(Art told this story from time to time, and Ted has recorded his recollection – 7/26/22)
Art was a radar specialist in the Marines in the latter part of World War II. At one point, he was stationed in Arkansas, and had responsibility to keep the base radar and radios working. Art has always had the gift of just-in-time results, which worked to the benefit of many on this occasion.
A hurricane was developing that would affect Marine air operations in Florida, and the Florida fleet was headed to Arkansas to keep the planes safe. The Arkansas base prepared for the fleet and made all the necessary arrangements for their safe arrival. Alas, the main radio used for aircraft communications with the base failed as the fleet departed Florida.
Art and his crew were faced with a highly-motivating situation. Their airspace was about to be filled with the most air traffic they had ever seen, and they had no way to communicate with the planes. Art got to work and in due time traced the fault to the main power supply for the radio system. After some quick repair work on the powerful (and dangerous) electronics, the radio came to life just as the first planes came into radio communication range with the Arkansas base. Not for the last time, Sergeant Art pulled off a last-minute save.