Naval recognition slides

Collection

Identifier: RHC-50

Staff Only

Collection Description

Collection consists of over 4000 35mm black and white slides of World War II naval vessels and aircraft in use by the United States, Great Britain, Japan, Germany, and the Soviet Union.

Dates

1943-1953

Creator

United States. Navy (Organization)

Access to Materials

Collection is open for research use. Materials may be accessed by request at Special Collections and University Archives in Seidman House. Materials do not circulate.

Publication Rights

For information on copyright or permissions for this collection, contact Grand Valley State University Special Collections.

Administrative History

The importance of training top-side battle-station personnel on board ship and all aircraft personnel in visual recognition of ships and aircraft became even more evident during World War II. Mistakes resulting in costly errors and loss of life led to an increased emphasis on recognition as a vital skill. In 1942 a Recognition School was established by the Navy at Ohio State University where the method of identification using slides was developed. In 1943 the school was taken over by the US Navy.

Extent

2.5 Linear feet (8 boxes)

Additional Description

Other Finding Aids

A database contianing detailed descriptions of the slides is available on site and by request.

Source of Acquisition

Acquired from Robert Beasecker in 2008, 2009, 2010, 2011, 2012, and 2013, and by University Libraries purchases.

Alternative Format Available

A portion of this collection has been digitized and is available electronically in our Digital Collection.

Subjects

Airplanes -- Recognition Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Military education Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Ships -- Recognition Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
Slides (Photography) Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
World War, 1939-1945 -- Aerial operations Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings
World War, 1939-1945 -- Naval operations Subject Source: Library of Congress Subject Headings