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Executive Producer Kelly Magill is seeking first-hand accounts for a three-hour documentary, “MANEUVERS: War Games on the Homefront” that will be aired nationally on public television in May 2025.  “MANEUVERS” is the first documentary that tells the story of the extraordinary military exercises that were conducted in Tennessee’s small towns and farms during World War II, including Coffee County.

This documentary captures a pivotal moment in history when Middle Tennessee became the epicenter of large-scale military training exercises from 1941 to 1944 that prepared over 850,000 troops for D-Day and the Normandy invasion. Through extensive research, this documentary will bring to the screen the personal experiences of not only the soldiers but also the rural civilians who lived in the middle of these war games, supporting and befriending these soldiers who trained on the homefront so they could win in battle.

“We are actively seeking individuals who remember and experienced the maneuvers and other military activity in Tennessee firsthand, and who are willing to share their stories, even if they were children at the time,” representatives said in a statement. “Without these firsthand accounts from rural people from Middle Tennessee, this event would essentially be lost to history.  We are also in search of maneuver and military related photos, lifestyle photos, film footage and letters from the time period. This is an opportunity to honor the contributions and sacrifices of those who played a role in shaping history, ensuring that their stories are preserved for future generations.”

If anyone knows anyone who has firsthand experience or memories related to the maneuvers in Tennessee during World War II, or other military activity in Tennessee at the time, are encouraged to reach out to the production team to set up an interview.

“Your unique perspective will offer invaluable insights to viewers worldwide.”

To express your interest in participating or to nominate someone for an interview, please contact the production team at kelly@kgvstudios.com.