Film presented at Strand on Ellwood war hero
ZELIENOPLE – The Strand Theater is presenting a fitting film for Memorial Day.
"Journey to Royal: A WWII Rescue Mission" is the story of Royal Stratton, a young man, born and raised in Ellwood City, and the fateful mission that took his life.
Lt. Royal Stratton, a World War II rescue pilot with the 4th Emergency Rescue Squadron, flying unarmed, led a mission to save the lives of nine downed airmen adrift in perilous waters of a war-torn South Pacific.
Ron Carter, executive director of The Strand Initiative, said they are proud to partner with Christopher Johnson, the film's writer and director, Mariana Tosca, its producer and The Misty Falls Motion Picture Co. to present the movie.
"This is a meaningful and riveting film with gripping action combined with historical imagery, showcasing the valor of the local hero," Carter said.
The local connection goes even deeper as the California-based filmmaker, Johnson, also from Ellwood City, was inspired to make this movie based on the story of his great-uncle, Stratton, a part of their family history and a part of WWII history.
The film blends first-person interviews with surviving veterans and family members with dramatic reenactments of the overwhelming mission Stratton faced.
Johnson and his Misty Falls Production Co. bring to life May 29, 1945, when Stratton and his crew were charged with locating the nine downed airmen of the B-29 Dragon Lady Super Fortress that had to ditch their plane. They were adrift and unprotected in the open ocean of enemy waters. Stratton would locate and rescue those nine men, but he would never return from that mission.
"It is appropriate to present this important film during the holiday that recognizes and honors the sacrifices of our Armed Forces," Carter said.
Admission is free to all military veterans and their spouses.
The Strand and Misty Falls Production Co. are seeking sponsors and advertisers to support these Memorial Day screenings.
For information about becoming a sponsor or advertiser or for making a donation, please contact The Strand at [email protected] or Johnson with The Misty Falls Motion Picture Co. at [email protected]
What: "Journey to Royal: A WWII Rescue Mission"
Where: The Strand Theater, 119 North Main St., Zelienople
When: 7:30 p.m. May 26 & 27 and 2 p.m. May 28
Admission: $6, all seats
Information: www.thestrandtheater.org, 724-742-0400
Free admission to all current and retired veterans using the promo code: veteran when ordering tickets. Please bring a valid military ID, active or retired when picking up your tickets.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY NETWORK: The Strand honors Memorial Day weekend with film on Ellwood City war hero
