Ceiling Unlimited 42-12-14 (06) War Workers aka Secret Agent 23

Summary

Ceiling Unlimited 42-12-14 (06): War Workers aka Secret Agent 23

Released on February 2, 2025, by Harold's Old Time Radio

Introduction

In the captivating episode titled "Ceiling Unlimited 42-12-14 (06): War Workers aka Secret Agent 23," listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio. Hosted by Orson Welles, the show masterfully blends espionage, wartime propaganda, and a heartfelt homage to the diverse workforce powering America's war machine. This episode offers an engaging narrative that highlights the critical role of ordinary Americans in the war effort, all the while maintaining an entertaining storyline filled with suspense and patriotism.

Plot Overview

The episode opens with Orson Welles introducing "Ceiling Unlimited," setting the stage for a dramatic unfolding of events within the Lockheed and Vega Aircraft Plant in Burbank, California. The central character, Secret Agent 23, operates covertly within the plant, disseminating crucial information about American aircraft production to boost morale and ensure the success of the war effort.

Key Sections and Highlights

1. The Secret Broadcast Begins

• Timestamp [00:12]
  Secret Agent 23 introduces himself, revealing his mission to inform listeners about the American production of aircraft. He emphasizes the clandestine nature of his broadcasts, made possible through a concealed microphone hidden beneath his identification badge.

  "This secret broadcast is made through concealed microphone worn on lapel... making secret broadcasts from American war plants."
  — Secret Agent 23 [00:12]

2. Interruption and Irony

• Timestamp [01:23] - [02:10]
  The narrative takes a humorous turn as Groovy Cat and Orson Welles engage in lighthearted banter, juxtaposing the serious espionage elements with moments of levity. This interplay underscores the human element within the high-stakes environment of wartime production.

  "Jackson, that cat's Groovy as a 2 cent movie."
  — Groovy Cat [01:23]

  "When his boots are laced, he really jumps."
  — Orson Welles [01:31]

3. Espionage Unfolds

• Timestamp [02:12] - [03:10]
  Secret Agent 23's broadcast reveals tensions and uncertainties within the plant, hinting at low morale and fears of democracy collapsing. The introduction of Fritz, an undercover agent from Berlin, heightens the suspense as he is apprehended by the FBI, showcasing the ever-present threat of sabotage.

  "At any moment now, democracy will break down... because discipline is here?"
  — Secret Agent 23 [02:12]

4. Orson Welles' Meta-Narrative

• Timestamp [03:19] - [04:21]
  Orson Welles transitions from the dramatic espionage plot to a self-referential commentary, revealing that the broadcasts are part of a coast-to-coast hookup with CBS. This metafictional twist serves to engage listeners directly, blurring the lines between fiction and reality.

  "Your information was all arranged. We thought our listeners might be amused."
  — Orson Welles [03:26]

5. Highlighting the Workforce

• Timestamp [04:21] - [10:14]
  The heart of the episode lies in its portrayal of the diverse workforce at the Vega Aircraft Plant. Through a series of interviews, Welles introduces listeners to various workers, each bringing a unique story and background. This segment underscores themes of unity, dedication, and the indispensable contributions of all individuals, regardless of race, gender, or disability.

  • Vega Worker on Dedication

    "Doing what I can to win the war, naturally."
    — Vega Worker [04:21]

  • Professor Vincenti Crano's Story
    Professor Crano, an Italian sculptor turned engineer, discusses his transition and pride in contributing to America's war efforts, emphasizing the collective goal of national freedom.

    "When we win, Italy will be free again."
    — Professor Vincenti Crano [05:58]

  • Women in the Workforce
    Welles highlights the substantial female participation, detailing the roles of women like Teresa Turner, a former hairdresser now operating a drill press, and Priscilla Ory, who works with welding machines after her family members were taken prisoners.

    "Over 75% of the new employees here are women."
    — Orson Welles [10:14]

  • Diversity and Inclusion
    The plant employs individuals from various ethnic backgrounds and those with disabilities, showcasing a microcosm of American society united in purpose.

    "All the races and every sort of person. They all work together."
    — Orson Welles [10:23]

6. The Power of People

• Timestamp [10:14] - [13:31]
  Moving beyond the technical aspects of aircraft production, Welles delivers a poignant message about the true "secret" behind America's victory: its people. Through evocative descriptions and personal touches, he celebrates the ordinary individuals whose collective efforts drive the nation forward.

  "Beautiful, wonderful, plain, ordinary people. They're the secret of victory. The men and women of democracy."
  — Orson Welles [13:31]

Notable Quotes and Their Impact

1. Secret Agent 23 on Morale

   "At any moment now, democracy will break down... because discipline is here?"
   — Secret Agent 23 [02:12]
   This quote underscores the fragile state of morale within the workforce, highlighting the psychological strains of wartime production.

2. Professor Crano's Commitment

   "When we win, Italy will be free again."
   — Professor Vincenti Crano [05:58]
   Demonstrates the international solidarity and personal sacrifices made by immigrants contributing to the war effort.

3. Orson Welles on Workforce Diversity

   "All the races and every sort of person. They all work together."
   — Orson Welles [10:23]
   Emphasizes the unifying power of collective effort, transcending racial and cultural differences.

4. The Ultimate Secret

   "Beautiful, wonderful, plain, ordinary people. They're the secret of victory. The men and women of democracy."
   — Orson Welles [13:31]
   Serves as the episode's thematic climax, reinforcing the idea that unity and ordinary people's dedication are pivotal to success.

Conclusion

"Ceiling Unlimited 42-12-14 (06): War Workers aka Secret Agent 23" is a masterful blend of espionage intrigue and heartfelt tribute to the American workforce during wartime. Orson Welles deftly navigates between suspenseful storytelling and sincere appreciation for the diverse individuals driving the nation's war efforts. The episode not only entertains but also serves as a reminder of the collective strength derived from unity and dedication, making it a standout installment in Harold's Old Time Radio collection.

Listeners new to this episode will find themselves immersed in a richly textured narrative that honors the spirit of a bygone era, celebrating the unsung heroes whose contributions made a profound impact on history.

Transcript

[Orson Welles]

Ceiling unlimited. Hello, Americans. This is Orson Welles. This radio show is brought to you by the men and women of Lockheed and Vegas. Standby.

[Secret Agent 23]

Hello, hello, sergeant from the bell shop. Hello, hello. This is operated 23 United States Burbank, California state. Hello, hello. This is operative 23. I hope you are hearing this. This is Secret Agent 23, M5 and American War plant. One of America's greatest aircraft manufacturers. The Vega plant. Vega M. As a worker disguised. This secret broadcast is made through concealed microphone worn on lapel. Cleverly concealed behind Vega workers identification badge. On my coat is a microphone into which I'm speaking. Through this I shall my mission carry out. To inform you from their source fact and data of American production of aircraft. The Heil a German soldier salute his right. Secret agent 23. Making secret broadcasts from American war plants.

[Groovy Cat]

Jackson, that cat's Groovy as a 2 cent movie.

[Orson Welles]

Solid perk. Solid.

[Groovy Cat]

He digged that melody. That's 10.

[Secret Agent 23]

You can say that again.

[Orson Welles]

When his boots are laced, he really jumps.

[Groovy Cat]

Beat me, daddy. Tell me more.

[Secret Agent 23]

Hello, hello. 23. Making secret broadcast devices just heard where those of American slaves. Translation compatible. Obviously code information to be kept secret from God or foreman, as here they are called. Will obtain precise German form for a groovy as a 2 cent movie. Also he that mellow jive dicks. Murder etc. Hello. Feliz. Coming through.

[Orson Welles]

Watch your feet.

[Secret Agent 23]

This code language before heard clear indication that morale is low. At any moment now democracy will break down. How otherwise men and women, without regard for racial purity sit together here, working unguarded. From where should necessary obedience come when discipline is here? So missing that slave just passing me purposelessly to himself as he works. Whistles and zings. Blueprints. Captain, office here. Keep contact, please.

[Orson Welles]

Yes, who is it?

[Secret Agent 23]

John Smith, employee. I've been sent for the blueprint here.

[Orson Welles]

Come in. Hello. Excuse me, I'm in the wrong place. You certainly are, Fritz. You should have stood in Berlin. Like you to meet some friends of mine. How do you do? FBI.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Mr. Smith and Chuck.

[Orson Welles]

FBI. Excuse please. What is going. We're going to have to take you along with us. Hello.

[Secret Agent 23]

Hello. Hello, Mark.

[Orson Welles]

Hello.

[Secret Agent 23]

Herman. Hello. Leitman, Oberweier, somebody.

[Orson Welles]

Sorry, Fritz. We'll take over now. I'll relieve you of that microphone.

[Secret Agent 23]

Come on.

[Orson Welles]

Hello.

[Vega Worker]

Hello.

[Orson Welles]

Hop station. Hello, Berlin. Hello, Tokyo. Hello. Access your secret operative 23. Didn't know it, but his secret broadcasts had a coast to coast hookup. CBS to be exact. On the Lockheed and Vega program. Don't worry, there are no spies at Lockheed or Vega, we see to that. Your information was all arranged. We thought our listeners might be amused. Hello, Americans. This is Orson Wells. If you don't mind, we're going to stay right on Fritz's private beam to Berlin. Fritz came here to the Vega plant looking for secrets. His boss wants to find out about American plunder. To their success. Axis listeners, come with me. We'll continue dry unchwantig tour of the Vega assembly line. You want secrets? There are some American workers. What does the Fritz call them? Slaves. Maybe they'll tell us how it's done, what it's done with and why. Here we are at a drill press here. The typical American slave. Let's see what she has to say about it. Hello there. Maybe you can tell us why you work here.

[Vega Worker]

Doing what I can to win the war, naturally.

[Groovy Cat]

We all are.

[Orson Welles]

The way I figure it, the more.

[Vega Worker]

Of us we can get to work, the more planes we can get.

[Orson Welles]

Let's hear from this lady over here. She seems to be pounding rivets into something or other. I don't know if she can hear us or not with all this racket. Better listen with both ears. Pardon me. I beg your pardon. I don't want to slow up production. But just what is it you're putting into this plane?

[Vega Worker]

I'm paying back.

[Orson Welles]

A little closer to the microphone, please. That's better.

[Vega Worker]

I'm paying back in rivets. Double for every bullet they put into my jaw.

[Orson Welles]

Your husband was killed in combat.

[Vega Worker]

He wasn't my husband. But he was going to be.

[Orson Welles]

I see.

[Expediter]

Yeah.

[Vega Worker]

And I can match their machine guns anytime with this hammer.

[Orson Welles]

Nazis. Listen to this. We're in the plastics department now. You know something about plastics. You helped develop them. You also developed an ally in Italy. Plastics and Italians. Watch what we do with them in America, Mr. Crano. Now just a minute of your time, please.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Only a minute.

[Orson Welles]

Professor Vincenti. Chrono. About your work, Mr. Crano. An Italian working in an American aircraft factory making bombers to destroy the Axis. Something worth talking about. Will you tell our listeners what you did in Italy before you came here?

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

I was a sculptor.

[Orson Welles]

Now you're using that talent to make molds for castings.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Well, it's not quite the same, but in a way it is.

[Orson Welles]

Do you have a family, Mr. Krano?

[Secret Agent 23]

Oh, yes.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Eight children. All of my boys are fighting for Anglo Sam.

[Orson Welles]

Fighting against Italy, Mr. Crono.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Not against Italy. They are fighting for the freedom of Italy. When we win, Italy will be free again.

[Orson Welles]

So you're satisfied making moves?

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

I'm very Happy with my work?

[Secret Agent 23]

Yes.

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

I feel I'm really accomplishing something. I'm proud to be part of all this.

[Orson Welles]

Mr. Crano, is there any secret? The way you're making moles? What do you add that makes your castings better than those produced by the axis?

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

As you say, mister. Well, that is correct.

[Orson Welles]

You like your work though?

[Professor Vincenti Crano]

Oh, yes, I like my work very much.

[Orson Welles]

Thank you. Hello, fascist. Are you still listening? You learning what goes into our American planes? There's a very busy young lady over here, you might like to hear from her. She seems to be somebody. Can we get through here, please? And pardon. Watch for my cable. That's it. We'll get in here as close as we can.

[Expediter]

This one goes to 823production. This one goes over to engine assembly.

[Orson Welles]

Give you a minute, please.

[Expediter]

Hold it, buddy. Just a second, please. Joe, rush these half inch couplings into the assembly. Hurry it up.

[Orson Welles]

This is a broadcast, buddy.

[Expediter]

I'm awfully busy. This of 1170s goes to maintenance. They came in 20 minutes ago.

[Vega Worker]

Okay, I'll rush it.

[Expediter]

All right, what's on your mind? No, no. Those panels have to go to sand blast.

[Orson Welles]

I wish you'd tell us what you put into your planes.

[Expediter]

I'm an expediter, mister. I put the right parts in the right places at the right time. Hey, look, if Meyer doesn't get those gaskets, he'll have kittens. And theyo has no exhaust manifold.

[Orson Welles]

Don't mind me.

[Expediter]

I don't.

[Groovy Cat]

These go to 207.

[Orson Welles]

Step on it.

[Vega Worker]

Shoot these over to the lab for stress now.

[Orson Welles]

Huh? Over here's the right wing assembly. I know, Belen, you want secrets. You want the device or the design that makes our wings more durable than yours? You've noticed ours don't drop off in a 500 mile an hour dive. Maybe it's something we put inside those wings. Take the microphone up this ladder and get a look at what goes on inside. Standby. Now then, on top of a ten foot ladder, see down inside the long tunnel, rather flat, egg shaped tunnel. The inside of the right wing. Outside, along its smooth streamlined surface. A lot of young women are diligently inserting rivets, inspecting seams and rapidly molding the great structure. Inside it's dark, cramped, maybe. Maybe the secret's inside here. I think I see a workman down there. Cops. Down there in the narrow space. Find out what he's doing. Hello in there. Can we speak to you a minute?

[Groovy Cat]

Okay.

[Orson Welles]

From the size of the voice and the size of the quarters, I think you're about to hear from one of the many midgets, one of the many little people employed in our American aircraft factories.

[Groovy Cat]

Here we are.

[Orson Welles]

Could you tell us what goes into the making of a wing like this one? Besides metals and craftsmanship?

[Groovy Cat]

You mean designs is all like.

[Orson Welles]

Well, what I mean is the spirit of the thing. For instance, how do you like working all cooped up in that very cramped space in there?

[Groovy Cat]

How do I like it? It's the greatest thing that ever happened.

[Orson Welles]

In what way?

[Groovy Cat]

Well, heck, before we little people had nothing to do but be funny in circuses and things like that. But now comes along a job that nobody else can do but us.

[Orson Welles]

Elijah man couldn't get inside one of those wings, could he?

[Groovy Cat]

They tried it. Why, it's even tough for me. But I'm not squawking. I like.

[Orson Welles]

Good for you. Now let's get back to work. Goodbye. Now we're on our way up to the main control panel assembly. And here they attach fine wires to delicate instruments. The eyes and ears of the plane. This young lady, for instance. She'll stop those nimble fingers of hers for just a minute. Maybe she'll answer a question or two. Excuse me, miss.

[Vega Worker]

Yes?

[Orson Welles]

Would you be so kind as to tell our listeners what it is you do?

[Vega Worker]

I connect wires onto the terminals of bomber control panels.

[Orson Welles]

How do you know which wire goes into which terminal?

[Vega Worker]

By the length and the size of each wire. Yes.

[Orson Welles]

How'd you have to get into your line of work?

[Vega Worker]

I wrote out the regular application.

[Orson Welles]

What was your real reason for wanting to work?

[Vega Worker]

Reason? Well, I guess. I guess I just wanted to prove something.

[Orson Welles]

Prove what?

[Vega Worker]

Well, I guess just prove that I can wire terminals as well as other people.

[Orson Welles]

You're blind, aren't you? Yes, thank you very much.

[Vega Worker]

And I'm not afraid anymore either.

[Orson Welles]

Over here we have a white haired grandmother who used to teach school. Hello, Mrs. Hill. Hello. Mrs. Hill is assembling ventilator panels.

[Expediter]

See this? Going to Alaska.

[Orson Welles]

This is the way it works.

[Expediter]

You pull a lever and these louvers will close. Keep the cold air away from our boys lying up there.

[Orson Welles]

We've been hearing from a lot of women here in Vega. Over 75% of the new employees here are women. Teresa Turner is very proud of her toolkit. Theresa used to be a hairdresser. Now she operates a drill press. And Priscilla Ory, her husband and father were both taken prisoners in Batan. Priscilla works as part welding machines. The machine is never silent. Next sportswoman works beside her. She has a villa in Tahiti. Sends A paycheck to Red Cross. Over in Engineering, you'll find Marion Chuyang Lo. Pale Chinese silk. Marion does blueprints for machine gun mounts. Right here in front of me, two sisters whose parents were born in Norway are sorting and distributing electric wires. Next to them is a Negro with gray hair. Girl with an Irish rogue, born in County Mejill. Woman next to her is Greek. All the races in the world are here. You wouldn't like that. Germany. All the races and every sort of person. They all work together. Insist on working. Deaf people, they found a job here they can do. People who can't speak, blind people, People with money who don't have to work at all. People are outside now. Our address, the Vega Aircraft Plant, Burbank, California. United States of America. United nations of the world. Access, listeners, are you listening? We're broadcasting from the giant Runway that sends our planes to you. Can you hear them? Wait a minute. We'll move the mic a little closer. Listen, Patches, if you aren't. You're hearing another plane just like this plane right now. Many planes just like this one right now. In a week or less, you'll meet this one in person. Some of you will. Somewhere on your side of the world. The shady side, where you're still holding out against the future. Want secrets? Secrets? Here's the real one. You'd never guess it in a million years. Make it 2 million. Listen in there. All right. Isn't there? Well, I'll tell you what. It's people. That's the answer. People. Free people. You can hear the difference. That's Joe and Fred. That's Teddy and Peggy and Jose. Orga and Mary Jane. Ivan and Giovanni. Abby and Patty. Shorty, Chubby and Flynn. Lefty and Blondie and Billy. The Mid. They're all in that motor. Hear them? Their laughter is in that flame. Their free laughter. Their fine, clean anger. Their dream of the future, passion. Little people are the big secret. Beautiful, wonderful, plain, ordinary people. They're the secret of victory. The men and women of democracy.

[Announcer]

You have just heard Orson Welles in a program presented by the Lockheed and Vega Aircraft Corporations of Burbank, California. This is the Columbia Broadcasting System.

[Orson Welles]

Sat.