The program's purpose was to demonstrate that unification of American armed forces had brought about "increased efficiency and economy".
[2] The Armed Forces Hour was one of four TV series on the air in 1950 that resulted from creation of a single radio and television department for the American military with Charles E. Dillon heading the unit.
[3] The Armed Forces Hour was "culled from the estimated 500 million feet of film" archived at the U.S. Department of Defense.
This version emphasized entertainment by "using a musical variety format to lure viewers to watch short films about the services.
"[8] Episodes using a set resembling a USO club featured The Singing Sergeants, the U. S. Navy Dance Band and other performers from the military.