archives includes serving as the liaison to Social Networks in Archival Context (SNAC) for Joyner Library, as a member of SNAC’s Enslaved Description Group, Editorial Policy and Standards Working Group, and an Independent Reviewer for the SNAC School Working Group.

Membership Chair candidate (2 year position): Randall Bowman

It has been an honor and a pleasure to serve as a member of the Executive Board of SNCA.  I have been a member of SNCA since 2013, and prior to serving as Membership Chair I served on the Editorial Board for J-SNCA, 2019-2022; Local Arrangements Committee, 2019-2020 (that year’s meeting was to be held at Elon University, but was cancelled due to the pandemic and later held virtually); Program Committee, 2018-2019; and the Nominating Committee, 2017-2018. As Membership Chair, I will work to grow SNCA’s membership; SNCA is strong, but I would like to see more North Carolina archivists become members of this great organization.  I will work with members of the Executive Board to support our state’s archivists and other cultural heritage workers through professional development programs, as well as opportunities for members to get together to network and socialize.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th and 10th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

On January 27, 1945, the Soviet Army liberated Auschwitz-Birkenau, the largest Nazi concentration and extermination camp near Oświęcim, Poland. They found approximately 7,000 surviving prisoners, most of whom were gravely ill or starving, and uncovered evidence of the atrocities committed, including gas chambers and mass graves. This pivotal moment exposed the horrors of the Holocaust to the world and became a symbol of the need to remember and combat genocide and human rights violations.

For the past 80 years, the testimonies from survivors of Auschwitz have painted a story of not only Nazi Germany’s darkest atrocities but also of the resilience of the human spirit amidst unthinkable horrors. One such testimony is that of Helen Kahan, whose story is preserved in the East Carolina Manuscript Collection. For Kahan, the liberation of Auschwitz marked not just freedom, but the culmination of an unimaginable journey of endurance, loss, and survival.

[If audio player does not work, you can listen to the interview HERE]

Mrs. Helen Kahan Oral History Interview (#OH0261), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Early Life Interrupted

Helen Kahan, born in 1923 as Hani Sabo was the eldest of seven children born into a middle-class Jewish family in Rozavlea, Romania. Her life seemed ordinary until 1936 when growing anti-Semitic policies began to restrict Jewish opportunities. Unable to continue her education following middle school, Helen worked as a seamstress in Budapest. Following the Nazi occupation of Hungary in 1944, Helen returned to the safety of her home and her family. However, this safety proved to be illusory when, in 1944, her entire family was deported, first to a ghetto in Romania and then to Auschwitz.

Arrival at Auschwitz

Helen arrived at Auschwitz on her 21st birthday in May 1944 after enduring five days in a cramped, stifling cattle car. Upon arrival, she recalled the chilling scene: the air thick with a terrible smell, and Nazi guards sorting prisoners into two lines—those who would live and those condemned to immediate death. Dr. Josef Mengele, notorious for his inhumane experiments, was among the figures determining their fate. Helen, along with two of her sisters, was selected for forced labor, while her parents and several other family members were sent directly to the gas chambers.

Helen’s father, before being separated, gave her words of strength: “Work honestly, and we will meet after the war in our old home.” This hope of reunion became Helen’s guiding light as she struggled to survive.

Life in the Camp

Daily life in Auschwitz was marked by starvation, brutal labor, and constant fear. Helen described grueling 12-hour shifts building highways and working in fields, followed by long marches to and from work. SS guards, accompanied by dogs, inflicted relentless cruelty—forcing prisoners to run, beating those who could not keep up, and even killing for their amusement.

Survival required ingenuity. When Helen’s health deteriorated due to an infected wound, she and other prisoners resorted to self-inflicted rashes by using needles and rubbing salt into their skin. This temporary ailment allowed them to rest briefly in the camp’s so-called hospital, though this too was fraught with danger, as camp guards would periodically select individuals staying in the camp hospital to be sent to the crematorium.

Amidst the overwhelming brutality, Helen recalled occasional moments of humanity during her story. She explained how German worker would leave food or newspapers containing news of the war’s progress. Another SS officer, seemingly regretful of his role, turned a blind eye to certain actions that might have cost prisoners their lives. However, these small mercies were rare exceptions in a world dominated by cruelty and death.

The Death March and Liberation

As the Soviet Army approached Auschwitz in late 1944, Helen and other prisoners were transferred to Bergen-Belsen and later to Lippstadt. Conditions remained dire, with little food and inadequate clothing, especially as winter set in. Eventually, the Nazis began evacuating prisoners, forcing them on a death march through freezing temperatures to prevent their liberation. Helen and her fellow prisoners walked for weeks in freezing temperatures, their feet wrapped in rags to stave off frostbite. During one rest stop, a German worker, moved by her suffering, offered Helen his rubber boots. Though hesitant to accept anything from her oppressors, Helen later recognized that this act of kindness may have saved her life.

Eventually, Helen and her sister managed to escape the death march by hiding in a hayloft. They remained concealed until the Soviet Army liberated the area in May 1945 in Oschatz, Germany.  The joy of liberation was quickly tempered by the challenges of rebuilding her life. Helen, sick and weak from years of malnutrition and abuse, spent a year in hospitals and nursing homes recovering before she returned to Rozavlea in search of surviving family members. Her search ended in vain however as she was devastated to learn that her father, who had given her hope at Auschwitz, had been beaten to death in a labor. Her mother, along with most of her siblings, had also been murdered. Her youngest sister, though liberated from Bergen-Belsen, succumbed to typhus shortly afterward. Only one of Helen’s sisters survived alongside her.

Helen eventually made her way to America in 1967, where she began anew. Her testimony serves not only as a remembrance of the atrocities of Auschwitz but also as a testament to resilience and the enduring hope for a better future.

Why We Must Remember

Helen’s story, like those of countless Holocaust survivors, is a stark reminder of the consequences of hatred and intolerance. The liberation of Auschwitz was not just the end of one chapter but the beginning of a global reckoning with the depths of human cruelty. By listening to survivors like Helen and commemorating days like January 27th, International Holocaust Remembrance Day, we honor the memory of the victims and renew our commitment to combating hate in all its forms.

Let Helen’s story remind us: that even in the darkest of times, humanity’s capacity for resilience and hope endures.

Visit the Ship’s Log and Joyner Library’s social media channels to learn more about materials related to World War II that are part of the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection’s holdings. Joyner Library Special Collections will be displaying an exhibit of items and individual stories related to World War II during the summer and fall of 2025.

Sources:

• “Day of Liberation.” https://www.auschwitz.org/en/history/liberation/day-of-liberation/.
• Mrs. Helen Kahan Oral History Interview (#OH0261), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.
• “Helen Kahan.” Holocaust Survivors and Victims Database, United States Holocaust Memorial Museum. https://www.ushmm.org/online/hsv/person_view.php?PersonId=3415589.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th and 9th posts. The following post was contributed by John Dunning. 

The Battle of the Bulge: An Eyewitness Account

80 years ago marks the end of one of World War II’s bloodiest and most decisive battles. Beginning December 16, 1944, the German military leaders launched what would be their last major offensive of the war attempting to break through Allied lines. The fighting that followed would be known as the Battle of the Bulge and the Allied victory would signal the inevitable fall of Nazi Germany.

Involving over 700,000 Allied troops stretched over 75 miles within the Argonne Forest the Germans sought to exploit the battle-weary and inexperienced American soldiers stationed there for rest and recovery. The Germans intended to break the Allied lines pushing into Belgium to re-open supply lines to Germany and to break Allied morale. The Germans threw everything they could at the mostly American troops in the Argonne, dropping paratroopers behind Allied lines, sending English-speaking German soldiers dressed in American military uniforms to spread chaos and misinformation, and massacring captured civilians and soldiers to decrease morale. While initially effective, the American soldiers fought back with bravery and ferocity despite the snow, cold, and every attempt the Germans threw at them.

The story of the battle through the eyes of Jim Morton, a member of the 506th Parachute Infantry, 101st Airborne Division helps to illustrate the conditions on the ground and the trials faced by American soldiers. Accessible via the Robert Frederick Sink Papers, Morton penned a letter to his commanding officer Colonel Robert Frederick Sink upon his recovery in Woodrow Wilson General Hospital, thanking Sink for his leadership and unwittingly saving his life. Morton details how a bottle of cognac gifted to him by Sink helped him stay alive after being wounded during the battle.

Correspondence between Jim Morton and Robert Frederick Sink, January 30, 1946. Item from the Robert Frederick Sink Papers (#255), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

In the correspondence, Morton describes the difficulty of receiving medical treatment on the battlefield once wounded and the obstacles faced by those who needed to be evacuated. Morton details how German Panzers wounded him in the fighting near Noville[sic], four miles north of Bastogne, Belgium. While being attended to by a medic named Gibson, Morton and Gibson were both hit by fragments from another Panzer attack. With four other wounded Americans, Morton was transported by jeep to an aid station before being loaded into an ambulance heading to the 39th Evacuation Hospital in Virton.

On the way, the ambulance was hit by shell fragments further injuring the wounded inside. Without morphine, Morton and his companions drank the cognac gifted to him by Sink to alleviate the intense physical pain. Upon arrival at Virton, Morton states that the surgeons were not thrilled with the soldiers’ state of inebriation; however, Morton credits the cognac with helping him deal with the pain, keeping his spirits up, and alleviating the shock of the event.

The Allies would win the battle, defeating the Germans on January 25, 1944. Afterward, British Prime Minister Sir Winston Churchill stated, “This is undoubtedly the greatest American battle of the war and will, I believe, be regarded as an ever-famous American victory.” In a few short months, the Germans would surrender bringing an end to the fighting in Europe.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th and 8th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

Celebrating the winter holidays during World War II was a complex and emotional experience for servicemen stationed away from home, often in difficult and even hostile environments. Despite the hardships of war, many soldiers and sailors made efforts to keep the holiday spirit alive, holding onto a sense of normalcy and tradition. Through small but significant gestures, they brought holiday cheer to the frontlines and naval bases, finding ways to connect with loved ones and with each other during one of the most challenging periods of their lives.

Finding Comfort in Shared Traditions

For many servicemen, the winter holidays provided an opportunity to unite around shared traditions that reminded them of home. Throughout the Pacific islands, North African deserts, and European forests, soldiers and others serving abroad created makeshift celebrations demonstrating creativity and camaraderie. Native trees, small shrubs, or even carefully arranged sticks were used in the absence of traditional Christmas trees. Decorations might include military gear, such as tinsel made from parachute cords, empty shells, or colored paper created from ration boxes. Soldiers would hang makeshift ornaments, write messages to loved ones, and even find ways to display them inside barracks or tents to bring a touch of holiday warmth. In other cases, chaplains, Red Cross workers, and local civilians contributed by setting up community celebrations, holding Christmas services, or offering festive meals, all of which helped lift spirits.

Christmas cards such as this one from the USS Yosemite were given to both servicemen and sent back home to families during the holidays. Image from, U.S. Navy Memorial Foundation Collection: Joseph A. Mileto Papers (#677.040), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

For Jewish soldiers serving in the Allied forces, observing Hanukkah offered its unique challenges. Amidst the devastation of war, celebrating Hanukkah became both a spiritual refuge and a powerful symbol of resilience. Jewish soldiers found ways to light the menorah, using makeshift items like shell casings, tin cans, and candles from home packages, to commemorate the miracle of the Maccabees. The act of lighting the menorah held profound significance, symbolizing the triumph of light over darkness and faith over adversity, mirroring their own experiences in the fight against the Axis powers. For many, these small acts of devotion offered a sense of connection to their faith, families, and the traditions that sustained them, reinforcing the importance of hope during a dark time in history.

Communication and Connection: Letters and Packages

Letters were among the most cherished aspects of a serviceman’s holiday. Mail delivery was often slower during wartime, and sometimes letters could be months old by the time they reached their destination, but receiving a message from home still brought immense joy. Loved ones would send stories from home, holiday cards, photos, and updates, which were read and reread by soldiers longing for connection. For many, these words from home were a lifeline, offering comfort and motivation amid the isolation and stress of war.

Soldiers would send holiday greetings to their families and friends back home. This piece of “Victory Mail,” sent by Staff Sgt. John James “Jack” Mitchell to his family, makes light of the strict military censorship rules. Image from, Saunders Family Collection (#964), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Holiday packages also played a critical role in boosting morale. Families would send small gifts, sweets, or homemade treats, anything that could survive the journey. Despite rationing, loved ones would carefully select and pack items like candies, small toiletries, or scarves, often adding handwritten notes and drawings. These care packages, although simple, were full of sentimental value and were usually shared among groups of soldiers, bringing joy and a sense of camaraderie.

Special Holiday Meals

For many servicemen, Christmas dinners served as a central holiday tradition, even amid scarcity. The Red Cross and United Service Organizations (USO) organized special meals, complete with turkey, mashed potatoes, and pie, on both the home front and the battlefront. In some cases, field kitchens prepared hot meals for soldiers in combat zones, though conditions meant they often lacked certain staples. Yet, just having a shared meal could rekindle the holiday spirit. Even soldiers stuck with canned rations would make the best of it, sharing treats from home when available.

Religious Celebrations and Entertainment

Military leaders recognized the importance of morale and organized special events for troops to mark the holiday season. The United Service Organizations (USO) played an essential role, sending entertainers, musicians, and performers to hold shows for troops. Stars like Bob Hope, Marlene Dietrich, and Bing Crosby toured overseas bases, entertaining the troops with comedy routines, songs, and holiday-themed acts. These performances offered much-needed escapism and a reminder of home, helping to keep spirits high and provide a temporary distraction from the harsh realities of war.

Religious services were another part of holiday life for many. Military chaplains organized Christmas and Hanukkah services on the frontlines, provided religious items, and encouraged soldiers to come together to celebrate, even under enemy fire. The best-known example of this occurred during the Battle of the Bulge where troops huddled together in the snow-covered forests of Belgium to attend makeshift holiday services amid one of the war’s most grueling battles. This moment of community and faith, often under lantern light and far from traditional sanctuaries, provided a measure of comfort and a reminder of resilience.

Celebrations on the Front Lines and in POW Camps

For soldiers stationed on the front lines, the holiday season could be especially bittersweet. There were fewer opportunities for traditional celebrations, but they would still try to make the most of the situation. Soldiers sang carols together, while others shared whatever rations or treats, they had managed to save. On rare occasions, unofficial ceasefires were called. In the Battle of the Bulge in December 1944, a famously harsh winter battle, some American and German troops observed a temporary ceasefire on Christmas Eve, exchanging gifts and even singing Christmas carols across enemy lines.

For prisoners of war (POWs), holiday celebrations were often limited, but they found ways to mark the season despite restrictions. Prisoners might make small decorations from
found objects, share stories, or organize small group prayers. In some camps, guards allowed POWs to receive packages from home or even hosted small holiday services, although these instances were often limited and depended on the camp’s conditions.

Correspondence from Pvt. Bernard W. Saunders, a Japanese prisoner of war in the Philippines, to his family, ensuring his safety and wishing them a “great Christmas” from the Philippine Military Prison Camp. Image from, Saunders Family Collection (#964), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

The Legacy of Wartime Holidays

The wartime holiday celebrations reflected the resilience and determination of those who were far from home during the winter months. Servicemen demonstrated that even amid conflict, the human spirit could find ways to endure. These wartime holiday memories became important parts of the collective stories that veterans carried with them after the war, shaping how they remembered and honored their time in service.

Upon returning home, many veterans carried forward these memories by cherishing the holidays even more deeply with their families. For some, the post-war holiday season became a time of gratitude and reflection, as they remembered their comrades who did not make it back. Others continued the traditions they had started overseas, blending them with family celebrations.

The holiday season during World War II thus remains a poignant reminder of the power of tradition, community, and resilience in the face of adversity. Soldiers found ways to celebrate, connect, and even find joy amid the darkness, creating memories and bonds that lasted a lifetime. Through these acts, they not only preserved the spirit of the holidays but also reinforced the values they were fighting to protect.

Over the next year, in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, Joyner Library Special Collections will be highlighting items from the East Carolina Manuscripts Collection that relate to the conflict and the individuals who served. See also the 1st and 2nd and 3rd and 4th and 5th and 6th and 7th posts. The following post was contributed by Patrick Cash. 

World War II brought profound changes to American life, especially on the home front. The war effort required vast amounts of resources—both physical and financial—which posed a significant challenge for a nation mobilizing to fight in distant theaters across Europe and the Pacific. To address these needs, the federal government introduced two key programs: rationing and war bonds. These initiatives not only sustained the military effort but also fostered a sense of shared responsibility among citizens.

Rationing: Managing Limited Resources

As the United States entered World War II after the attack on Pearl Harbor in 1941, it quickly became apparent that the country would need to control consumption on the home front to ensure adequate supplies for the military. Resources like food, rubber, gasoline, and metals were all critical to war production. To meet these needs, the Office of Price Administration (OPA) instituted rationing, a program designed to limit consumption and prevent shortages or inflation, in May 1942. The goal was to ensure fair distribution, reduce waste, and channel as many resources as possible toward the war effort.

Ration books such as this one allowed individuals to purchase limited quantities of certain items. Lester and Agnes Parker Collection (#1005), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

How Rationing Worked

Under rationing, specific goods, such as sugar, were limited or only available through ration stamps. Each household received a ration book filled with stamps that allowed them to buy limited quantities of certain items. Meats, dairy products, and canned goods were among the foods rationed, as these items were essential to feeding troops overseas. Gasoline, tires, and rubber were also tightly regulated by the government as these resources were crucial to military vehicles and machinery.

A color-coded system organized ration stamps by category: blue for processed foods, red for meats and fats, and green for vegetables. Shoppers presented the stamps to purchase their allotted share, forcing families to carefully plan meals around available items. Many Americans turned to “Victory Gardens” to supplement their rations, growing vegetables in backyard plots or community gardens to ease the strain on the food supply.

While rationing meant personal sacrifices, it also strengthened a sense of purpose. Families, friends, and neighbors adjusted to new norms and lifestyles, supporting each other with tips on making the most of rationed goods and exchanging recipes. The restrictions transformed everyday routines, but the knowledge that sacrifices would benefit soldiers and allied countries made these hardships feel meaningful.

Signs like these helped customers identify goods that could be purchased without using ration stamps. Images from, Jesse Rountree Moye Papers (#1111), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

The Impact on the Economy and Society

Rationing also helped curb inflation by keeping consumer prices stable. With limited quantities available, the government attempted to control supply and demand to avoid drastic price spikes. However, rationing presented challenges, leading to a black market for items like gasoline and meat. Despite these illicit activities, most Americans followed rationing guidelines, understanding that conservation at home was vital for success abroad.

Rationing influenced various social dynamics, promoting thriftiness and resourcefulness. Homemakers became creative, finding ways to stretch limited ingredients or substitute non-rationed items. This encouraged a culture of “making do,” with civilians viewing sacrifices as their contribution to the national effort. Rationing taught new life skills that many Americans carried forward, emphasizing resource conservation and collective responsibility.

War Bonds: Funding the Fight

While rationing conserved essential resources, financing the war effort required massive amounts of money. To raise funds, the government issued war bonds, which allowed citizens to lend money to the government with the promise of repayment plus interest after a set period. The sale of war bonds provided a way for Americans to invest in their country’s success and to support their loved ones fighting overseas. In total, over 84 million Americans purchased war bonds, providing $150 billion in financial support for the war.

War bonds were used to fund the war effort. The federal government used the money raised from selling war bonds to pay for military equipment, uniforms, food, and medicine. This letter from the Jules James Papers mentions that a war bond drive in Greensboro, NC funded the construction of a new naval ship. Jules James Papers (#223), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

War Bond Drives

The government conducted aggressive campaigns to encourage war bond purchases, often appealing to patriotism and duty. Famous slogans like “Buy a Bond – Beat a Nazi” and “They Give Their Lives—You Lend Your Money” emphasized the importance of personal contributions. War bond drives became momentous events, often led by celebrities and community leaders. Movie stars, athletes, and politicians took to the airwaves and visited cities, urging people to buy bonds to secure victory.

Schools, factories, and community organizations set up bond competitions to inspire more people to buy. Even children were involved, encouraged to purchase ten-cent stamps that they could redeem for bonds once they saved enough. These drives, promoted through posters, radio broadcasts, and public appearances, created a sense of unity and pride.

Economic and Social Impact

War bonds offered Americans a way to contribute financially while simultaneously investing in the country’s future. Purchasing bonds was not only patriotic but also a prudent financial decision. Bonds accrued interest, allowing citizens to save for postwar prosperity while knowing that their money was helping to buy supplies and equipment for the armed forces.

The psychological impact of war bonds was significant. By purchasing a bond, a person felt directly involved in the nation’s mission, symbolizing shared commitment and sacrifice. It gave everyday citizens a tangible role in the war effort, deepening their emotional connection to the cause. Additionally, bond drives brought communities together and reminded American citizens of their collective resilience and the importance of standing together during a national crisis. 

Rationing, War Bonds, and National Unity

Both rationing and war bonds had an overarching effect on American society: they fostered unity and instilled a powerful sense of shared purpose. As families rationed and individuals bought bonds, the lines between the home front and battlefront blurred. The notion of “Total War” meant that everyone contributed, whether they were on the front lines or the factory floor, in fields or at home.

The wartime experience unified Americans across diverse backgrounds, pushing them toward collective goals that transcended individual needs. Through everyday acts of rationing and small financial contributions, citizens recognized that victory relied on the actions of each person, forming an interdependent society.

Community drives, such as this scrap aluminum drive that took place in Farmville, NC, helped Americans back home feel pride in helping the war effort. Image from, Tabitha Marie DeVisconti Papers (#480), East Carolina Manuscript Collection, J. Y. Joyner Library, East Carolina University, Greenville, North Carolina, USA.

Legacy of the Home Front Effort

When the war ended in 1945, the impact of rationing and war bonds left a legacy on American culture. Citizens emerged from the war with a new appreciation for resource management, saving, and collective responsibility. “Victory Gardens” transformed into home gardens, war bond savings funded postwar purchases, and rationing’s lessons in thrift helped Americans adjust to the changes brought by peacetime.

Rationing and war bonds on the home front reflected the power of unified action during World War II. Together, these programs created a powerful model of national mobilization that underscored the importance of civilian involvement in times of crisis. They remind us today of the enduring power of shared sacrifice, even when the battles may not take place on traditional front lines. Through cooperation and commitment, Americans on the home front became as vital to victory as the soldiers who fought overseas, proving that the spirit of unity and resilience is one of the country’s greatest strengths.