Description
Object description
United States Army Air Force training film produced during the Second World War, focusing on how to safely remove wounded crew from aircraft returning from bombing raids.
Content description
Reel one: Film opens with aerial views of a squadron of B-17 bombers in flight. Scenes onboard B-17 "in the air" [obviously filmed on the ground] with injured aircrew being given first aid by their crew mates, making them as comfortable as possible. On returning safely to base the injured crew are removed too quickly from the aircraft by the ground crew, worsening the injuries of one of the crew members.
Content description
Aircrew have a duty of care to their fellow crew members and on this occasion the crew neglected to notify the medical crew back at base that they were returning with injured personnel onboard, and should have released a flare as they approached so that an ambulance could have been immediately dispatched to the aircraft to meet the crew when they taxied in. If an alert is issued the medical team can then board the aircraft and assess the casualties before they are remove from the aircraft - "remember you want to save lives not time".
Content description
A B-25 bomber is seen in the air and has casualties onboard. On returning to base the casualties are removed carefully through the rear hatch of the aircraft.
Content description
Reel two: A B-24 bomber returns to base with casualties onboard. Makeshift stretchers are made using a blanket but parachutes or even flying jackets can be used. Reminder of the general rules of casualty evacuation - aircraft designed to inflict damage on the enemy. The removal of each injured crew member presents its own set of problems. Remember to assess the situation - what the injuries are, where best to remove the casualties from, look for additional injuries, do not rush and use good judgement.
Physical description
35mm