The War at Sea

World War II With Tom Hanks

About the Episode

In 1940, with Hitler ascendent in Europe and Britain increasingly isolated, Prime Minister Churchill and President Roosevelt know that Britain’s ability to fight depends on American munitions and other supplies reaching the UK—but the Atlantic crossing, patrolled by German U-boats, is treacherous. American assistance leads Roosevelt into an ‘undeclared war’ with Germany…but when the fight finally comes to America’s shores, it’s from the east. Now engaged in a global war across two oceans, an embattled Roosevelt turns to his Navy to shift the balance against the might of the Japanese empire. Starting first at Coral Sea, aircraft carriers face off in a new kind of battle—where neither side ever sees the enemy. And near a tiny atoll called Midway, America’s young and inexperienced aviators will fight to the death for supremacy over the seas.  

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The National WWII Museum was proud to support HISTORY's work on this series through historical research, educational outreach, and archival footage, as well as on-site interviews with WWII veterans that will be featured as part of the network’s “Save Our History” initiative.


HEAR THEIR VOICES

Battle of Midway on the USS Yorktown

Combat cameraman William Roy recounts his firsthand experience documenting the USS Yorktown's intense struggle during the Battle of Midway.

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IN THE CLASSROOM

EDUCATIONAL RESOURCES

The National WWII Museum is a dynamic educational resource that engages and inspires students, teachers, and lifelong learners of all ages and backgrounds around the world. Explore distance-learning programs, curriculum guides, and classroom-ready digital content featuring Museum educators, primary source materials, and other resources. 

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December 4–8, 2026

Experience the Victory: 85th Anniversary of Pearl Harbor

Travel to The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to commemorate the 85th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor on a custom-curated educational journey. Honor the legacy of those who served, deepen your understanding of the events that shaped our world, and connect with history through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus and special events only for Experience the Victory travelers.

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SEE AMERICA'S NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM

Our institution explores the full story of the American experience in World War II through immersive exhibits, multimedia experiences, and an expansive collection of artifacts and personal accounts. Plan your visit to the top-rated attraction in New Orleans and be inspired by the stories of those who came together to secure Allied victory. 

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