History of VA in 100 Objects
Object 19: The Best Years of Our Lives Movie Poster
In 1946, Americans were adjusting to life in the immediate aftermath of World War II. Post-war concerns were varied. On November 21, 1946, "The Best Years of Our Lives" opened in movie theaters. The film was praised for its frank portrayal of the transition from military service to Veteran status as seen through the eyes of its three main characters returning to their hometown after the war. The movie poster displayed the cast in their roles.
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The Best Years of Our Lives Impact
When The Best Years of Our Lives premiered in November 1946, the nation was in transition. World War II was over but the process of demobilizing and discharging 16 million service members was still ongoing. The movie depicted the challenges Veterans faced reintegrating into civilian society and it was so powerful that VA leader General Omar Bradley had the movie shown to employees at the central office.
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