The Battle for Midway: The Discovery of the U.S.S. Yorktown

This superb National Geographic documentary tells the story of the epic WWII battle in the Pacific by deftly weaving historical footage (some by famed director John Ford) with the present day search for the U.S. carrier Yorktown and the Japanese carrier Kaga by Dr. Robert Ballard, the discoverer of the Titanic and Bismarck. The video features the usual stunning National Geographic footage and music, but what raises it above the level of other specials is the human side of the story. On his journey, Ballard takes along four survivors of the battle--two Japanese and two American sailors and airmen. Their grief and desire to honor their fallen comrades is heartbreaking to witness. For younger viewers, this video will both explain the battle and its consequences and illustrate the human cost in vivid terms, something that history lessons don't often accomplish. For older viewers, it will renew their acquaintance with the bravery, sacrifice and savagery of the Pacific war and a battle that in five short minutes turned the tide against the Japanese navy only six months after the attack on Pearl Harbor. Highly recommended. Editor's Choice. (S. Fisher)