FIELD MARSHAL MONTGOMERY DISCUSSES THE ROLE OF SHAPE WITH CHESTER WILMOT OF THE BBC AT SHAPE HEADQUARTERS, HOTEL ASTORIA, PARIS, 19 APRIL 1951 [Allocated Title]
Title:FIELD MARSHAL MONTGOMERY DISCUSSES THE ROLE OF SHAPE WITH CHESTER WILMOT OF THE BBC AT SHAPE HEADQUARTERS, HOTEL ASTORIA, PARIS, 19 APRIL 1951 [Allocated Title]
Film Number:NAT 1011
Other titles:SHAPE FILM LIBRARY [Allocated Series Title]
Summary:Interview regarding the strength and character of forces under SHAPE (Supreme Headquarters Allied Powers Europe) control, at its inception.
Description:Following an audio introduction accompanying the slate, Field Marshal Montgomery answers questions put to him by Chester Wilmot on a number of topics regarding the military strength and character of forces under NATO control. Montgomery describes how SHAPE replaced the Western Union Defence Organization, building upon its work. Montgomery explains his own role in appraising the strength of forces of the NATO members in Europe. He stresses the importance of respecting national characteristics in the composition of these forces as opposed to a desire for uniformity. Conventional military forces are described as having ongoing relevance despite the development of atomic weaponry. Subsequent questions are answered directly to camera. Montgomery states that NATO forces can achieve their aim and have a great combined strength. However, this strength is dependent on a unity characterised by sacrifice and cooperation. The question and answer regarding national characteristics is then reshot from this new angle. The reel ends on Wilmot performing cut-away reactions.
Alternative Title:SHAPE FILM LIBRARY [Allocated Series Title]
