Neil,
As you mentioned, "Battleground" a 1949 film release was nominated for several AA including Best Picture and Best Director. It won three awards including the ones you alluded to and another for Best Story and Screenplay. If you look at the following film classics released that same year...
Just a head's up that one of the most powerful "War" films ever made is getting a rare showing on Turner Classic Movies this coming Tuesday morning. The film is "ATTACK" starring Jack Palance, Lee Marvin, and Eddie Albert. If you haven't seen this film then you're in for a real treat because...