The Official Website of Gene Autry, America's Favorite Singing Cowboy

Watch a Gene Autry Video Clip

Comin' in on a Wing and a Prayer
The Sergeant Gene Autry Show
(May 2, 1943)


When Gene Autry went into the Army Air Forces in 1942 his popular radio show, "Melody Ranch," became the "Sergeant Gene Autry Show." His Sunday, May 2, 1943 program was broadcast live from the Army Air Base at Muroc, California. That's the base where men were trained to fly the famous P-38's. His radio show was part of the recreation periods for the soldiers and was part of Sgt. Autry's regular Army duties. He received no compensation for the program other than his regular Army pay.

This May 2, 1943 version of "Comin' in on a Wing and a Prayer" was Sgt. Autry's debut of the song and is backed by the trio of Eddie Dean, Jimmie Dean, and Johnny Bond, plus Carl Cotner's Orchestra.

The "Sergeant Gene Autry Show" included comedy, a story, and some swell songs. As this was during World War II, the drama from the May 2, 1943 episode was a thrilling story about two pilots of those P-38's.

Written by Harold Adamson and Jimmy McHugh
Published by Robbins Music

© Autry Qualified Interest Trust and The Autry Foundation


Back to index