The Man Who Would Be Marshal: Ambition, Lessons, and the Badge

Originally Aired: March 18, 1956

In Gunsmoke #206, “The Man Who Would Be Marshal,” Emmett Egan, a former Union officer turned cattleman, arrives in Dodge City determined to take Matt Dillon’s job as Marshal—believing law work is just another kind of command. Dillon, weary of the constant danger, gives Egan a week to see the truth for himself. What starts as an exercise in authority quickly turns deadly, as Egan’s lack of experience with violence and gunslingers is exposed in a brutal confrontation. The episode explores the difference between command and survival on the frontier, and the steep price paid by those who wear the badge.

Cast:
William Conrad, Parley Baer, Howard McNear, Georgia Ellis, John Dehner, James Nusser, Harry Bartell

Tags:
Western, lawman, DodgeCity, ambition, WilliamConrad, ParleyBaer, HowardMcNear, GeorgiaEllis, JohnDehner, JamesNusser, HarryBartell, oldtimeradio, classicradio, 1950sdrama, identity, authority, gunslinger, ambition, Gunsmoke, badge, vintagewestern

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.