The Big Picture - The Army Nurse: Soldier of Mercy is a documentary film that tells the story of the dedicated and courageous nurses who served in the United States Army during World War II. The film focuses on the experiences of one particular nurse, Lieutenant Colonel Ruth L. Gantt, who served in both the European and Pacific theaters during the war.
The film begins by introducing the viewer to Gantt, a soft-spoken and humble woman who joined the Army Nurse Corps in 1941. From there, it takes the viewer on a journey through her experiences in the war, starting with her deployment to England in 1942. Through a combination of archival footage, reenactments, and interviews with Gantt and other nurses who served with her, the film paints a vivid picture of what it was like to be a nurse on the front lines.
One of the most striking things about the film is the sheer bravery of the nurses who served during the war. Gantt and her fellow nurses were exposed to unimaginable horrors on a daily basis, from treating soldiers with horrific injuries to being subjected to air raids and other forms of violence themselves. Despite this, they remained steadfast in their commitment to their patients and to their country.
Another theme that runs throughout the film is the sexism and racism that Gantt and other African American nurses faced during their service. Despite the fact that they were skilled and dedicated professionals, they were often treated as second-class citizens and relegated to menial tasks. Gantt herself was initially rejected from the Army Nurse Corps due to the color of her skin, and even once she was accepted she was often given inferior assignments compared to white nurses.
Despite these challenges, Gantt and the other nurses shown in the film refused to be discouraged. They worked tirelessly to provide the best possible care to their patients, regardless of the obstacles in their way. Their efforts did not go unnoticed; Gantt was eventually promoted to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel, and was awarded the Legion of Merit for her service.
Overall, The Big Picture - The Army Nurse: Soldier of Mercy is a moving tribute to the brave men and women who served in the Army Nurse Corps during World War II. Through its depiction of a single nurse's experiences, it highlights the incredible dedication, resilience, and fortitude of these unsung heroes, and reminds us all of the sacrifices that were made in the name of freedom.
