Summary of "Voice Of The Army 47-03-26 (347) Jets To The Rescue"
Introduction
In this gripping episode of Harold's Old Time Radio, titled "Voice Of The Army 47-03-26 (347) Jets To The Rescue," listeners are transported to the harsh, icebound expanses of northern Greenland. The story centers around a daring rescue mission orchestrated by the United States Army, highlighting the challenges of Arctic warfare and the valor of its servicemen.
Crisis in the Arctic
The episode opens with Vern and Russ, the radio operator and pilot respectively, grappling with a severe storm that has thrown their mission into disarray. With dwindling fuel and impending darkness, the duo faces the formidable unpredictability of Arctic weather.
- Russ: "Not much gas left, Vern." [01:21]
- Vern: "This storm's one of the worst I've ever seen." [01:22]
As the storm intensifies, their communication systems fail, leaving them stranded without the ability to contact their base or navigate using radar.
- Vern: "We must be pretty close to the magnetic pole. Can't get any results from radio or radar. You'll have to fly on celestial navigation only." [01:44]
Emergency Landing
After enduring eighteen grueling hours in the storm, Vern spots a potential landing area. Despite the precarious conditions and malfunctioning compass, they decide to attempt an emergency landing on a patch of clear ice.
- Vern: "I think I see an opening ahead, Russ. Yes, I'm sure I do. About time. Here we come out to the open again." [02:02]
- Russ: "We'll have to keep the wheels up, make a belly landing." [02:43]
The successful landing, though rough, ensures that all eleven crew members survive the ordeal. However, they are now stranded, isolated in the vast Arctic wilderness with limited supplies.
Stranded and Waiting
With their plane grounded and no immediate means of rescue, Vern and Russ assess their situation. They decide to set up a communication attempt to reach Ladd Field, hopeful that help is on the way.
- Russ: "Well, Vern, I'm going to give Sergeant Leader a hand with a radio. We've got to try and make contact with Ladd Field." [03:35]
Initiating the Rescue Mission
At Ladd Field, Colonel communicates the status of the stranded crew to Captain Bobby Joe Kavner, initiating a rescue operation. Plans are swiftly made to dispatch a rescue plane equipped with jet propulsion, enhancing their chances of a successful mission.
- Colonel: "We can at least try to locate them, can't we, sir?" [03:50]
- Captain: "I want you to get your planes off as soon as possible. The first one to spot the Kee bird can drop food and so on." [04:10]
Rescue Team's Journey
The rescue team, led by Lieutenant Bobby Joe Kavner, prepares for the challenging journey to Sandra Fjord. With the addition of jet propulsion, their aircraft is better equipped to handle the treacherous Arctic conditions.
- Russ: "With that extra power on the takeoff and a little luck, we'll get them." [06:15]
- Vern: "I'll bet my next boogie he's right." [09:16]
Final Landing and Rescue
As the rescue plane approaches the stranded Kee Bird, precise maneuvers and expert coordination ensure a safe landing despite the deep snow and icy terrain. The rescuers swiftly board the crew, successfully bringing all eleven men back to safety.
- Russ: "We're going in. Prepare for a landing." [09:57]
- Vern: "We're Going in. Prepare for a landing." [09:57]
- Russ: "We're Taking off." [05:38]
Conclusion
The successful rescue underscores the bravery and resilience of the Army Air Forces. Lieutenant Kavner and his team are celebrated for their heroic efforts, embodying the spirit of dedication and teamwork. The episode concludes with an inspiring message encouraging young men to join the regular Army, highlighting the myriad opportunities and the honor of serving the nation.
Notable Quotes
- Vern on the Storm's Severity: "This storm's one of the worst I've ever seen." [01:22]
- Russ Expressing Doubt: "We'll just have to wait until someone comes and gets us. If they can find us." [03:35]
- Colonel on the Rescue Plan: "I want you to get your planes off as soon as possible." [04:10]
- Russ on Jet Propulsion: "If anything can do the job, jet propulsion can." [06:15]
- Vern's Confidence in Rescue: "I'll bet my next boogie he's right." [09:16]
- Russ Before Landing: "We're going in. Prepare for a landing." [09:57]
Credits
The episode features the voices of William Calvert, Jim Bowles, Henry Norell, Gregory Morton, Robert Noel, and Whit Vernon. Written by Corporal J. Smolin and directed by Major Phil Lampkin, this installment of Voice of the Army exemplifies the storytelling and production quality reminiscent of the Golden Age of Radio.