On this day, 86 years ago, the iconic jazz tune “In the Mood” by Glenn Miller soared to the top of the charts in the United States. This delightful melody is one that resonates with many, even if they don’t know it by name. Its unforgettable saxophone introduction has made a lasting impression, and Miller’s recording, among others, was deemed culturally and historically significant enough to be included in the Library of Congress.
In February 1944, a special V-Disc featuring Miller’s RCA studio recording from 1939 was released. This initiative was part of a series of recordings sent free of charge by the U.S. War Department to military personnel stationed overseas during World War II. The song’s infectious rhythm and charm captured hearts around the world, and its popularity continued to grow.
Notably, during the ongoing war, a new recording by Miller with the American Band of the Allied Expeditionary Forces was broadcast in Germany in 1944 as part of a radio program called The Wehrmacht Hour. The ability of this swing tune to transcend borders and foster a sense of unity during challenging times is a testament to its enduring appeal.
In addition to celebrating “In the Mood,” today marks the birth of several remarkable individuals. For instance, 115 years ago, Fr. Georges Dominique Pire was born in Dinant, Belgium. This dedicated Dominican friar was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1958 for his unwavering commitment to helping refugees in Europe after World War II. During the war, Pire bravely served as a chaplain to the Belgian resistance, aiding in the escape of Allied pilots and earning several medals for his courageous efforts. His advocacy for those displaced by the war led to a deeper focus on postwar issues concerning internationally displaced persons, resulting in his influential work and publications.
In 1949, he founded an organization that assisted displaced persons by establishing villages in Austria and Germany, helping them adapt to new cultures. Following his Nobel achievement, Pire turned his focus to combating poverty on a global scale, founding the NGO Islands of Peace, which has nurtured development projects in various countries, including Bangladesh, India, and several nations in Africa and South America. Remarkably, 30 years after his passing, the organizations he founded continue to thrive.
Additionally, 97 years ago, the pioneering Whittaker brothers, Jim and Lou, were born. Jim made history as the first American to reach the summit of Everest during a National Geographic expedition in 1963. Lou, often mistakenly credited for that ascent, later led the first American expedition to Everest via the challenging North Col pass in 1984. Together, they have left an indelible mark on American mountaineering, with Lou founding Rainier Mountaineering Inc., which has guided countless adventurers to the summit of Mount Rainier, the tallest peak in the contiguous United States. Meanwhile, Jim became the first full-time employee and later CEO of REI Co-op, contributing significantly to outdoor recreation and adventure culture.
