Press Conference, Pt. 2

One more from “Press Conference” along with the rest from the storycard:

Gene stood poised nd proud between the USO sign and the American flag. She didn’t use notes, but instead spoke directly from the heart, making a heartfelt appeal to the American people to help in the war effort. “We are the soldiers without guns,” she said to the rapt audience. “Your contributions, your sacrifices, both large and small, are just as vital to winning this war as the soldiers fighting on the front lines. Do your part, and together we’ll bring our boys home victorious.” As one, the press corps surged to their feet and cheered. And Gene Marshall’s name was proudly added to the growing list of Hollywood stars fighting their fight on the front lines.”

To see more Gene Marshall photos, visit my regular website.

Press Conference

Dolly Cipolla designed this circa 1944 outfit that Gene wore when announcing her upcoming USO tour. From the storycard:

When Monolithic Studios was asked to do their part for the war effort and temporarily release several stars from their contracts to tour with the USO Camp Shows, Gene Marshall’s name was at the top of the list. People were still singing the catchy tunes from her movie “Sea Spree,” that made Gene’s reputation as “Our All-American Girl.” And GIs were adoring her innocently provocative pin-up that had just been released. The publicity garnered from this tour would be sensational.

But for Gene, publicity was unimportant next to the opportunity to bring a little bit of home to the boys fighting on the front. That’s what she told the journalists crammed in the room where Monolithic was holding a press conference to announce the movie stars going overseas on the upcoming USO tour.

Stripes and simplicity...I had to get this one and so I did. More to come from the publicity photos and story card...stay tuned!

To see more Gene Marshall photos, visit my regular website.