RUSC MAILING

Written by Ned Norris

As Memorial Day approaches, I'm excited to announce a special addition to our collection that powerfully reflects on the human cost of war. On May 26th, 2025, we'll be featuring the landmark 1938 Columbia Workshop production of Irwin Shaw's "Bury the Dead."

This extraordinary radio play tells the story of six soldiers who, having been killed in battle, refuse to be buried—literally standing up in their graves to demand recognition of their sacrifice. First broadcast just before World War II erupted across Europe, its message about the futility of war and the waste of young lives remains hauntingly relevant today.

"Bury the Dead" features some of the most powerful anti-war dialogue ever broadcast, including the unforgettable line from a 20-year-old soldier:

"I spent 20 years practicing to be a man. And then they killed me."

The play strips away patriotic rhetoric to expose war's true cost in human terms.

Be sure to check in to RUSC to listen to this famous American war play.

In addition to "Bury the Dead," we invite you to tune into RUSC Radio, our streaming channel that features over 100 war-related shows. From frontline reports to home front dramas, these broadcasts provide a unique window into how radio shaped Americans' understanding of war across different conflicts.

As we honor those who made the ultimate sacrifice, these broadcasts remind us of the real human stories behind the statistics—and why working toward peace is the greatest tribute we can pay to the fallen.

Wishing you a meaningful Memorial Day,
 

RUSC Old Time Radio
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