Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode Summary: "It's Maritime 44-07-08 (x) Charles Simpson"
Release Date: March 12, 2025

Introduction

In this heartfelt episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, host Joe Weeks presents "It's Maritime," a dedicated half-hour variety show honoring the brave men of the Merchant Marine. Collaborating with the War Shipping Administration and featuring guests such as veteran Roger Ferguson, Able Seaman Charles Albert Simpson, singing star Joan Brooks, and vocalist Tommy Mercer, the program intertwines poignant interviews with stirring musical performances. Accompanied by the Maritime Service Orchestra led by Warrant Officer Philip Lang, the episode serves as both a tribute and a recruitment drive for the Merchant Marine during wartime.

Interview with Able Seaman Charles Albert Simpson

Joe Weeks opens the episode by introducing Charles Albert Simpson, a 43-year-old stationary engineer with a storied past in naval service. Simpson shares his motivations for rejoining the Merchant Marine amidst the war effort.

• Background and Motivation:
  Simpson reveals his early enlistment in the Navy at 16, embellishing his age to serve during the last war. "I've kept myself in fairly good shape. And once you've been at sea, there isn't much. You forget about it," [08:17] Simpson explains, highlighting his readiness to answer the call once more.

• Personal Connection and Purpose:
  Delving into his personal reasons, Simpson recounts his experiences with the Rainbow Division, emphasizing the profound impact of aiding soldiers returning from the front lines. "I want to go over there and help so that I can bring back some of the boys from over there again," [09:37] he ardently states, underscoring his commitment to both duty and camaraderie.

Musical Performances

The episode is enriched with soulful performances that capture the era's essence.

• Joan Brooks – "I Don't Want to Love You":
  Joan Brooks graces the show with her emotive rendition, setting a reflective tone and resonating with the audience's sentiments.

• Tommy Mercer – "If You Were the Only Boy in the World and I Were the Only Girl":
  Tommy Mercer's heartfelt performance adds depth to the episode, intertwining themes of longing and hope that mirror the experiences of servicemen and their loved ones.

Roger Ferguson's War Story

Roger Ferguson, a seasoned liaison officer from Temple, Texas, shares gripping firsthand accounts from the North Africa Campaign and the harrowing days at Anzio.

• Supply Missions and Combat Zones:
  Ferguson details the perilous task of delivering essential supplies under fire. "We were way beyond the front line," [20:35] he recalls a tense moment where a misjudged maneuver nearly led them into a German concentration camp.

• Personal Sacrifices and Resilience:
  Recounting a tragic incident, Ferguson speaks of a comrade lost to a mine, juxtaposed with his own injuries and subsequent discharge. "You can get a job in a defense factory," [22:51] he initially remarks, but his resolve leads him to a vital role in the Merchant Marine instead.

• Call to Action:
  Ferguson passionately urges experienced seamen to enlist, emphasizing the indispensable role of the Merchant Marine in sustaining the war effort. "To win this war, hundreds and thousands of our ships will have to keep a steady stream of supplies going out to the far corners of the earth," [24:35] he implores, reinforcing the critical need for skilled personnel.

Joan Brooks' Message on V Mail

Interspersed with the narrative are important announcements:

• Support for Servicemen and Women:
  Joan Brooks makes a compelling plea for the use of V Mail, highlighting its efficiency and reliability. "Remember, write tonight and use V Mail the smart and patriotic way," [16:13] she urges, emphasizing the importance of maintaining connections through secure and swift communication.

Closing Remarks

As the episode draws to a close, Joe Weeks dedicates the marine hymn to all who serve on land and sea, honoring their sacrifices and dedication. The collaborative effort of Joan Brooks, Charles Simpson, Roger Ferguson, and Tommy Mercer is acknowledged, with an invitation extended to listeners to support the Merchant Marine's vital mission.

• Final Call to Support:
  Roger Ferguson reiterates the urgent need for experienced mariners, encouraging immediate action. "If you're one of them guys, why don't you ride or go down to the Office of the Recruitment and Manning Organization of the War Shipping Administration," [24:35] he advises, leaving listeners with a clear directive to contribute to the war effort.

Conclusion

This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully blends personal narratives, patriotic calls to action, and evocative music to celebrate and support the Merchant Marine. Through the compelling stories of Joe Weeks' guests and the melodic interludes by Joan Brooks and Tommy Mercer, listeners gain a profound appreciation for the indispensable role of mariners in wartime. The program not only honors those who serve but also inspires others to join the cause, ensuring that the steady flow of supplies continues to sustain the fight for victory.

Notable Quotes

• Charles Albert Simpson:
  "I want to go over there and help so that I can bring back some of the boys from over there again." [09:37]

• Roger Ferguson:
  "To win this war, hundreds and thousands of our ships will have to keep a steady stream of supplies going out to the far corners of the earth." [24:35]

• Joan Brooks:
  "Remember, write tonight and use V Mail the smart and patriotic way." [16:13]

Credits

Produced and directed by Charles Herbert, written by Robert Sloan, and presented by Joe Weeks for CBS Columbia. Special thanks to the U.S. Maritime Service Training Station at Sheepset Bay, Brooklyn, and the Maritime Service Orchestra under the direction of Warrant Officer Philip Lang.