The US Army Issued Ocarinas to Soldiers in World War II
The US Army's little-known practice of issuing plastic ocarinas to soldiers in WWII surfaces as a delightful historical nugget. This story captivated HN, revealing the military's dedication to troop morale through simple, accessible entertainment. It sparks nostalgia and debate around conscription and the surprising cultural footprint of a humble instrument.
The Lowdown
During World War II, with the nation united and rationing in full swing, the US government was deeply committed to supporting its troops, including their entertainment. Beyond the familiar USO, a lesser-known initiative involved distributing thousands of plastic ocarinas to soldiers.
- Instrument Choice: The ocarina was selected for its compact size, durability (being plastic), low cost, and exceptional ease of learning, making it ideal for wartime conditions.
- Advantages over Alternatives: Unlike wooden recorders, which were susceptible to moisture damage and predated plastic versions, the ocarina's plastic construction was robust. Its simple mouthpiece and fingering system made it far more approachable than a transverse flute.
- Cultural Relevance: The ocarina was not an obscure instrument; it held a place in popular culture, appearing in films like 'The Wizard of Oz' and Bing Crosby's 'Road' movies, giving it immediate recognition.
- Issued Models: Soldiers primarily received two types: the Gretsch Alto C 'sweet potato' ocarina and the linear Tonette. The Tonette was often considered superior for its sound quality and tunability.
- Learning System: Each instrument came with a 25-page instruction booklet. Both models featured simplified fingering for beginners, with optional holes that could be later hollowed out to expand the instrument's range as proficiency grew.
- Post-War Legacy: Many soldiers kept their ocarinas. While vintage Gretsch ocarinas are now collector's items, well-preserved Army-issued Tonettes are rarer and often boast a richer sound than their modern counterparts.
This fascinating historical detail highlights the military's comprehensive approach to soldier welfare, demonstrating how simple musical instruments played a crucial role in maintaining morale and providing a much-needed distraction from the realities of war.
The Gossip
Cinematic Connections
Commenters swiftly connected the article's revelation to the ocarina's appearance in popular culture, most notably Joey's ocarina in the classic WWII film 'Stalag 17'. This immediate recognition underscores the instrument's quiet but persistent presence in the cultural consciousness of the era.
Morale-Boosting Measures
The discussion expanded to the broader topic of military strategies for maintaining soldier morale during wartime, especially for draftees. Users drew parallels to other initiatives, such as the distribution of Armed Services Editions paperback books, highlighting the comprehensive efforts to provide diversions and comfort.
Conscription Conundrums
A spirited debate arose regarding the nature of the WWII draft. One commenter controversially likened it to 'forced labor or slavery,' while others argued that conscription is a historical societal practice and that soldiers, despite their lack of choice, were compensated—though one user humorously (and sarcastically) noted that payment often amounted to 'plastic ocarinas!'
Personal & Pedagogical Pipers
Many users shared personal anecdotes about encountering ocarinas, particularly the Tonette, either during childhood music education in elementary school or through owning modern versions. This highlights the instrument's enduring accessibility and its role in basic music pedagogy, making it a familiar, if often forgotten, part of many people's pasts.