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Path: utzoo!linus!decvax!genrad!grkermit!dickg
From: dickg@grkermit.UUCP (Dickson Goon)
Newsgroups: net.tv
Subject: RE: THUNDERBIRDS
Message-ID: <579@grkermit.UUCP>
Date: Tue, 16-Aug-83 11:33:34 EDT
Article-I.D.: grkermit.579
Posted: Tue Aug 16 11:33:34 1983
Date-Received: Tue, 16-Aug-83 21:57:22 EDT
Organization: GenRad Inc., Concord, MA
Lines: 39


I remember watching the THUNDERBIRDS program when I was in high school,
(late 60's - early 70's) here in Boston, Ma.  It was one of a series of
programs where the cast of characters were puppets (marionettes?) 
manipulated by strings.  I don't remember too too much about it, but as
I continue typing, I may recall more (so if this is a little disorganized,
you'll know why).  Well, here goes:

The THUNDERBIRDS were vehicles invented by the only non-family member living
at the island headquarters of INTERNATIONAL RESCUE, Mr. Brains.  The rescue
vehicles and their purpose are as follows:

THUNDERBIRD 1 is the FAST-ARRIVAL vehicle, jet (rocket?)-powered; its
purpose is to get the rescuer to the scene FAST and to determine what
rescue equipment is needed.

THUNDERBIRD 2 is the equipment vehicle, also jet-powered, but far slower
(carrying the equipment).  When it arrived, usually the real rescue work begins.

THUNDERBIRD 3 is the OUTER SPACE vehicle; T1 and T2 were restricted to earth.
Rescues in outer space were done using Thunderbird 3.  It was launched from
the island base.

THUNDERBIRD 4 is the UNDER-WATER craft; it was ferried to the water sight by
THUNDERBIRD 2 and launched near the rescue sight.

There was also a satellite in space relaying the calls for help from wherever 
to the island base.  Also, International Rescue had a core of agents that
were used whenever any undercover work was needed.

Basically, the format of the program was something happened, a rescue was
needed, International Rescue was called, and the rescue was performed.
The format was to be futuristic, and IR was a privately-owned, privately
conducted operation.

This is about as much as I can remember...is there anyone else that can
elaborate, correct, or add more?  I also would be interested.

...Dick Goon (...!decvax!genrad!grkermit!dickg).