Robert Trout: The Iron Man of Radio

A Legendary Broadcast News Reporter

Robert Trout, born Robert Albert Blondheim, was an American broadcast news reporter who worked on radio before and during World War II for CBS News, earning him the reputation as the "Iron Man of Radio." He was renowned for his ability to ad-lib while on the air, stamina, composure, and elocution.

Early Life and Career

Trout was born on October 15, 1909, in Wake County, North Carolina. He grew up in Washington, D.C., where he graduated from Central High School. He adopted the surname Trout early in his radio career. Trout began his broadcasting career in 1931 as an announcer at WJSV, an independent station in Alexandria, Virginia, which was later acquired by CBS, bringing him into the CBS fold.

Breaking Barriers in Broadcast Journalism

Trout was a trailblazer in broadcast journalism, credited with numerous firsts in the industry. He was the first to report on live congressional hearings from Capitol Hill, first to transmit from a flying airplane, and, by some definitions, the first to broadcast a daily news program, creating the news anchorman role.

Mentor to Edward R. Murrow

Trout played a significant role in the development of Edward R. Murrow, a then-new CBS executive, teaching him the importance of addressing the radio audience intimately, as if the announcer was talking to one person. This mentorship had a lasting impact on Murrow's broadcasting style, and the two remained colleagues until Murrow's departure from the network in 1961 and friends until his death in 1965.

Historic Broadcasts

Trout was behind the microphone for several historic broadcasts, including a shortwave roundup of reaction from multiple cities in Europe on Sunday night, March 13, 1938, following Adolf Hitler's Germany's annexation of Austria in the Anschluss. This broadcast was the first multipoint live broadcast on network radio, featuring reports from correspondents in different cities.

Influence on Modern Society

Trout's contributions to broadcast journalism paved the way for future generations of news reporters. His ability to adapt to changing circumstances and think on his feet set a new standard for broadcast news reporting. His legacy can be seen in the many news anchors who followed in his footsteps, emulating his style and approach to storytelling.

Personal Life and Legacy

Trout passed away on November 14, 2000, leaving behind a legacy that continues to inspire and influence broadcast journalists today. His contributions to the field of journalism are a testament to his dedication and perseverance, earning him a place in the annals of broadcasting history.

Memorable Quotes

• "The Iron Man of Radio" - a nickname that stuck, reflecting his stamina and composure under pressure.
• "Fireside chat" - a phrase coined by Trout to describe President Franklin D. Roosevelt's radio broadcasts during the Great Depression and World War II.

Awards and Honors

Trout's contributions to broadcast journalism were recognized with numerous awards and honors, including:

• Peabody Award for his coverage of the assassination of President John F. Kennedy
• Inducted into the Radio Hall of Fame in 1990

Trout's remarkable career, spanning over six decades, left an indelible mark on the world of broadcast journalism, cementing his place as one of the greatest news reporters of all time.