One for Lee

Originally Aired: January 26, 1958

In Gunsmoke #303, "One for Lee," Marshal Matt Dillon, Chester, and Doc Adams gather at the train depot to welcome Senator Barclay Hooper to Dodge City. The politician's arrival takes a violent turn when a gunman fires at the senator on the crowded platform, grazing his arm before fleeing through town. The only witness is Willie Angel, an ornery old sheepherder who was knocked down by the assailant during his escape. Willie never got a good look at the man's face, but the gunman doesn't know that, making Willie the only person who might be able to identify him.

Despite the assassination attempt, Senator Hooper refuses to cancel his scheduled speech, insisting he'll address the townspeople from the Dodge House porch as planned. Matt realizes Willie is now in danger since the shooter will want to eliminate the only witness who can identify him. The marshal rides out to Willie's remote sheep ranch to bring him into town for protection, but the stubborn old herder is reluctant to leave his flock unattended, creating a tense situation as Matt tries to keep both the senator and his sole witness alive.

Welcome to Gunsmoke: Old West Stories, a podcast that takes you back to the rugged plains of 1870s Dodge City, Kansas. Rediscover the timeless tales of bravery, justice, and survival in the American frontier with our re-broadcasts of the classic Gunsmoke radio program.

First airing on April 26, 1952, Gunsmoke was celebrated as the first adult western radio show, renowned for its superb storytelling and exceptional production quality. Join Marshal Matt Dillon, portrayed by the incomparable William Conrad, as he faces the challenges of maintaining law and order in a tumultuous town. Alongside him are unforgettable characters like Chester Proudfoot (Parley Baer), the steadfast deputy; Kitty (Georgia Ellis), the resilient saloon owner; and Doc Adams (Howard McNear), the town’s compassionate physician.

What sets Gunsmoke apart is not just its stellar cast and engaging plots but the immersive sound effects that bring each scene to life. Every gunshot, horse gallop, and whisper of the wind transports you directly to the heart of the Old West.

Whether you're a longtime fan or a new listener, Gunsmoke: Old West Stories promises to deliver gripping adventures and a nostalgic journey through one of radio’s most iconic series. Tune in and let the legends of Dodge City captivate your imagination.