Front & Center with John Callaway

September at the Pritzker Military Library

Tue, 01 Sep 2009 10:30:00 CST

Hear what will be offered at the Pritzker Military Library this September.

A Tribute to John Callaway

Thu, 25 Jun 2009 15:00:00 CST

A Tribute to John Callaway, by Ed Tracy

Lemay: The Life and Wars of General Curtis Lemay: Front & Center

Fri, 05 Jun 2009 09:30:00 CST

General Curtis LeMay was a monster, a belligerent and remorseless murderer. He was a patriot of the first order, a forward-thinking visionary who created the U.S. Air Force as we know it. He was so crazy he inspired two characters in Dr. Strangelove, both the paranoid Gen. Jack D. Ripper and the war-happy Gen. Buck Turgidson. He was so brilliant he turned the air war in Europe around, brought the war in the Pacific to an early close, and oversaw a decisive Cold War victory with the Berlin Airlift. Special guest Warren Kozak sits down with John Callaway to discuss his new book on Front & Center. Originally aired 06/04/09.

Mexico: Front & Center

Fri, 08 May 2009 09:30:00 CST

With over 7,000 people killed since the beginning of last year, drug-related violence is spiraling out of control in Mexico, and martial law has been declared in Ciudad Juarez. But the problem is no longer confined by national borders - kidnappings, home invasions, and other violent crimes are beginning to spill over into U.S. cities such as Phoenix, Tucson, and even Atlanta. In the midst of widespread police corruption, can the Mexican government enforce the rule of law? What approach is the White House taking to address this growing threat to our national security? And what role do U.S. weapons - and demand for illegal drugs - play in this ongoing tragedy? Join John Callaway and his panel of experts for a look at Mexico on Front & Center. Panel includes: Richard E. Friedman, Roger Pardo-Maurer, Manuel Rodriguez-Arriaga. Originally aired 05/07/09.

The Global Economic Crisis: Front & Center

Fri, 03 Apr 2009 09:45:00 CST

As recent history has shown, economic turmoil can have unexpected consequences. While democracy in the United States narrowly emerged unscathed from the Great Depression, a similar crisis in Germany allowed the National Socialists to rise from a minority party to political dominance. What potentially dangerous political shifts await in today’s international landscape? And with a financial crisis of our own, can the United States afford to stay ahead of the situation on defense and intelligence? Join John Callaway and his panel of experts for a look at the Global Economic Crisis on Front & Center. Panel includes: Jack Ablin, V.L. Elliott, and Roger B. Myerson. Originally aired 04/02/09.

Pakistan: Challenges, Threats, and Opportunities: Front & Center

Fri, 06 Mar 2009 10:40:00 CST

In recent years, Pakistan has assumed a major role in the international scene. But as a relatively new country – albeit one with ancient traditions – how is Pakistan dealing with the overwhelming political, military, and economic challenges it faces, all while grappling with extremists and the risk of insurrection? And what is America's strategic position with regard to a nuclear-armed Pakistan? Join us for an exploration of Pakistan, its neighbors, and its place in the Islamic world on Front & Center with John Callaway. Panel includes: Catherine Dale, Saad B.Qais, and Frank Schell. Originally aired 03/05/09.

The First 100 Days: Front & Center

Fri, 06 Feb 2009 11:15:00 CST

President Barack Obama has laid out a bold domestic agenda to address the economy and other challenges at home, but what kind of impact is he looking to make overseas? Can Obama and his national security team effectively transform America's foreign affairs, or will volatile situations like the recent outbreak of violence in the Gaza Strip set the agenda for them? Join John Callaway and his panel of experts as they take stock of the First 100 Days of the Obama Administration on Front & Center. Panel includes: Tom Bowman, Paul Herbert, and Endy Zemenides. Originally aired 02/05/09.

An Update on the Guard and Reserve: Front & Center

Fri, 05 Dec 2008 10:00:00 CST

The last several years have presented unprecedented challenges for the Reserve components of the U.S. Military and the National Guard. What is their status, and how ready are they to face challenges yet to come? Join John Callaway and his panel of experts for an update on the Reserves of each branch of service and Guard, including an in-depth look at the U.S. Air Force Reserve and Air National Guard, on Front & Center. Originally aired 12/04/08.

U.S. Presidential Election Special: Front & Center

Fri, 07 Nov 2008 11:30:00 CST

The votes have been cast, and the results are in - after eight years, the United States will have a new President. But after all of the pomp and circumstance, what's next for our new Commander-in-Chief? What early challenges will he face abroad, and what foreign policy decisions will figure in his agenda? Join John Callaway and his panel (John J. Mearsheimer, Celina B. Realuyo, and John E. Scully) for a look ahead at the new administration on Front & Center. Originally aired 11/06/08.

PML: Five Years in Review [Video]

Fri, 24 Oct 2008 09:30:00 CST

The Pritzker Military Library opened to the public in 2003, but it began many years ago with a family and its books. This video premiered at the 2008 PML Liberty Gala on October 4, 2008.

The Tuskegee Airmen: Front & Center

Fri, 03 Oct 2008 10:15:00 CST

They were America's first black military pilots, fighting Nazis in Europe and Jim Crow at home. On this special presentation of Front & Center, John Callaway sits down with Robert Martin, Dr. Quentin P. Smith, and Shelby Westbrook, three of the legendary Tuskegee Airmen. Originally aired 10/02/08.

U.S. Army Corps of Engineers: Front & Center

Fri, 05 Sep 2008 11:10:00 CST

Front & Center returns when John Callaway explores the fascinating history and complex missions of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, at home and abroad. His guest is Lieutenant General Robert L. Van Antwerp, Commanding General of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, and Chief of Engineers for the U.S. Army. They are also joined by Lt. Colonel Bill Acheson and Robert Vanoer. Originally aired 09/04/08.

The U-505 Submarine Story: Front & Center

Tue, 05 Aug 2008 12:30:00 CST

In June of 1944, the American Task Force Guadalcanal engaged and captured the German submarine U-505, the first time a US Navy vessel had captured an enemy at sea since 1815. In 1954, the submarine was donated to the City of Chicago by the U.S. Government where it was installed as a permanent exhibit and war memorial at the Museum of Science and Industry. Joining John Callaway: Gordon F. Hohne, Zenon B. Lukosius, Wayne M. Pickels and Phillip N. Trusheim, veterans of USS Pillsbury and members of the USS Guadalcanal's U-505 boarding party, and Keith Gill, U-505 Curator, Museum of Science and Industry. Originally aired 04/28/04.

What Really Happened at No Gun Ri?: Front & Center

Mon, 21 Jul 2008 14:20:00 CST

This program features Charles Hanley, co-author of The Bridge at No Gun Ri: A Hidden Nightmare from the Korean War, and Robert Bateman, author of No Gun Ri: A Military History of the Korean War Incident. Originally aired 07/20/04.

Soldier's Heart: Front & Center

Fri, 27 Jun 2008 11:10:00 CST

In Prof. Elizabeth D. Samet's English class at West Point, cadets discuss the poetry of Wilfred Owen and Randall Jarrell, and read books ranging from the Aeneid and War and Peace to White Teeth and Catch-22. But why should cadets study literature when it is completely different from the rest of their curriculum? How does it benefit one former student to have the work of Wallace Stevens stuck in his head as he patrols the deserts of Iraq? Join John Callaway and his guest, Elizabeth Samet, for a conversation about the value of reading and imagination in soldiers’ lives. Originally aired 06/26/08.

The Politics of Defense & National Security: Front & Center

Fri, 30 May 2008 09:30:00 CST

As the 2008 presidential election nears, all of the major candidates have taken steps to burnish their credentials on national security in the eyes of the electorate. But where do they stand on specific issues of intelligence and defense, and how would their respective administrations transform our nation's approach to homeland security? Joining John Callaway: Steve Huntley, Frank Sesno, and Salim Muwakkil. Originally aired 05/29/08.

The Two Koreas: What is the Way Forward?: Front & Center

Fri, 25 Apr 2008 09:00:00 CST

North Korea recently threatened to turn South Korea into a sea of fire, and reduce its neighbor to ashes. After the apparent progress of last fall's six-nation talks, what does this return to nuclear rhetoric mean? Joining John Callaway: Bruce Cumings, Brig. Gen. Joe Ramirez, and Hon. Sung-Hwan Son. Originally aired 04/24/08.

100 Episodes Honoring the Citizen Soldier [Audio]

Mon, 14 Apr 2008 13:00:00 CST

PML Executive Producer Ed Tracy hosts a special retrospective for the Library's 100th episode broadcast on WYCC-TV in Chicago. Originally aired 04/11/08.

100 Episodes Honoring the Citizen Soldier [Bonus Video]

Fri, 11 Apr 2008 15:00:00 CST

In a bonus video podcast, Ed Tracy hosts a special retrospective for the Library's 100th episode broadcast on WYCC-TV in Chicago. Originally aired 04/11/08.

Israel: A Strategic Review: Front & Center

Fri, 28 Mar 2008 10:15:00 CST

With the Iraq war a key focal point in the presidential primaries, Israel garners few headlines. Yet the strategic interests of this long-time American partner are critical to the future of stability in the Middle East. How do the goals and ambitions of Israel mesh with U.S. policy and what are the main points of strategic difference? Join John Callaway for an exploration of "Israel: A Strategic Review". Joining John Callaway: Barukh Binah, Raja M. Kamal, & Saeed Khan. Originally aired 03/27/08.

High Schools, Military Academies and JROTC: On Target, or Off the Mark?: Front & Center

Fri, 29 Feb 2008 16:30:00 CST

What role should the US military have in over 3,200 high schools across the United States? How does the City of Chicago maintain and support the largest and fastest growing JROTC program in the country, including five Military High School Academies? Joining John Callaway: Michael McConnell, Rick Mills, & Dr. Linda Tafel. Originally aired 02/28/08. (Note: due to a mix-up, this podcast previously had an incorrect program MP3 file. This has been corrected.)

The War on Terror: Progress or Regression?: Front & Center

Tues, 05 Feb 2008 12:30:00 CST

As we approach the 5th anniversary of the fall of Baghdad, where do America and her allies stand in the "Long War" in Iraq, Afghanistan, and around the world? John Callaway and his guests analyze the status of the War on Terror. Guests include: Col. Dan Roper, U.S. Army, Dr. John "Jay" Williams, & Javed Rathore. Originally aired 01/31/08.

One on One with Charles Moskos: Front & Center

Fri, 14 Dec 2007 10:00:00 CST

Professor Emeritus of Sociology at Northwestern University, Charles Moskos is one of today's leading thinkers on military issues. The author of the "Don't Ask-Don't Tell" policy, his books include The Military - More Than Just a Job?, A Call to Civic Service, The New Conscientious Objection, Black Leadership and Racial Integration the Army Way, and The Postmodern Military. His research has taken him to combat units in Vietnam, Saudi Arabia, Somalia, Haiti, Bosnia, Kosovo, and Iraq. Join John Callaway for an in-depth exploration of Professor Moskos' perspective on issues ranging from the draft, to gays in the military to the current situation in Iraq. Originally aired 10/20/05.

Iran: the Next Military Frontier?: Front & Center

Mon, 05 Nov 2007 10:00:00 CST

The Sept. 2007 visit of Iran's president, Dr. Ahmadinejad, to the United States has brought U.S. relations with Iran into sharp focus. Iran's relationship with Iraq and role in the Middle East is complex. What role is Iran playing in the war on terror and in the U.S. role in Iraq? Does Iran's apparent supplying of weapons to Iraqi insurgents justify calls for action against that country? Join us for an exploration of the role of Iran on Front & Center with John Callaway. Guests: Danny Postel, Ahmad Sadri, and Richard S. Williamson. Originally aired 11/01/07.

Tonight, it's John Callaway: Front & Center

Fri, 05 Oct 2007 14:30:00 CST

In this special edition of Front and Center, the Library’s Executive Producer, Ed Tracy will interview John Callaway on his extraordinary 50 years in television. After five decades of interviews, panel discussions, debates, articles, books, stage shows, singing engagements and a serious addiction to sugar and salt, John Callaway remains the best pure interviewer of his time. Join us for an evening of spirited conversation, startling new revelations and shocking admissions when Ed Tracy puts John Callaway and his book, The Thing of It Is, Front and Center. Originally aired 10/04/07.

Today's National Guard: Front & Center

Fri, 07 Sep 2007 12:00:00 CST

Whether it's extended deployment, inadequate equipment or returning veterans with serious medical problems, the National Guard has struggled with significant new challenges since the Iraq war began. Join John Callaway and his panel as they evaluate the health and readiness of today's National Guard. Guests: Major General Randal E. Thomas, Colonel Jill Morgenthaler (Ret.), and Kirsten Scharnberg. Originally aired 09/06/07.

USA Patriot Act: Front & Center

Fri, 03 Aug 2007 09:15:00 CST

Ever since President George W. Bush signed the Patriot Act into law in October of 2001 in the wake of the 9/11 attacks, a national debate has raged on whether the act provides necessary tools to fight terrorism or deprives Americans of basic civil rights. Join John Callaway and his panel of guests as they explore the Patriot Act and its impact on American security and liberty. Guests: Patrick Fitzgerald, Colleen Connell, Deborah Caldwell-Stone, and Joseph A. Morris. Originally aired 05/24/04.

2007 PML Literature Award: Special Announcement

Wed, 18 Jul 2007 10:00:00 CST

Executive Producer Ed Tracy and Library Founder COL James Pritzker IL ARNG (Ret.) announce the winner of the first annual Pritzker Military Library Literature Award for Lifetime Achievement in Military Writing, a $100,000 honorarium. Originally aired 07/16/07.

Returning Veterans: Front & Center

Sat, 14 Jul 2007 09:00:00 CST

The war in Afghanistan and Iraq has put tremendous pressure on America's ability to deal with the health and welfare challenges facing returning veterans, particularly those with serious injuries. New initiatives have been put in place to deal with inadequate medical care, confusing red tape and financial problems with which veterans must struggle. Are these initiatives working and are they enough? What else is needed to honor the service and sacrifice these men and women provide? Join John Callaway and his panel, featuring special guest Director Tammy Duckworth of the Illinois Department of Veterans' Affairs, as we explore these issues. Guests: Tammy Duckworth, Ed Edmundson, and Elliot J. Roth, M.D. Originally aired 07/12/07.

Military Contracting: Front & Center

Fri, 08 Jun 2007 14:00:00 CST

The Military has always looked to outside contractors to supply everything from hammers to tanks to airplanes, establishing relationships described by President Eisenhower as the Military-Industrial complex. Today, that list of contractors is growing with the demands of war on multiple fronts, and the contractors are taking on new roles – such as translator services, personal security, and public relations. Join John Callaway and his panel of experts as they explore and discuss the real costs - and benefits - of military contracting. Guests: Shephard W. Hill, Jim Hiles, and Arthur Cyr. Originally aired 06/07/07.

The War of Law: Front & Center

Fri, 11 May 2007 12:30:00 CST

As American troops battle in Afghanistan and Iraq in the War on Terror, attorneys, judges and politicians engage in what might be called The War of Law as they consider, litigate and help determine the fate of those captured and detained, in and out of uniform. International Law, Military Law, and Constitutional Law all may apply; but sometimes don't - depending on who is talking. Join John Callaway and his guests as they explore the intricacies of war and the law. Guests: Gary Isaac, Stephen Presser, and Dr. Alberto R. Coll. Originally aired 05/03/07.

Military Blogs: Front & Center

Mon, 09 Apr 2007 13:10:00 CST

As in politics and for corporate America, the blog is a powerful new communications fact of life in the military. For the soldier in the field, a blog maybe an emotional lifeline back home. For the advocate, a blog aggregates friends and foes. For military leaders, the troops' postings may represent grave security risks. With nearly 2000 active military-related blogs and more online every day, both veterans at home and armed forces abroad are actively engaged. What impact is blogging having on the flow of information in the military? Join John Callaway and his guests as they explore this fast-growing phenomenon. Guests: Matthew Currier Burden, Paul Rand, and Paul Swiergosz. Originally aired 04/05/07.

First Into Nagasaki: Front & Center

Fri, 02 Mar 2007 12:30:00 CST

Joining John Callaway will be Anthony Weller, author and son of respected reporter George Weller. Anthony will discuss his father's career as a reporter, combat correspondent and how his unique experiences and reports from post-war Japan were censored by military authorities. Special Guest: Anthony Weller. Originally aired 03/01/07.

The Turning Point: Front & Center

Fri, 02 Feb 2007 12:00:00 CST

Following the publication of the bipartisan Iraq Study Group report, the Democratic Party's control of Congress and a revised line-up of military commanders and diplomats, the White House is embarking on its new strategy for the war in Iraq. In the aftermath of the execution of Saddam Hussein, Iraq's government faces new tensions as it struggles to quell violence. Join John Callaway and his panel of experts as they explore the military and political implications of America's policy in Iraq and the Middle East. Guests: Joseph A. Morris, Cherif Bassiouni, and William Howell. Originally aired 02/01/07.

Suicide Bombing: Front & Center

Wed, 06 Dec 2006 09:00:00 CST

One of the most challenging weapons used by terrorists is the suicide bomber. Low in cost and highly lethal, suicide bombing has appeared throughout history as a political as well as a military tactic. Since the 1980s, it has been utilized most frequently in conflicts throughout the Middle East . Join John Callaway and his panelists as they explore and debate the history, psychology, impact and military implications of the suicide bomber. Guests: Robert A. Pape, Thomas R. Mockaitis, and Dr. David M. Terman. Originally aired 11/30/06.

James A. Lovell: Front & Center

Fri, 20 Oct 2006 15:30:00 CST

Former Naval pilot and astronaut Captain James A. Lovell joins John Callaway for a one-on-one interview to discuss his extraordinary career and the future of space exploration. Originally aired 10/19/06.

The Politics of War: Front & Center

Fri, 22 Sep 2006 11:30:00 CST

With the continued instability in Iraq and the Middle East and the ongoing war on terror, the political implications of war are the dominant theme impacting both international and domestic affairs in the United States. Likewise in Iraq and throughout the Middle East, various factions vie for both political and military control. Join John Callaway and his expert panelists as they explore the politics of war and their impact on US policy. Guests: Bruce DuMont, John Allen Williams, Timothy J. McNulty. Originally aired 09/21/06.

The Recruiting Office-The New Front Line?: Front & Center

Fri, 01 Sep 2006 15:30:00 CST

The Army and the Army Reserves missed their March [2005] recruiting goals, as they had in February for the first time since May 2000. While the Navy and Marines successfully met their March goals, the role of all recruiters is more challenging in the face of the American presence in Afghanistan and Iraq. Guests: Major Will Reinhart, Major Steven C. Wiegers, and Commander Shawn M. Callahan. Originally aired 04/28/05.

The Journalist's Challenge: Front & Center

Fri, 11 Aug 2006 11:30:00 CST

A journalist on the U.S. military beat has unique challenges: evaluating military briefings, developing one's own sources, and dealing with classified information. How can readers, viewers, and listeners get a good sense of what's going on in Iraq when security concerns are so great that reporters often cannot get into the field to report in any meaningful way? Join John Callaway and his panel who will explore how one identifies the right story, verifies the details, and writes a compelling article on deadline. Guests: Stephen J. Hedges, Cheryl L. Reed, Rob Warden, and Lieutenant Colonel Ryan Yantis. Originally aired 11/17/05.

America's Role in Iraq: Front & Center

Fri, 21 Jul 2006 11:15:00 CST

With the establishment of a new government in Iraq offering limited amnesty to insurgents, reports of a US strategy to reduce troop levels, and the continuing political debate in the US, is there a new era dawning in America's relationship with Iraq? John Callaway and his guests examine the changing tide in the US engagement in Iraq. Guests: Eric Posner, John J. Mearsheimer, and Joseph A. Morris. Originally aired 07/20/06.

We Were Soldiers: Front & Center

Thu, 06 Jul 2006 09:00:00 CST

Lt. General Hal Moore, USA (Ret.) and Joseph Galloway join John Callaway for a special edition of Front & Center. In November 1965, during the early days of the Vietnam War, Moore led one of the best trained and equipped air-mobile formations into battle in the Ia Drang Valley. Galloway was the only journalist to witness the battle. Moore's story of the first major battle of the Vietnam War is captured in the book We Were Soldiers Once…and Young which stood for 17 weeks at the top of the New York Times best-seller list. Originally aired 10/08/05.

Battlefield Ministry: Front & Center

Mon, 03 Jul 2006 12:00:00 CST

The military chaplain faces extraordinary challenges. Soldiers face life and death situations on a daily basis, yet are often spiritually unprepared for the stress of battle or the sacrifices war requires. The chaplain is expected to be a religious leader, a moral advisor, and a source of comfort in the face of horrific events. Join John Callaway and his guests as they explore how today's military chaplains prepare for and live their ministry of service to soldiers on the battlefield and their families back on base. Guests: Father James E. Burnett, LCDR Waldemar A. Kilian CHC USN, Lt. Col. James (Jim) Johnson U.S. Army Reserve, and Commander Robert Feinberg, U.S. Navy Retired. Originally aired 06/29/06.

The Military Impact on Medicine: Front & Center

Tue, 30 May 2006 09:30:00 CST

Throughout history, the relationship between the military and the medics has saved untold numbers of wounded soldiers. It has also led to many new challenges and new solutions as technology has advanced to meet the needs of the wounded. Join John Callaway and his guests as they explore the cutting edge of military medical advances in the field of rehabilitation. Guests: Dr. Rachna Soriano, Dudley S Childress, and Master Sergeant Gail Marzelli. Originally aired 05/25/06.

The Battle for Peace: Front & Center

Fri, 28 Apr 2006 15:00:00 CST

Why are a growing number of high ranking retired officers speaking out for a sweeping change in administration strategy and leadership? How effective are we as a nation in recognizing our international objectives and meeting global challenges? How can America leverage its power and influence in the war on terror? Join John Callaway for a discussion featuring General Anthony Zinni, Benjamin Page and Charles Glaser on Zinni's new book, The Battle For Peace. Originally aired 04/27/06.

The Economics of National Security: Front & Center

Wed, 29 Mar 2006 17:00:00 CST

The cost of the war in Iraq, homeland security in the US, and deployment of American troops around the globe are both taxing the U.S. treasury and generating heated debate in Congress. What is the financial impact of increased national security? Join John Callaway and his panel of experts to explore the real cost of the war on terror and its implications for the future. Originally aired 03/23/06.

36 Days on Iwo Jima: Front & Center

Mon, 27 Feb 2006 17:00:00 CST

On the 61st anniversary of the flag raising on Iwo Jima's Mt. Suribachi, join John Callaway for a special Front & Center featuring an interview with two veterans of the Battle of Iwo Jima - William Hudson and Col. Gerald Russell, USMC (Ret.) on Front & Center with John Callaway. Originally aired 02/23/06.

A New Year Ahead in Iraq: Front & Center

Fri, 27 Jan 2006 15:00:00 CST

With Iraq's first parliamentary election now history, the U.S. policy in Iraq continues to evolve. President Bush has acknowledged the challenges America faces as pressures to reduce or withdraw U.S. Troops mount. Join John Callaway and his panel of experts who will look at the year ahead for U.S. involvement in Iraq. Originally aired 01/26/06.