Marlene Dietrich and other USO performers

Hi. I'm building a website devoted to WWII movies, Hollywood stars, and other films from other countries here: Victory Theater: Hollywood in World War II

Everyone has helpful suggestions, including one about a star I didn't know a lot about: Marlene Dietrich, who served with the USO. Does anyone have any other suggestions. I'll post clips.

Thanks in advance!

 

I had found this previously in the Alison Collection. I think I can locate a couple of others as well.

I haven't had a chance to peruse your website yet, but it looks like a great idea!



The Scarecrow from Oz (Ray Bolger) goes to war.

Mickey Rooney was also very active in the USO. Can't lay my hands on a picture I recently saw in a book of him visiting wounded soldiers in hospital.

Don't forget Bob Hope! On the Road: USO Shows: Bob Hope and American Variety (Library of Congress)

From National Archives Photo:

 

I guess I'm not sure how broad you want to go with your definition of stars and entertainers, but there were many musicians who also had roles, often uncredited, in movies of the period. Off hand: Glenn Miller, Tex Beneke, The Andrews Sisters . . . There really were a multitude of performers at home and abroad, all of whom contributed in some way to the war effort.

 

I just finished watching The Ghost Breakers (1940), packaged on DVD as part of the "Bob Hope: The Tribute Series". The bonus section has some wonderful vignettes and footage from Hope's time with the USO, including other performers, the role entertainment played for morale at home and abroad, etc. I rented it from Netflix.

Here's a rather famous clip from the movie:

YouTube - Funniest Movie Line Ever

 

You might want to explore the Hollywood Canteen:

Hollywood Canteen Project: Welcome

 

Good suggestions, all! Thanks for the info, and I appreciate the photos!
I'll keep you posted. I'm researching more on the USO now.

Regards,
AT