In 1939, as war loomed in Europe, the U.S. co-opted William S. Knudsen, chairman of General Motors, to coordinate the capabilities of American industry with the problems of defense production. Knudsen worked with locomotive and car manufacturers to develop war production capacity. The town, the company, and the people of Pullman responded with enthusiasm, converting the manufacturing system to war material.

Pullman residents have also responded to the nation's call to arms. Many of its citizens have died in Europe, the Pacific, Korea, and Vietnam.

Here is their story.