Just before breakfast on the morning of March 4, Private
Albert Gitchell of the U.S. Army reported to the hospital at
Fort Riley, Kansas, complaining of the cold-like symptoms
of sore throat, fever and headache. Soon after, over 100
of his fellow soldiers had reported similar symptoms,
marking what are believed to be the first cases in the
historic influenza pandemic of 1918, later known as
Spanish flu.

The flu would eventually kill 675,000 Americans and an
estimated 20 million to 50 million people around the world, proving to be a far deadlier force than even the First World
War.

The comedic star John Candy died suddenly of a heart
attack on March 4, 1994, at the age of 43. At the time of
his death, he was living near Durango, Mexico, while
filming Wagons East, a Western comedy co-starring 
comedian Richard Lewis. Lewis died recently on
February 27th.

1987

MARYSVILLE, Wash. — A Washington State Patrol trooper
lost his life in the line of duty this morning after he was hit
and killed by a driver, the agency reports.

WSP Chief John R. Batiste identified the trooper as Trooper Christopher M. Gadd.

In a press release, Gadd was described as a "dedicated
father, son, brother, and friend."
(KATU)

Trooper Gadd had served with the Washington
State Patrol for 2-1/2 years. He is survived by
his wife, 2-year-old daughter, parents, and
sister.

His father also served with the Washington
State Patrol and his sister serves with the
Texas Highway Patrol.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have lost a member of the
"Steel Curtain."

Linebacker Andy Russell, who spent his entire NFL
career with the Steelers, passed away on Thursday
night. A cause of death has yet to be announced.

During his 12-season career (1963-76), he helped the
Steelers win Super Bowls IX and X, plus made seven
Pro Bowls. He also appeared in 168 games and made
162 starts. 

 The Spun

 
MIKE  GRACIA

Ronnie Howard & Gig Young in "Walking
Distance", Twilight Zone Episode #5 (10/30/59)

(1960 – 1968)

(1974 – 1984)

1995

Director, producer and screenwriter Ron Howard is
71 years old today.

Howard has received two Academy Awards, four Emmy
Awards, two Golden Globe Awards, and a Grammy Award.

He was awarded the National Medal of Arts in 2003 and
was inducted into the Television Hall of Fame in 2013.

Howard has two stars on the Hollywood Walk of Fame
for his contributions in film and television.