Relic Radio Thrillers: "The Torch" by The Silent Men

Episode Release Date: November 15, 2024
Original Air Date: April 16, 1952
Host/Author: RelicRadio.com
Producer: Warren Lewis
Writer: Joel Murcott
Cast: Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., Lamont Johnson, Vivie Janice, Gene Bates, Paul Freeze, Tom McKee
Announcer: John Stanley

Introduction

"The Torch," a gripping episode from The Silent Men, an NBC series starring Douglas Fairbanks, Jr., delves into the murky waters of espionage, murder, and betrayal within the ranks of the federal government. Airing as part of the Relic Radio Thrillers collection, this episode masterfully intertwines suspense and intrigue, showcasing the relentless pursuit of truth by special agent Frank Hepburn.

Plot Overview

Opening Investigation

The story begins with Special Agent Frank Hepburn (Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.) being summoned in the dead of night to investigate a suspiciously charred car near Las Vegas, Nevada. Colonel, present at the scene, reveals the victim as Captain Walter Cronin, a soldier assigned to observe guided missile tests.

"When a man is murdered, it is usually a case for local authorities. But when the murdered man happens to be a soldier, the matter becomes a case for the federal government."
— Special Agent Frank Hepburn [01:19]

Unraveling the Mystery

Agent Hepburn meticulously examines the crime scene, suspecting foul play rather than an accidental death. The absence of skid marks and the nature of the burn suggest deliberate tampering. Hepburn’s investigation leads him to question Colonel and uncover that Captain Cronin was authorized for top-secret information related to missile tests.

"He was cleared right to the top. There was nothing to do but wait for reports, and when they came, they were not good."
— Special Agent Frank Hepburn [04:58]

Introducing Nurse Jacqueline Marshall

The plot thickens with the introduction of Nurse Jacqueline Marshall, who becomes a pivotal character. Hepburn discovers that Cronin was last seen with her and Private Robert Whiteson, a patient from the orthopedic ward. As Hepburn delves deeper, inconsistencies in the coroner's report hint at a larger conspiracy.

"I put out an all point bulletin on Private Whiteson with a request for all civil police to cooperate in his apprehension."
— Special Agent Frank Hepburn [11:32]

Confronting the Truth

A breakthrough occurs when Hepburn realizes that the body found was not Cronin's but that of Private Whiteson. This revelation shifts the focus back to Cronin, who is still alive and possibly involved in espionage. Hepburn's relentless pursuit leads him to Harold DeWitt, a name connected to Cronin's past, unraveling a complex web of deceit.

"DeWitt is the code name Cronin has picked for himself."
— Special Agent Frank Hepburn [23:31]

Climactic Confrontation

The investigation culminates in a tense encounter at an automobile agency in Eau Claire, Wisconsin. Hepburn confronts Colonel—revealed to be Captain Walter Cronin—thereby unmasking the true culprit behind the murders and the espionage activities aimed at compromising national security.

"If you had a mustache and a little less hair, I'd say your name was Cronin. Captain Walter Cronin."
— Special Agent Frank Hepburn [25:18]

Key Characters

• Special Agent Frank Hepburn (Douglas Fairbanks, Jr.)
  A dedicated and astute federal agent determined to uncover the truth behind Captain Cronin's death and the ensuing espionage activities.

• Colonel / Captain Walter Cronin (Gene Bates)
  Initially presented as a victim, Cronin is later revealed to be the antagonist involved in orchestrating the murders to cover his tracks in espionage.

• Nurse Jacqueline Marshall (Vivie Janice)
  A nurse whose interactions with Cronin and Private Whiteson are central to unraveling the mystery. Her loyalty and innocence play a crucial role in the investigation.

• Private Robert Whiteson (Paul Freeze)
  A patient of Nurse Marshall who becomes a victim, his death serves as a red herring that ultimately helps uncover Cronin's true identity.

• Bill Garston (Tom McKee)
  An associate of Hepburn who assists in tracking down key suspects and connecting the dots in the investigation.

Investigations and Revelations

Agent Hepburn's methodical approach is evident as he uncovers discrepancies in the coroner's report, notably the healed fracture in the victim’s leg, linking Private Whiteson to the scene instead of Captain Cronin. This discovery propels Hepburn to further investigate Cronin's background, revealing financial irregularities and suspicious behavior indicative of espionage.

Interactions with Nurse Jacqueline Marshall provide critical insights, including her interactions with Private Whiteson, ultimately exposing the layers of deceit. The introduction of Harold DeWitt as a pseudonym for Cronin adds complexity, showcasing Cronin's attempts to evade detection by assuming a new identity.

Conclusion

In a dramatic finale, Agent Hepburn successfully apprehends Captain Walter Cronin, exposing his role in the murders and espionage activities aimed at undermining national security. The episode concludes with Cronin and Nurse Marshall being convicted, highlighting the unwavering commitment of the Silent Men in safeguarding the nation.

"Although he had not sold out his country as at first indicated, Captain Walter Cronin and Jacqueline Marshall were convicted of the murder of a member of the armed forces."
— Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. [27:45]

Notable Quotes

• "When a man is murdered, it is usually a case for local authorities. But when the murdered man happens to be a soldier, the matter becomes a case for the federal government."
  — Special Agent Frank Hepburn [01:19]

• "Captain Cronin was authorized to view the test from the number one forward position."
  — Colonel [07:02]

• "This has nothing to do with the hospital. And you're not accused of anything, I promise you. I just want to know what you know about a Captain Walter Cronin."
  — Special Agent Frank Hepburn [12:46]

• "DeWitt is the code name Cronin has picked for himself."
  — Special Agent Frank Hepburn [23:31]

• "If you had a mustache and a little less hair, I'd say your name was Cronin."
  — Special Agent Frank Hepburn [25:18]

• "I know you won't now."
  — Special Agent Frank Hepburn [25:37]

Epilogue

The episode concludes with a reassuring message about the dedication of the Silent Men, setting the stage for future adventures. Listeners are left with a sense of closure and anticipation for the next thrilling installment, "Food and War."

"They are the Silent Men."
— Douglas Fairbanks, Jr. [29:36]

For more Old Time Radio adventures in crime, mystery, espionage, and suspense, explore the extensive collection at RelicRadio.com.