Bomber Boys: Preserving the Legacy of WWII Through the Lens of John Slemp
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Release Date: 01/12/2025
“I Didn’t Want to Miss Being Part of History” — The Story of Frank Wal, Jr.
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
In this powerful, first-person interview, 97-year-old World War II veteran Frank Wal, Jr. reflects on his life, service, and the events that shaped a generation. From the hardship of losing his mother at age eight, to enlisting in the U.S. Navy at just 17, Frank takes us through his remarkable journey—from radar duty aboard LSD-25 to witnessing the aftermath of kamikaze attacks and passing the USS Indianapolis just before its fateful sinking. Frank shares his firsthand memories of Okinawa, the atomic bomb’s impact on Japan, the occupation of Tokyo, and even a surprise encounter with...
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Ski, Climb, Fight: A Conversation with 10th Mountain Division Author, Dr. Lance Blyth
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
They weren’t like other soldiers. While others were marching or jumping into battle, they skied to war. Carried rifles and ropes. Climbed cliffs in the dark. Slept in snow. And when the time came, they scaled mountains most thought were impossible to negotiate. In our latest Front to the Films episode, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.) sat down with Lance Blyth, a quiet-spoken historian who’s spent years tracing the footsteps of the 10th Mountain Division. What came from their conversation wasn’t just a military history—it was a reminder of what it means to endure, to adapt, and to...
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“Placid Lassie” and the Power of Flight: A Conversation with Eric Zipkin
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
When a conversation with a business leader and pilot—who also happens to be the son of a World War II veteran—places you squarely in the cockpit of history, you're in for a very unique and fascinating journey. Our latest episode of Front to the Films, the official podcast of The World War II Foundation, offers exactly that. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), this conversation with Eric Zipkin—Co-Founder of the Tunison Foundation—is more than just an exploration of a historic aircraft. It’s about memory, purpose, and the enduring legacy of those who took to the skies in...
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From Iwo Jima to a Life of Purpose: A Conversation with Dr. Richard Jessor
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Some interviews make you think. Some make you feel. And every now and then, one does both in a way that stays with you long after the conversation ends. My recent discussion with Dr. Richard "Dick" Jessor was one of those rare moments. At 100 years old, Dr. Jessor sat across from me—sharp, reflective, and filled with the kind of perspective that only comes from a century of living with purpose. He has witnessed war, shaped the field of behavioral science, and spent a lifetime exploring what it means to live meaningfully. And in our conversation, he shared those hard-earned lessons in a way...
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An Exclusive Conversation with Colonel (Ret.) Gregory Fontenot
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Join us for a powerful and moving episode of Front to the Films, as host Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.) sits down with historian, author, and Colonel Gregory Fontenot (USA, Ret.). This episode marks the conclusion of the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most critical and epic battles of World War II, and we could not ask for a better historian and storyteller to commemorate this momentous occasion. Greg’s extensive research and firsthand military experience bring to life the incredible stories of leadership, resilience, and innovation displayed during this...
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Bomber Boys: Preserving the Legacy of WWII Through the Lens of John Slemp
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
In our latest episode of Front to the Films, we had the honor of hosting John Slemp, a distinguished photographer, author, and veteran, whose work shines a light on the stories of World War II through an unexpected yet deeply meaningful lens. His book, Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art, is a visual masterpiece that celebrates the airmen of World War II by showcasing the artistry and stories behind their iconic flight jackets. Through this engaging conversation with our host, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), John takes us behind the scenes of his groundbreaking project, sharing...
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Front to the Films: An Exclusive Interview with Battle of the Bulge Veteran Harry Miller
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
As we mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, it's a privilege to share an impromptu interview with Harry Miller, a veteran who served as a tank crewman in the 740th Tank Battalion during this pivotal World War II conflict. Harry Miller's Background Born in Ohio during the Great Depression, Harry Miller enlisted in the Enlisted Reserve Corps at 15 by claiming he was 18. He later joined the Army, receiving basic training at Fort Knox, Kentucky, and advanced training at Fort Ord, California, with an amphibious tank unit. In November 1944, Miller arrived in Europe and was assigned...
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Front to the Films: Wounded Tiger: The Untold Journey of Pearl Harbor's Lead Pilot
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
This episode of Front to the Films features T. Martin Bennett, author of , hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.). The discussion explores the extraordinary story of Mitsuo Fuchida, the Japanese pilot who led the attack on Pearl Harbor, and his profound transformation after the war. T. Martin Bennett, Author of Bennett brings Fuchida’s journey to life, recounting how the former military leader transitions from a celebrated warrior to an advocate for peace. Central to this transformation are his unexpected connections to Jacob DeShazer, an American POW who endures unimaginable...
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Front to the Films: An Inside Look at the Upcoming Film Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, with Georges Strachan-Heyes
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
The Front to the Films podcast is thrilled to announce our latest episode featuring a conversation with Georges Strachan-Heyes, retired British Army officer and Director of Operations for the UK and NATO at Onebrief. In this episode, hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), Georges brings his exceptional insights in discussing The World War II Foundation's newest documentary, Dad’s Secret War: France 1944. This gripping documentary, based on Scholars of Mayhem by Daniel C. Guiet and Timothy K. Smith, chronicles the daring World War II missions of Jean Claude Guiet, who served with...
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Front to the Films: Historians John McManus and Chris Kolakowski Discuss Operation Market Garden the 80th Anniversary
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Operation Market Garden: A Special Episode of Front to the Films In honor of the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, we are thrilled to release a special episode of Front to the Films. This monumental military operation, which commenced on September 17, 1944, is remembered for its bold ambition, immense sacrifice, and pivotal role in World War II history. Our latest podcast delves deep into the operation's significance, the lasting lessons it offers, and its portrayal in the classic war film A Bridge Too Far. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA...
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In our latest episode of Front to the Films, we had the honor of hosting John Slemp, a distinguished photographer, author, and veteran, whose work shines a light on the stories of World War II through an unexpected yet deeply meaningful lens. His book, Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art, is a visual masterpiece that celebrates the airmen of World War II by showcasing the artistry and stories behind their iconic flight jackets.
Through this engaging conversation with our host, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), John takes us behind the scenes of his groundbreaking project, sharing his passion for history, the collaborative journey with world-class museums, and the inspiration he draws from his personal connection to the Greatest Generation.
Key Takeaways from the Episode
The Creation of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art
John shared the motivation behind his book, which started with a desire to honor the men and women of World War II in a way that would resonate with younger generations. By focusing on flight jacket art, he uncovered a unique way to tell their stories—through symbols of identity, camaraderie, and bravery.
Collaborating with Prestigious Institutions
To bring his vision to life, John worked with renowned institutions, including the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, the 390th Memorial Museum, and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. These partnerships provided access to rare artifacts and allowed John to capture the authenticity and emotional depth of these historical treasures.
The Stories Behind the Art
Each jacket featured in the book tells a story—of missions flown, comrades lost, and the enduring spirit of those who served. John revealed some of the most compelling stories he uncovered during his research, offering listeners a glimpse into the personal lives of the airmen and their families.
Education and Inspiration for Future Generations
John’s work is about preserving history through his exceptional photography—but it’s also about using it to inspire and educate. Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art serves as a powerful teaching tool for schools and museums, connecting young people to the values and sacrifices of the Greatest Generation.
Looking to the Future
During the podcast, John hinted at exciting future projects, including a potential documentary based on the extensive research and stories gathered for the book. His commitment to ensuring these stories are never forgotten continues to drive his work.
Why This Episode Matters
John Slemp’s work center's around the importance of preserving the personal stories of World War II. By focusing on something as unique as flight jacket art, he brings history to life in a way that is both accessible and deeply moving. This episode of Front to the Films reminds us that history is much more than accounts of battles—it’s about people, their experiences, and the lessons they leave behind for us.
Get Your Copy of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art
Experience the artistry and history for yourself. Order your copy of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art today and delve into the personal stories of the airmen who helped shape the outcome of World War II.
If you're visiting our International Museum of World War II (344 Main St, South Kingstown, RI 02879), we may still have some copies there for you to look at and purchase!
Listen Now
Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with John Slemp. Tune in to the full episode and discover how one man is using his talent and passion to ensure the stories of the Greatest Generation endure.
Have thoughts about the episode? Join the conversation in the comments or share your reflections on social media using #FrontToTheFilms. Let’s keep these stories alive, together.
