DAYBREAK | Tuesday, November 10, 2026
Happy Birthday, Marines!
On November 10, 1775, the Continental Marines were born. Two hundred fifty-one years later, the United States Marine Corps continues a tradition of service, courage, and loyalty summed up in two words: Semper Fidelis — Always Faithful.
Today on Daybreak, we’re celebrating the Marine Corps birthday with a special journey through the golden age of American radio.
Join us as we revisit Jack Benny broadcasting from Marine Corps installations at El Toro, San Diego, and Mojave, where the laughter of servicemen became part of the show. We’ll explore Hollywood’s wartime tributes in Lux Radio Theatre’s Salute to the Marines, starring Wallace Beery and Fay Bainter, and Pride of the Marines, a moving story of courage, sacrifice, and the challenges of coming home.
And we’ll visit the beloved radio serial One Man’s Family for the reunion of Marine Jack Barbour — a reminder that behind every uniform is a family with its own story.
Along the way, we’ll explore the Corps’ founding, its birthday traditions, and the remarkable relationship between America’s Marines and the entertainers who brought a little laughter and encouragement into difficult times.
These broadcasts are more than nostalgic entertainment. They’re surviving voices from a generation that knew something about duty, sacrifice, friendship, and finding reasons to laugh.
Six classic radio productions. One Marine Corps birthday. And plenty of stories worth remembering.
Supported by listeners like you
Daybreak is sponsored by Chesterton Radio subscribers.
Chesterton Radio brings you classic radio drama, comedy, mysteries, literature, original programming, and thoughtful conversation from The Little Station on Commercial Street.
There are no corporate sponsors behind today’s program. It’s made possible by listeners who believe these stories are worth preserving and sharing.
Become a paid subscriber for just $8 a month at ChestertonRadio.com. Your support helps keep the station on the air and our growing collection of programs available to listeners everywhere.
And whenever you’re in the mood for good radio, step through The Open Door — Chesterton Radio’s free, 24-hour live stream.
To every Marine, past and present, and to the families who have served alongside them:
Happy 251st Birthday, Marines. Semper Fidelis.
Chesterton Radio — Stories. Ideas. Wonder.
From Camp El Toro California | Marine Corp Air Station | Jack Benny Show
Salute to the Marines - Fay Bainter - Wallace Beery - Lux Radio Theater
Pride of the Marines - Lux Radio Theater
Jack Benny - Live Show from San Diego Marine Base
Family Reunion with Marine Jack Barbour - One Man’s Family
Jack Benny Show - Marine Air Station Mojave CA\
