JACK F. RUTTLE FILM OF THE UNITED STATES ANTARCTIC SERVICE EXPEDITION 1939-41

This silent film was shot by Jack F. Ruttle, Third Officer aboard the cargo ship North Star during Byrd's 3rd Antarctic expedition, the United States Antarctic Service Expedition (USASE). The film is first-generation so the clarity and color are excellent. While about 20% of this film was used in the official Expedition film, the remainder was viewed only by family and friends. It appears here exclusively and publicly for the first time through the generosity of Matt Oppliger, the grandson of Jack Ruttle. Matt says this about his grandfather:

"Jack F. Ruttle was born Feb. 15th 1912 in Seattle, Washington and passed Oct. 16th, 1985 in Port Townsend, Washington. Husband to Katherine, father to Brenda (my mother) and Betty, best grandfather to Marc, Marci, Matt, and Alissa. When I was a young boy, I remember Grandpa (Jack) had a calmness about him that was stern but comforting. He loved the sea and felt more at peace whenever he was on it. I believe he was out at sea at least as much as he was on land. He never spoke about his adventures that I can remember. I miss him a lot....."

Matt has also graciously submitted copies of Jack Ruttle's personal photographs and documents. These may be viewed by clicking HERE.

Copyright Matt Oppliger. All rights reserved.

For more information on USASE, see "Official Film of USASE" which is another video in this section about the USASE.