“One Shot”: The World War II Photography of John A. Bushemi

by: Ray E. Boomhower

Published by: Indiana Historical Society Press

Reviewed by Connie Anderson

Okay, my husband is a WWII collector so I pick up books that might interest him. But first I read and review before handing it over to him. This book sharing has brought about many an interesting dinnertime conversation.

The introduction by James H. Madison is an excellent history lesson recapped in a few pages. The rest of the book consists of Bushemi’s photos of the fighting men as well as photos of him as this is a book honoring him. This book is filled with great photos throughout, including him and his camera.

Gary, Indiana native John A. Bushemi, was assigned to “Yank,” the weekly magazine written by and for the enlisted men. He specialized in “photographing from a rifle’s length vantage.” The media played a significant role in telling Americans how to feel about the war.

The “one-shot” nickname became his tag while he was working at the Gary Post-Tribune because he had the uncanny ability to capture action quickly and get a great shot every time. Working in the Pacific area, the hot and humid conditions meant that it was almost a fulltime job to keep their cameras clean.

When stationed with the army, he was described as a daredevil who would do things no one else would do. His job was to use his Speed Graphics camera to “explain the war to other Americans through his pictures—because understanding the war was prerequisite to the large sacrifices this war demanded. Americans at home became part of what President Roosevelt called the “great arsenal of democracy.” Women to work in the factories, farms and offices starting in 1942—and by 1943 were a third of all employees. This changed America.

Unfortunately Bushemi was killed in action February 1944. “When John died he was doing what he wanted to…taking pictures in the thick of the action.” Also, “He was always right up there at the front line getting the picture. His last works before he was put under ether for surgery was, “Be sure to get these pictures back to the office.” (pgs. 76/77).

Bushemi was awarded the Bronze Star for personal bravery, initiative and professional ability.

Armchair Interviews says: This coffee table size book would interest many for the excellent photographs and storyline.