Podcast Summary: "Join The Navy 19xx.xx.xx Show 111"
Harold's Old Time Radio presents a nostalgic journey back to the Golden Age of Radio in their episode titled "Join The Navy 19xx.xx.xx Show 111," released on May 8, 2025. Hosted by Commander Charles Brendler and featuring performances by the United States Navy Band and Orchestra, this episode seamlessly blends patriotic recruitment messages with classic musical performances, encapsulating the era when families gathered around the radio for entertainment and information.
1. Opening Segment: Inviting to Join the Navy
Commander Charles Brendler kicks off the episode at [00:16] with a warm invitation to join the United States Navy. He introduces himself as the conductor of the Navy Band and Orchestra, setting a patriotic and formal tone for the show.
"From your nation's capital, it's the United States Navy Band and Orchestra Commander Charles Brendler, conductor, inviting you to join the Navy for a quarter hour."
— Commander Charles Brendler [00:16]
This segment features a spirited seagoing march performed by the Navy Band, evoking the grandeur and tradition of naval service.
2. Exploring the Themes of Navy Life
At [02:08], Brendler transitions into a musical interlude titled "El Rancho Grande," highlighting the diverse repertoire of the Navy Band.
"And its wild and woolly music from El Rancho Grande."
— Commander Charles Brendler [02:08]
Following this, the host introduces the theme of travel associated with Navy life, setting the stage for the next segment.
3. "Coming Places" Department with Ben Mitchell Morse
At [03:30], Brendler introduces Ben Mitchell Morse, a Navy tenor, who takes over the "Going Places" department. Morse performs "Come Back to Sorrento," a poignant piece that underscores themes of longing and homesickness, common emotions among service members.
"Can it be that you were given? Can it be that love is gone on the world and leave a heart that's broken. Come back to."
— Ben Mitchell Morse [04:17]
Through his heartfelt rendition, Morse connects with listeners on an emotional level, reinforcing the personal sacrifices associated with naval service.
4. Navy Leadership Training and Officer Recruitment
Returning to [06:22], Commander Brendler delivers a compelling recruitment message emphasizing the value of Navy leadership training:
"Every little bit added to what you've got makes just a little bit more. But it's worth more than just a little bit when you can add Navy leadership training to your college credits."
— Commander Charles Brendler [06:22]
He elaborates on how naval officer training complements academic education, providing young men with leadership skills that give them an edge in any career path. Brendler encourages college students to consider joining the Naval Reserve as officer candidates, highlighting the benefits of leadership experience and summer training opportunities.
"When it comes to getting ahead in any job, you've already shown that you've got what it takes to be a leader and have an officer's commission to prove it."
— Commander Charles Brendler [06:22]
Listeners are directed to contact Navy recruiters or write to ROC in Washington, D.C., for more information on Naval Reserve officer training.
5. Musical Interlude: "In the Still of the Night"
At [10:28], the episode transitions back to music with an introduction to Cole Porter's "In the Still of the Night," a favorite piece performed by the Navy Band Orchestra.
"A Cole Porter favorite In the still of the night."
— Commander Charles Brendler [11:13]
The performance captures the elegance and sophistication of the era, showcasing the Navy Orchestra's versatility and musical prowess.
6. Live Performance: "Pastimes on the Left"
The United States Navy Band, under Commander Brendler's baton, presents "Pastimes on the Left" at [11:13]. This piece reflects the band's ability to blend traditional naval marches with contemporary compositions, appealing to a wide audience and enhancing the recruitment message through engaging performances.
7. Closing Remarks and Future Shows
As the episode nears its end at [14:06], Commander Brendler credits Max Sa for writing and producing the program and passes the torch to Jim Simpson.
"Jim Simpson inviting you to join us again real soon for another transcribed show in the musical series Join the Navy."
— Commander Charles Brendler [14:06]
The show wraps up with a reprise of patriotic themes, leaving listeners with a sense of pride and a call to action to consider a future with the Navy.
Conclusion
"Join The Navy 19xx.xx.xx Show 111" masterfully blends recruitment messaging with enchanting musical performances, reflecting the spirit and camaraderie of the Navy during the Golden Age of Radio. Through the articulate presentations of Commander Charles Brendler and the soulful performances by Ben Mitchell Morse and the United States Navy Band, the episode serves both as a historical homage and an inspiring recruitment tool. Listeners are left with a clear understanding of the Navy's commitment to leadership, education, and musical excellence, encapsulating the enduring legacy of naval service.