As the United States prepared to enter the Second World War and during the early years of the conflict, Music Educators National Conference (MENC) focused attention on how music educators could support the war effort. The association worked with the federal government and other agencies on a number of national programs. Through its publication, "Music Educators Journal" ("MEJ"), MENC encouraged teachers to provide opportunities for students and community groups to sing American songs. Using contemporary "MEJ" articles, the author examines music's role as a tool to boost morale and reinforce unity, both within the nation and with other countries in the Western Hemisphere. (Contains 18 notes.)