World War II New Hampshire

If you're old enough to remember the homefront during WWII, this enjoyable documentary takes you back to the days of coast watchers, airplane spotters, bond drives, scrap drives, ration books and swing shifts. The nation was united in a common purpose; women knitted in church, older people rolled bandages, and teenagers helped bring in the harvest. Even kitchen fats were saved for the war effort. Residents of New Hampshire look back on the war with pride, humor, and nostalgia, and you can't escape the feeling that, in spite of the anxious moments, these people were enjoying the best years of their lives. Lots of interesting news footage is included, and some delightful and obscure propaganda films are unearthed. Of course, some New Hampshire references are here (U-boats off the coast, state contributions to the mobilization effort), but much of the material is also applicable to other areas. It's a shame that the title may limit the tape's very real appeal to the Granite state, because this labor of love deserves a wider audience. Viewers willing to give it a chance will find themselves amply rewarded. Highly recommended, and a "must buy" for the New England area. (S. Rees)