212 ‘Army of Stars’: A Christmas Time Capsule from 1949

Welcome to this special presentation of “Army of Stars,” a radio program that captured the spirit of giving during the golden age of radio.

From the 1930s through the 1990s, this series brought together some of entertainment’s brightest stars in support of The Salvation Army’s mission.

The program was the brainchild of Lloyd Docter, a visionary who served as producer-director until 1963. Throughout his 30 years of service with The Salvation Army, Lloyd Docter created more than 1,000 live radio broadcasts, turning to the airwaves to spread The Salvation Army’s message of compassion and service.

And fun fact: Lloyd’s son Robert Docter, our founding editor, later took over producing the show.

But today, we’re traveling back to December 25, 1949, for a particularly memorable Christmas broadcast.

This one exemplifies the program’s unique ability to blend world-class entertainment with heartfelt ministry, featuring a best-in-class lineup of operatic talent, including the renowned Lawrence Tibbett, who shares his touching personal connection to The Salvation Army. It turns out his very first public performance was at a Salvation Army meeting in Bakersfield, California.

You’ll hear Kirsten Flagstad, one of the greatest Wagnerian sopranos of the 20th century, performing Elsa’s Dream from Lohengrin. The program also features Lisa Albanese and José Berling in a moving scene from Puccini’s La Bohème, one of the most famous operas ever written.

But perhaps most poignant is Jean Hersholt’s reading of the Nativity story from the Gospel of Luke. Hersholt was beloved by radio audiences as “Dr. Christian,” the title role in the long-running radio medical drama series that aired from 1937-1954.

This broadcast also includes a message from The Salvation Army’s then National Commander Commissioner Ernest Pugmire, who reminds us of the organization’s vital work across 97 countries and colonies—work that continues to this day, now in 134 countries.

“Army of Stars” represents more than just entertainment; it stands as a testament to the long-standing support of The Salvation Army’s mission—and many people’s willingness to lend their name to the cause.

Luminaries from Bing Crosby to Bob Hope, Ronald Reagan, Vincent Price, Brooke Shields, Kenny Rogers and Walter Cronkite all donated their time and talents to support The Salvation Army and its efforts.

As we present this historic broadcast, remember that while much has changed since 1949, The Salvation Army’s commitment to serving those in need remains constant.

So let’s return to Christmas Day, 1949, as an Army of Stars salutes The Salvation Army.

Listen in to hear the “Army of Stars” broadcast from December 25, 1949.

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