Harold's Old Time Radio - Episode Summary: "Uncle Ned's Squadron 05-31-52 Meets a Boy Who Flew in a DC6"

Release Date: February 10, 2025
Duration: Approximately 28 minutes

Introduction

In this nostalgic episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, listeners are transported back to the Golden Age of Radio, where families gathered around their radios to enjoy thrilling tales and engaging discussions. Hosted by Uncle Ned, the episode titled "Uncle Ned's Squadron 05-31-52 Meets a Boy Who Flew in a DC6" delves into aviation adventures, model plane competitions, and an exhilarating story of bravery. Skipping commercial breaks and focusing solely on the content, this summary captures the essence of the episode, complete with notable quotes and timestamps for a comprehensive understanding.

Squadron Meeting and Welcome

[00:31] Uncle Ned:
Uncle Ned kicks off the episode with a vibrant announcement to all pilots, inviting them to engage in various activities like phone calls, model plane competitions, and exciting stories. His charismatic introduction sets an energetic tone for the meeting.

[01:17] Uncle Ned:
"Thank you, thank you, and welcome to another squadron meeting..."
Uncle Ned warmly welcomes the cadets, hinting at the anticipation of answering the jackpot question later in the show.

Executive Officer's Orders

[01:43] David Harrell:
Introduces David Harrell as the executive officer for the day, who resides at 166 West Chicago Avenue in Chicago.

[02:06] David Harrell:
"Order number one is join the squadron if you aren't a member..."
David outlines the day's orders, emphasizing membership, attentiveness to stories and hangar flying, and mission accomplishment.

Guest Segment: David Russo and the DC6 Flight

[02:38] David Harrell:
Mentions that 16 cadets have experienced rides in real planes, highlighting the excitement and opportunities within the squadron.

[03:03] David Harrell:
"We flew in a DC6."
David Russo, from 750 Junior Terrace in Chicago, shares his memorable flight in a DC6 aircraft from California to Catalina Island at the age of eight, describing the picturesque views of the islands.

Mission of the Week: Be Careful Near Water

[04:25] Uncle Ned:
Announces the weekly mission: "Be careful near water."

[04:32] Uncle Ned:
"Be careful near water. If you can't swim, don't go near the water alone..."
He underscores the importance of water safety, reinforcing the message through cadet testimonials and model plane rewards.

Jackpot Question and Model Plane Awards

[05:42] Uncle Ned:
"Yes, it's time to try to give away that hangar full of planes."
Uncle Ned introduces the jackpot question segment, where cadets can win model planes by answering aviation history questions.

1. Question: "The Wright brothers are known as the fathers of flight. What town were they from?"

   • Answer: Dayton, Ohio ([06:10])

2. Question: "How fast is the diving speed of The Mauler?"

   • Answer: Over 500 miles an hour ([09:42])

3. Question: "Where are the cannons located on the Mauler?"

   • Answer: Two in each wing ([11:05])

Awards include plastic Hiller Hornet models, Monogram Speedybuilt Piper Cubs, and Hawk Spad models, among others.

Discussion: The Mauler Bomber

[07:45] Uncle Ned:
Introduces Co-Pilot Franklin Ferguson, who provides an in-depth look at the Mauler, a robust attack bomber used by the Navy in Korea.

Key Details Discussed:

• Engine Power: 3,000 horsepower driving a four-bladed propeller.
• Speed: Cruising at 300 mph, diving over 500 mph.
• Armament: Four 20mm cannons, three torpedoes, and 12 rockets.
• Protection: Bulletproof windshield and cockpit panels.
• Dimensions: 50ft wingspan, 41.5ft fuselage length, weighing nearly 30,000 pounds.

Story Time: "Jim Bolsom, the Kidnapped Pilot"

[16:06] Uncle Ned:
Begins the gripping narrative of Jim Bolsom, a pilot who becomes entangled with bank robbers forcing him to fly to Kansas City.

Summary of the Story: Jim is coerced at gunpoint to pilot a plane for two bank robbers. As they approach Kansas City, Jim devises a daring plan to outsmart the criminals by challenging their resolve and ultimately manages to land safely, capturing the robbers with the help of authorities.

Notable Quote: [22:19] Uncle Ned:
"Well, Uncle Ned, I guess that story proves who's brave and who isn't."

Interactive Q&A on the Story

Following the story, Uncle Ned poses several questions to cadets to reinforce comprehension and reward attentive listening. Questions include:

1. What color was Jim's plane?

   • Answer: Red ([22:28])

2. What had the men done?

   • Answer: They robbed a bank ([23:01])

3. Where did they tell Jim to take them?

   • Answer: Kansas City ([23:35])

4. How did Jim find out what the men had done and who they were?

   • Answer: The radio broadcast a general alarm ([25:24])

5. What were they going to make Jim do when they got close to Kansas City?

   • Answer: Make them land on a farmer's field ([25:26])

6. What does the story prove about robbers and bad men?

   • Answer: They're only brave with a gun in their hand ([26:15])

Cadets who answer correctly are rewarded with various model planes, including the Hawk Plastic Supermarine, Comet Structo Speed Belanca, and the exclusive Jim Walker Fire Baby.

Notable Quote: [26:17] Uncle Ned:
"It's fellows like Jim that are really brave."

Conclusion and Invitation

[26:55] Uncle Ned:
Encourages listeners to join the squadron by sending a postcard with their details to become official members, offering a chance to participate in future meetings and win prizes.

[28:31] Uncle Ned:
"Remember boys and girls, all it takes is a postcard to become an official member of the squadron..."
He warmly invites both in-person and radio listeners to attend the next meeting, ensuring that fun and prizes await every Saturday morning.

Closing Remarks

The episode seamlessly blends engaging storytelling with interactive segments, fostering a sense of community and excitement among listeners. Uncle Ned's Squadron 05-31-52 not only entertains but also educates young aviation enthusiasts, promoting safety and bravery through captivating narratives and rewarding participation.

Key Takeaways:

• Engagement: Interactive questions and rewards keep listeners actively involved.
• Education: Emphasis on aviation history and safety.
• Community Building: Encourages membership and participation in the squadron's activities.

Whether you're a longtime fan of old-time radio or new to the genre, this episode of Harold's Old Time Radio offers a delightful journey into a bygone era, celebrating the spirit of aviation and camaraderie.