U.S. Army Pictorial Center

• Origins in Astoria Studios: The U.S. Army Pictorial Center (USAPC) was located in the historic Astoria Studios in Queens, New York, a site originally built for Paramount Pictures in 1920. • World War II Legacy: During World War II, the facility operated as the Signal Corps Photographic Center, producing vital training, propaganda, and documentary films for the U.S. war effort. • Hollywood Connections: Many renowned Hollywood directors, such as Frank Capra and John Huston, worked with or for the Army Pictorial Center, bridging the gap between military needs and cinematic expertise. • Birthplace of "The Big Picture": USAPC produced the acclaimed TV documentary series The Big Picture (1951–1964), which aired weekly and showcased U.S. Army activities to the American public. • Technical Innovation: The Center was renowned for pioneering military film techniques, including advanced animation, time-lapse photography, and special effects for training and educational purposes. • Cold War Propaganda: During the Cold War, the USAPC was a key player in producing films to counter communist propaganda and promote American values abroad. • Training Thousands: The Center produced hundreds of training films for everything from vehicle maintenance to battlefield tactics, viewed by millions of soldiers worldwide. • Home to Army's Animation: The Center had a dedicated animation department, employing skilled animators to create instructional and morale-boosting cartoons. • Not Just Soldiers: Civilians and even celebrities, such as actor Ronald Reagan and entertainer Mel Blanc, participated in productions at the Center during their military service. • The End and a New Beginning: The USAPC ceased operations in 1970, but the facility continued as a television and film studio, eventually playing host to famous films like Sesame Street and The Cosby Show.