Harold's Old Time Radio - Episode: "Your AAF 45-09-20 (25) Blind Landings"
Release Date: July 24, 2025
Host: Harold's Old Time Radio
Description: Delving into radio shows from the Golden Age of Radio, this episode transports listeners to a time before television when families gathered around the radio to enjoy iconic programs like The Shadow, Abbott & Costello, Amos & Andy, and Dragnet.
1. Introduction to the Army Air Forces (AAF) Operations
Timestamp: [00:36]
The episode opens with an announcement introducing the mission of the Army Air Forces (AAF) in cooperation with the American Broadcasting Company. The AAF aims to report on its ongoing global operations, research advancements, and notable achievements that promise a better future.
Notable Quote:
"To keep the peace to pioneer the future, the new mission of your AAF..."
— AAF Announcer [00:36]
2. Demonstration of a Blind Landing by the AAF
Timestamp: [04:04 – 08:21]
Captain Bob Van Camp narrates a groundbreaking demonstration of automatic landing technology. A C47 airplane, designated "Blind Bat," executes a landing controlled entirely by radio signals without any manual input from the pilot. This segment highlights the technological advancements made by the AAF to ensure safer and more efficient landings under any weather conditions.
Key Points:
- Automatic Landing System: Utilizes radio beams from the runway to guide the aircraft.
- Pilot Coordination: Captain Dick Orchard activates the automatic pilot after aligning with the radio beams.
- Instrument Monitoring: Detailed monitoring of instruments ensures precise landing parameters.
- Successful Landing: The plane lands flawlessly, showcasing the system's reliability.
Notable Quotes:
"All we have to do now is sit tight and watch the instrument panel and get ready for the final landing."
— Captain Dick Orchard [05:56]
"It was a perfect landing."
— Co-Pilot [08:15]
3. Musical Interlude: "Blue Moon" Performance
Timestamp: [09:13 – 10:58]
A soothing rendition of "Blue Moon" is performed by Sam, adding a melodic respite between the informative segments. The song captures the nostalgic essence of the era, resonating with listeners who appreciate classic tunes.
Lyrics Highlight:
"When you saw me standing alone, without a dream in my heart..."
— Sam [09:13]
4. Life Insurance Advisory Segment
Timestamp: [12:45 – 16:10]
Lt. Col. Lewis C. Grayson addresses life insurance concerns from soldiers and their families. In this segment, Mrs. Philip R. Strzik seeks advice regarding her son’s national service life insurance as he transitions to civilian life.
Key Points:
- Retention of Insurance: Advises maintaining current life insurance until future needs are clearer.
- Conversion Options: Discusses the benefits of converting military insurance to civilian plans post-discharge.
- Beneficiary Designation: Explains the process for naming a spouse as the beneficiary.
- Cost Advantages: Highlights that national service life insurance often costs less than private alternatives.
Notable Quotes:
"He may then find himself unable to obtain insurance from a private company except at very high cost..."
— Lt. Col. Lewis C. Grayson [14:33]
"It is probable therefore, that this government insurance is the lowest cost insurance your son can get for his money."
— Lt. Col. Lewis C. Grayson [15:38]
5. Musical Interlude: Train-Themed Song
Timestamp: [16:21 – 19:11]
A lively train-themed song performed by Sam and the co-pilot evokes the rhythmic sounds of train wheels and the bustling atmosphere of railway travel. This segment adds variety and a touch of Americana to the episode.
Lyrics Highlight:
"Chugging along singing a song, Flickety choo..."
— Sam & Co-Pilot [18:21]
6. Historic Non-Stop Flight from Japan to the United States
Timestamp: [19:11 – 28:55]
A comprehensive report on the first non-stop flight from Japan to America, featuring interviews with Generals Barney M. Giles, Curtis E. LeMay, and Emmett O'Donnell. The segment details the flight's objectives, challenges, and significance for future air transportation.
Key Points:
- Flight Objectives: Assessing the feasibility of the northern route between Japan and the U.S., focusing on communications, navigation, and weather.
- Technical Details: Each B29 carried over 10,000 gallons of gasoline, totaling approximately 32 tons.
- Flight Challenges: Encountered fierce headwinds over Canada, necessitating additional fuel and a landing in Chicago before reaching Washington D.C.
- Crew Experiences: Interaction with Russian fighter planes and the emotional return to American cities.
- Significance: Demonstrates the B29’s capabilities and paves the way for future long-range air travel.
Notable Quotes:
"The purpose of this flight is to study the feasibility of using the northern route between Japan and the United States."
— General Barney M. Giles [19:35]
"It feels great to be back in civilization again..."
— Sergeant Leo Miller [24:42]
"The true significance of the flight was to give a real workout to the B29 to see what it could do..."
— General Barney M. Giles [26:40]
7. Conclusion and Farewells
Timestamp: [28:55 – 29:21]
The episode concludes with the AAF announcer thanking listeners and reinforcing the mission of the Army Air Forces to keep the peace and pioneer the future.
Notable Quote:
"To keep the peace, to pioneer the future. This is your AAF."
— AAF Announcer [28:55]
Insights and Takeaways
- Technological Innovation: The AAF's development of automatic landing systems represents a significant advancement in aviation safety and efficiency.
- Historic Milestones: The non-stop flight from Japan to the U.S. marks a pivotal moment in long-range air transportation, showcasing the prowess of the B29 bomber.
- Support for Service Members: The life insurance segment underscores the AAF's commitment to supporting its personnel and their families during and after service.
- Cultural Elements: Musical interludes provide a nostalgic connection to the era, enhancing the overall listening experience.
This episode of "Harold's Old Time Radio" expertly intertwines informative reports on military aviation advancements with heartfelt music and supportive segments, offering listeners a comprehensive glimpse into the Golden Age of Radio and the pivotal roles played by the Army Air Forces.