THEY’RE BACK: Ron Housler of Lantz Corners called this past
Monday to report spring is definitely here; He saw two robins, some
red-wing blackbirds and a killdeer in Lantz Corners in areas where
he plows snow.[neWLine]

We certainly hope Ron is right but remember, not so many years
ago, when we have been pummeled by horrendous St. Patrick’s Day
snowstorms. No doubt, winter has a few more tricks up its
sleeve.[neWLine]

Meanwhile, the robin and geese reports keep coming in – more
Monday.[neWLine][neWLine]

LOCAL ANGLE: Last weekend when Bradford Little Theatre mounted
“”Waiting for MacArthur,”” the story about an Army nurse’s
experience on the island of Corregidor during World War II
resonated with area folks.[neWLine]

According to director Dick Marcott, people sent cards, notes and
even war memorabilia to the lead actress, Mary R. Rolick, and to
her father-in-law, Frank Rolick of Kane, who saw action in the
Philippines.[neWLine]

As he and his family left Corregidor, MacArthur said, “”I shall
return”” and “”Keep the flag flying.””[neWLine]

One of the items sent to actress Rolick was “”Hail MacArthur,””
a composition with words and music by Antoinette Monroe White of
Bradford.[neWLine]

The song was first introduced on a radio program titled
“”Songwriters on Parade”” and is copyrighted 1942, according to
information on the music. It was published by Transradio of New
York City.[neWLine]

Arranged by Manuel M. Warner, the piece in 4/4 time has the
following lyrics:[neWLine]

“”Oh, me mother came from Ireland,[neWLine]

When she was just a girl,[neWLine]

And married dear old Daddy, I am told,[neWLine]

They raised a family of boys,[neWLine]

The huskiest in town,[neWLine]

But, mother told us not to fight[neWLine]

Was bad manners wrong and bold.[neWLine]ð[neWLine]

Oh, I’m in the army now to do my duty,[neWLine]

Just to help me Uncle Sam to win the war,[neWLine]

And although I wasn’t taught to fight[neWLine]

I’ll do me part with all me might[neWLine]

And you’ll be mighty proud of me some day,[neWLine]

Oh, how proud are we to know our flag’s still
flying,[neWLine]

With MacArthur at its head, Oh, what a boy,[neWLine]

But with Irish wit and laughter[neWLine]

We’ll not stop to wonder after,[neWLine]

Why the Irish win.””[neWLine]ð[neWLine]

BLT is passing a photocopy of the song to the Bradford Landmark
Society, but an original is listed for sale on ebay by Ronald
Fitch, along with other antique items he sells.