TCU and a World at War Again
The Second World War began in September of 1939 and lasted until August of 1945, with over fifty countries taking part in the conflict. It took place in two theaters of war: Europe and the Pacific. The United States entered the war after the attack on Pearl Harbor by the Japanese on December 7, 1941. As with World War I, the United States mobilized quickly and enthusiastically to prepare to fight on both European and Pacific fronts.
TCU took part in this mobilization with the creation of several war training programs: War Training Service, Special Flight Instructors Program, Engineer Defense Training, and Navy Officer Training, among others. The university also created special course offerings and graduate paths for those who were enlisted or drafted, as well as enrolling veterans under the GI Bill, even before the war had ended.
Over one thousand students and faculty members from TCU fought in the war. Fifty-nine of them were killed while serving. After the surrender of Germany and Japan, the Second World War ended, and TCU moved past the war, into the post-war world.
The “C” in TCU
World War II began a period of religious participation at TCU that was never before seen, highlighting the “C” in Texas Christian University during a time in which religion was indispensable.
Forgotten Female Soldiers of World War II
During World War II, women served directly in the military for the first time in American history through the Women’s Army Corps, but they faced challenges as many people believed womanhood and military service were mutually exclusive.
Horned Frog Reaction to the Day of Infamy
Pearl Harbor was a call to action for America answered by millions of men and women across our nation, and the Horned Frogs of the greatest generation were no different.
Smith Green: The Horned Frog Hero
The journals and life of Horned Frog alum, World War II veteran, and Prisoner of War Smith Green offer a unique look into the experiences and struggles of a Bataan Death March survivor.
TCU Meets the V-12s
The Navy V-12 Program was introduced to TCU’s campus in 1943 to respond to the educational need in national defense and allowed trainees to feel like a true Horned Frog while also preparing for war.
War Clubs
Clubs and organizations on campus dramatically altered during World War II, with many goals being completely re-written to the support the war effort.
WWII Sparks Frog Fashion
World War II caused the rationing of fabrics, which led to a change in fashion, and women had to conform to the redefined expectations of beauty.