Watch The Big Picture - The Sharper Sword and Stronger Shield

Experience the American Journey through our country's visual heritage in this historical recording provided by the National Archives of the United States. From the U.S. Army's "The Big Picture" television series, 1950-1975. MODERNIZATION OF ARMY SHOWN ON TV SERIES -- "The Sharper Sword and Stronger Shield" (TV-449) is an informational film which emphasizes the importance for the continual modernization of the Army for effective national defense. The film portrays the Army's efforts to forge "A Sharper Sword and Stronger Shield" to preserve the peace or win a future war. The presentation describes the pentagonal organization and structural flexibility of the modern Army, new tactical concepts, and technological advancements in weapons and equipment. The presentation then goes on to show the new type of Army weapons, both nuclear and conventional, and the latest developments in air and ground equipment. It describes their use in carrying out the major elements of the modern tactical concept--dispersion, firepower, mobility, communications and surveillance, and support. A simulated task force then demonstrates the employment of new combat techniques, weapons, and equipment.

This historical recording from the National Archives may contain variations in audio and video quality based on the limitations of the original source material.

The content summary for this video is adapted from an historical description provided by the government agency or donor at the time of production release.