V-E Day

The 75th Anniversary of V-E Day is this week, celebrating the Allies' victory over Nazi Germany on May 8, 1945.

One radio program in particular always stands out to me on this date, and it's Norman Corwin's presentation of On A Note of Triumph - an hour-long production hailed as the single greatest radio program of the century. 

It's difficult to fully explain the impact of On A Note Of Triumph to anyone who has not heard the program. After seventy five years, its power is still overwhelming.

It's considered to be Corwin’s masterpiece, and the special broadcast was aired on the night Nazi Germany surrendered, listened to by millions of Americans. 

Of course, the war for the US didn't end there, as the battle still raged in the Pacific, but it was the beginning of the end of World War II, and the end of six years of misery, suffering, courage and endurance across the world.

Celebrations for V-E day will no doubt be muted this year, because of the Covid-19 pandemic. However, if you're in the vicinity of Houston on Friday, several WWII era planes will be putting on a show in the sky, in tribute to the anniversary.

Also on Friday, we're hoping that you, and all of the guests in our lockdown house chosen by you, will join us in a big V-E Day celebration together in our garden! We will remember the jubilant time, the party atmosphere, and the wild celebrations. Joy has planned a traditional picnic, several aperitifs and we may even partake in a little boogie! 

As well as the old favorite, G.I. Jive, which songs would you recommend we line up on our playlist? I'd love to see your suggestions in the poll over to the right, or in the comments below if I've missed any. 

Let us come together and remember those great men and women from all over the world, past and living, who played their part in securing the freedom for us all today.

Happy listening my friends,

P.S. On RUSC Radio there is a poignant selection of old time radio shows to remind us of the courage and bravery of the fighting men and women who have served in the conflicts of the past century. Included are series such as Command Performance, Columbia Presents, This Is Your FBI, This Is War, and Family Theater.