Warbird Information Exchange

I was wondering if anyone had any background information or pictures related to the filming of the 1957 movie “Battle Hymn” with Rock Hudson. There was lots of good P-51 footage in the movie, which I understand were Texas ANG aircraft.

I recall that either Wings or Airpower magazine did an article on the movie some years ago, and maybe Air Classics as well. If anyone has these magazines/articles and could scan them for me (or post them), I would really appreciate it.

Thanks.

Ron

All I can remember from the articles was there was a P-51 fuselage for years at Universal studios that was used in the filming.
Also, Rock Hudson used Hess' actual helmet (a Navy piece?) for filming.

The NMUSAF bookstore used to sell autographed copies of his book (Battle Hymn) and in it there is a shot of his Mustang.

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At least one movie aircraft is flying, "Man O War" was brought out of the studio lot by Ascher Ward in the 70's.
My only Mustang ride was in this aircraft in the early 80's.

Movie background--

Man dedicates life to serving God and becomes minister

Japanese attack Pearl Harbor. Man struggles with decision to fight or not to fight

Becomes combat pilot in P-47s in ETO

Helps start ROKAF in 1950. Flies over 200 combat missions in F-51s. Helps oprhans of war.

Before you watch movie (I still have not) go to AbeBooks and find an original copy of his book by the same name. It is fabulous.


Chappie

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Here it is, taken by Hughes technician Otto Sauseng in 1965 on the Universal Studios tour. It was being used in the filming of McHale's Navy Joins the Air Force.

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All right, Mister Dorfmann, start pullin'!
Pilot: "Flap switch works hard in down position."
Mechanic: "Flap switch checked OK. Pilot needs more P.T." - Flight report, TB-17G 42-102875 (Hobbs AAF)

44-73656 participated in the movie, on loan from the Texas ANG.

The Universal P-51/Man O'War was also in "Lady Takes A Flyer" with Jeff Chandler and Lana Turner (1958). "The Mustangs on the Silver Screen" write up was in FlyPast and EAA Warbirds (2005). I might be able to pdf you a copy of the story.

[i]Now THAT was a war film!
BTW: I've recently laerned the original pilot for McHale's Navy was produced as an hour-long drama. It seems McHale's crew were the only survivors of their squadron following a Japanese offensive and "go native" on their private island...and don't like the idea of getting back in the war when a new CO is brought in.
I've found a source for a DVD of it, I'm very tempted to order it.

_________________
Remember the vets, the wonderful planes they flew and their sacrifices for a future many of them did not live to see.
Note political free signature.
I figure if you wanted my opinion on items unrelated to this forum, you'd ask for it.

Man O War is as beautiful as ever and still flying. She is actively involved in our ride program. Several months ago I had the pleasure of over an hour of flying over Ventura County with three takeoffs and taxi backs thrown in. Feeling the power on takeoff is impressive!

Dan

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Thanks for the information, everyone.

Ron

My dad was one of the Texas ANG pilots who flew P51s in that movie. I would be happy to relay any questions you might have about the movie to him.