The surprise attack on the U.S. Pacific Fleet at Pearl Harbor by the Imperial Japanese Army stands as the most infamous attack on American soil of the 20th Century and, save 9/11, perhaps all of American history. More importantly, it served as a tipping point that steeled American resolve and cemented the United States' commitment to an all-out effort in World War 2. History books are replete with specifics of how the events of December 7, 1941 changed the course of history. Words on a page, however, pale in comparison to an exclusive collection of vintage films that chronicle the events leading up to Pearl Harbor and America's involvement in the Second World War courtesy of RealMilitaryFlix.com.

Still in its infancy, RealMilitaryFlix.com has graduated from basic training and quickly secured its standing as the largest free on-line proprietor of rare military videos and military film footage. As such, it has become a modern-day archivist of American military history. Through its extensive World War 2 footage, it is an excellent resource for history buffs, military veterans, and military enthusiasts hoping to gain an up close and personal understanding of the war that saved Europe, shaped a nation, and defined what came to be known as the greatest generation.

Once top secret training films and uncensored combat footage from this period take visitors as close to the action as they could hope to come, and shine a light on the planning and execution of war efforts on both the Allied and Axis sides. Dig a little deeper and you'll find hidden gems including a film narrated by legendary actor and then Army Air Corps Officer Jimmy Stewart and used as a call to action for all Americans following Pearl Harbor. Or the stellar documentary "World at War," which chronicles the events leading up to Pearl Harbor and the Second World War as they happened. Rare, often forgotten pieces like these speak to the comprehensive archival scope and educational value of this website to its members.

The impact of Pearl Harbor on World War II and, in turn, the course of history cannot be overstated. Continued fascination with the Second World War and a renewed interest in the generation that fought it make these rarest of video artifacts a must-see.


John Corry is a former Combat Camera Officer in the US Air Force. With the permission of the US Department of Defense, Corry was able to collect hundreds of military films and videos.