Action 1944-01-15 High Explosive Audition

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio - "Action 1944-01-15 High Explosive Audition"

Title: Action 1944-01-15 High Explosive Audition
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Release Date: January 16, 2025
Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

---

Introduction

The episode "High Explosive" transports listeners back to the Golden Age of Radio, presenting a gripping drama centered around the high-stakes world of nitroglycerin manufacturing and hauling during the tumultuous wartime era. Hosted by William Gargan, the episode blends suspense, personal conflict, and tragedy, capturing the essence of classic radio storytelling.

---

Act One: The Hauling Business and Brewing Tensions

Setting the Stage

The story introduces Mike Douglas, portrayed by William Gargan, the owner of the Michael Douglas Nitroglycerin Manufacturing and Hauling Company. Mike is depicted as a dedicated yet burdened leader, striving to keep his business afloat amidst the demands of supplying nitroglycerin to the United Munitions Corporation.

Reuniting with Buzz Mitchell

Mike encounters his old friend and former racing driver, Buzz Mitchell (Robert Lowery), at a local auto race:

• Mike Douglas [02:39]: "It really started that day in 1941. I was in Washington on business..."
• Buzz Mitchell [03:03]: "Contract for the Michael Douglas Nitroglycerin Manufacturing and Hauling Company to supply all the nitro used by the United Munitions Corporation. Say, Mike, you'll be a bloomin' millionaire."

Despite initial reluctance and past grievances, Buzz considers rejoining Mike's company, highlighting the financial incentives at play.

Connie Baker's Concerns

Connie Baker (Jane Wyatt), Mike's secretary, voices her apprehensions about hiring Jimmy Baker (another key character), Mia's brother, due to the inherent dangers of handling nitroglycerin:

• Connie Baker [01:09]: "This is nitroglycerin, Jimmy. You just make a face at it and it goes off... Oh, please, Jimmy. Do anything but don't take a job hauling nitrogen."

Jimmy, driven by love and ambition, contends against Connie's warnings:

• Jimmy Baker [05:24]: "Because I'm in love, Doris. We want to get married. I get a chance to buy into a good business for $1,000. I can make that here in three months."

This back-and-forth establishes the personal stakes and foreshadows future conflicts.

---

Act Two: The Emergency and Tragic Consequences

The Oil Well Fire

A critical turning point occurs when an oil well catches fire, threatening to engulf the munitions plant:

• Jimmy Baker [19:38]: "One of those big oil tanks up on the hill just above us is on fire... You've got to blast it out with nitro."
• Mike Douglas [19:46]: "I can't think what to do. Wait a minute. There's just one possibility."

Mike attempts to mobilize resources rapidly, demonstrating the high-pressure environment the characters operate within.

Runaway Nitro Truck Incident

During the emergency response, Jimmy inadvertently causes a runaway nitro truck accident:

• Buzz Mitchell [12:22]: "Leaking from that can the kid's carrying. If the fire touches it... Jimmy, drop that can."
• Connie Baker [17:30]: "Don't touch me. You killed him. It was your run. You killed my brother."

This moment of chaos underscores the perilous nature of their work and sets the stage for ensuing tragedy.

---

Act Three: Aftermath and Fallout

Buzz's Departure

Following the accident, Buzz grapples with guilt and the collapse of his professional and personal life:

• Buzz Mitchell [25:28]: "I've had all my chances, pal. Fluffed him. There's just no out for me this time."
• Connie Baker [25:55]: "You killed him. It was your run. You killed my brother."

Connie confronts Buzz, blaming him for Jimmy's death, which leads to the dissolution of Buzz's relationship with Connie and his eventual exit from Mike's company.

Mike's Struggle

Mike is left to manage the fallout of the accident, reflecting on the immense pressures and personal losses:

• Mike Douglas [19:24]: "Maybe you'll be just as important here."
• Mike Douglas [26:22]: "We can't take a chance on United."

His internal conflict is palpable as he contemplates the future of his business and his personal relationships.

---

Notable Quotes

• Connie Baker [01:09]: "This is nitroglycerin, Jimmy. You just make a face at it and it goes off..."
• Jimmy Baker [05:24]: "Because I'm in love, Doris. We want to get married."
• Buzz Mitchell [08:19]: "Handling nitro's like... Well, it's like handling women. Only saps get hurt."
• Buzz Mitchell [25:28]: "I've had all my chances, pal. Fluffed him. There's just no out for me this time."
• Connie Baker [25:55]: "You killed him. It was your run. You killed my brother."

---

Conclusion

"High Explosive" masterfully captures the tension and drama of a bygone era, weaving a narrative rich with interpersonal conflict, the high risks of wartime industries, and the devastating impact of tragedy on personal lives. The episode concludes with a somber reflection on the costs of duty and the fragility of life, leaving listeners both moved and contemplative.

---

Recommendations

For enthusiasts of classic radio dramas and historical storytelling, "High Explosive" offers a compelling experience that highlights the enduring power of radio as a medium for vivid and emotionally charged narratives.

Transcript

[Thrive Market Representative]

Over the past 75 years, more than 10,000 chemicals have entered our food supply. But the EU allows just 300 additives. At Thrive Market, we prioritize quality, banning over 1,000 ingredients found in conventional grocery stores. Our Healthy Swap Scanner helps you find better versions of your pantry essentials without the junk dyes or fillers. And everything is delivered right to your doorstep. So shop at a grocery store that actually cares about your health. @thrivemarket.com get started for 30% off your first order and a free $60 gift.

[William Gargan]

From Hollywood Radio Creators present Action. Tonight. High explosive.

[Mike Douglas]

Yeah, high explosive. Nitroglycerin. Making it and hauling it, that's my business. Dangerous? Sure, Connie. My secretary knew how dangerous. That day she tried to talk her kid brother out of taking a job into hauling nitro.

[Jimmy Baker]

You can't live forever, Connie. I might walk out of here and step off a curb and get hit by a car, who knows?

[Connie Baker]

This is nitroglycerin, Jimmy. You just make a face at it and it goes off. You go around a curb, you just brush against a rock, there's nothing left. Not even a button off your shirt. Oh, please, Jimmy. Do anything but don't take a job hauling nitrogen.

[William Gargan]

Exciting. That's just a Preview. In exactly 60 seconds, action raises the curtain on act one. But first, your weekly man of action, screen, stage and radio star William Gargan.

[Mike Douglas]

Good evening, ladies and gentlemen, and welcome to Action. Tonight's play about men who live dangerously stars Jane Wyatt, who is currently featured with Cary Grant in None but the Lonely Heart. And Robert Lowry, soon to be seen in Paramount's Dangerous Passage. I'll be back later to tell you more about the kind of plays we are going to do in the future. But now we're all set for 30 minutes of rip roaring excite.

[William Gargan]

And now, Maxwell Shane's radio adaptation of his Paramount picture High Explosive, starring Jane Wyatt and Robert Lowery. William Gargan as Mike Douglas begins tonight's drama of action.

[Mike Douglas]

It really started that day in 1941. I was in Washington on business. I saw in the papers that my old sidekick, Buzz Mitchell was racing at a midget auto track nearby. I caught him just after he'd won the race. And was he surprised. To.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Mike. Gee, it's good to see your ugly pan. And you came all the way from.

[Mike Douglas]

California just to see you win that race? Oh, fat chance. Take a squint of this contract and start drooling.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Contract for the Michael Douglas Nitroglycerin Manufacturing and Hauling Company to supply all the nitro used by the United Munitions Corporation. Say, Mike, you'll be a bloomin millionaire.

[Mike Douglas]

Buzz, you were the first driver with me when I started the business. I need men badly. How about coming back?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Are you kidding?

[Mike Douglas]

You came back that time after you cracked up your plane in the flying circus.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Forget it, Mike. I love racing. When I come back to drive a nitro truck, it'll be snowing in California.

[Connie Baker]

Mike, you're back.

[Mike Douglas]

You better back, Connie. Contract signed and all. Bring those grips over here, Squunchy.

[Squinchy]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, boss.

[Connie Baker]

Oh, Mike, it's been a madhouse of you.

[Mike Douglas]

Away, Connie. I brought you the last four pair of silk stockings. And what's that truck standing idle out in the yard for?

[Connie Baker]

Johnson quit his wife.

[Squinchy]

Cuckoo couldn't take it no more. He said wives.

[Mike Douglas]

You know how we need drivers. I'm going out in the yard and talk to the crew. Come on, Squinchy. I've got so much to do. I've got grasshopper in my stomach.

[Squinchy]

A g g guy can be busy, but he ought to have time for love. Now if I was Mike and a pretty secretary like you was the way you are about.

[Connie Baker]

Shut up, Squinchy. Go on out and help him.

[Mike Douglas]

And there'll be more dough in your envelopes every week, men. But the important thing is to keep United Munitions supplied. That's all. And for the love of Pete, be careful.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Don't worry about us.

[Mike Douglas]

Hey, Mr. Douglas. Yeah, what is it, son?

[Jimmy Baker]

I heard what you said to your crew just now about needing more men. How about me?

[Mike Douglas]

What's your name?

[Connie Baker]

His name is James Baker, honey. He's my brother. What are you doing here, Jimmy? I want a job hauling nitro. You don't know what that stuff is. Let me talk to him, Mike, Please.

[Mike Douglas]

Sure. I'll be in the plant. Let me know what you decide.

[Jimmy Baker]

Connie, I hear nitro men make as high as 500amonth.

[Connie Baker]

It's not worth it when you're not here to collect.

[Jimmy Baker]

You can't live forever. I might go out of here and step off the curb and get hit by a car.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Who knows?

[Connie Baker]

But this is nitroglycerin, Jimmy. You just make a face out of it, it goes off, you go around a curve, you just brush against a rock, there's nothing left. Not even a button off your shirt. It's not worth it, not for all the money in the world.

[Jimmy Baker]

All right, Connie, you've told me. Now I'll tell you. You've taken care of me like I was your kid. I'm 21, Connie. If I was crippled or something, it'd be different. But I can't take it anymore.

[Connie Baker]

Why not, for heaven's sake?

[Jimmy Baker]

Because I'm in love, Doris. We want to get married. I get a chance to buy into a good business for $1,000. I can make that here in three months.

[Connie Baker]

You can wait.

[Jimmy Baker]

I'm in love, Connie. Can't you understand that? Maybe not. You don't know what it is to.

[Connie Baker]

Be in love, Jimmy. You'll quit in three months.

[Jimmy Baker]

Oh, you've got to give me this chance.

[Connie Baker]

Three months.

[Jimmy Baker]

Thanks, Connie. You'll see. Everything will be okay. I'm gonna tell Dora. She's waiting on the gelato.

[Connie Baker]

All right, Jimmy. I'll tell Mike.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I was seeing Nellie home. I was seeing Nellie home. And even though she. Hello, beautiful. You work here?

[Connie Baker]

I do now, if you'll just get off my desk and state your business.

[Buzz Mitchell]

You know, Michael never had an eye for such pretty secretaries when I used to work here.

[Mike Douglas]

Mr. Douglas Buz Be a squid's nephew. Hiya, Mike.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I'm here to work. You surprised?

[Mike Douglas]

Connie Baker, this is Buzz Mitchell.

[Connie Baker]

How do you do?

[Mike Douglas]

Just a minute, just a minute. It is snowing, isn't it? Look out the window, Connie. See the snow?

[Connie Baker]

Snowing? Does he always have this effect on you?

[Mike Douglas]

Skip it.

[Buzz Mitchell]

You know, after you left Washington, I got to thinking what you said about needing me. You were always there when I needed you. So.

[Mike Douglas]

You can be a terrific help, Buzz. You can have your favorite truck, Nellie. Oh, Connie. What'd you decide about your brother?

[Connie Baker]

He'll be back in a few minutes, ready to work.

[Mike Douglas]

Oh, and he'll be okay? Connie's kid brother is starting today too, Buzz.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Swell. I may be able to get you a few other men.

[Mike Douglas]

Oh, that's great, Buzz. I'll have to see you later. Put him on the payroll, Connie.

[Buzz Mitchell]

As of 8:00 this morning. Beautiful. And by the way, what are you doing tonight?

[Connie Baker]

If you work that fast, all in nitro, we won't need any.

[Squinchy]

Under this spreading chestnut tree the village smithy stands.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hey, Squinchy, what's with that village smithy stuff? And when'd you start to stutter and shake like that?

[Squinchy]

Oh, haha. Buzz. A truck went out for me on the Snake Ridge. Ba, ba boom.

[Buzz Mitchell]

What's that got to do with poetry?

[Squinchy]

Well, since I get the stammers and the shakes, Mike won't let me truck the soup no more till I get cured.

[Buzz Mitchell]

So the doctor told you to recite.

[Squinchy]

Poetry slow and easy. Like to. To get over the stammers. See the. The smith, a mighty man Is he?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Ah, you'll be all right. Just as good as the days when all we did with nitro was to put out oil well fires.

[Squinchy]

Yeah, we. We still do that in emergencies. But now, keeping United munition supplies as that's the big job.

[Connie Baker]

Mr. Mitchell.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Huh? Oh, it's you, beautiful. Change your mind about tonight?

[Connie Baker]

No. Jimmy's ready to go along with your next load of United. Will you look after him? See that he's careful, your brother.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Listen, beautiful. I'll handle him like he was made out of spiderwebs. You're doing fine, Jimmy. Just drive along easy.

[Squinchy]

Relax.

[Jimmy Baker]

You never seem worried about handling nitrogen.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Handling nitro's like. Well, it's like handling women. Only saps get hurt.

[Jimmy Baker]

Yeah, only saps get hurt.

[Buzz Mitchell]

We were driving Nellie home We were driving Nellie home and although her clutch was slipping we were driving Nel.

[William Gargan]

And today, the Eastern Speedway association revealed that Buzz Mitchell was barred from racing for good when he deliberately cut in on Eddie Mac during his last race at the Washington Speedway.

[Connie Baker]

Shut that radio off, Squinchi.

[Squinchy]

G, G, G. Buzz got bombard from.

[Connie Baker]

Racing, so that's really why he came back here. Squinchy, don't say anything about this to Mike or to Buzz, either. No use causing trouble.

[Squinchy]

Okay, okay.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hiya, Squinch.

[Squinchy]

The Smith. Mighty man, is he?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hello, beautiful. How about us going somewhere tonight?

[Connie Baker]

And really, please, Buzz.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Now, look it, Connie. I've been asking you every day for three weeks. What are you holding out for? You know Mike's too busy to be fooling around with dames.

[Connie Baker]

Oh, is that so? He's taking me out tonight. It's my birthday.

[Buzz Mitchell]

What? Mike's really going to take a night off?

[Connie Baker]

Yes, and I wouldn't be at all surprised if he. Skip it, Douglas. Nitro. Oh, yes, Mike. Tonight. But, oh, you can't. I see. Okay, maybe some other time.

[Buzz Mitchell]

He can't go, huh?

[Connie Baker]

What about it? He's busy.

[Buzz Mitchell]

It's your birthday, Connie. Let me give you the party at the rendezvous. I'll tell you. I'll invite Jimmy and Doris. What do you say, Connie?

[Connie Baker]

Oh. Oh, okay. I haven't danced in so long, I'm ragged.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Nah, you're swell. Hey, look at Jimmy and Doris over at the table. They love something.

[Connie Baker]

Buzz, I'm worried Jimmy's beginning to like his job too.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Well, you afraid he won't quit like he promised you when his three months are up?

[Connie Baker]

Know what he said to me the other day? Only saps get hurt. Where have I heard those words of wisdom before?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Kill her, you, Honor.

[Mike Douglas]

I Better?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Don't worry about him. I'll tot him off the job.

[Connie Baker]

Thanks. But, Buzz, you're swell.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Sure. I guess you thought I was a pretty fresh guy.

[Connie Baker]

I did, but I've changed my mind. The way you've been taking care of Jimmy and. Well, I think you're a pretty nice guy.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Connie. That's all I wanted to hear. Darling.

[Connie Baker]

Please, Buzz, we're right here on the dance floor.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I'm sorry. I guess I sort of lost my senses. But I want you to know, Connie, with you I'm strictly on the level.

[Connie Baker]

I believe you, Buzz, and I'm glad.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hiya, Connie. Hello, Mike. What's a hurry call?

[Mike Douglas]

Pete, Maverick just called up. One of his oil wells is on fire. Get down there and put it out. And take Jimmy with you.

[Connie Baker]

Right, Mike. Jimmy.

[Mike Douglas]

It'll be all right, Connie. And Buzz, handle the soup yourself, understand?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Gotcha, boss.

[William Gargan]

Hurry up, Mitchell. I'm losing oil every minute that fire burns.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Listen, Maverick, this ain't waffles or everybody. I'm handling. Jimmy, when you get that last can wrapped with asbestos, bring me that roll of wire.

[William Gargan]

What's the matter, kid? You old thumbs.

[Jimmy Baker]

I never did this before. How does the nitro put a tire out?

[William Gargan]

Well, you put a ring of nitro cans all around it. Attach a wire, give it a spark, and the concussion snuffs it out like a candle. Now, go on, take that wire to him.

[Jimmy Baker]

Yes, sir.

[William Gargan]

Oh, choke this last can around there, too. Save a trip.

[Jimmy Baker]

Sure. Hey, put the wire on my shoulder, will you?

[Connie Baker]

Right.

[Jimmy Baker]

I gotta keep both hands on the nitro can.

[Buzz Mitchell]

There you are.

[Mike Douglas]

Yeah, thanks a lot.

[Jimmy Baker]

Boy, this wire's sure hot.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hey, Jimmy, where's that wire?

[Squinchy]

Where'd he go?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Maverick?

[William Gargan]

He's going around the other side with the last can.

[Mike Douglas]

He took the.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Holy mackerel. What's the matter? Look at the ground. Those blobs. Nitro.

[William Gargan]

What?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Leaking from that can the kid's carrying. If the fire touches it. Jimmy. Jimmy. Drop that can. Jimmy. Jimmy, you've got a leaker. Get rid of the can. If a spark touches it, it'll blow up. What? I can't hear you. Give me that can, quick. Let go. Now drop. What the. Boy, that was a close one. If I hadn't tossed that can of nitro away.

[William Gargan]

What kind of a crazy trick was that? You blew up a perfectly good docking, ain't you?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Okay, okay, you'll get paid. Now shut up and let me put out that fire, will you?

[Connie Baker]

Douglas? Nitro? Why, yes, Mr. Maverick. Blew up your donkey engine and the Younger boy was handing the nitro. Oh, yes, sir. Oh, I'm sure Mike will take care of it. Not at all. Goodbye.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hiya. Cunning Squinchy's got me on the board for one more run. But don't you worry, baby. I'll be back in time for our date.

[Connie Baker]

You can forget it.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Why? What's the matter?

[Connie Baker]

That was Maverick on the phone just now. You let Jimmy handle a nitro?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Oh, well, look, honey, I'm sorry about.

[Connie Baker]

That, but I don't think we better talk about it.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Oh, wait a minute. You've got to be fair about this setup.

[Connie Baker]

All right, I give you the whole setup. You're a great guy with the girls. You come here and find one who won't play. You try a new angle. She's worried about her brother. You use that for a name.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Connie, that isn't quite the way.

[Connie Baker]

Instead of patting him off of nitro, you make him love it. He wants to be just like you.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Maybe I have been wrong about Jimmy, but about you and me, darling, I've been strictly on the level.

[Connie Baker]

Like you were on the level with Mike when you came here?

[Buzz Mitchell]

What do you mean?

[Connie Baker]

Well, you couldn't even tell him the truth. That you were kicked out of racing. That you came back because there was no other place to go. Why? Why? Everything you've ever done is phony.

[Buzz Mitchell]

So you knew then. What were you holding out for? I'll tell you. You wanted me to stay. You weren't playing games the other night.

[Connie Baker]

For about two minutes. You had me fooled, that's all.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I don't believe it.

[Connie Baker]

Oh, no. There are plenty of girls around who like to be in my shoes. Isn't that the next line?

[Buzz Mitchell]

You bet there are plenty.

[Connie Baker]

Now you can have them. Now get out of here and let me work.

[Buzz Mitchell]

If that's the way you want it.

[William Gargan]

Okay.

[Squinchy]

Hey. Hey, Buzz, where you going? You're supposed to take a run to United.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Well, let somebody else take it. I've got an important date with a.

[Squinchy]

F. But, but, but, but, Buzz.

[Jimmy Baker]

But, Squinchy, I can't. I just came in from my run and I got a date with Doris.

[Squinchy]

Number five's G. Got to go, Jimmy. Ain't nobody else to take a boss.

[Mike Douglas]

What's this about Number five? Isn't that Buzz's name up there on the blackboard?

[Squinchy]

Yeah, yeah, yeah, Mike. But he had something in my po.

[Mike Douglas]

What's more important than taking his run? I don't know what's gotten into that guy.

[Jimmy Baker]

I'll take it. Squinchy, I don't Mind, honest. If Doris comes in, just ask her to wait.

[Mike Douglas]

Scramble too.

[Squinchy]

Must it on your hot dog, fella?

[Jimmy Baker]

Yeah, make it snappy, will you?

[Squinchy]

Sure, sure. That's your truck out there. Should think you get heebie jeebies sitting over that load of nitro.

[Jimmy Baker]

Ah, only saps get hurt.

[Squinchy]

Well, this SAP missing.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hey, look at that.

[Squinchy]

Car that pulled in, bumped your truck.

[Connie Baker]

Hey, look, it's starting to roll.

[Jimmy Baker]

Hey, it's going down the hill. My God. Hey, mister, get out of your car. Quick, please.

[Maverick]

What do you mean, get out of my car?

[Jimmy Baker]

Come on, get out. I gotta get ahead of that truck fast. Get out of this seat. I gotta clear the road.

[Buzz Mitchell]

They pull over.

[Mike Douglas]

Pull over.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Runaway nitro truck. Pull to the side. Get over. Runaway nitro truck behind me. Runaway truck behind me. Loaded with nitro. Pull over, Nitro.

[Jimmy Baker]

Now, if I can just make the curve. If I can only make it without going over.

[Mike Douglas]

What's the matter with you, Buzz? Walking out on your run?

[Buzz Mitchell]

What's one load more or less?

[Mike Douglas]

United's making munitions. Don't you understand that? You're one of those guys that has to learn the hard way.

[Connie Baker]

You can wait in the office, Doris. Jimmy. Be back soon. Thanks, Connie. I hope I'm not being a nuisance.

[Mike Douglas]

I'll talk to you later, Buzz. Come right in, Doris.

[Connie Baker]

Thank you, Mike.

[Mike Douglas]

Oh, excuse me. Hello, Douglas. Talking. Yes. Yes, Randolph Grade. Oh, no. Yes, we'll take care of it.

[Connie Baker]

Thanks, Mike. It was Jimmy over a bank.

[Mike Douglas]

The truck got loose. Jimmy.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Honey. Honey, Darling, if there was anything. I don't know what to.

[Connie Baker]

Don't touch me. You killed him. It was your run. You killed my brother.

[William Gargan]

We return now to the second act of high explosive. Tonight's drama of action.

[Mike Douglas]

Saturday, December 6, 1941. That was the day Jimmy went over the Randolph Grade. The next afternoon, the news came over the radio. Pearl Harbor. I knew then I'd been right in driving my men, driving myself. I went down to the plant to see what I could do to speed things up. I found Squinchy and Buzz in the crew dispatching room. Buzz was taking his things out of his locker and putting them into a suitcase.

[William Gargan]

Hi, Bubba.

[Squinchy]

Boss. Say, did you hear the news about.

[Mike Douglas]

I'll talk to you later. Squinchy, go out and gas up my car, will you?

[Squinchy]

Yeah. Yeah, sure.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Oh.

[Mike Douglas]

Well, Buzz. So you're gonna take a run out, Potter?

[Buzz Mitchell]

I can't stay, Mike. This place is too full of ghosts.

[Mike Douglas]

How do you think I feel? I sit back at that desk in there. The big shot, huh? No worries, huh? Don't you think every time a truck rolls out of that yard. I make every run with you men every second? Don't you think there's a trip hammer beating in the back of my head. Saying over and over and over, who'll get it today? Who'll get it today?

[Buzz Mitchell]

I can't stay, Mike.

[Mike Douglas]

Sometimes I think it'll drive me batty. That's why I've never told Connie how I really feel about her. What kind of a life would she have with me? But I can't quit, Buzz. Somebody's got to do this job. You heard what the Japs did this morning?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah. That's where I was going. The Air Corps.

[Mike Douglas]

Maybe you'll be just as important here. Our new plant opens tomorrow. Just a minute. I get that. Hello, Douglas.

[Jimmy Baker]

Ms. Asbury, United Munitions. One of those big oil tanks up on the hill just above us is on fire.

[Mike Douglas]

On the hill? If that burning oil rolls down on you. That's just it.

[Jimmy Baker]

They've got every piece of fire equipment in town, but they can't get near it. You've got to blast it out with nitro.

[Mike Douglas]

We haven't any nitro. We stopped production today to tie in the new equipment.

[Jimmy Baker]

If that fire spreads, the whole tank field will come pouring down on the munitions plant.

[Mike Douglas]

I can't think what to do. Wait a minute. There's just one possibility. It may take a couple of hours.

[Jimmy Baker]

Get it. I'll keep them wetting down the field. Maybe we can hold it back until you get the stuff.

[Mike Douglas]

I'll get it to you somehow. Just hang on.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Sounds pretty rough.

[Mike Douglas]

Buzz. You've got to fly to San Remo for a lotus stew.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Not me, brother.

[Mike Douglas]

You used to take bigger risks when you were in the flying circus. You've flown nitro before.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Not again. You know what would happen if I didn't make a perfect landing? Anyway, I've got to catch a train.

[Mike Douglas]

I never thought you'd run out on me, Buzz, any more than Connie would. Why, I'd give my right arm for you.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hey, wait a minute. Say, Mike, how much is in this flight for me?

[Mike Douglas]

I thought you were holding out. $1,000.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Okay, I'll have to have somebody help me with the blasting oil.

[Mike Douglas]

Think I'd ask you if I wasn't going?

[Connie Baker]

Hello, Mike. I just couldn't stay home alone.

[Mike Douglas]

Yeah, I know, Connie, but Buzz has to fly me to San Remo for some nitro.

[Connie Baker]

Nitro? Oh, don't go, Mike.

[Mike Douglas]

It's an emergency. I'll be back in a couple of hours. Meet me at the airport with Squinchy.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Connie, I want you to know how sorry I am.

[Connie Baker]

I guess you couldn't help doing what you did.

[Mike Douglas]

Let's go, Buzz. Quicker we get back with the juice, the quicker we'll get that fire out.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Well, Michael, a few more minutes and I'll have you home.

[Mike Douglas]

What about this fog?

[Buzz Mitchell]

We ought to be able to come in under it.

[Mike Douglas]

Looks worse than it did back at San Remo.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah. I better check the home field. NC 27342 to Chilo. NC 27342 to Chelo.

[Maverick]

Chilo to NC 27342. Go ahead.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hi, Art. This is Buzz Mitchell. How's the visibility of the field?

[Maverick]

Ceiling about 500. Visibility only fair.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Bugs are thick out here. You could eat it with a spoon.

[Connie Baker]

Ask them if they have the nitro.

[Maverick]

You got the nitro.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Pull up.

[Maverick]

Wind's blowing this way. Better scramble in before the ceiling closes down.

[Buzz Mitchell]

We're wide open now. Put the skyhooks on that ceiling for a half an hour and we're okay. North Carolina 27342. Over.

[Maverick]

Okay, signing off.

[Squinchy]

It ain't G. G. Good, huh?

[Maverick]

Look at that mucilage out there. It's gonna be tough bringing them in loaded with nitro.

[Connie Baker]

It ain't.

[Mike Douglas]

We ought to be heading in by now.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah. What's the score, Art?

[Maverick]

Fog closed down tight, Buzz. Visibility zero.

[Buzz Mitchell]

We've got to make a perfect landing. Give us a hand. We're just about there. The beam's banging in my eardrums.

[Maverick]

Hold your cars.

[Squinchy]

Hey, listen.

[Maverick]

That's them nitroplane coming in. Get those field lights on. Okay, Buzz, what's your altitude?

[Buzz Mitchell]

2200.

[Maverick]

We just turned on the field lights. Can you see them?

[Buzz Mitchell]

No. What are you using? Workday candles?

[Maverick]

You're right over the north end of the field. Make a wide circle and come in lower. Then you ought to be able to see the lights.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Gotcha.

[Connie Baker]

Think they can make it?

[Maverick]

With luck, maybe.

[William Gargan]

With luck.

[Squinchy]

Listen.

[Maverick]

Here they come. Okay, Buzz, watch it. You're over the field again.

[Buzz Mitchell]

What's your altitude? 800. I'm coming down fast.

[Maverick]

Keep coming. See the lights?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Just a blur. Buzz, you've overshot.

[Squinchy]

You hit the tower.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Pull her up.

[Jimmy Baker]

Pull her up.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Fight.

[Squinchy]

Oh, B. Brother.

[Maverick]

Buzz, you better not try that again now with that load.

[Mike Douglas]

Okay.

[Buzz Mitchell]

What about the weather at Sunbeam? I might be able to make it.

[Maverick]

We've already checked that. Fog's closed in solid to the desert.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Can you get us any more lights?

[Maverick]

I don't know. We'll try to rush some big arcs. From town. Keep circling the beam. Just keep circling.

[Buzz Mitchell]

It can't last much longer. Gas is pretty low. Well, Buzz, look. There's the oil tank fire over there.

[Mike Douglas]

Still burning. Yeah. Ironic, isn't it? That blasted fire is the only thing we can see down there.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Mike, why don't we dump this stuff and try for a landing? We.

[Mike Douglas]

We can't do that, Buzz. There's a city below houses right up to the edge of the airport.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah, we can't dump it. Might kill a lot of people.

[Mike Douglas]

We better get back over the field.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Okay, Mike, the gas has given out. Maybe a couple of minutes more. They haven't got those lights. Chilo, NC 27342. Calling Chilo. Okay, Buzz, you get those arc lights?

[Maverick]

No dice, Buzz. Can't locate a one. Sunday, why don't you bail out? You both got shoot.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah, but what would I do with this nitro? Hey, call you back in a minute.

[Mike Douglas]

So they couldn't get the lights, eh?

[Buzz Mitchell]

Nope. But I've got an idea. I can tell we're right over that field by the beam. I'm gonna dump the nitro on the field.

[Mike Douglas]

Well, if you miss those houses.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I won't miss. Here, you open the door and drop this flare first. It'll give us something to aim at.

[Mike Douglas]

Okay, I've got the door open. Give me the flare.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yes, lean way out with it so it won't get caught in the prop wash.

[Mike Douglas]

Okay, here it goes.

[Buzz Mitchell]

And here you go. Hey, sorry, Mike. Don't forget to pull that ripcord.

[Connie Baker]

Mike.

[Mike Douglas]

Mike.

[Connie Baker]

What happened?

[Mike Douglas]

Pushed me out. Give me that. Mike. Art, is he still on?

[Maverick]

I think so.

[Mike Douglas]

Buzz, Buzz, come in. This is Mike.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hiya, Michael. Glad you made it.

[Mike Douglas]

Why didn't you drop the soup?

[Buzz Mitchell]

I never could have judged it, Mike. Couldn't hit the field in a million years. Not this fault.

[Mike Douglas]

Listen, Buzz, you can take a chance and.

[Buzz Mitchell]

I've had all my chances, pal. Fluffed him. There's just no out for me this time.

[Connie Baker]

He's heading away from the field.

[Mike Douglas]

What are you gonna do? Where are you heading?

[Buzz Mitchell]

You want that fire out, don't you? Mike, we can't take a chance on United.

[Mike Douglas]

Buzz, listen to me.

[Squinchy]

He's heading into the fire.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Gas is given out. Mike, I. I could just make it. No use wasting the soup, is it?

[Mike Douglas]

For the love of.

[Buzz Mitchell]

It's okay, Mike. Take care of Connie.

[Mike Douglas]

Be sensible, Buzz.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Don't think you're going to get away without shelling out that thousand bucks. Make the check out to Doris.

[Mike Douglas]

Buzz, you've got to listen to Him.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Give my love to Nelly. And that fire looks awful hot from here. It'll be out in a minute. So long, Mike. Connie.

[Connie Baker]

Oh, Mike.

[Mike Douglas]

So long, Buzz. Come on, you guys. The new plant's working. Get out there and start those trucks rolling.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Yeah, dad.

[Squinchy]

Don't worry about it too much, boss. Did you notice anything about me?

[Mike Douglas]

Huh? Oh, yeah. What happened to the stutter? You okay?

[Squinchy]

Yeah. Just noticed this morning a shock. Give it to me. And another shock cures me.

[Mike Douglas]

Get that assignment board, straighten out, and then you can take Nellie out on a run. She's yours from now on.

[Squinchy]

Thanks, boss.

[Mike Douglas]

Squinchy, what's the matter with you? What's Buzz's name still doing up there on the assignment board?

[Squinchy]

I didn't hardly have a chance to.

[Mike Douglas]

All right, Squinch, wipe it off. Then take your run.

[Squinchy]

Yeah. Yeah. It's funny. I've been looking forward to this for so long. And now that I got it, it just don't seem to mean.

[William Gargan]

The curtain falls on high explosive William Gargan. Your weekly man of action, returns with his cast for a curtain call.

[Mike Douglas]

Thank you, Art. Come on out here, Jane. Fav. You were both, well, shall we say dynamite? Here's an orchid for you, Jane.

[Connie Baker]

Oh, how lovely. My favorite color. Thank you, Bill.

[Buzz Mitchell]

What do I get?

[Mike Douglas]

Get? If I were Jane, I'd take back that kiss you stole as Buzz.

[Connie Baker]

Well, I'm Jane. Give. Bob.

[Buzz Mitchell]

Hey, this is okay. When can I work on Action again, Bill?

[Mike Douglas]

That kind of work I'm gonna save for myself.

[Connie Baker]

What do you have on the fire for next week, Bill?

[Mike Douglas]

It's a story that connoisseurs consider Tops in action on the high seas. Victory by Joseph Conrad. And with the action treatment. Well, if you have high blood pressure, I wouldn't advise you to listen.

[Connie Baker]

I'll be listening.

[Buzz Mitchell]

And so will I, Bill.

[Mike Douglas]

Stars will be Nancy Kelly and Roger Pryor, assisted by yours truly. This is Bill Gargan saying good night till next week when we have another date with Action.