Gifts for Gitmo (1962)

Duration: 17:12

Year Published: 1962

Sound: sound

Description: In October 1962, Cold War tensions between the United States and Soviet Union escalated into a 13-day political and military standoff known as the Cuban Missile Crisis. Following the conflict’s resolution, KPRC talk radio hosts Tim Nolan and Bob Byron proposed a community project in support of US personnel stationed at the Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba. Veterans service organizations like the Navy League and American Legion soon joined the cause, collecting Christmas gifts to deliver to the military base. On December 19, a Navy transport plane, dubbed the “Gitmo Special,” flew from Ellington Air Force Base in Houston to Guantanamo Bay Naval Base in Cuba. Aboard were a large, white Christmas tree and 1,700 pounds of wrapped presents. This special broadcast for Houston’s KPRC-TV chronicles the “Gifts for Gitmo” project. It also gives a general introduction to the naval base and its operations. To show their appreciation, the servicemen sing “Silent Night” for the film crew. Sailors from Texas also deliver personal messages of thanks.