Mobilizing For DefenseChapter 17-1

Americans Join The War Effort

• The Japanese attack on Pearl Harbor was an effort to force the U.S. back into an isolationist mode

• Instead the attack pushed the U.S. into a state of rage as the cry “Remember Pearl Harbor” became the rallying point

Selective Service And The GI

• After the strike at Pearl some 5 million men would volunteer

• The Selective Service System would also be expanded drawing in another 10 million

• Once enlisted the men would be sent for an eight week training program

Expanding The Military

• The needs of the military were so great that Army Chief of Staff General George Marshall pushed for the formation of the Women’s Auxiliary Corps (WAAC)

• Under this program women would serve in noncombat positions

• By 1943 thousands of women had enlisted

• Once again when given the call & opportunity America’s women stepped to serve their country with great distinction & honor

• Women of the WAC served as nurses, ambulance drivers, radio operators, electricians, & even pilots

Recruiting & Discrimination

• For many minorities