Sky Blazers 40-08-31 38 Al William's Research In Speed Flying (Rehearsal)

Summary

Podcast Title: Harold's Old Time Radio
Episode: Sky Blazers 40-08-31 38 Al William's Research In Speed Flying (Rehearsal)
Release Date: May 25, 2025

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Introduction

In this episode of Sky Blazers, hosted by Colonel George Vaughn, listeners are introduced to the riveting journey of Major Al Williams, a distinguished aviator whose pioneering research in speed and aerobatic flying significantly advanced modern aviation. Colonel Vaughn, a decorated World War II ace, sets the stage for an inspiring tale of innovation, bravery, and relentless pursuit of excellence in the field of aviation.

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Early Career and Introduction to Al Williams

[02:43] Colonel George Vaughn:
"Tonight it's my privilege and pleasure to bring you the story of one of America's greatest fliers, Major Al Williams. Known throughout the world for his important contributions to the development of modern aviation."

Major Al Williams began his aviation career at the young age of 23 when he joined the United States Navy as a flying cadet. Shortly after earning his wings, Williams demonstrated his exceptional skills and innovative mindset.

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The HS2 Project: Identifying and Solving Aviation Challenges

Williams' first notable contribution came in 1918 during his time as a Navy flyer. Faced with persistent issues in the HS2, a new Navy flying boat prone to spins and crashes, Williams took proactive steps to diagnose and address the problem.

[03:27] Major Al Williams:
"Mom, I've shown the HS2 that I'm the boss."

Through meticulous study and experimentation, including conducting deliberate maneuvers to test the aircraft's limits, Williams identified the root causes of the HS2's instability.

[05:25] Major Al Williams:
"No pilot is perfect till he can get himself out of any kind of a jam his plane gets into. There's still too much a mystery in aviation. No, Mom, I'm going to take the mystery out of aviation."

His approach earned him the nickname "bug hunter" among aviators—a testament to his dedication to uncovering and fixing the intricacies of aircraft performance.

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The Panther Racing Plane: A Case of Perseverance

In 1922, Williams encountered the Panther, a racing plane plagued by fatal crashes. Determined to uncover the truth, he engaged with the plane's owner, Mr. Clark, and the test pilot, McNeil.

[06:17] Test Pilot McNeil:
"That ship's already cracked up a half dozen times and killed four pilots."

Despite initial resistance and skepticism from Clark, Williams conducted a thorough ground check and proceeded to fly the Panther, successfully pulling it out of a nosedive—a maneuver that baffled his peers.

[07:25] Test Pilot McNeil:
"It was a nose dive at 200 miles an hour, straight to the ground."

Through persistent testing, Williams discovered that the Panther's slipstream from the propeller adversely affected the tail surfaces, leading to uncontrollable dives. His findings were instrumental in suggesting modifications to enhance the plane's stability.

[10:16] Colonel George Vaughn:
"Williams, I like the nerve and judgment you showed clipping the claws of the Panther. I'm going to give you the chance to fly the official naval plane in the Pulitzer race."

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The Pulitzer Race: Breaking Records and Overcoming Challenges

Williams was entrusted with flying the official Navy plane in the prestigious Pulitzer Race, with the objective of breaking world speed records. During the race, unexpected challenges arose when a chemical leak from the fire extinguisher impaired his vision:

[13:15] Colonel George Vaughn:
"You all right?"

[13:24] Major Al Williams:
"Sorry, Commander. I failed you."

Despite these setbacks, Williams showcased his resilience by finishing fourth and setting multiple speed records.

[17:35] Major Al Williams:
"On one turn around the pylon, I saw 280 miles an hour on the airspeed indicator."

His strategic start and exceptional piloting skills not only secured his position in the race but also led to the establishment of new speed benchmarks:

[16:51] Colonel George Vaughn:
"Three records. But why didn't you tell us before the race that you were going on for an extra lap?"

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Innovations in Inverted Flight: Pushing the Boundaries of Aviation

Williams' quest for advancing aviation safety and performance led him to experiment with inverted flight, a maneuver previously deemed too dangerous and deemed impossible by many.

[19:38] Major Al Williams:
"I just practicing an outside loop. But inverted flight?"

Despite warnings from his mother and a skeptical doctor, Williams was undeterred:

[21:15] Mr. Clark:
"If you try an inverted outside loop, which has never been done by man and never will be done by man."

Undeterred, Williams conducted daring tests, successfully performing inverted flight maneuvers and overcoming physiological challenges such as temporary vision loss due to high-speed maneuvers.

[25:08] Major Al Williams:
"Now I kick a left rudder and the plane goes. That's right."

His innovations not only expanded the possibilities of aircraft maneuverability but also enhanced the safety protocols for future aviators.

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Achievements and Legacy

Major Al Williams' relentless pursuit of aviation excellence culminated in numerous accolades and recognition. As Colonel George Vaughn summarizes:

[28:31] Colonel George Vaughn:
"Al Williams is manager of the Gulf Oil Aviation department and the writer of books and syndicated articles on the subject of flying. He is recognized as one of the outstanding authorities on aviation in the country."

Williams' contributions have been pivotal in developing safer and more efficient aircraft, solidifying his legacy as a pioneer in high-speed and aerobatic flight. His work not only advanced military aviation but also paved the way for civilian aviation advancements.

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Conclusion

The episode of Sky Blazers masterfully chronicles the extraordinary life and achievements of Major Al Williams, highlighting his unwavering dedication to solving complex aviation challenges and pushing the boundaries of what was thought possible in flight. Through his innovative research and fearless experimentation, Williams significantly contributed to the safety and advancement of modern aviation.

Notable Quotes:

• Major Al Williams ([05:25]):
  "No pilot is perfect till he can get himself out of any kind of a jam his plane gets into. There's still too much a mystery in aviation. No, Mom, I'm going to take the mystery out of aviation."

• Colonel George Vaughn ([10:16]):
  "Williams, I like the nerve and judgment you showed clipping the claws of the Panther. I'm going to give you the chance to fly the official naval plane in the Pulitzer race."

• Major Al Williams ([17:35]):
  "On one turn around the pylon, I saw 280 miles an hour on the airspeed indicator."

• Mr. Clark ([21:15]):
  "If you try an inverted outside loop, which has never been done by man and never will be done by man."

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This detailed account not only celebrates the daring exploits of Major Al Williams but also serves as an inspiring testament to the spirit of innovation and courage that propelled the Golden Age of Aviation.

Transcript

[Narrator]

Sky Blazers. The makers of Wonder Bread are proud to present Sky Blazers. Dedicated to the gallant men of the United States Air Forces and to those pioneers whose adventurous lives made modern aviation possible. Sky Blazers. Our flight commander for tonight is Colonel George Vaughn, second ranking World War ace, holder of the United States Distinguished Service Cross and the British Distinguished Flying Cross. Colonel Vaughn.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Hello, Sky Blazers. I'm glad to be back at flight headquarters again. We've got an exciting story to bring you tonight. But first, a word from the bakers of Wonder Bread.

[Narrator]

I certainly don't have to remind any mother listening in that next Tuesday is the school day. In some towns it's the first day of the new semester. You can bet that plenty of healthy growing boys and girls will start the term out right with a good nourishing school luncheon that mother herself has fixed. Two big sandwiches of ham, cheese and peanut butter made with delicious slow baked Wonder bread. For as every good mother knows, Wonder Bread is the bread for supremely delicious sandwiches. Each slice is tender, delicate in texture, with a rich golden crust. Home baked aroma just right for the finest sandwiches your children have ever eaten. You see, each delicious loaf of Wonder Bread is actually slow baked to give you the extras in flavor and goodness. Baked in temperature controlled ovens, 13% longer than many ordinary bread. And this marvelous slow baking helps to keep Wonder Bread moist and tender. Tempting and delicious bread at its best for the finest sandwiches mother knows how to make. So decide now to start your growing youngsters off to school with the best luncheon you can fix. At least two big delicious sandwiches made with golden crusted Wonder Bread. An orange and a banana. And maybe a delicious hostess devil's food cupcake. Delicious. Well, just listen to the praise your school lunch will win. Remember Wonder Bread. Slow baked Wonder Bread. When you visit your food store, it's the loaf that probably more grocers agree is the best in their store than those who choose any other kind. Wonder Bread in the famous wrapper decorated with red, yellow and blue balloons. Each loaf slow baked for lasting freshness.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Sky Blazers, this is Colonel Vaughn speaking from flight headquarters. Tonight it's my privilege and pleasure to bring you the story of one of America's greatest fliers, Major Al Williams. Known throughout the world for his important contributions to the development of modern aviation. At the age of 23, Al Williams became a United States Navy flying cadet. A few months after Williams received his wings as a Navy flyer, he made his first notable contribution to aviation. One day in 1918, Lieutenant Williams rushed into his Virginia home to be greeted by his mother Al, where have you been?

[Major Al Williams]

Mom, I've done it.

[Al's Mother]

Done what?

[Major Al Williams]

I've shown the HS2 that I'm the boss.

[Al's Mother]

HS2? Al, what on earth are you talking about?

[Narrator]

Sit down, Mom.

[Major Al Williams]

I'll tell you all about it.

[Al's Mother]

Wait a minute, Al. Have you been stunting again?

[Major Al Williams]

No, mom, not stunting. I've been conducting some scientific tests in the air. You see, the HS2 is a new type of Navy flying boat that's been giving our pilots a lot of trouble.

[Al's Mother]

What kind of trouble?

[Major Al Williams]

Well, the plane is a habit of falling into spins and crashing. Remember that scale model I've been working on?

[Al's Mother]

Yes.

[Major Al Williams]

I studied the model and worked out that it takes of how to bring the HS2 out of spin. And today I did it in the air. I put the plane into a nose dive of five complete turns.

[Al's Mother]

Al. William, do you mean to tell me that you deliberately put an airplane into a nose dive?

[Major Al Williams]

Yeah. Not only that, Mom, I put her into a tailspin as well. I found out a way of bringing the HS2 out of both spins and nose dives. Isn't that something?

[Al's Mother]

Al, will you please tell me why you risk your neck in these crazy stunts and flying at terrific rates of speed? Are you out of your mind?

[Major Al Williams]

No, Mom. And I'd like you to remember that I'm not a stunt flyer, nor am I a speed flyer for the mere sake of speed.

[Al's Mother]

Then why in heaven's name do you do it?

[Major Al Williams]

I'm positive that speed and maneuverability are the very fundamentals of air strength. We can't prevent crashes until we find out why they happened. The only way to do that is take a plane up and find out.

[Al's Mother]

But why can't you be like other naval flyers? Why can't you do your routine work and be happy in the knowledge that you're a good pilot?

[Major Al Williams]

Mom, I want to be more than a good pilot. He must realize that everything I'm doing and everything I'm going to do has a purpose.

[Al's Mother]

Just daredevil stunt flies.

[Major Al Williams]

Uh, you're wrong, Mom. No pilot is perfect till he can get himself out of any kind of a jam his plane gets into. There's still too much a mystery in aviation. No, Mom. I'm going to take the mystery out of aviation.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Sky Blazers. In those years, Al Williams was known to aviators as a bug hunter. A flyer who takes a plane into the air to find out what does or does not make it tick. A flyer who looks for unknown bugs in a plane and solves the mystery of flight. In 1922, Lieutenant Al Williams heard that tests were to be made on a new racing plane called the Panther and went to New York to watch the test. At the flying field, the test pilot and the owner of the Panther were having an argument.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Listen, Clark, I found out the truth about your Panther. That ship's already cracked up a half dozen times and killed four pilots.

[Mr. Clark]

No, McNeil, you're just excited.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

I won't fly that ship.

[Mr. Clark]

But McNeil, I've had the design change since the Panther last cracked up.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

It's not changed enough for me.

[Mr. Clark]

The pilots were to blame for those crashes.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Now don't give me that, Clark. They were the best in the business.

[Major Al Williams]

Mind if I join the fight, gentlemen?

[Mr. Clark]

Or you?

[Major Al Williams]

Lieutenant Williams, the Naval Air Force.

[Mr. Clark]

Glad to meet you, Williams. My name's Clark.

[Major Al Williams]

How do you do, sir?

[Mr. Clark]

Say, I think I've got the fastest racing plane in the world. But My test pilot, McNeil, has turned yellow.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yeah, that's a lie. The simple truth is that I found.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Out this Panther racer is a man killer.

[Mr. Clark]

Any racing plane is dangerous.

[Major Al Williams]

Just a minute, gentlemen. Mr. Clark, is McNeil telling the truth?

[Mr. Clark]

Well, the Panther did crack up a few times.

[Major Al Williams]

How many times?

[Mr. Clark]

Seven.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Yeah, and four of the test pilots were killed.

[Major Al Williams]

Well, Mr. Clark, you can't call McNeil Yellow for not wanting to fly it. Was the cause of the crack up the same in each case?

[Mr. Clark]

Yes. The plane always took off perfectly. Then as the pilot gave it full throttle, the Panther dived.

[Major Al Williams]

You're sure it wasn't a stall or a spin?

[Test Pilot McNeil]

It was a nose dive at 200 miles an hour, straight to the ground.

[Major Al Williams]

That's strange, McNeil. No trick to pull out of a straight nosedive. Any student pilot could do that. Now why couldn't those test pilots pull out? Mr. Clark, what about the three pilots that weren't killed? Did you talk to them?

[Mr. Clark]

Yes, they all told the same story. The plane suddenly refused to answer to the controls.

[Major Al Williams]

A mystery plane, huh?

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Hard as a jinx on it.

[Major Al Williams]

Now that's stupid rot, McNeil. An experienced flyer knows there's always a reason back of everything. When aviation finds a mystery it can't solve, that'll be the end of aviation.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yeah.

[Major Al Williams]

Mind if I take a look at this Panther?

[Mr. Clark]

We're glad to have you, Lieutenant Williams. Just step over here. Ever see a trimmer looking ship?

[Major Al Williams]

Seems to have plenty of tail surface to control the plane.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Plenty.

[Major Al Williams]

Mr. Clark, I'm looking for a fast racer. I need. Might be able to use your plane.

[Mr. Clark]

I hope you can.

[Major Al Williams]

First I'll make a thorough ground check and then I'll take her up. Must be some reason why the panther shows her claws. And my test top may find the answer.

[Mr. Clark]

Test this ship, Lieutenant, and you can have anything I've got.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Yeah, including a great big bunch of lilies for your coffin. Say, Clark, Lieutenant Williams sure knows his stuff. He went over the Panther like he'd built her.

[Mr. Clark]

And he didn't find a thing wrong.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

No, not on the ground.

[Mr. Clark]

Use your eyes, McNeil. He's flying it, and it's okay.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Give the panther time. Just give her time.

[Mr. Clark]

There. He's opening up the throttle.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

And how.

[Mr. Clark]

I tell you, that plane is okay, McNeil. She'll do better than.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

There goes the dive.

[Mr. Clark]

Pull her up, Williams. Pull her up.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yeah.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

It's a jinx plane.

[Mr. Clark]

He'll be killed.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Spawn the crash car.

[Mr. Clark]

He's cut the engines so you won't burn.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

So long, Lieutenant Williams.

[Mr. Clark]

Hey, Clark. The Panther, he's pulled out of the dive.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

It's a miracle.

[Mr. Clark]

I knew you could do it. He's landing. Come on. Hey, what. What happened, Lieutenant? You were diving straight for the field, didn't they?

[Major Al Williams]

I cut the engine so I wouldn't burn up. Then I found the controls were working again, so I simply leveled off and landed.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

If that isn't a mystery, Lieutenant, what is?

[Major Al Williams]

I tell you, that's a jinx ship. You were lucky. I was lucky. McNeil, I've got an idea of the cause of the trouble.

[Mr. Clark]

What do you think it is?

[Major Al Williams]

I'd rather not test sadle. I'm sure, Mr. Clark, after I've taken her up and let her go into that dive a few more times.

[Mr. Clark]

You mean you. You want to take the Panther up again?

[Major Al Williams]

Certainly. Why not?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Well, all I've got to say is.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

You'Ve got more nerve than anybody I've known, Lieutenant. But from now on, you're living on borrowed time.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Sky Blazers. Al Williams did make several more test hops in the Panther. The next day, back in Washington, Lt. Williams reported to his flight commander concerning his investigation of the Panther.

[Major Al Williams]

And so, Commander, I found out that at high speeds, the slipstream of the Panther's propeller hit the tail surfaces in such a way as to force the ship into an uncontrollable power dive.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Can it be rebuilt, Lieutenant, to eliminate the trouble?

[Major Al Williams]

Yes, by lengthening the fuselage and getting better balance between wings and tail.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

But that can't be done in time for the Pulitzer race.

[Major Al Williams]

No, sir. It's too bad. I counted on entering that race.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Williams, I like the nerve and judgment you showed clipping the claws of the Panther. I'm Going to give you the chance to fly the official naval plane in the Pulitzer race.

[Major Al Williams]

The official Navy plane. Thank you, sir.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

But you understand winning that race isn't enough. We want you to break the world's record as well.

[Major Al Williams]

Yes, sir.

[Mr. Clark]

Close course.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Racing is a dangerous thing, Lieutenant. So try not to break your neck, but get that record.

[Announcer]

Ladies and gentlemen, at the end of the second lap, according to unofficial timing, Lt. Williams of the U.S. navy is in first place.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Williams is on the way to a record?

[Mr. Clark]

Yes, Commander. Wait a minute. Something has happened. He's swerving.

[Major Al Williams]

Good Lord.

[Mr. Clark]

Are passing him.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

He's lost control. Something's gone wrong with this plane.

[Mr. Clark]

Well, Williams is back in the race.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

The way he cut that pylon, I thought he was going to lose a wing.

[Mr. Clark]

Well, Williams will never make up the distance he lost. He'd be lucky if he gets fifth place.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

The way he's flying, he'll be lucky if he finishes alive. I'm going over to the hangar, Clark. I want to be there when he lands if he does land. Williams.

[Narrator]

Lieutenant Williams. Hello, Commander.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

You all right?

[Major Al Williams]

Sorry, Commander. I failed you.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Never mind that. I'm glad you're still alive. What happened?

[Major Al Williams]

My fault. I let the ship get out of control.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

What's that on your face?

[Major Al Williams]

Oh, chemicals. The fire extinguisher pulled loose going around one of the pylons hit me in the face and let loose a load of chemicals. That lost me the race. Sorry, Commander.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

In spite of that, you managed to come in fourth. And you apologized.

[Major Al Williams]

You said you wanted that speed record.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Next year, Williams, you're going to be in this Pulitzer race with a special job and every help the Navy can give you. You've got the kind of nerve that wins in the end. And the Navy is proud of you. But, sky blazers. By the time of the 1923 air races, the world's record had been broken twice. And while Al Williams might win the Pulitzer race, it seemed impossible that he.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Could break the world's record.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

But Williams had an idea. And at St. Louis, just before the race, he went to. The judges stand.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Gentlemen.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yes, Lieutenant Williams?

[Major Al Williams]

I'd like the judges to hear my plan for starting the race.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yes, just one. I plan to start 4,000ft back of.

[Major Al Williams]

The judges stand and cross the starting line in a power dive.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Well, that's unusual, Lieutenant, but absolutely within the rules. Sounds like a clever idea.

[Major Al Williams]

Will the other judges agree with you, sir?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

I'll ask them. Gentlemen. Yes, what is it? Lieutenant Williams wants our approval of his plan for starting the race. Well, as long as he Crosses the starting line. What does it matter?

[Major Al Williams]

I'd like your official approval, sir. I intend to start back at the judges stand. Cross the line in a power dive?

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Yes, yes.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Just so you cross the starting line. You have my approval. Mine too.

[Major Al Williams]

Thank you, gentlemen. Thank you.

[Announcer]

The planes take off at one minute intervals and are clocked as they pass the starting line.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Next spotter.

[Announcer]

Lieutenant Williams of the United States Navy flying a special Curtis racer.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

But where is Williams? He's not on the Runway over there behind us.

[Major Al Williams]

Oh, yes, that's right, Mr. Hinson.

[Mr. Clark]

It's a power guy.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

He'll never round the second pylon at that speed. He'll have to fly wide. Well, he'll back himself off in 15 seconds if he banks his plane at that speed.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Gentlemen, if Williams doesn't crash going around the pylon, I prophesy we're going to have a new world record.

[Major Al Williams]

Please let me through. Thank you.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Hurry it up, Williams. They want you and the judges.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Aye, aye, Commander.

[Major Al Williams]

There's so many people. Excuse me, please.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Excuse me. In here, Williams. Sit down, Commander. Sit down, Lieutenant.

[Major Al Williams]

Thanks, Judge.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Thank you. I suppose you're feeling pretty happy, Commander. The whole Navy is celebrating tonight, Judge. After all, we don't break a world's record every day. In fact, not one record, but three.

[Narrator]

Three?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yes, Lieutenant. The world's record for 100 kilometers, the world record for 200 kilometers and the world record for 250 kilometers. Well, you hear that, Williams? Three records. But why didn't you tell us before the race that you were going on for an extra lap? Lieutenant, it was sheer luck that we got your time for that extra lap that gave you the 250 kilometer record.

[Major Al Williams]

I didn't even know I flew an.

[Narrator]

Extra lap till the race was over.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

What?

[Major Al Williams]

You see, gentlemen, I had three chalk marks on the control panel. One for each lap. Each time I passed the judge's, I rubbed out one of those chalk marks. Well, I must have forgotten to rub out the last mark.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

So you went around an extra lap at that speed. I don't wonder you missed count. Lieutenant Williams, did you happen to notice your speed on those turns?

[Major Al Williams]

Well, Judge, on one turn around the pylon, I saw 280 miles an hour on the airspeed indicator.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Did everything go black?

[Major Al Williams]

Completely black. Seemed like minutes was probably not more than 10 seconds before perfect vision returned.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

10 seconds at 280 miles an hour. That means you are flying without controlled vision on every turn around the pylon. That's right, Williams. From now on you're living on borrowed time.

[Major Al Williams]

I've heard that before, Commander, from a test pilot. I'm still not superstitious. To me, flying is a science. As long as I can think straight, I expect to go right on flying. Hunting for the bugs and aviation.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Sky Blazers. Later that same year, Al Williams broke the world's record for 300 kilometers. And then, with the three most important world speed records in his possession, he turned from speed to even more dangerous flying aerobatics, or what you probably call stunting. But to the military pilot, aerobatics is not stunting. The military pilot knows that his ability to preserve his own life and to destroy the enemy depends upon the speed of his plane and his ability to maneuver or stunt. For several weeks, Lt. Williams had been working on the most dangerous kind of stunts. Those that involve inverted flight. One day he was in the living room of his home when his mother came in.

[Major Al Williams]

Now I kick a left rudder and the plane goes. That's right.

[Al's Mother]

Have you gone crazy?

[Major Al Williams]

Oh, hello mom.

[Al's Mother]

Why in heaven's name are you lying down on the floor with your feet in the air?

[Major Al Williams]

Come over here, mom, I'll show you something. You see this little cardboard plane?

[Al's Mother]

Yes.

[Major Al Williams]

Now watch my hand. I turn it upside down.

[Al's Mother]

Oh, Al, something's wrong with you. Flying on the floor, playing with toy planes.

[Major Al Williams]

I just practicing an outside loop. But inverted flight?

[Al's Mother]

Oh yes son, of course. Inverted flight. Now, now we'll just get you to bed and call the doctor.

[Major Al Williams]

Watch this. Now you see my. My right hand's on the stick, my foot's on the pedal as I start to run in.

[Al's Mother]

Yes, Al, you can tell me all about you little game later. First I want to take your temperature.

[Major Al Williams]

I'm not sick. I'm practicing flying.

[Al's Mother]

I know enough about aviation to know you practice things in the air. Not on the living room car.

[Major Al Williams]

Not if you want to live.

[Al's Mother]

What do you mean?

[Major Al Williams]

No pilot ever got hurt flying in a model plane. When I get through with this game, as you call it, I'll be able to extricate myself from any position my plane gets into.

[Al's Mother]

And your sure you're not not sick?

[Major Al Williams]

You bet I'm not. In fact, this kind of practice is a form of life insurance. If I try out all my ideas on the floor before I try them in the air, I won't make any mistakes when I get up in the plane.

[Al's Mother]

I just don't want to see a doctor.

[Major Al Williams]

As a matter of fact, mom, I do. I figured out everything that can happen to the plane in an inverted outside loop. Now I want to know what can Happen to me.

[Al's Mother]

Al Williams, you'd better see a doctor.

[Mr. Clark]

What is it you want, William? A general physical examination?

[Major Al Williams]

I want an honest opinion. Doctor, I came to you because you've got good sense and you don't exaggerate. Of course this outside loop will be dangerous, but dangerous?

[Mr. Clark]

It'll be fatal, Williams. Suicide.

[Major Al Williams]

I've got two safety belts, Doctor. One to go around my waist and another go around my shoulder.

[Mr. Clark]

Now listen to me, William. If you try an inverted outside loop, which has never been done by man and never will be done by man.

[Major Al Williams]

This is what will happen to you.

[Mr. Clark]

First, your eardrums will burst and your veins will spit open. Then the blood vessels in your brain will explode and your eyes will pop out.

[Major Al Williams]

Is that all?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

No, that's not all.

[Mr. Clark]

You'll lose consciousness and centripetal force will fling you out of the ship despite all the safety belts you can use.

[Major Al Williams]

You believe this to be true, Doctor?

[Mr. Clark]

Cold facts, Williams, cold facts.

[Major Al Williams]

Well, if what you say is true, flying will never be safe. But I don't believe it's true, Doctor. I'm going to find out which of us is right.

[Mr. Clark]

Yes?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

How?

[Major Al Williams]

By doing an inverted outdoor Sky Blazers.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Three days later at the Anacostia Field, Al Williams sat at the controls of a fast Navy pursuit plane, ready to take off for his daring test of inverted flight. His commander and his mechanic, Miller were standing by. All set, Williams?

[Major Al Williams]

All set, Commander.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

You sure that special carburetor is going to work all right upside down?

[Major Al Williams]

My mechanic can tell you. We inverted a similar engine on a special block and ran it 12 hours with carburetor. Right, Miller?

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Yes, sir. It worked perfectly, Commander. Ah, that's encouraging. Be sure your special safety belt holds, Williams.

[Major Al Williams]

I got two of them. One around my legs and one around my shoulders. When they're both fastened, my body won't be able to move an inch from the seat. I'll have full freedom of my hands and feet.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Good. God bless you, Williams, and good luck.

[Major Al Williams]

Thank you, sir.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

I repeat that, Lieutenant. Good luck. It's incredible, Miller. Look at the way Williams is handling that upside down with all the precision and sureness of regular flight. Yes, sir. Commander. Lt. Williams said he'd worked out every maneuver carefully with his model plane. He doesn't expect much trouble. Yeah, but remember, everything's reversed. When he's flying upside down, he's making terrific speed. Probably getting ready to go into that inverted outside loop. He's starting the loop. He's climbing. This is the easy part. Now, the danger comes when he reaches the top and starts down. I'd hate to be Lieutenant Williams now. By George, I wonder what it's like up there. Coming over the top of the loop. Starting down the other side. I wonder what Williams will think.

[Major Al Williams]

This doesn't feel too bad. Nothing I can't stand so far. Maybe the duck was wrong. Well, here's the real test now. Stick forward. Down. Down. Down. Nurse. Rushing up. Airspeed 250. That's a fast. Keep that stick forward. Around.

[Al's Mother]

Around.

[Major Al Williams]

Now. Now. Grab hoe. Straighten out. Black. Everything's black. Fly by instinct now. Now I can see again. Better now? Better. Better. Okay, where's the earth now? Down below. Up. Earth. Up above me.

[Mr. Clark]

Up there.

[Major Al Williams]

Upside down. My head pounding in my throat like an engine in my head. Pounding, pounding, pounding, pounding, pounding, pounding. And, commander, that's more or less how it felt.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

I'm certainly glad to see you down on the ground, William. You gave me a few thrills. I thought I was too old to feel.

[Major Al Williams]

I got a few thrills up there myself.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

When you came down on that inverted tail fin, I thought you were all cruel. A lot harder to get out of.

[Major Al Williams]

Than an ordinary fin.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Well, Lieutenant, now that you've demonstrated that inverted flight is possible, I suppose you'll take things easy for a while.

[Major Al Williams]

No, sir. I'm going right up again tomorrow and the day after that. And every day until I know how to execute every possible maneuver of inverted flight. Until I crack the mystery of aviation.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Al Williams, you're a bug hunter, all right. American aviation owes you a tremendous debt. Kite laces. That was the opinion of our Congress. In awarding Al Williams the Distinguished Flying.

[Test Pilot McNeil]

Cross, they said, for extraordinary achievements while participating in duly authorized aerial flights during the month of March, 1928, in which he made a study of the action and best methods of control of a violently maneuvered airplane in inverted flight. These and many other flights made by Lieutenant Williams in the interest of the advancement of the state of the art of airplane design and construction were attended by exceedingly great personal risk of life. But nevertheless, they were voluntarily and willingly undertaken by him, even though he was well aware of the danger involved. As a result of his flights and studies, he was able to evolve certain principles and to make practical application of them to the end that aerial maneuvers have been made safer and methods have been developed far more fully and accurately testing the capabilities of various types of airplanes. Lt. Williams has been one of the pioneers of high speed flight. And his distinguished feats in the air development, work, study and technical articles have all contributed to the knowledge and safety of aviation and have aided in keeping the United States well to the fore in the realm of the world's aviation today.

[Colonel George Vaughn]

Al Williams is manager of the Gulf Oil Aviation department and the writer of books and syndicated articles on the subject of flying. He is recognized as one of the outstanding authorities on aviation in the country.

[Narrator]

Thank you, Colonel Vaughn. Sky Blazers. I'll bet every fellow and every girl too agrees with me. There's nothing better for lunch than a good big sandwich. Ah, you bet. A nourishing man sized sandwich filled with cheese or ham salad, egg salad or peanut butter and made with delicious slow baked wonder bread. Honestly, Wonder Bread is so good, so delicious that it puts the heart of a good sandwich on the outside. Two slices of snowy white bread with that home baked wheaty aroma, golden brown crust and that marvelous flavor that just keeps on tasting like another big bite. And listen, the way to get sandwiches like these for school lunches is to be sure the name Wonder Bread goes on the grocery order every day. Delicious slow baked Wonder Bread, the loaf that's the official favorite with Sky Blazers the nation over the bread probably more great air pilots agree on than any other kind. Get Wonder Bread, the one best bread. With the next grocery order, look for the famous wrapper decorated with red, yellow and blue balloons. Each delicious loaf slow bakes for lasting freshness. With this evening's broadcast, the current Sky Blazers series comes to a close. During the past 39 weeks, the makers of Wonder Bread have been proud to bring you these thrilling stories of the men who pioneered the skies and whose adventurous lives made modern aviation possible. Now, an important announcement. Next Saturday evening at this same time on this same station, you'll be hearing the theme song of radio's newest program, the Marriage Club. Yes, ladies and gentlemen, the Marriage Club. Dedicated to the world's oldest institution and the pursuit of marital happiness. Husband, do you know how to handle the situation gracefully and tactfully? When your wife takes off her shoes in a movie and loses one of them under the street? Ladies, does your husband make funny remarks about your new hat in the presence of other women? Do you know the approved method for handling such matters? Well, if you don't let the marriage club be your guide, Uncle Jonathan will be on the air. Here are the questions they send in the answers given on the air by husbands and wives. It's radio's newest and funniest show next to Sky Blazers Rehearsal and each session will be under the guidance and institution inspiration of Haven McQuarrie. Remember, next Saturday evening, this time, this station, the Marriage Club. Presented by your host, the bakers of delicious slow baked wonder bread. Be sure to listen.

[Major Al Williams]

Go home. No overtime.

[Narrator]

Believe it or not, it's the Columbia Broadcasting System.