A Welcome to Britain

Locals and United States troops meet at the Dove Inn, Burton Bradstock, Dorset, 1944.

IWM (D 20142)

STORY

Starring actor Burgess Meredith, this 1943 film presents a guide to British society, behaviour and wartime conditions, made for American troops arriving in the UK prior to the Normandy Landings. The film features an introduction to British pubs and warm pints, as well as a awkward overview of race relations in America and Britain.

Senator Russell, of Georgia, talking to a Black American soldier from Georgia.

IWM (A 18378)

STORY

'They treated us royally'? Black Americans in Britain during the Second World War

The arrival of American troops in Britain during the Second World War highlighted many differences between the two nations, including the institutionally-mandated racism that gave some American citizens fewer rights than others: segregation

Hollywood actor Clark Gable, talks to Sergeant Phil Hulse and Sergeant Kenneth Huls of the 351st Bomb Group from the waist gun position of a B-17 Flying Fortress.

IWM (FRE 3517)

STORY

How Hollywood came to Britain during the Second World War

To British people familiar with Hollywood movies, the American servicemen who arrived in Britain during the Second World War often seemed like film stars. Of course, some of them actually were.

Capt Edwin Caudill of the 4th Fighter Group the Station Adjuntant practises with his bow and arrow with which he has shot several rabbits and partridges

IWM (FRE 3)

STORY

American airmen in Britain during the Second World War

Over two million American servicemen passed through Britain during the Second World War. In 1944, at the height of activity, up to half a million were based there with the United States Army Air Forces.

Story written by IWM staff and copyright of Imperial War Museums (© IWM). The copyright in the images belongs to IWM as well as other third parties. Neither the stories nor the images contained may be reproduced or licenced without IWM’s permission.

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