Air Force Party 1947.07.31 The Listening Post

Summary

Podcast Summary: Harold's Old Time Radio

Episode: Air Force Party 1947.07.31 The Listening Post

Release Date: March 4, 2026
Host: Rex Marshall (and guests)
Setting: Live broadcast from the Hotel Pennsylvania, New York City

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Episode Overview

This episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio" transports listeners back to 1947 for a celebratory broadcast commemorating Air Force Day—the 40th anniversary of the United States Army Air Forces. Set in a lively, music-filled "Cafe Rouge," the program features performances by Skitch Henderson and his orchestra, guest vocalist Beryl Davis, and poetry by Ted Malone. Interwoven are reflections on the role of air power during and after WWII, heartfelt reminiscences, and tributes to American servicemen and women.

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Key Discussion Points & Insights

Air Force Day: Purpose and Significance

• Introduction of Theme

  • The show opens with Lt. Cass Bielski announcing the upcoming Air Force Day, emphasizing its importance as a national commemoration ([00:40]).
  • Quote:
    • "Tomorrow, August 1st is Air Force Day, the 40th anniversary of the United States Army Air Forces."
      — Lt. Cass Bielski ([00:40])

• Reflection on Air Power and National Security

  • Discusses how air power was pivotal to the Allies' WWII victory and remains essential for postwar security and peace.
  • Quote:
    • "Today, the need for a sizable air army is as great as ever."
      — Lt. Cass Bielski ([04:19])

• Unity and Civic Involvement

  • Stresses that the strength of the Air Force is the responsibility of all Americans, connecting military preparedness directly to citizens' support.
  • Quote:
    • "This is your Air Force, America. All of you are part of it."
      — Lt. Cass Bielski & Rex Marshall ([04:38]–[04:54])

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Musical Performances and Entertainment

• Skitch Henderson and His Orchestra

  • Several live renditions of beloved wartime songs.
  • "Ivy" ([05:10]): Showcases Skitch Henderson's renowned piano skills.
  • "Begin the Beguine" ([13:09]): A nostalgic favorite among veterans.
  • Wartime Ballads Medley ([20:30]–[24:15]):
    • "I've Got Sixpence"
    • "Waltzing Matilda"
    • "Lili Marlene" (German ballad embraced by Allied forces)

• Guest Spotlight: Beryl Davis

  • Shares about her service entertaining troops with over 500 wartime appearances.
    • Quote:
      • "I was officially attached to the Eighth Air Force. Even wore uniforms and during the course of the war made over 500 appearances with the Air Force camps in England."
        — Beryl Davis ([08:17])
  • Sings "Once in a While" ([09:21]) and "We Knew It All the Time" ([16:49])—the latter dedicated to new Air Force recruits.

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Reminiscence and Camaraderie

• Discussing Past Service

  • Humorous exchanges about military credentials; Skitch Henderson reveals his reserve captain status.
    • Quote:
      • "So you were one of us."
        — Rex Marshall ([12:28])
  • Nostalgic stories about music sessions at California's Merced Air Field ([13:07]).

• Celebrating Shared Experience

  • The show's tone is warm and inclusive, echoing themes of gratitude, national pride, and enduring bonds among veterans and entertainers.

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Poetry & Moving Moments

• Poetry Recitation: “High Flight”
  • Ted Malone shares John Magee Jr.'s iconic aviators’ poem in honor of Air Force Day ([25:08]):
    • "Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth and danced the skies on laughter silvered wings... Put out my hand and touched the face of God."
      — Ted Malone, quoting John Magee Jr. ([25:08])

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Closing Reflections

• Final Thoughts on Air Power and Peace

  • Lt. Cass Bielski and Rex Marshall close the show with idealistic calls for military preparedness as a guarantor of peace ([28:47]–[29:27]):
    • Quote:
      • "On this 40th anniversary, we commemorate the achievements of the past and look to the future with renewed determination that through air power we will preserve the peace."
        — Lt. Cass Bielski ([29:01])

• Memorable Sign-Off:

  • "Keep your eye in the sky, America. Your future flies there. Air power is peace."
    — Rex Marshall ([29:27])

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Notable Quotes & Memorable Moments

• Beryl Davis’s Service:
  • "The work I did in entertaining American troops was the most enjoyable I've ever done."
    — Beryl Davis ([08:52])
• Wartime Music as Lasting Memory:
  • “There was one we fellows in the Pacific will never forget. It was an Australian number they called Waltzing Matilda."
    — Rex Marshall ([21:18])
• Ted Malone's Poetic Tribute:
  • The moving reading of "High Flight" and Malone’s humble tone set a poignant mood ([25:08]).

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Timestamps for Key Segments

| Timestamp | Segment/Event | |--------------|-----------------------------------------------------| | 00:40 | Lt. Cass Bielski opens Air Force Day celebrations | | 04:38 | Reflections on the meaning of Air Force Day | | 05:10 | Skitch Henderson performs “Ivy” | | 08:17 | Beryl Davis discusses her wartime service | | 09:21 | Beryl Davis sings “Once in a While” | | 13:09 | Skitch Henderson plays “Begin the Beguine” | | 16:49 | Beryl Davis sings “We Knew It All the Time” | | 20:30 | Skitch Henderson’s wartime song medley | | 25:08 | Ted Malone reads “High Flight” | | 28:47 | Closing remarks about Air Force Day | | 29:27 | Program sign-off by Rex Marshall |

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Conclusion

This lively and moving episode serves both as entertainment and as a historical tribute to the courage, camaraderie, and continued vigilance of the Air Forces and all Americans. Through music, poetry, and warm reminiscence, the show reminded listeners of wartime bonds, the ongoing importance of air power in preserving peace, and the collective spirit that defined an era. Perfect for fans of old-time radio and history enthusiasts alike.

Transcript

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[Lt. Cass Bielski]

Tomorrow, august 1st is air force day, the 40th anniversary of the united states army air forces. My name is lt. Cass bielski, aaf. From the Hotel Pennsylvania in New York City. The American Broadcasting Company and the United States Army Air Forces present Air Force Night at Cafe Rouge. This is your invitation to a half hour of entertainment with Ted Malone, Meryl Davis, IT Henderson and his orchestra, and as your host for the evening, Captain Rex Marshall, A.F.

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[Rex Marshall]

Hello, everyone. This is Lex Marshall welcoming you to Cafe Rouge and our Air Force party. Well, we have a lot of important guests here tonight whom we'll meet later on, but right now I see that Skitch Henderson and his band are ready to go to work on the popular song of yesterday and again today, the girlfriend. Ah, thanks, Kit Henderson. That was swell. And now I think.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

Excuse me, Rex.

[Rex Marshall]

May I interrupt for a moment? Why certainly, Lieutenant Kaspielski. And judging from that look on your face, you must have something important to say. You're absolutely right.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

It is important to all Americans. Tomorrow, by proclamation of the President, we will observe Air force Day, the 40th anniversary of the Army Air Forces. The part that air power played in winning the victory that was ours at

[Ted Malone]

the close of World War II is

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

common knowledge to all. Our powerful Air Force has stood as a tribute to the American people whose support and encouragement made it possible. Today, the need for a sizable air army is as great as ever. It is true, hostilities have ceased, but the terms of the peace have not

[Rex Marshall]

yet been agreed upon.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

With recent developments in the airplane, it has become apparent that our first line of defense is a strong, ready Air force. The job of building and maintaining such an air force falls to the American people. This is your Air force, America.

[Rex Marshall]

All of you are part of it.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

So on this Air Force Day, let us dedicate ourselves to making air power.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Peace.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

Power.

[Skitch Henderson]

Thank you, Cass.

[Rex Marshall]

And now here is Skitch Henderson once again with a couple of his boys. And they're going to do a number that seems to be just made for him and his piano It's Ivy. I think that's ample proof of your right to be called America's new piano sensation.

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, thank you indeed, Rex. That's very kind of you. But I think now it's time that we introduce some of our guests.

[Rex Marshall]

And that, Mr. Henderson, is a right worthy suggestion. But where do we start?

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, how about that table over there? Do you know who that is?

[Rex Marshall]

That girl over there?

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Yeah.

[Rex Marshall]

Why, that's Barrel Davis. Hello, Barrel. How do you like the party?

[Beryl Davis]

I think it's wonderful, Rick. It seems almost like a college homecoming. And I'm happy that I was included in it.

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, Beryl, I. I can't very well see how we could have excluded you. After all, you were an ex official member of the Air Forces during the war, weren't you?

[Beryl Davis]

Well, perhaps you might call it that, Skitch. I. I did work pretty closely with General Doolittle and the boys.

[Skitch Henderson]

Just how closely, Bar?

[Beryl Davis]

Well, believe it or not, Skitch, I was officially attached to the eighth effort. Even wore uniforms and during the course of the war made over 500 appearances with the Air Force camps in England.

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, I'd say that 500 missions entitled anyone to a life membership in the AAF. But I think that tells only part of the story. Barrel, I was talking to some of the fellows the other day who heard you sing in Europe. And it seems that in spite of the fact that you are British, the Americans liked you because you sing a song in the best American tradition.

[Rex Marshall]

Well, if I can get a word in here, I understand it was live popular GI request that you came to America.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Not.

[Beryl Davis]

Just a moment, fellas. The compliments are coming too fast. Let's just say that I was a member of the American Air Forces. I am proud of it. The work I did in entertaining American troops was the most enjoyable I've ever done.

[Rex Marshall]

I'm glad to hear you say that, Barrel, because right now we want you to assume your wartime role again and do a little more entertaining. How about a song a la the Phil Silver show you do each Wednesday night?

[Beryl Davis]

There's nothing I'd like better. What would you like to hear?

[Rex Marshall]

Well, how about once in a while?

[Beryl Davis]

Fine. You play Mr. Sketch and I'll sing.

[Unidentified Female Singer]

Once in a while. Will you try to give one little

[Unidentified Male Singer]

close up to me Though someone else may be

[Unidentified Female Singer]

nearer your heart. Once on a flower Will you dream

[Unidentified Male Singer]

of the moments I shared with you? Moments Deep

[Unidentified Female Singer]

drift and.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

In love moldering and moon One spark may remain if love still can remember the five may burn again.

[Unidentified Female Singer]

I know that I even ended with

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Yesterday's memory knowing you think of me

[Unidentified Female Singer]

once in a while

[Unidentified Male Singer]

In. In life smoldering embers,

[Unidentified Female Singer]

one spark may

[Unidentified Male Singer]

remain, you know, if the Lord still can remember,

[Unidentified Female Singer]

the spark may burn again. I know that I'll be content

[Unidentified Male Singer]

with yesterday's memories knowing you think of me

[Unidentified Female Singer]

one in all.

[Rex Marshall]

Hey, you know, I was thinking while Bell was singing that since this is an Air Force party, there might be some will wonder just what part congenial Mr. Henderson has on an all air force show.

[Skitch Henderson]

Please, Mr. Marshall, you sound just like an instructor I had when I was a lowly cadet. My AGO card earth you'd care to examine it?

[Rex Marshall]

Oh, I see. Ly Cedric.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

Cedric.

[Skitch Henderson]

Cedric.

[Rex Marshall]

Oh, pardon me, Ly Cedric Henderson. But the important thing it says is Captain, United States Army Air Corps Reserve. So you were one of us.

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, very much so. And if you'll notice that reserve still means that I belong.

[Rex Marshall]

That shows that in addition to being a pretty fair country musician, Lee, you're a pretty smart fella.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

We're not.

[Skitch Henderson]

Not particularly smart, Rex. I just know a good thing when I see it.

[Rex Marshall]

Well, the only thing I can say to that skitch is that I think everyone who belongs knows that. And what's more, the fellows who passed it up are beginning to realize that they miss something. Say, Sketch, do you remember a small town in California by the name of Merced and a bunch of swell guys who used to gather around the battered piano and scream for music?

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, that is something I'll surely never forget.

[Rex Marshall]

Well, then you'll remember this number they were always asking you to play. The one entitled Begin the Beguine. There's someone else very special we're going to meet in just a moment. But we can't let Barrel dig without singing another song. How about it, Barrel?

[Beryl Davis]

Well, this time I'd like to dedicate a number to a special group of fellows.

[Rex Marshall]

Why, Farrell? Playing favorites?

[Beryl Davis]

Yes, I am, Rex. Playing favorites for those fellows who are just starting out on a career with the Air Forces. Look at that. I'd like to hand a big welcome.

[Rex Marshall]

All right then, Barrel.

[Beryl Davis]

So you'll sing we knew it all the.

[Unidentified Female Singer]

You didn't have to say I love you. You didn't have to say be mine.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

But oh baby, with lo.

[Beryl Davis]

All the time.

[Unidentified Female Singer]

You didn't have to stay till the T. I didn't have to say divine cause.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Oh, baby with no money. We knew it all the time. I guess that we're all lucky for falling in love that we do

[Unidentified Female Singer]

no

[Unidentified Male Singer]

romantic expressions, foolish concessions.

[Unidentified Female Singer]

We didn't go through those Two confessions no one had to say let's marry people we we didn't need a June

[Unidentified Male Singer]

moon ride Cause oh baby with no name we heard those church bells child

[Unidentified Female Singer]

we knew it all the time.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

I guess that we're Although we feel no romantic expression fully

[Unidentified Female Singer]

we didn't go

[Unidentified Male Singer]

through those two confessions no one meant

[Unidentified Female Singer]

to say let's marry we didn't need a June moon ris.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Oh baby with no we heard those

[Beryl Davis]

trips

[Unidentified Male Singer]

we knew it all

[Unidentified Female Singer]

the time.

[Rex Marshall]

Thanks to you.

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[Rex Marshall]

You know, Stitch, it's reminiscing time at the party. You know, anytime the gang gets together, the talk usually gets around to the good old days and the memories that live in a song. So let's get you behind the piano and take a journey back through the war years with some of the songs that we all knew and sang.

[Skitch Henderson]

Well, I think, Rex, that it's a good idea. And I don't think we could get started with a better number than the one Bale Davison or practically every man who set foot in the ETO remembers the British number that we Americans adopted and especially the cadets. And the name of it is I've Got Six Packs.

[Rex Marshall]

That was fine sketch for the boys who were in the epoxy, but there was one we fellows in the Pacific will never forget. It was an Australian number they called Waltzing Matilda. Now here's a number everyone in the air Corps knew and sang. It has any number of special lyrics. But we're going to listen to Skitch and his boys. Just play the music. You know, the song Lily Marlene has a unique history. When the Germans lost the African campaign, they lost with it their son. Lily Marlene. A German ballad that despite the war, found its way into the hearts of the Allied troops. It stands as a tribute to the fact that good music is always good listening, desert or no desert. And now here's Skitch Henderson and Lily Marlin,

[Unidentified Male Singer]

12 kids.

[Beryl Davis]

That was swell. I imagine that brought back a lot of memories. And that reminds me that we have a guest of Us here tonight who will bring back even more memories. I don't think the men in the armed forces ever had a better friend. He did a great job during the war and is still hard at it today. I'd like all of you to meet your old friend, Ted Malone.

[Rex Marshall]

Thank you, Barrel.

[Ted Malone]

Hey, that was quite a bill.

[Rex Marshall]

That's right, and one you richly deserve, Ted. Say, I understand that you're going to be off on another trip.

[Ted Malone]

Yeah, that's right. I'm leaving August 3rd for Europe to look over things over there again. By the way, I'll be traveling over routes pioneered by your Army Air Forces.

[Rex Marshall]

Any entertainment this trip? Oh, no.

[Ted Malone]

This is strictly business this time.

[Rex Marshall]

Well, Ted, August 3rd is still a few days off. And since the strictly business sign hasn't been hung out yet, how about a poem?

[Ted Malone]

Okay, Rex, since tomorrow is Air Force Day and this party tonight is an Air Force party, well, maybe it'd be nice to do something in the spirit of things. I'd like to read a poem that was written by an American pilot who flew with the rcaf. He was killed in the line of duty while only 19 years old, but not before he left this poem, which. Well, it pretty well sums up the sentiments of all those who fly. Flight officer John McGee Junior's high flight. Oh, I have slipped the surly bonds of earth and danced the skies on laughter Silvered wings sunward I've climbed and joined the tumbling mirth of sun Split clouds and done a hundred things you've not dreamed of Wheeled and soared and swung high in the sunlit silence Hovering there I've chased the shouting wind along Flung my eager craft through footless halls of air up, up the long, delirious, burning blue I've topped the windswept heights with easy grace where never lark nor even eagle flew. And while with silent lifting mind I've trod the high untressed sanctity of space Put out my hand and touch. That's the faith of God.

[Rex Marshall]

Thank you, Ted Malone, and happy landings on your trip to Europe. Well, as long as there are men filled with the desire to fly. And we have an Army Air Force, we'll always have the aviation cadet. And no cadet detachment is complete. Complete without the Whiffen Poop Saw.

[Unidentified Male Singer]

Sam. Sa. Sam.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

Tomorrow, August 1st, is Air Force Day,

[Rex Marshall]

the 40th anniversary of the Army Air Force. We will observe this Air Force Day

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

resolved that we must help guard the security of the world by maintaining a

[Rex Marshall]

state of military preparedness.

[Lt. Cass Bielski]

On this 40th anniversary, we commemorate the achievements of the past and look to the future with renewed determination that through air power we will preserve the peace.

[Rex Marshall]

From the Hotel Pennsylvania in New York, the American Broadcasting Company and your Army Air Forces have presented Air Force Night at Cafe Rouge. Heard on Tonight show were Skits Henderson and his orchestra, Merrill Davis, Ted Malone, Lt. Cass Bielski and your host, Rex Marshall. This program was written by Captain Mark D. Miranda and produced and directed by Charles Harold. Now this is Rex Marshall reminding you to keep your eye in the sky, America. Your future flies there. Air power is peace. This is abc, the American Broadcasting Company.

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