Launching Peto [and] Launching P.C. 1424 submarine chaser

Date

• April 30, 1942-June 19, 1943

Summary

• Silent color film documents two separate events: the side-launching of the U.S.S. Peto in Manitowoc, Wisconsin on April 30, 1942 and the launching of Patrol Craft Sweeper 1424 in Manitowoc on June 19, 1943. The Peto was the first of 28 submrines built by the Manitowoc Shipbuilding Company for the U.S. Navy during World War II. Included in this footage filmed during the launching ceremony at the company shipyards are views of the "Submariners" band, Navy and shipyard personnel, other dignitaries and guests, and workers emerging from the submarine after the launching. Following the Peto footage, an image of a Burger Boat Company guest pass introduces views of the launching of PCS 1424. Patrol Craft Sweeper 1424, also referred to as a sub chaser, was one of 43 vessels built in Manitowoc during World War II by the Burger Boat Company. PCS 1424 was promoted as "Manitowoc's own fighting ship" because the community had raised $500,000 in a special war bond sales campaign to "pay" for one of the Burger-built sub chasers. Because the Manitowoc Girl Scout Council had sold the most bonds of all local women's organizations, the Commissioner of Girl Scouts served as sponsor and christened the vessel. The ceremony was witnessed by the largest crowd ever at the Burger yards for a launching. The crowd, the Girl Scouts, and a special plaque recognizing the community's efforts are all shown in this footage from that ceremony. Total time: Aproximately 6 minutes.