Meaning: This quote by Audie Murphy, a highly decorated American soldier and successful actor, reflects the frustration and impatience he felt regarding the delay in launching the television series "Whispering Smith." The quote humorously alludes to the space race and the possibility of the Congo surpassing the United States in this race before the series could even air.

"Whispering Smith" was a Western television series based on a popular novel by Frank H. Spearman. The show aired from 1961 to 1962 and starred Audie Murphy as the title character, Whispering Smith. The series followed the adventures of a railroad detective in the American West, and it was highly anticipated due to Murphy's popularity and the success of the novel.

In the quote, Murphy compares the delay in getting "Whispering Smith" on the air to the relatively faster launch of Project Mercury, the first human spaceflight program in the United States, which eventually led to the successful flight of Alan Shepard in 1961. The reference to "Shepard" getting off the ground alludes to the historic moment when Shepard became the first American to travel into space. Murphy humorously expresses his relief that the space program did not take as long as getting "Whispering Smith" on the air.

Moreover, the mention of the Congo in the quote is a satirical reference to the space race between the United States and the Soviet Union during the Cold War. The race to achieve space exploration milestones was a significant aspect of the broader competition between the two superpowers, and the idea of the Congo, a country in central Africa, surpassing the United States in the space race highlights the absurdity of the delays faced by the television series.

Audie Murphy's frustration with the delay in launching "Whispering Smith" is evident in the quote, as he playfully compares the situation to the groundbreaking advancements in space exploration. His wit and sarcasm convey his exasperation with the prolonged process of bringing the series to television audiences.

It's important to note that Audie Murphy was not only known for his acting career but also for his remarkable service as a soldier during World War II. He was one of the most decorated American combat soldiers of the war, receiving numerous awards for his bravery and heroism. After his military service, Murphy transitioned to acting and achieved success in Hollywood, starring in various films and television shows, including "Whispering Smith."

In conclusion, Audie Murphy's quote reflects his humorous frustration with the delayed launch of the television series "Whispering Smith." By humorously referencing the space race and the possibility of the Congo surpassing the United States in that race, Murphy highlights the exasperation he felt about the lengthy process of bringing the series to television audiences. His playful comparison to the space program and the Congo's hypothetical advancement adds a touch of irony to his expression of impatience.