Builders, Heroes & the Boats
that Won the War for Us

Did you know that the landing crafts used at D-Day and every major amphibious invasion during World War II were designed and built in New Orleans?

The story of the Higgins boat is chronicled in Louisiana Public Broadcasting's new documentary Builders, Heroes & the Boats that Won the War for Us which premieres Monday, May 29 at 8:30 p.m. on LPB and at 8:00 p.m. on WLAE-TV in New Orleans. This half-hour documentary not only looks at the history of the Higgins LCVP (Landing Craft Vehicle, Personnel) but also the construction of an exact replica of the landing craft that will be displayed at the National D-Day Museum when it opens in June in New Orleans.

The documentary features interviews with renowned WWII historian Stephen Ambrose and Higgins' biographer Jerry Strahan. Both scholars will provide historical details and insights into the crucial role that Louisiana played in World War II.

The show was written by award-winning producer Diana Baker. Baker won a first place National Educational Telecommunications Award for the LPB documentary, "Adrift In The System," and recently won an Edward R. Murrow award for writing. Gary Allen is the director for the project.