National Newspaper Boy Day Special Program: "Dimes for Invasion"
Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Host/Author: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: National Newspaper Boy Day Special Program 43-1002 Dimes for Invasion. Treasury Dept
Release Date: June 15, 2025
Overview
In this special episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio with the "National Newspaper Boy Day Special Program: Dimes for Invasion." This episode, produced in cooperation with the United States Treasury Department, honors the dedication of newspaper delivery boys who play a crucial role in supporting the war effort by selling war-saving stamps. The program features compelling storytelling, inspirational speeches, and spirited musical performances, all aimed at rallying public support for the troops overseas.
Introduction to National Newspaper Boy Day
The episode opens with Larry Elliott setting the stage for National Newspaper Boy Day, emphasizing the significant contributions of newspaper boys in selling war stamps and thus supporting the invasion efforts.
Notable Quote:
"Saturday, October 2nd is National Newspaper Boy Day... your local newspapers and newspaper boys... present an all-star radio program, 'Dimes for Invasion.'"
[01:02] – Larry Elliott
Highlighting the War Effort
Larry Elliott continues by showcasing the impressive achievement of newspaper boys, who have collectively sold $90 million worth of war stamps, a testament to their commitment and the community's support.
Notable Quote:
"But there are just a few short weeks left for lawmakers to act. Take action to protect kids like me@ flavorshookoregan.org/kids."
[01:02] – Larry Elliott
Feature Story: George Tucker’s War Correspondence
A significant portion of the program is dedicated to George Tucker, an Associated Press war correspondent who has recently returned from North Africa. Introduced by Lloyd Stratton, Assistant General Manager and Secretary of The Associated Press, Tucker shares his thrilling firsthand experiences from the front lines.
Notable Quote:
"You've got to see a battle to get the feel of it. You've got to get it in your blood to be able to tell about it."
[04:48] – George Tucker
Tucker’s Harrowing Experience
Tucker narrates a suspenseful story from April 19th in Tunisia, detailing an intense encounter with German bombers. His vivid recounting includes the fear, the chaos of battle, and the solidarity among soldiers as they collectively endure the relentless attacks.
Key Points:
- Battlefield Realities: Tucker emphasizes the necessity for correspondents to experience battles firsthand to authentically report them.
- Personal Risk: He describes falling into a hole during a bombing raid, the danger of anti-personnel bombs, and the camaraderie that kept morale high despite the constant threat.
Notable Quote:
"I fell into it just as the bombs came. There were anti-personnel bombs designed not for damage but for killing men."
[05:22] – George Tucker
Inspirational Message from the Front Lines
Tucker concludes his segment with an impassioned plea for continued support from the home front, urging listeners to purchase more war bonds and stamps to ensure a swift and secure victory.
Notable Quote:
"Friends, those men of yours are fighting a mighty hard, tough fight for a speedy and final victory... buying more and more war bonds and stamps so they can come back to a future of peace and security."
[08:25] – George Tucker
Musical Interlude: Morton Downey’s Performance
The program transitions to a musical performance by Morton Downey, a beloved radio song star. His rendition of "In My Arms" combines patriotism with a heartfelt yearning, resonating with listeners and reinforcing the program's motivational tone.
Notable Quote:
"Back up your fighting men with war stamps today... buy that extra dollar's worth of war stamps from your newspaper boy to celebrate National Newspaper Boy Day."
[09:13] – Morton Downey
Closing Remarks
Larry Elliott wraps up the program by reiterating the importance of every contribution towards war stamps and bonds, highlighting the collective effort required to support America's troops and ensure victory.
Notable Quote:
"When you buy war stamps and war bonds, you are investing in victory and the future security of this land of our fathers."
[11:19] – Larry Elliott
Production and Acknowledgements
The episode concludes with credits acknowledging the contributions of George Tucker, Lloyd Stratton, Morton Downey, the Paulist Boys choir, the treasury orchestra, and various directors and producers who ensured the special program's success.
Notable Quote:
"This especially transcribed production was directed by Everett George Opie. This is Larry Elliott speaking for the United States Treasury Department."
[13:33] – Larry Elliott
Conclusion
This episode of Harold's Old Time Radio masterfully blends storytelling, personal accounts from the war front, and uplifting music to celebrate National Newspaper Boy Day. By highlighting the essential role of newspaper boys in supporting the war effort and featuring compelling narratives from correspondents like George Tucker, the program not only honors past contributions but also inspires ongoing support for national endeavors.