Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Major Bowes #19xx.xx.xx AFRS Rebroadcast
Release Date: March 25, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio

Introduction

In this special rebroadcast of the Armed Forces Radio Service classic, hosted by Major Edward Bose, listeners are treated to an engaging evening of entertainment crafted specifically for American Armed Forces and their allies. The episode features a variety of amateur performances, including musical acts, comedic impressions, and heartfelt storytelling, all reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.

Opening Performances

The episode opens with a spirited welcome from Major Edward Bose, who introduces the evening's lineup:

"Thank you and good evening, friends. Whirling goes her weekly wheel of fortune for the 461st time around. Around she goes. And there she stops. Nobody knows."
— Major Edward Bose [00:35]

Private First Class Don Crist's Musical Showcase

Private First Class Don Crist from the Indian Town Gap Military Reservation takes the stage with his marimba performances. He presents a medley that showcases his versatility:

• "Falling In Love With Someone With Four Mallets"
• "Dance of the Hours"

However, when prompted to sing, Don surprises the audience by engaging in double talk, blending intelligible lyrics with gibberish, creating a humorous and entertaining effect.

"You never know just how much I miss you. You never know just how much I care..."
— Private First Class Don Crist [04:07]

Major Bose humorously addresses Don's performance:

"That remains to be seen. All right, go in."
— Major Edward Bose [04:02]

Joseph DeMarco's Contribution

From the 3rd Naval District Headquarters, Joseph DeMarco, a Specialist, Male, 3rd Class, discusses his role in handling Navy mail, highlighting the importance of communication among troops.

"You handle Navy mail, correct?"
— Major Edward Bose [03:47]

"Yes, Major. Buy the truckload. The more mail, the better. I like it."
— Joseph DeMarco [03:47]

Musical Interludes and Impressions

The program seamlessly transitions between performances and light-hearted conversations.

The Shipmates' Instrumental Sextet

An instrumental sextet known as The Shipmates presents band impressions, adding a lively musical interlude to the program. They perform impressions of various bands, including:

• Tommy Darcy
• Lieutenant Eddie Duchin

"That's the Shipmates, an instrumental sextet and they do band impressions."
— Major Edward Bose [05:57]

Sergeant Carl DeSoto's Talents

Sergeant Carl DeSoto showcases his multifaceted talents by singing, playing the guitar, and tap dancing on a chair, adding a dynamic performance that captivates the audience.

Guest Appearance: Larry Best and the Radio Ramblers

A highlight of the episode is the appearance of Larry Best, the guest star and member of the celebrated Radio Ramblers trio.

"Recently, the team was voted by a leading theatrical magazine, the top comedy trio of the country."
— Major Edward Bose [15:50]

Larry Best shares his journey in entertainment, discussing the challenges and triumphs he faced while building his career with the support of Major Bose's units.

"You might well be, sir, because, well, I guess you started the whole thing. You know, the fact, you know, I met Mrs. Best on one of your units and we were married while we were both in the unit."
— Larry Best [17:23]

He demonstrates his knack for comedic impressions, delivering a lively portrayal of a glamour girl from Brooklyn boarding the subway:

"Say, you know, I went out last night and did I have a time, I'm telling you."
— Gwendolyn (Larry Best's Impression) [18:01]

Larry continues with an impersonation of the famous screen actor Billy Gilbert, humorously differentiating between salt and pepper with whimsical instructions:

"You start to smell the salt first, like this."
— Billy Gilbert (Larry Best's Impression) [21:27]

The segment is filled with laughter and applause, showcasing Larry's impressive range and comedic timing.

Gene Logan's Scotch Medley

Gene Logan, a Specialist Recruit, Third Class, performs a heartfelt medley of Scotch songs, evoking nostalgia and camaraderie among listeners.

"I love the Lassie a bonny hill and Lassie she's as sweet as the lily in the dell..."
— Gene Logan [13:59]

Her performance is briefly interrupted by another Wayfair advertisement, but Gene resumes with the following lines:

"There's a wee wifey waiting and a wee Bart and then if you can say it's a Bro Richtman licht nicht and you're all rich, you can."
— Gene Logan [14:51]

The Carroll Sisters' Harmonies

Towards the episode's conclusion, the Carroll Sisters deliver distinctive harmonies, adding a melodious touch to the evening. Their performance includes a mix of original songs and parodies that reflect life in the armed forces.

"Leave us, Lacy, we're in love in some other life we was once man and wife in an old friendship hole..."
— Carroll Sisters [23:23]

Their harmonious voices and engaging lyrics resonate with the audience, encapsulating the spirit of unity and love amidst the challenges of military life.

Humorous Skits and Dialogues

Interwoven with musical performances are comedic skits and dialogues that highlight the lighter side of military camaraderie.

Mrs. Anthony's Divorce Dilemma

In a comedic portrayal, Mrs. Anthony discusses her husband's sudden decision to seek a divorce after 30 years of marriage, humorously questioning whether she should prepare supper for the lawyer.

"Mr. Anthony, he wants a divorce after 30 years. I was enslaved like a dog."
— Mrs. Anthony [20:27]

The skit delves into the absurdity of the situation, showcasing the comedic talents of Larry Best and the improvised humor of the cast.

Closing Performances

As the program winds down, the Carroll Sisters return with another set, continuing their commentary on the manpower shortage with witty lyrics.

"They're either too young or too old, too grey or too grassy green..."
— Carroll Sisters [26:53]

Their performance encapsulates the day's themes, blending humor with poignant observations about military life.

Conclusion

The episode concludes with a heartfelt acknowledgment of the Armed Forces, reinforcing the bond between the troops and the entertainers who uplift their spirits. Major Edward Bose signs off with appreciation for the performers and the audience, leaving listeners with a sense of camaraderie and nostalgia for the Golden Age of Radio.

"This rebroadcast is a presentation of the Armed Forces Radio Service."
— Major Edward Bose [30:17]

Notable Quotes

• Major Edward Bose [00:35]: "Whirling goes her weekly wheel of fortune for the 461st time around. Around she goes. And there she stops. Nobody knows."

• Private First Class Don Crist [04:07]: "You never know just how much I miss you. You never know just how much I care..."

• Larry Best [17:23]: "You might well be, sir, because, well, I guess you started the whole thing."

• Mrs. Anthony [20:27]: "Mr. Anthony, he wants a divorce after 30 years. I was enslaved like a dog."

• Carroll Sisters [26:53]: "They're either too young or too old, too grey or too grassy green..."

Final Thoughts

This rebroadcast of Major Bowes offers a delightful glimpse into the past, blending musical talent, comedic brilliance, and heartwarming stories that resonate with both military personnel and civilian listeners. Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully preserves the essence of these timeless programs, ensuring that the charm and camaraderie of the Golden Age of Radio continue to entertain future generations.