At War44-02-2237Assignment Usa

Words at war tonight presents assignment USA. All right, all right. And you're glad.

Well, this is a train you had to make. Her name is Selden Menafi, you're a reporter. You're making a 15,000-mile pilgrimage to America, trying to picture honestly and dispassionately what is happening in this native land of yours.

And what do you see? Plenty. You're soon aware that all of America is at war. It's not up to its neck, then well above its knees. And that's true of every region from Maine to San Diego and from Seattle to Palacco, Florida.

You swelled with pride at every evidence of an America armored against adversity. But your heart sinks at every crack that's visible in that armor, and there are cracks. You know if you reveal them you're going to make enemies.

But you know too that you'd hurt the many if you tried to save the few. And so would renew determination to keep an open mind and to tell the truth no matter whom it hurts, you speed onward to finish your wartime assignment—assignment USA.

This is another of the Words at War programs presented by the National Broadcasting Company in cooperation with the Council on Books in War Time. Tonight's script written by Richard McDonough is based on one of the most talked about books of recent months.

Selden Menefie's Assignment USA. Later on in the program, Mr. Menefie himself will speak to you. This is your assignment. This is America. And as you travel its length and breadth, your mind is a jumble of impression.

A mural of scenes reflecting the spirit of a nation girded for war. Look at that old Vermont farmer, Stupt and Ben, came out of retirement at the age of 75, and now he's back in the field.