Welcome to Subterranean Cinema , The perfect place to watch classic movies originating from your hometown TV station, PBS Fort Wayne.

I'm your host, Kris Hensler.

And tonight I am joined by Justin Gephart, our digital content specialist.

So, Justin, when you're not busy hanging out down here in the basement, why don't you tell people what it is that you do here at the station?

Well, as the name entails a digital content specialist, I do pretty much all things digital.

A lot of work on our social media.

But I also help out with the production team and pretty much anybody else that needs my help.

Thanks, JG.

And as a reminder, Subterranea Cinema is our very own version of classic movie Night.

And it's also something that PBS Fort Wayne viewers have been asking for quite a while.

So here we are hanging out down here in the basement watching some sweet, classic films.

Every week I come down here to see what I can dig up.

Then once I find an interesting title, we do a little research on the background of that movie, and away we go.

Classic movie night, or as we call it, Subterranean Cinem .

And it all starts off on Saturday at 8 p.m. on our Explore channel when then again at midnight on the main channel and then finally on Sunday afternoon at 2 p.m., also on the main channel.

So Kris, what's in store for tonight?

Well, tonight's film is Never Wave at a WAC .

This 1953 comedy starring Rosalind Russell and Paul Douglas was filmed on location at Fort Lee in Virginia.

The story picks up when divorced socialite Jo McBain, played here by Russell, joins the Army so she can be closer to her new boyfriend who's been deployed to France.

However, things start to get complicated when her ex-husband, played by Paul Douglas, interferes with her plans and gets her assigned to a group of women testing polar equipment.

That doesn't really sound like a whole bunch of fun to me, but here we go.

Of course, the hijinks continue as Jo makes her way through various Army training exercises.

However, I don't want to spoil the ending, so you'll have to see how it all plays out for yourself.

Tonight's featured actor is Rosalind Russell.

In the early 1930s, Russell went to Los Angeles, where she was hired as a contract player for Universal.

Unhappy with Universal's leadership in second class studio status at the time, Russell set her sights on MGM.

When MGM first approached her for a screen test, Russell was worried, remembering her less than ideal experience at Universal.

At MGM, however, she quickly rose to fame and by 1935 was seen as a successor to the well-known actress Myrna Loy.

By the 1940s, Russell had appeared in numerous films for MGM, as well as scoring a hit on Broadway with her, a Tony Award winning performance and Wonderful Town.

Thanks, Justin.

I had no idea that you were such a huge Rosalind Russell fan.

Oh, yeah.

Love her.

So I say we get into this movie, let's pour some drinks, make the popcorn and settle in for a night at the movies with Never Wave at a WAC .

Starring Rosalind Russell and Paul Douglas.

You're watchin Subterranean Cinema only on PBS Fort Wayne.

(soft music) (flourishing orchestral music) >> Narrator: Washington, D.C., here in our nation's capital, the hallowed halls of America's history echo with the names and deeds of our country's leaders; Lincoln, Washington, Jefferson.

But equally in the struggle for liberty and the pursuit of happiness have been our nation's women, leaders in every decade; Betsy Ross, Martha Washington, Josephine McBain, Washington's most celebrated hostess, Senator Tom Reynold's daughter, Jo.

There have been the Clara Bartons who made the bandages, and the Josephine McBains who bought the Red Cross station wagons.

>> Oh, isn't that sweet?

Uh, which one is it?

>> The third girl.

>> Oh.

Darling, you were wonderful.

Goodbye, now.

Thank you.

(group applauding) (bright orchestral music) (flourishing orchestral music) >> Everybody will be here.

The vice president, the Argentine polo team, Admiral Bouldin, and Mickey Rooney, that jockey you liked at Penway Curl?

>> Oh dear, it's been that kind of a day.

>> And the maharani, don't forget she pronounces the country Stravanagulia.

>> Stravanagulia.

>> Yes.

And her companion's name is Lali Rajanpur.

And Mrs. Boudreaux is no longer Mrs. Boudreaux.

She's Mrs. Kensington now.

>> Kensington.

>> Really quite a remarkable list, only two refusals out of 64.

Your father wanted to invite Senator Halloran Clark, but I said no.

They're investigating each other.

>> Mr. and Mrs. Van Johnson called to say they'll be here.

>> Oh, thank you, Arte.

>> And Drew Pearson's column was on inflation.

And Mrs. Preston Pratt III called.

>> To, Preston, what, who?

>> Mrs. Preston Pratt III, that Sasquasnick island woman.

You met your ex-husband up there.

Practically invited herself.

>> Well, keep her away from me.

I prefer not to relive my honeymoon.

Ah!

Well, hello Captain.

How are you?

How nice to see you.

Good evening, Admiral.

Hello, Genevieve.

Oh, what a lovely color.

How are you tonight?

Wonderful to see you.

Oh Drew, Drew darling, I loved every key in your typewriter today.

You handle inflation.

I can't.

Evie, darling.

>> Hello, Jo.

>> Oh, did I burn you?

>> No, but you'd like to, wouldn't you darling?

>> Oh, you look positively ravishing.

Where's that fabulous man?

>> He's just finishing a scene at the Smithsonian Museum.

>> He'll be here, won't he?

>> Oh yes, he should he would, provided they don't stuff him and mount him.

>> Oh Evie, you're a riot.

>> Good party.

>> We never miss one of Jo's parties.

Not because we like them.

>> Both Men: We're afraid to.

>> Oh, how do you Mrs. Rajanpur?

Do you find our country very different from your own, Stravanagulia?

>> Yes.

>> Oh, how interesting.

(chuckles) Elsa, darling.

>> So the senator held the floor three hours, eh?

What was he speaking about?

>> (chuckles) He didn't say.

(men laughing) Oh, lovely party, Mrs. McBain.

I want you to meet Senator Holbrew.

>> Oh, how do you do?

I've been looking forward to this.

Good evening.

>> Good evening.

>> How do you do?

>> And I'm Senator Reynolds, your father.

>> Now don't let that get around.

(gentle jazz music) >> Not too much water, Henry.

>> Yes sir, Mr. McBain.

>> We're sure glad to see you home again.

>> It's good to be here, Arte.

>> We're sure glad to have you back.

>> I'm glad to be back, Jan. Hi Freddie.

>> Hi, Mr. McBain.

Glad to see you back.

>> Good enough.

>> We had a terrible time trying to get Angus to eat.

>> Really?

>> Ah, he's so blue, he won't even chase the mailman anymore.

(all laughing) >> I guess it's the same cast, huh?

>> Same old cast.

Little bit more brass, maybe.

Navy last week, Army this week.

Shall I tell Mrs. McBain that you're here, sir?

>> No, no, don't disturb her.

I just slipped in this way to pick up a few things I forgot.

>> Mrs. McBain, the Argentine polo team is ready.

>> Oh, excuse me.

That's what I like, men in numbers.

>> (whistles) Angus!

>> Oh Senator, I was just going to ask... (Andrew whistling) >> Ah, Mrs. McBain, como esta?

>> Thank you.

(Jo speaking Spanish) >> Photographer: Now hold it, please.

>> Evening, General Prager.

>> Good evening, Henry.

>> Evening, Henry.

(guests chattering) >> Why, Phyllis.

>> When did you join?

>> Doesn't she look wonderful?

>> Look at that little Phyllis.

>> Lieutenant, to all you civilians.

>> Well, hello Ned.

>> Glad to see you, Jo.

>> Ah, Sky, darling, late for your own party.

I thought only women liked to make entrances.

Phyllis, sweetie, what on Earth have you joined?

>> The United States Army, angel, you've no doubt heard about us.

>> I'm terribly sorry, darling, but we've just learned now that we're dashing off to Paris.

>> Paris?

>> Yes, isn't that a lovely coincidence?

We're all in SHAPE.

>> I don't doubt it.

>> Jo, darling, if you have any more sweet things to say, you'd better say them fast.

We're catching our plane in an hour.

>> But we're due at the British Embassy for dinner.

>> I'm sorry to have to steal your guest off honor away Jo, but Europe needs straightening out.

>> Oh, lots of things need straightening out.

Oh, thank you.

If you'll excuse us.

(Andrew whistles) (gentle music) (dog barking) >> Angus!

Angus, old man.

Oh boy.

Well, oh well, what's the matter old boy?

Didn't they invite you either?

Well, don't you worry.

You're not missing anything, no sir, no sir.

You help me might hunt for my books, huh?

>> Darling, General Prager asked for Phyllis in the set up, not me.

It's just a coincidence.

>> And such a cozy one.

Well, I hope the three of you will be very happy in your Paris garret.

>> Tom: You dropped your ball.

Now where did you drop from?

>> Tom, how's your cribbage?

>> Fine, Andy.

Come on.

We need a new member of the zoo.

Come on, say hello to Jo.

>> No, no, thank you.

(guests chattering) (gentle music) Hello, Jo.

>> Hello, Andrew.

>> Well, I guess it's up to me.

I thought you were in the Army, Andy.

>> I am.

Hello, Phyllis.

Jo, I'm missing a couple of books I need in my work.

I'm making some tests, you know, testing.

Don't let me disturb.

>> Uh, what book, General?

>> Well, "The Rubber Coating of Fabrics" by Schwek and "Wool in the Arctic Under Stress and Strain."

>> What's he doing here?

>> Stressing and straining.

>> Those books are around here somewhere, Andy.

I just saw them recently.

>> Well thanks, Tom.

If you folks will excuse me.

I know... >> Oh.

>> Oh, yes.

>> He's looking so much better and still very attractive.

I guess we better think about going, Sky.

I'll find our general.

>> Yes.

Yes, you don't want to miss Paris in the spring, the Eiffel Tower, and Phyllis in bloom.

(guests chattering) >> Darling, I'll lock my door every night.

>> Aw, which side will she be on?

>> This assignment is straight from heaven, for you and me.

>> Oh?

>> Planes leave every half hour for Paris.

In our little garret, can't you see us now, walking along the Seine hand in hand?

>> I can.

But father can't.

Oh well.

Sky, do you really want me to come?

Because if you're still in the playing the field mood, I'm not playing.

>> If there's anything that I like, it's a good question.

There's your answer.

(dog barking) >> Excuse me.

They weren't in the library, and I thought they might be under there.

Excuse me.

Oh, here.

I wondered where this was.

Hold that, will you?

Be good, Angus.

Now, if I could just find the other lenses.

>> If you're talking about those little glass things, they're upstairs in the linen closet in an old cold cream jar.

>> Andrew: Well, the books must be somewhere.

>> Couldn't you go out and buy two new copies?

>> "The Rubber Coating of Fabrics," yes, but "Wool in the Arctic Under Stress and Strain" I wrote myself.

>> Then write another.

(bright jazz music) >> Jo, darling, this is terrible.

I haven't seen you since you were a bride.

>> Hello, Martha.

>> I can see you now in that pink dress under my big elm.

And there's the groom!

Oh Andrew, I must kiss you.

>> Oh, Martha, you are a vision.

>> Oh, what a pretty tie.

>> Oh, thank you.

What are you doing in our nation's capital?

>> Seeing my senator.

Now you remember that dirt road through the woods to the beach?

You should, you were always on it.

Well, some off-islanders have carried over a truckload of tar and gravel.

I said, "Senator, we'll have no ice or modern roads on Sasquasnick."

>> Well, bully for our side.

How'd you get off the island, row all the way?

>> Speaking of rowing, what really happened the night that you said you rowed around the island?

>> Oh, uh, Martha, this is Colonel Fairchild, and this is Mrs. Preston Pratt.

The Colonel's going to NATO.

>> Both: How do you do?

>> Keep your eye on those foreigners.

Well, what's happened?

>> Well, Martha you see, I had to row all night, because it was a very strong undercurrent.

>> What was she doing with those pine needles in her hair?

>> Uh, did I tell you the Colonel was going to NATO?

>> Yes.

Oh, and you two still go on those picnics together?

Oh, by the way, what did you do with my skillet?

>> Why, I put that in the hall closet with the blankets and the Thermos.

But about the pine needles-- >> Martha, Andrew and I are divorced.

>> Oh!

Well, where's your nearest phone?

Because before I die, I must telephone the Department of Agriculture.

Japanese beetles are ruining our lovely elms, you know.

Oh, you should see our dahlias in the fall, but you'd be amazed at what-- >> Now, Martha, the first door to the right, you'll find it there.

Martha's a lot of fun, when you get to know her.

>> I should be embarrassed, but I'm only annoyed.

>> Don't be, my dear.

That's the old life, Paris is the new.

When do we start living it?

>> Come along, Colonel.

Fort Sumter has just been fired upon.

Think of me, darling, when I'm in the thick of things.

>> (speaking French) Don't get lonesome, we'll be commuting.

>> Good night, Senator.

>> Now, you cable me, SHAPE headquarters, Paris, when you make your reservations.

These open arms'll be waiting for you at Arleigh Field.

(guests chattering) (dog barks) >> That's a cute trick, turning up after two months unannounced.

You could see I was giving a party, couldn't you?

You could count the cars outside, couldn't you?

>> I didn't have the time.

>> Well, you should have come in the front door like everyone else.

And worn your uniform.

>> I'm wearing it.

>> Do you mean to say you didn't accept the Colonelcy?

>> I can do the same job in tweeds, and when I'm finished, get back to the plant and my research.

Now if I upset anything, I'm sorry.

>> Upset anything?

You mean sneaking in the back door, skulking around, spying, reliving our courtship with Mrs. Preston Pratt?

>> I couldn't relive it with you, could I?

>> Jo: Keep your voice down.

>> Doesn't it strike you as being rather symbolic, the Japanese beetles are destroying our elm tree?

>> Yes, since our marriage fell apart at the same time?

Hamburger Island, how coy could we get.

>> Well, we got pretty coy.

That's the same night you suggested we wear matching suits.

>> As I recall, you bought a set of Him and Her towels.

>> Oh, that was a mistake, and I made a lot of others, too, like thinking you'd be the same girl here as you were on that island.

>> Oh well, of course you didn't turn out to be a big disappointment, loading the dinner table with those fascinating fabric engineers.

>> What are you talking about?

>> Now, Andrew, let's take a silk thread and cross it with a bit of nylon thread, and see what we get.

Well, I know what I got.

>> Bored!

All right, go do your research in Paris.

Chase after your gingerbread Colonel.

>> Shh, will you be quiet?

>> He'll be delighted to ring master the circus you're running, but you better keep a net up.

Someday you'll fall flat on your face.

>> Now how dare you talk to me like that.

Oh, Pepe, Baroness, you're not leaving?

>> What, no caviar?

Henry!

Another bucket for the Baroness!

>> You take your loud mouth and your junk out of this house.

>> I'll be charmed, but you keep the junk.

I should have caught on when that was that taken, anybody who'd call those lousy things hamburgers.

>> Hypocrite!

You said they were cute at the time.

>> They were burned at the time.

(guests gasping) (glass shattering) >> Artamesa, sweep up that mess.

(guests chattering) >> I'll take a dozen of those just to remind me of how lucky I am.

>> Sorry, Tom.

So long.

>> The earliest reservation is the day after tomorrow?

Well, all right, that'll do.

Yes, yes, Jo McBain, your boss knows me, Senator Reynolds' daughter.

I'll send my man for the ticket.

Bye.

What's this?

>> I thought you might want to reframe it.

>> I do.

>> You were both in good voice tonight.

>> Keep the net up, another bucket for the Baroness.

Father, how could I ever have been caught so off guard, blinded by summer moonlight, toasting those sandy marshmallows, that big elm tree.

Don't you ever let me go on another holiday without first checking- >> Not even to Paris?

>> Father, this is different.

>> Yes, I know.

You want to protect your interests, but do you have to chase after him?

>> Well, I'd better, before that vulture Phyllis gets her claws into him.

Aw, what a sweet set up for her, his office wife.

Can't you see her now looking so chicly patriotic as she bends close to pour his coffee?

>> It figures.

>> (sighs) First Lieutenant Phyllis Turnbull.

Good grief.

If she got a commission as a First Lieutenant, I should be a General.

(ominous music) >> Why not?

Why not?

Nowadays many a man's head is turned by a pretty uniform.

>> Are you inferring I should join the Army?

>> Why, it seems to me that would solve your myriad problems.

>> Jo: You're kidding.

>> I'm confident that my daughter, with their superior leadership qualities, could top anything Lieutenant Phyllis had to offer.

>> And you could get me assigned to Europe.

>> Yeah, and you could work the day shift as well as the night shift.

>> It's perfect.

Now, Father, I'm not greedy.

You know that.

I don't mind starting as a Major or Captain and working up on my own merit.

>> Why, there's no telling.

You might be their first woman General.

Even President.

>> Oh, I'll let you be President first.

Oh, now, Father, you'll take care of all the red tape, and getting the commission, that sort of thing?

>> Roger.

And I couldn't be prouder.

>> Say, I'm not rushing into this thing, am I?

>> You are, and you'd better.

The age limit is 35.

>> Now you know perfectly well that I'm only... 35.

(chuckles) You call the (inaudible) for Omar.

They'll take care of everything while I close up the house.

Hello.

Hello, TWA?

Oh, this is Senator Reynolds' daughter again.

I'd like to cancel that reservation I made for Paris.

Oh no, no, no, I'm still going.

But I'm going another way, the Army's sending me.

Thank you.

Bye-bye.

(dramatic music) >> Narrator: While 230 miles to the north was another woman furthering the female cause, making history of a different kind; prominent, and a leader in her field.

>> Photographer: Hold it, still.

>> That's fine, honey child.

Now one for Halloween.

>> But this is April Fools' Day.

>> Magazine publicity, you know, you make them months in advance.

>> Uh uh, Mr. Getelman.

>> And speaking of love, honey, you'll love to meet a friend I got coming over here.

Now I thought maybe if you're not tied down for dinner tonight- >> But you know I never eat before a performance, it shows.

>> Not even with my chief backer?

Why, we wouldn't be in business if it wasn't for Nick Laharis.

Now there's such a thing as courtesy, isn't there?

>> Oh, I guess so.

I'll think about it.

>> That's my little love bug.

>> Photographer: All right, strike a pose.

>> Glad to see you.

Come on, step right over here.

Danger O'Dowd, I'd like to present my best friend, Mr. Nick Laharis.

>> Danger?

You don't scare me a bit.

I'd like you to go to a little party with me tonight.

How about it?

>> Photographer: How about the picture?

>> Hey, you didn't answer my question.

What about my party?

>> You can be the whole party.

>> Mr. Getelman: Danger, baby, where you going, lovebug?

>> Oh, I'm getting away from men and love and (dramatic music drowns out speech).

(trumpeting fanfare music) (bright gentle music) >> Mrs. McBain.

Mrs. McBain.

>> Artamesa, must you make all that racket?

>> Mrs. McBain, you'll have to wake up.

>> Huh?

>> You'll have to wake up.

You're joining the Army at 11.

Now hurry.

>> Oh, I am?

(bright music) Oh, good morning.

I'm Jo McBain.

Did General Bradley phone you?

>> No, he hasn't called me all morning.

But, uh, Lt. Colmine and his office phoned and explained that you're single, you have all the qualifications, and you desire to join.

>> Yes, yes, and the sooner the better, I've got a million things to do before I get off.

Henry?

>> Birth certificate.

>> And I'd like that back.

>> Diplomas.

College of Fine Arts, Leucine Academy for Young Ladies, Ms. Farcroft's, Connecticut.

>> Oh, uh, Henry, while I'm tied up here a few minutes, will you go to Brentano's and pick me up these books?

>> "Almanach de Goltha".

>> Right.

>> "Dining Out in Paris", "I Fed Royal Stomachs" by Chef- >> And then go along to General Bradley's office, and have him give you an officer's guide, and any little pamphlets that he may have on NATO and SHAPE headquarters.

Now, what we do next?

>> You fill out these papers in that room.

>> Oh, would you make them out for me, would you dear?

>> Very well.

>> Uh, you don't mind signing them?

>> Oh, no.

No, not at all.

>> Please sit down, Mrs. McBain.

>> Thank you.

>> Now, we must have the names of five character references we can call.

>> Oh, oh, certainly.

Uh, Ada Rosenberg, Assistant Secretary of Defense.

General Omar Bradley, Admiral Collins, and General Hoyt Vandenberg.

>> That's four.

>> Oh, and the President.

Of the United States, that is.

>> Inhale.

Exhale.

Inhale.

Exhale.

Inhale.

Exhale.

>> I've got Mrs. Carnegie for you.

>> Oh, good.

Hello, hello, Hattie, darling.

Well, I'm flying overseas in a matter of hours, so you must rush those uniforms.

And take a little fullness out of the skirts, would you dear?

No, no, never mind about the Captain's bars.

I've ordered those at Tiffany's.

Bye now.

>> Any insanity in your family?

>> Well, hardly.

My father's a senator.

>> All: I, (speaking over one another), do solemnly swear or affirm that I will serve them honorably and faithfully, against all their enemies, according to the regulations and the Uniformed Code of Military Justice.

(bright triumphant music) >> Of course I'm thrilled, Father, but why do my orders say Fort Lee, Virginia, when I'm going to Paris?

>> Only a formality, you know the Army and it's red tape.

>> Well, I'm going to take everything with me.

We'll fly direct from there.

Oh, oh, Henry, I'll wire you when to pick up the car.

And Artamesa, be sure everything is covered when you close the house.

And make sure also that my ski things are put in the trunk that is sent to Paris.

>> Yes, ma'am.

>> Ah, Ms. Gorham, be certain that everyone here gets a check for a month.

>> I will.

I could bawl.

I just can't believe all this.

>> Oh, now.

Now, now.

>> Josephine, remember you're a Reynolds.

>> Ouch!

Oh, my shots.

I've been inoculated for everything but Phyllis Turnbull.

Now Father, I'm not going to worry about you on your vacation.

>> That's right.

You just worry about all the fish I'm going to catch.

They're not going to like it at all.

(Jo chuckles condescendingly) Now, be a good soldier.

(bright music) >> Bye now.

(marching drum music) (soldiers cheering) >> Woman: Look Vera, men.

(soldiers whistling) ♪ I love every Calais cannonball ♪ ♪ But you General, over all (Jeep engine revving) >> Slow down, we're being pursued!

>> Hey!

Welcome to Fort Lee.

>> I think he's a (inaudible).

>> See, they do have men here.

>> Thousands of them, but only one that really matters.

Sergeant Jackson, Quartermaster Corps, United States Army.

(women cheering) >> Jolly good.

>> And hey, hey you with the big brown eyes.

What do I call you?

(horn blaring) >> Hello there.

I just came to pick up my commission.

Where do I go, please?

>> Third intersection, turn left, 19 blocks to WAC Training Center.

>> Thank you.

(marching drum music) (tires squealing) Boy.

I mean, soldier, you're in my way.

Oh, oh, it's all right, you can let me pass.

I'm one of you now.

(marching drum music) Could you ask them to hurry.

Just a little?

Oh, goodbye.

Thank you.

(engine revving) >> Recruits: One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

>> Hello, girls.

Say, haven't you a lovely place to train in.

>> What can we do for you?

>> I'm one of your brand new officers.

Can you tell me where to go?

>> Recruits: One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

>> Two blocks, B company.

>> Thank you, darling.

(campy music) >> Your company will be filling in during the next 48 hours and girls will be arriving here day and night.

All right, select your bed.

No, Private.

All luggage is stowed in the luggage area, directly behind your bed.

You won't be officially welcomed until tomorrow at 0800.

Eight o'clock, to you.

>> Oh, thank you.

>> In the meantime you'll see your first guidon competition.

All right, line up in single file.

Come on, let's go.

>> Oh, Lieutenant, excuse me, Sergeant, I seem to be lost, perhaps you could help me?

>> Well perhaps I can.

Your name, and where are you from?

>> Jo McBain, Washington.

You see, I've just come down here >> Oh yes, Josephine McBain.

Okay, McBain, follow me.

>> Oh, uh, dear?

>> Where's your luggage, McBain?

>> Well, it's in the car.

But where do I go?

>> Well, right now you're going with us to see the parade.

>> Oh, will I see someone in charge?

Will the General be there?

>> Oh yes, he'll be there, McBain.

>> Oh, good.

>> Say, I know you, you're Jo McBain, that famous Washington madam.

Oh, I read "Time".

>> Subscription?

>> Hm?

Oh, yes, I read that big article on you.

Say, are you here incognito?

>> Well, let's say temporarily.

>> Well, your secret's buried right here.

>> Then I know it's safe.

>> I'm Clara Schneiderman.

>> How do you- >> And I'm Sergeant Wayne.

Follow me.

>> Oh, sure.

(triumphant marching music) >> Squad, halt.

>> Wow, what a parade.

>> Everybody stop talking.

Turn around and face me.

At ease.

At ease.

>> General Prentiss, isn't it?

I'm Jo McBain.

Remember, the Pentagon parking lot?

I met you there with my father, Senator Reynolds, and General Bradley.

>> Oh, how do you do?

>> Omar knew I was coming down here today.

He wanted me to give you his best regard.

>> Thank you.

And this is Colonel Hubbard.

She's the commanding officer of the WACs.

>> Oh, well, how do you do?

>> How are you, Mrs. McBain?

>> Oh well, this is a nice surprise.

I did want to meet you eventually.

It looks as though you're doing a wonderful job here.

>> Thank you.

If you'll stay over, perhaps you'll have lunch with me tomorrow.

I'd enjoy showing you around the training- >> Well, I'd be delighted when I return.

You will give me now a rain check, won't you?

Thank you.

I'm all mixed up in this big place.

Where is your airport?

>> Well, you go out the main gate.

That's Route 36, you know.

Then you turn left, and you go down about a mile until you come to a little orange stand under some trees.

And just beyond that is a fork, well you don't take the fork, you keep- >> Uh, excuse me, Colonel Hubbard.

McBain has left her unit.

>> Who?

>> Her, ma'am.

I think we better join the others.

>> (chuckles) Oh, protocol.

(intense drum music) I'll see you later, folks.

(triumphant marching music) ("Reveille") (explosion booms) (women chattering surprisedly) >> Come back later, I'm not ready.

>> Me neither.

>> Out of this bed and make like a WAC.

>> Maybe it was a gun going off.

(women whistling) >> All right girls, get moving.

You've got 10 minutes to wash and dress.

>> Mrs. McBain, it's time to get up.

Yoo hoo!

>> Artamesa, must you make all that racket?

>> Come on McBain, wake up.

>> Hm?

Oh, but Sergeant I don't have to get up.

>> Oh, I'm afraid you do.

You see we've arranged a welcome for you.

>> Oh, how sweet.

I do hope your lovely Colonel hasn't gone to too much trouble.

>> Well you see, it isn't every day that we get someone like you.

>> Aw.

(chuckles) Does it matter what I wear?

>> No, as long as you don't wear that.

>> Haha, you are cute.

Let's see, which way was that?

Look at me, dining with the enlisted girls, spending the night with a green group has been an invaluable experience.

I must write Father.

>> Yes, you must.

>> Well, since I'm going to be in command abroad, I'm glad I've learned the inner workings of the Army.

I'm going to Paris, NATO you know.

>> No, I didn't know.

>> Oh yes, yes.

I may ask for you, darling.

You've been awfully sweet.

Oh, I'm Jo McBain.

How are you, Captain Malloy?

I suppose you've arranged everything for me, and whatever the Army says, goes for me.

>> Yes, sit down McBain.

("The Army Goes Rolling Along") >> Captain: Welcome to Fort Lee.

>> Oh, thank you, Captain.

>> I know how you must be feeling at this moment, because I once sat where you're sitting.

And wondered just what I'd gotten myself into.

But no matter what your reasons for joining; patriotic, a desire to improve yourself, you will find we are happy to have you.

And the Army is anxious to find just the right job for you.

Some of you may qualify for leader school, others officer candidate school.

We are here to help you, not only in your new Army career, but in personal fulfillment.

Good luck, soldiers.

>> Attention!

File outside twos.

>> Aw, that was a sweet speech, Captain.

I'd love a copy of that for my girls in NATO.

Did you write it yourself?

>> You'll have to excuse us, Captain, as you can see, McBain is a very busy woman.

>> Yes, yes, well, so long now.

>> Wait a minute.

You forgot your Little Abner.

>> But I have my shoes.

They're in my car.

>> Come on, you sad sack.

>> Hey, Sergeant.

Here's your sack.

Take these things.

I don't need them.

Here!

But I went to my doctor, and he gave me these same shots, I'm sure.

>> Now we are both sure.

>> Now girls, will you please sit down while you wait for your interview?

>> Do you excel in any sports?

>> Well, I won lots of ribbons in the Pendleton rodeo.

>> I got sick and tired of pounding a typewriter all day long in a stuffy office.

>> My grandfather made his money in the gold rush.

Good thing for tourists.

That's why I was able to go to art school in San Francisco.

>> I wanted to prove I could do something other than milk cows.

>> So you were a GI bride, and a Lance Corporal in the Woman's Auxiliary Territorial Service in the last war?

>> Now Clara, what job in the Army do you think your best fitted for?

>> Intelligence.

>> And why your choice?

>> Well, for some reason, gentleman seem to take an interest in me.

In fact, my boss at my last job, he was always- >> What job was that, Clara?

>> Oh, well, I was a showgirl, and between shows I'd go to the news reel and see different news reels.

And I saw one, this new Texas Army maneuver.

>> Operation Longhorn.

>> Yes, where the Army actually used a girl spy.

I thought to myself, I'm always thinking to myself, I thought, well, why not get away from all these men, see?

And get with just one man.

>> Who's that?

>> Uncle Sam.

Well, it's just that I feel I'd like to give my country what I've got.

>> Well, counterintelligence- >> A G2.

>> Yes.

Well, it does require certain special talents.

Do you speak any languages fluently?

>> Yes ma'am, English.

>> I see.

>> Well, my boss, Mr. Getelman, he didn't think Clara Schneiderman was glamorous enough, so he gave me a new name.

>> What was it?

>> Danger O'Dowd.

(chuckles) It was so silly.

You won't tell any of the other girls?

>> Everything is confidential.

>> That's good.

>> Specifically, what did you do as a show girl?

Wear pretty costumes?

>> Yes, green gauze, and a little fruit here and there, a little cherries, and bananas, and apples, and then we'd walk around and the creeps, um, gentlemen, would stare right through the cherries and the bananas.

And you know it's very upsetting to girl like I. I just got so upset I felt like joining the French Foreign Legion.

>> But they wouldn't take you, so you joined the WAC instead.

>> That's right.

>> Now Clara, what other experience have you had?

>> Well, when I was very little, I worked in my father's garage.

The Schneiderman Jiffy Tow.

We serve you night and day.

>> Garage experience, that's wonderful.

We could use you in the motor pool.

>> Well, you might, ma'am, but my heart wouldn't be in it like it would be in spying.

>> It wouldn't?

>> No.

>> Anything else you've done?

>> Well now, let's see, I... (humming) Oh, I used to sit on coffee bags.

>> You what?

>> Well, you know, with my bathing suit on, and have my picture taken.

I was Ms. Coffee Bean in 1949 and '50.

And then Ms. Avocado in 1951.

Of course I was sitting amongst avocados.

>> Of course.

Now let me see if I've got this all down.

Helped father in towing cars, show girl in nightclub, sat on coffee bags and among avocados for advertising purposes.

Preference, intelligence work.

Correct?

>> Yeah, correct.

>> Thank you.

>> Well, goodbye dear.

>> Look, for the fourth time, what do you want to do in the Army?

>> For the fourth time, I want to see someone in charge.

>> Is this woman's name McBain?

>> Yes, ma'am.

>> Just a moment, Sergeant Taylor, while I check with Captain Murchison.

(marching music) Sergeant, get Captain Murchison of B Company.

>> Yes ma'am.

>> What's that?

Josephine McBain?

Yes, she's in the new batch.

Oh no, no one told me about any VIP.

Call Major Cartwright.

>> No Captain, there's no record here.

Oh, she is, eh?

I'd better call the Pentagon and check with Colonel Fullbright.

>> No, no record of a commission issued to Josephine McBain.

She's listed as Private.

Well, I'll call General Bradley's office to see if he knows anything about it.

>> Oh, I see Colonel.

I may have been in error.

I'll ask the general and then I'll phone you back.

(phone buzzing) >> Lt. Kohler: For General Bradley, sir, Lt. Kohler speaking.

>> Yes, Lieutenant?

>> Lt. Kohler: Did I misunderstand you, sir, about Senator McBain's daughter?

Did he phone you about her joining the WAC?

>> Senator did say something about it.

Better locate him.

He's fishing up at Medicine Hat, Canada.

>> Oh no, no thanks General.

No officer's training school.

My daughter wants to start at the bottom.

She's that kind of a girl.

(mischievous music) Same to you.

Bye.

>> No commission for McBain.

>> Check, no commission.

>> Josephine McBain is Private McBain.

Official.

>> Thank you Major, I hope it wasn't too much trouble.

We checked officially, Private McBain, and you have no commission, none having been applied for.

Get on with that interview, Sergeant Taylor.

(ominous music) >> Now, what would you like to do?

>> I'd like to murder my father.

(gear rustling) >> Raise your arms, Corporal.

This jacket appears okay.

>> Hey, how about the seams there?

>> They look fine.

There are small areas of perspiration.

And a minimum weight loss.

That's twice around the obstacle course.

>> You weren't taking it easy, were you, Corporal?

>> Oh, no sir, gave it the works.

>> Looks like McBain did know what he was talking about, sir.

He's been bragging about this synthetic thread he's cooked up.

>> You've accomplished miracles in the four months you've been here.

>> Well, I have to admit I started thinking four years ago.

Now I'm going back to the factory and think some more.

>> You haven't told him yet.

>> No, sir.

Oh, um, Andrew, we're in a bit of a spot.

>> General Grail of the Alaskan command has requested 500 more WACs on the double.

That means arctic clothing, the best stuff we can rush off.

>> We?

You mean if I leave now I'm undermining our national defense?

>> Exactly.

When are you going to talk this guy back into uniform, so I can order him around?

>> Sergeant?

>> Yes, sir.

>> We'll need six girls by Saturday.

Assorted types, ages, and shapes.

Will you volunteer for the hazardous mission of finding them?

>> Oh, yes, sir.

Anything for the Quartermaster Testing Board, sir.

(men snickering) >> Sergeant: One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

Platoon, halt.

At ease.

Fall out.

McBain.

>> You said fall out, didn't you?

>> For the last three weeks I've explained that you can't fall out from an at ease position.

>> Aw, a little trick.

How cute.

>> A word of advice, McBain.

If you want to learn how to be a general, you first have to learn how to be a private.

If you can't figure things out, then watch Schneiderman.

Schneiderman, take McBain over there and drill her for another hour.

>> Yes, Sergeant.

>> Platoon, attention!

Private McBain and Private Schneiderman, fall out.

>> McBain, it's nothing personal, but you don't put any spirit into it.

Now, let me show you how to pivot.

>> Sure, go ahead.

Show me.

>> Okay.

You put your right toe behind your heel, thusly.

And your shoulders likewise.

>> You know, Schneiderman, you've got something I'll never.

>> Look, if you don't learn how to march, our company's never going to win that green guidon.

>> Is that like the Irish sweepstakes?

>> No, it's like West Point.

You see, you can only win the green guidon for superior marching.

And we're going to win it, that's all!

>> And that's telling me.

>> On your feet.

Attention!

Now you gotta follow me, see.

Left face, forward march.

(marching music) Now don't get too close.

Column left, march.

Don't push.

Column right, march.

Stop breathing down my neck.

Column right, march.

One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

Column flip, march.

Keep it stiff.

You're doing fine, Jo.

Column right, march.

Pick up your feet, Jo.

So, didn't General Bradley, or the Secretary of Defense, or the Vice President, or your father the Senator answer any of your letters?

>> Are you sure you mailed them, after you read them?

>> Oh, yes.

>> Here's something you haven't read.

>> Ah, you mean the cable from your Colonel friend in Paris who is aide to General Prager.

>> None other.

>> Oh, I read that.

"Ma cherie, you joined for me, now stick it out for me, until I get back, which could be any weekend."

>> Or in a year, now.

>> "All-consuming love, and being a good boy, and getting to bed early."

>> Probably early in the morning.

Okay, Mata Hari, more meat.

>> Well, you better start fixing those patties.

>> Woman: Hey, Schneiderman, come here.

>> Get going with those 806 hamburgers.

>> Yes ma'am.

>> What are those little things?

>> Well, I didn't know if you wanted them cut- >> Who are you kidding?

Shove those things together.

>> Some people prefer them small.

Other people like them large.

>> Psst.

I'm being watched.

>> Look Schneiderman, you better ease into this spying business gradually.

Mustn't overdo, you know.

>> Come on, McBain.

get the lead out.

>> She should talk about the lead.

>> No, there was a big, tall man.

He was looking at me right through the window.

>> And he had a beard, didn't he?

>> Yeah.

No, a Jeep.

He was too young to have a beard.

(recruits chattering) >> You know this is a real treat.

We haven't had hamburger in a long time.

>> You're right.

Oh goodness, what's that?

"Secretary of the Army, Pentagon.

Frank, darling, about my mission.

This, something, mix up."

Look it.

>> "Red tape is keeping me, something, prisoner here.

And fed up."

(all laughing) >> Sergeant: Get out of the lake, let's go.

>> Recruits: One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

(tree thudding) One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

(branches rustling) (recruits chattering) >> Enjoying the view, Sergeant?

>> Quartermaster Board Research.

>> Peeping Tom branch?

>> Well, the Captain must know what she's doing.

>> Nevertheless, I'm going to pull down my shade tonight.

(recruits chattering) (water splashing) >> Oh gee, that's a cute suit.

It's so different, McBain.

>> I have a terrible shock for you, McBain.

This isn't the French Riviera.

You know, of course, that you can't wear your own suit.

>> Well, Sergeant, you see I have a medical problem.

I'm allergic to Army wool, and officious young women.

>> McBain, you were rather preoccupied during Captain Murchison's welcoming speech.

So you might have missed what she had to say about having the right attitude.

I warn you it's my job to help you get it.

>> Come on, let's race.

(water splashing) I forgot.

I don't know how to swim.

Oh golly.

Help, help!

What a silly thing to forget.

>> Hello, Blondie.

(Clara screams) >> On your way, Sergeant.

>> Huh?

Oh, hi.

I, uh, I don't know what to call you.

I, uh, can't find your insignia.

>> And what should I call you before I call the MP?

>> The MP?

Oh, we're buddy buddy.

I'll go quietly.

All I ask is six of your girls for test subjects.

I say that we start with you.

Now there are a lot of things that I'd like to ask you, Blondie.

First, what is your full name?

♪ I had a great wife and she had ♪ ♪ Bonnie a hat >> Andrew: You're in great voice, but what about the girls?

>> Thank you, sir.

I tried to pick you six different types.

I got their home states, their weights, their ages.

I couldn't get their measurements.

>> Andrew: You're slipping.

(campy music) >> Recruits: One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

One, two, three, four.

>> Here they are, sir, from all different climates.

Private Schneiderman, New York state.

Private North, London.

Oh, uh, Gustafson, from Wisconsin Rapids.

Otinako, Honolulu.

Are you stuck, honey?

(campy music continues) >> Move it, Fogarty.

>> Please, Blondie.

I just want to talk to you.

I've got great plans for you.

Ah, let me tell you about it, please, honey.

>> Swetkopf: Company B base training battalion.

Corporal Swetkopf speaking.

Hold on, sir.

Telephone, McBain.

>> Both: Thank you.

(recruits chanting in distance) >> It's a treasure hunt.

Now what did you forget?

>> I just came over for six girls.

I need them.

>> You always did overdo.

>> Uh, Mrs. McBain, telephone.

The VIP, Colonel Fairchild.

>> Sky!

>> Better take your shovel.

>> Sky, darling, where are you?

Paris?

>> Washington airport, and exactly 29 minutes by helicopter away from, I hope, your still loving arms.

I told you we'd be commuting.

>> Oh, angel, I can't wait to hear.

Yes, yes, perfect timing.

We get our first six hour pass this weekend.

Aw.

You naughty Parisian.

I'll be counting the seconds.

Yes.

>> Can we load our six girls, sir?

Captain Murchison's giving the go signal.

>> Oh, sure, go ahead.

>> Yes, we can have dinner.

Well, there's a wonderful little tavern in Williamsburg.

Yes, yes, I've got my car.

I'm afraid I'll need one more, Captain.

A tall, dark, sort of skinny, cold-blooded type.

There are very important psychological aspects to this test.

>> Well, uh, Private McBain has her first pass coming today, sir, but if you request her, the needs of the service come first.

>> Consider her requested.

(truck engine rumbling) >> I won't promise to bring them back.

We're living girls, we're living.

You keep primping, next time I might take you.

>> Please, give this to Colonel Fairchild when he asks for me, Jo McBain.

Tell him I'm on special duty at the Quartermaster Testing Lab.

>> Andrew: Are they all in there?

>> Lt. Constable: All present and accounted for, sir.

>> Uh, set it for Big Delta.

>> Big Delta, yes, sir.

>> And make it 20 below zero.

>> 20 below zero.

Right, sir.

>> Girls, you're now near Anchorage, Alaska, and the temperature is 20 degrees below zero.

Can you hear me?

If you can, wave your arms.

Fine, now you have just climbed out of a cargo plane that's crash landed, and in order to survive you're going to have to pitch a tent, make a fire, and cook a meal before nightfall, or freeze to death.

Now number one, you light the fire.

Number two, unpack the weapons to discourage any wolves in the neighborhood.

Three, four, and five, put up the tent.

Number six, fill the emergency lantern with fuel.

And number seven, unpack the flares.

Hold it.

Begin.

(dramatic music) (campy music) Get that fire lit, one.

Turn on the wind.

>> Yes, sir.

(suspenseful music) (wind whooshing) >> Number one, light that fire.

(wind whooshing) Two, four, five, and six.

Your faces still warm?

(wind whooshing) Feet cold?

Your undershirts feel too bulky, too heavy to work in?

That's fine.

Now, three, four, five six and seven, come on out.

Lieutenant Constable wants to buy you some coffee.

>> Lt. Constable: Hot coffee.

Come on, girls!

(wind whooshing) >> And now the sleeping bags test for wind and snow.

(pensive music) (wind whooshing) >> Oh, uh, pardon me, am I interrupting something?

Oh, hello there.

>> Colonel Fairchild, I believe.

>> How do you do?

I guess I must be in the wrong place.

>> Oh no, no, no.

(wind whooshing) >> I'm looking for, for uh, Mrs., for Jo.

>> She's inside.

(suspenseful music) (tender lullaby music) Cut it off.

(suspenseful music) Come on, bring out the whole bag.

>> Hey, hey.

Hey, Jo, Jo, is that you?

>> I think so, darling.

Oh, Sky, I'm so glad you're here.

>> So am I, darling.

Uh, I thought we had, uh, what are you doing in here?

>> Trying to light a fire.

>> Why?

>> I'm supposed to cook dinner.

>> Oh, but darling, now look, we got a date.

I don't want to eat here.

>> Oh no, it was just a test we had.

>> Oh.

I nearly forgot.

I picked up a little something for you on the Rue de la Paix.

>> Oh, darling.

That's so sweet.

>> See, that zipper's just no good at 40 below.

>> Neither I.

>> Well now that you've done your bit for the glorious future of Alaskan sleeping bags, can we get out here?

>> Uh, now we'll test the overwhites, the camouflage covers.

>> The what?

>> Number one, you're hiking from Big Delta to Point Barrow.

Lift your feet!

(triumphant music) Sergeant, hit the blizzard.

(wind whooshing) (group chattering) >> I hope it's sweet enough for all you sweet things.

It just couldn't be sweet enough for you.

>> Oh, thank you.

>> How do you find the Army, keen?

You know, I can help you with your studies, teach you things.

>> Hey, that's wonderful.

I want to learn things, especially the phonetic alphabet.

Uh, you know that's very hard.

>> Oh, it's a cinch.

It's A, able.

>> A, able.

B- >> No, that's enough for one lesson.

I don't want you to get brain fog.

Do I grow on you?

>> No, sir.

(wind whooshing) (footsteps stomping) >> Just between you, me, and Tom here, how do I offend?

>> Oh, it isn't you.

It's just that you're like all the others.

>> The others?

You mean there has been some other man before me, interested as deeply, and as- >> And as physically.

Nobody cares about my mind.

>> Your mind, well, I'm crazy about it, now that you mention it.

>> I'll bet.

>> No.

No kidding.

What night can we get a discussion group together, say just you, and me, and Tom, and Charlie here?

>> Never.

>> Never?

Then this is goodbye.

>> That's right, goodbye.

>> You go your way, Danger O'Dowd, and I'll go mine.

>> Hey, where'd you get that?

Hey, put it down, Sergeant, please.

I'll just die.

>> About our discussion group, it's a deal?

>> That's blackmail.

(women whistling) >> I like that one.

Let's see.

>> It's a deal.

It's a deal.

No, no, no.

It's just a few calendars, a few calendars.

I was very poor at the time.

(women chattering) (wind whooshing) (footsteps stomping) >> Andrew: Cut it off.

(pensive music) >> Let's check that liner.

>> No penetration here.

>> Looks like we made it, sir.

>> Splendid.

How'd she come through, Lieutenant?

>> With flying colors.

You made a substantial contribution to anthropometry.

>> That's just ginger peachy.

>> All right, I want to thank you, two, three, four, five, six, and seven.

>> And may I go now, Professor?

>> And one.

>> Thank you.

(footsteps stomping loudly) (women laughing) (car engine humming) >> Get as close as you can, will you?

>> I'm responsible for her welfare.

>> I had a long talk with Colonel Fullbright this morning.

>> Oh?

>> She was very sympathetic.

You see, you've been in the service about, oh, five weeks now.

It's too late to be commissioned from the outside.

But if your commanding officer okays you after observing you doing basic, you can apply for one in three weeks.

>> Three weeks?

Observe me?

Now, good heavens, Sky, if I haven't already demonstrated in public life- >> Darling, Paris- >> That I'm fit for leadership... >> Honey, think about our little garret.

>> And that I'd make a good officer.

>> Walking hand in hand along the Seine.

>> Oh, all right.

I'll be good if it kills me.

And it probably will.

(both chuckle) (engine roaring loudly) (horn honking loudly) >> Will you join your group quick before the sergeant sees you?

>> What?

Oh.

>> Uh oh, >> Sergeant, I'm afraid some this is my doing.

I think- >> Oh, this is uh, Colonel Fairchild.

He flew all the way from Paris just to witness our experiments.

>> To be honest, we're old friends.

And we planned to spend the evening togeth... well, couldn't you make an exception?

He's come such a distance.

>> Sergeant: Sorry, sir.

But we're not allowed to issue passes this late, to any trainee.

How did you test subjects make out?

>> We gave our all to science.

>> There's no place like Nome.

>> Huh.

McBain here won the endurance record.

She stayed in longer than all of us.

>> Well.

Well done, McBain.

Girls, we're scheduled to go out on the rifle range at 1500 on Monday.

As you know, the actual firing is voluntary.

>> Okay, Sergeant.

You can put me down.

>> Oh me too.

>> Me too.

>> Me too.

>> Oh, fine.

Fine, all of you.

Excluding McBain?

>> Including McBain.

>> Okay.

You have one minute till lights out, hurry up.

>> Okay, come on, Jo.

Come on.

>> Good girl.

Now, if you can stay just as sweet as you can be for the next three weeks.

>> Mm, then I must have action.

>> Oh honey, you're gonna get it.

>> Sack time, McBain!

Your organza scarves are very chic, McBain.

>> Both: But not regulation.

>> Well, Colonel, I didn't intend to take up your whole day.

But I'm sure you got a great deal out of it.

>> Oh, I did.

I did.

You see, I'm very scientific minded myself.

>> Oh, I didn't know that.

>> Oh, yes, yes.

MIT, four years.

I majored in metallurgy.

>> Well that's very interesting.

>> Still carry on a few experiments myself.

>> Well, well.

>> Now, take this ignition key, for instance.

You wouldn't think that such a tough alloy as this, when submitted to a low temperature would prove brittle, would you?

Yet, it does.

Let me show you.

All in the interest of science, McBain.

And yet there's so many things that are unexplained.

(chuckles) Goodnight, experts!

>> Well, it's only about four miles down here at the quartermaster corps, country boy.

You want I should hut ye, Dixie style?

Ten hut!

Get ready!

Hey!

Move forward!

Your left two, three, four.

To your left, right, left.

>> Sergeant: Ready on the left?

Ready on the right?

Ready on the firing line?

Commence firing.

(gunshots popping) Cease firing!

(rifles clicking) >> What's the matter, McBain?

>> Huh?

>> Keep that weapon pointed towards the target.

>> Well, it's nothing.

It's just that I, I had no idea there'd be so much noise.

>> You want to quit?

>> Oh, when I'm having so much fun?

>> Sergeant: Ready on the left?

Ready on the right?

>> This I had to see to believe.

>> Ready on the firing line?

Get those hands down.

>> She really went through with it.

>> Sergeant: Commence firing.

(gunshots popping) >> Jo!

I hit a bullseye!

>> Great.

Great.

>> I'm going to have to frisk her before I take her out again.

>> It's nice work, if you can get it.

(soldier laughing) >> Hey, hey, hey!

(horn honking) >> Keep that weapon pointed towards the target.

(gunshots popping) >> To the lab, James.

>> Yeah.

>> I may need my armored vest.

(gunshots popping) (women coughing) >> All right, once more.

Just to remind you it's gas, not Chanel No.

5.

(women coughing) (women gasping) >> Soldier: Hey!

>> Seven weeks, and she's still on her feet.

>> Hey, Blondie!

Don't sit in any poison ivy!

>> Ooh.

Are you and Colonel Fairchild going dancing in this?

>> We sure are.

What are you going to do in that?

>> Wash my hair.

>> Clara, put my pass in my bag please.

>> All right.

But you get in on time tonight.

You've been a good girl for six whole days.

You just be good for another two weeks.

And then when we graduate, maybe you and the Colonel, we could all be assigned to Paris together.

Then I could do my underground work there.

Except I can't speak French.

>> Oh, well, you wouldn't have to say much.

Why don't we make it a foursome and bring your singing sergeant, huh?

>> I don't trust him.

>> No?

>> You know, in our last discussion group together, nobody turned up but him.

>> Voila.

I dread to ask.

But what did you talk about?

>> Well, part of the time, you and that ex husband of yours.

>> Oh?

>> Told the Sergeant you had another date with the Colonel tonight.

>> You didn't.

(horn honks) You did.

>> Soldier: Up you go.

Come on, Iris.

That's a girl.

(women chattering) >> Do you supposed they're looking for us?

>> Well, they can't pull that good-of-the-service stuff on me.

>> Move along!

>> Isn't this fun?

>> Oh, just great.

You and that yak-yak-yakking of yours.

When are you gonna start trying for our side?

>> Sergeant: Over you go!

>> How long is this scientific marathon going to last?

>> Until we determine the density of the cement and ensure a perfect lamination of the layers of cloth.

But if you want to talk to her... Oh, Colonel?

I think this is just your size.

Let me have the flower.

I'll keep it fresh for you.

(rain pattering) >> Recruit: Here goes nothing!

>> Recruit: Hey, just like the funhouse at Coney Island.

>> Recruit: Hey, what's this?

>> Recruit: It's dark in here.

>> Sky: Hey, Jo!

Jo!

>> Hi!

>> Look at me!

No, don't look at me!

>> What are you doing in there?

>> I'm trying to get out!

>> Oh.

I thought you had a date.

>> I have a pass!

I had a pass.

(women squabbling) >> Recruit: Come on, come on.

This isn't the tunnel of love.

Get moving!

>> Remember what I told you?

Don't let this get you down.

>> I'll try to remember that.

>> All right, McBain, on your feet!

>> Jo: Now what do we do?

>> I feel like (inaudible).

>> Cut the rain.

Kill the rain!

Come on, pick it up.

That's right, up to task with you.

>> Oh, that's fine, Sergeant.

Now, line them up.

Huh?

>> Yes, sir.

All right, girls.

Line right up along here please.

Oh, and undo your jackets.

>> Okay, Sergeant.

They're all yours now.

We'll locate and record the damp areas.

>> Well, yes sir.

Oh, no, no.

Here's where we separate the men from the boys.

You fellows work on down there.

Let's see what's under the hood.

(Clara laughing) >> It tickle.

>> Excuse me.

(Clara giggles) >> Unzip please.

Raise your arms.

Hmm, very good.

Very good.

Let's see the back.

Not so bad.

>> You used to think it was perfect.

>> Damp there.

All the way through?

>> To the core.

>> Well, it's better than I expected.

All in the line of duty.

>> Isn't that enough?

>> More than enough.

You ought to watch that army food.

You've been very patient, Colonel.

Thank you, one.

>> Well, it's 1500.

You've still got time to leave the base.

>> Back into the coats, girls!

Next we test the gloves!

(rain pattering) >> All right girls, follow me.

♪ Through the march, through the rain ♪ ♪ We are at it once again ♪ And the WACies go marching along ♪ >> All right, roll over!

♪ Column left, column right, we never get it right ♪ ♪ And the WACies got marching along ♪ ♪ Hut, hut, hut ♪ We're never in a rut Come on, you slacker!

Come on, McBain!

Right through the basket, girls.

Right on now!

(rain pattering) >> Ow!

Get me out of here.

>> Corporal!

>> Corporal!

>> Kill the rain!

>> Kill the rain!

(women grumbling) >> Recruit: Here, I'll help you.

Give me your arm.

>> Give me your hand.

>> Help me.

>> You and your experiments.

You've already done enough.

>> So keep your hands off of her.

>> Come on, baby.

>> Jo: Ow.

(Jo grunting) It's all right.

Take your hands off me!

>> Both: Do you feel all right?

>> Right as rain.

I haven't earned the Congressional Medal of Honor.

But I do want that pass that's coming to me.

>> You know I can't issue a pass after 1800.

I'm sorry.

>> Oh, you're always sorry.

And you'll be sorry, too, with that smug, contemptible, misplaced sense of humor of yours.

>> Take her to the car.

>> Oh, no you don't!

I demand to see someone in charge right here and now.

>> What's the matter, McBain?

Are you sick?

>> Of everything.

I'm up to here with your meaningless rules and regulations.

You've got to do this before 0800.

And you can't do that after 0900.

>> Supposed we talk about it tomorrow?

>> Yes.

I think that would be better.

>> Well, you want to know what I think?

I think I made the mistake of my life when I lifted my right hand.

I've marched myself till my feet are two sizes larger.

I ground 806 hamburgers and gassed myself to eternity and back, only to be singled out for unfair treatment.

You wanted to make something of me.

Well, you have!

A nervous wreck!

>> All right, let's go, McBain.

>> I don't want to be a Captain!

Or a Major!

Or a Colonel!

Or a General with two stars!

>> Do you swear to tell the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth so help you God?

>> I do.

>> Be seated, Captain.

As Private Josephine McBain's commanding officer, you've requested this board to consider her separation from the service.

Will you please give us the facts?

>> Well, unfortunately, Private McBain's outbursts are characteristic.

And there's a slim chance of her ever being able to accept discipline.

>> For a while she did seem to be making an effort.

I feel she should be allowed to graduate.

>> Women like McBain can do us great harm.

>> We, the undersigned of Company B, first floor, respectfully request that Private McBain be allowed to graduate with us.

>> You formed a close, personal friendship with Private McBain.

So isn't your testimony a little biased?

>> Oh, yes, ma'am.

>> WAC Officer: Excused.

>> Oh, ma'am, I know she's sorry for what she said.

She always mops under her bed.

And a woman like that, doing her own washing.

That makes you stop and think.

Doesn't it?

>> Yes.

Thank you, Private Schneiderman, excused.

>> Well, and then we got divorced.

Although her father, the senator, was on my side.

And that night, when I came back, on the staircase he heard us quarreling.

And the next thing you know, he tricked her into joining the army, hoping that you'd straighten her out.

And that's just what you were doing when I came along with my misguided sense of humor and started to needle her.

Have I left anything out?

>> Just the Japanese beetles.

>> Mr. McBain, this is not a court of domestic relations.

And unless you have some pertinent testimony- >> Just this.

I witnessed enough of her training and seen her make a sincere effort to know that I saw the girl I used to know on that island.

Therefore, in conclusion, it is my opinion she'll be a good soldier.

>> Thank you, Mr.McBain.

We appreciate your coming.

Private McBain, have you anything to say in your own behalf?

>> The effort that Andrew, uh, Mr. McBain, referred to was an effort.

But it wasn't sincere.

It was only a selfish means of joining someone in Paris.

I never seriously considered an army career.

I'm not officer material.

I'm not even private material.

And contrary to Mr. McBain's opinions, I wouldn't make a good soldier.

I'm out.

>> Jo!

>> You Private Jo McBain?

Colonel Fairchild's on the phone for you.

>> Oh, thank you.

>> Maybe your colonel friend, he'll think of something.

Well, did he think of something?

>> He sure did.

We're going to be married day after tomorrow.

>> Oh, Jo.

Oh, that's wonderful.

What am I going to do without you?

>> Oh, now, Clara.

(triumphant music) >> Oh, the parade, the guidon!

Come on, we've got to win it.

>> No, no, no.

You've got to win it.

I've got to pack.

♪ If the way is rough ♪ And the odds are tough ♪ And the need is for all out power ♪ ♪ And if everyday ♪ Brings a challenge our way ♪ No matter what the score ♪ Count the mission won ♪ For the job will be done ♪ By the Women's Army Corps (triumphant marching music) >> Sergeant: On right!

>> Announcer: The winner of the Green Guidon is B Company.

(drums rolling) >> Sergeant: Ladies, halt!

Left, face.

You girls did a wonderful job.

Fall out.

(women cheering) >> Oh, Jo!

It waves and it's green.

>> Oh, Schneiderman, I'm mighty proud of you.

>> That doesn't belong to you personally.

It goes into the day room.

>> Oh, I know, Sergeant.

But can't we take it to the party?

Please?

>> Oh, I think it'll be all right.

I'll ask Captain Murchinson.

>> Gee, you've got to go, Jo.

>> No thanks, Clara.

I'd rather not.

>> Oh, don't be like that.

It's also my engagement party.

>> Noisy?

The singing Sergeant?

Well, when did that happen?

>> Oh, well, he doesn't know about it yet.

>> He, he doesn't know about it?

>> Yet.

He doesn't know about it yet.

(bright jazz music) >> I didn't think she'd come.

>> Yeah, it's pretty rough.

Clara persuaded her.

After all, it is their last night together.

And ours.

Oh, we got to live and love.

What's the matter?

>> Well, this thing's alive.

>> Well, let's kill it.

>> All right.

>> Ah.

I've just got to say goodbye to Clara.

(bright jazz music continues) >> Here we are.

Some relish?

>> Not bad.

>> Oh, hello.

>> Matter of fact, very good.

The WAC must have excellent cooking teachers.

>> Oh, they do.

>> But I learned this technique from a civilian expert.

They're not too small?

>> Oh no, just right.

Exactly.

You got the knack finally, huh?

You mixed the onion- >> Before I added the salt and pepper.

>> Good girl.

>> This is our last dance together.

Doesn't it make you fell all choked up inside?

>> Well, sure.

Except this is the first time we've ever danced together.

>> Say, my assistants seem to have their hands full.

So I guess I'll have to take you, one.

>> Taking more notes this time?

>> No, I'll rely on my memory this time.

>> Oh, but look, my hot stove.

I've been slaving over it.

>> Don't worry about it.

>> I can't- >> Come on.

>> I'll carry on.

You two carry on.

(gentle jazz music) >> We're rubbing elbows with some very important elbows, you know, tonight.

>> Oh, yes.

Yes.

Everybody that is anybody is here.

There's Gussie Gustafson of the Wisconsin Cheese Set.

>> Oh yeah.

>> Her father just switched to electric milkers, you know?

>> No, no, I didn't know.

>> You mean that you've really been assigned to intelligence?

>> Yes.

As a driver.

>> Aw, don't be discouraged, honey.

Why, you'll be driving so many intelligent people that you're bound to pick up lots of pointers.

>> Oh, Sergeant, you're so encouraging.

I don't know what I'll ever do without you?

Teaching me the phonetic alphabet and all.

Oh, I've memorized up to H, how.

And I, item.

What's next?

>> J, jee, L, love.

>> Oh, Sergeant.

You say that with such feeling.

Well, good luck and goodbye.

I'm afraid I must be going.

>> Going?

Going where?

Where, where are you assigned to?

>> Oh, it's too top secret to tell.

And besides, we'll be worlds apart.

>> Oh, Clara Schneiderman... >> Yes?

>> Would you... >> Yes?

>> Could you... >> Yes.

Two could be as cheap as one?

>> And his maiden aunt- >> What did she do?

She didn't!

>> She wore a wig and he never knew it!

(Jo laughing) >> Well, now, about that notorious McBain woman.

>> What about her?

>> Well, she'd like to thank you for what you did this afternoon.

>> Well, Mr. McBain is very sorry he put his big foot into everything.

Jo, I didn't want them to shoot you at sunrise without knowing the truth.

>> Well, it might've been simpler if they did.

>> You know, that's one of the most becoming things you've ever worn.

>> Well, they're taking it back in the morning.

I wonder what I'm doing here anyway.

I was told this was also Clara's engagement party.

>> Well, let's ask Clara.

She might know.

Hey, anybody engaged?

>> Yes!

We are!

>> Oh, Clara.

What does the Sergeant have to say about it?

>> Well, everything went black.

(all laughing) Well, say, now that we no longer have any secrets from each other, where are you assigned to?

>> Fort Lee, Virginia.

>> I've been had!

>> That'll teach you to never wave at a WAC!

>> Oh, will you break the news, son, rather than give it to the society column?

>> All right, sure.

Quiet.

Will you stop the music?

Give me one of those, uh... (dramatic music) I don't know much about that dame, the goddess Athena, who founded your order.

But it is written that she was very adept in both the arts of war and peace.

So it follows that a WAC should make a good wife.

A wife who can even handle a Sergeant in the Quartermaster Corps.

So let us lift our cups to the forthcoming union.

And incidentally, it's unions like this that keep our union in business.

I give you Clara Schneiderman and Norbert- >> Norbert?

>> I said Norbert Jackson, yes.

(guests applauding) >> Darling, and he chased you till you finally caught him.

>> Yeah.

>> Congratulations.

>> Hey, come on.

I need help.

>> Hey, don't I get kissed?

>> Congratulations.

>> Oh, thank you.

>> What can I do?

>> You ask me, Fort Lee's most celebrated hostess?

Put the glasses on the tray.

This is a wine called champagne.

People drink it at weddings, christenings, and such occasions as this.

Save the last two for us.

>> Here, boss, you toast us with mine.

>> All right, I'll do that.

To the best of happiness and everything.

(guests chattering lively) >> Take this, will you?

>> Mm-hmm.

(upbeat jazz music) >> The tavern's closing, girls!

>> All: Aww!

>> We want no shadows tomorrow when you get those diplomas.

(all laughing) >> Good luck in Korea, boss!

>> You were right, Andy.

The circus is over.

I fell right off that trapeze, flat on my face.

Poor Sky.

He'll have to pick up the pieces.

>> He will.

In spite of cold and rain and treadmills and other obstacles, we're still friends?

>> Still friends.

Incidentally, are you usually that thorough about examining the damp areas?

>> All depends.

>> Oh.

>> Wasn't fair to the Colonel.

I'm sorry.

None of it was.

>> That's for sure.

>> I shouldn't have hiked you all the way to Point Barrow.

My sadistic streak, but I guess I don't have to tell you about that.

>> Or my cold feet.

>> Well, I wanted them to see you at your worst.

>> Well you succeeded.

(both chuckling) >> Eh, no-man's land.

>> End of the line.

Well, Mr. McBain, it was a right, nice party.

>> And not a politician in the house.

>> As a matter of fact, I can't remember when I enjoyed one more.

>> Neither can I.

>> Now, about that Korea business.

>> Yes?

>> Don't you have too much confidence in that bulletproof camisole you're always trying to perfect.

>> Well, it sounds braver than it is.

I'm really going over just to investigate the Japanese beetle situation.

>> If you're referring to our old elm tree, I'm afraid it's past saving.

>> I don't know.

Science does wonderful things these days.

>> Well, happy journey.

Happy researching.

I hope I didn't leave too many scars.

>> Vice versa.

Good luck to the Colonel, and the colonel's lady.

(tender music) >> Well, you're, you're all over lipstick.

Hold this, will you?

It's the wrong shade.

Should be darker.

You always were messy about it.

(tender music crescendos) (tender music fades) (triumphant marching music) >> I've been in the service now for about 17 months.

And I figured on... Honey, don't you want to hear about it?

>> Oh yes.

Yes, of course, Sky.

>> You know, Prittchard, Laymor, and Fitz?

>> Oh, are they on general staff?

>> Oh, dear, no jokes please.

And will you forget about the Army?

Well, anyway, they're the second biggest agency in the country.

>> Oh.

>> I can make them the biggest.

(triumphant music continues) So I penetrated him to the tune of 55 grand per annum.

>> Oh, Sky, that is wonderful.

That's E Company, coming back from field training.

>> It means New York, London, Paris in the spring.

But my home base will be Washington, D.C. We can open a house and live there.

I've alerted your secretary, who's got the dust sheets off the furniture.

And I've already... We're essentially getting the baby food contract.

So you see, darling, the hand that holds the cocktail glass can be mightier than the sword.

(triumphant music continues) >> Sky, wait.

Here comes a batch of new recruits.

>> Sky: Hey, Jo!

Jo!

>> Hey, slow down!

>> Where are you going?

>> Wait a minute!

Hey, wait for me, please!

>> Hey, Jo!

Hey, Jo!

>> You're kind of late, honey child.

>> Where you from?

>> I'm from Washington.

>> Oh, hello.

>> Mary Brill.

>> How are you?

>> Paige Goldberg.

>> Hello, Paige.

>> We're all going to be generals.

>> What are you going to be?

>> Anything they'll let me be.

Maybe I can get a free ride to Korea.

(triumphant orchestral music) Fort Wayne.

Hey, it's Kris and Justin, and we're still down here in the basement.

We hope you enjoyed.

Never Wave at a WAC just as much as we did.

Justin, can you think of anything else that we need to let folks in on?

Well, we should probably let people know that they can find out more info about Subterranean Cinema and upcoming movies on our website, PBSFortWayne.org and I post videos and upcoming program info on Facebook and Instagram and Owen posts them on YouTube.

Yeah.

So any idea what next week's movie will be, Kris?

Oh, it just so happens that I do.

Up next time we have Made for Each Other starring Jimmy Stewart and Fort Wayne's own Carole Lombard.

And be sure to tune in next time to see who's in the chair next to me.

It could be anyone.

You just never know.

And we hope to see you next time on Subterranean Cinema only on PBS Fort Wayne.