RALEIGH – A legendary radio broadcaster in Johnston County was honored Wednesday, August 7 when the state Board of Transportation agreed to dedicate a portion of Interstate 95 after him.
Carl Lamm had a 72-year career at various radio stations across North Carolina, including as the owner of WMPM in Smithfield from 1958 to 2019 and WTSB from 2007 to 2019. He retired in 2019 at the age of 92, and resides in Four Oaks.
His career included interviewing many famous people, including musicians such as Johnny Cash, celebrities and baseball giants such as Mickey Mantle and Joe DiMaggio.
“Mr. Lamm is known for his tireless efforts as a longtime radio broadcaster in Johnston County,” Patrick Molamphy, an at-large member of the N.C. Board of Transportation, said during the Board meeting in Raleigh on Wednesday.
The Board unanimously approved a resolution to dedicate Interstate 95 between mile markers 88 and 92 in Johnston County as the “Carl Lamm Highway,” after a request came from the Smithfield Town Council.
Lamm, who is 97 and a World War II veteran, was unable to attend Wednesday’s meeting due to his health. His family members, however, attended the Board meeting, including his son, Travis Lamm of Four Oaks and daughter, Lynda Lamm Carroll of Smithfield.
“Our father is currently in failing health and is unable to be here today. There is a phrase in the pageant world, directed to the judges who are tasked with coming up with the winner. The phrase is ‘You got it right.’ Meaning the young lady they chose was the absolute right pick. Well today, I stand here assuring you that with our daddy’s nomination and affirmation, “You got it right,” Mrs. Carroll told the NCDOT Board.
“From a young age, I have known that my father is special. I knew he was a hard worker with the commitment to radio broadcasting at its highest level. He is as equally committed to caring about other people, and our family. Although he has interviewed and talked with governor’s, senators, major league baseball players such as Mickey Mantle and Whitey Ford, country music legends such as Johnny Cash and Minnie Pearl, and felt very comfortable, he could also walk and talk with the farmers, the everyday people listening to him on the radio, his loyal listeners, which he has loved.”
“His accolades and awards are lengthy. He has dedicated his life to patriotism, being a member of the “Greatest Generation,” who served his country during WWII, and he has always pursued excellence and truth. A deeply devout Christian, his favorite Bible verse is John 3:16 and his favorite saying is “God is everything. I am nothing.”
“His career in radio was 72 continuous years. From 1947 to 2019. We believe that to be the longest radio career in the United States. He misses radio broadcasting but he still continues to lead and guide our family with strength, courage and wisdom.”
“Again, thank you for all making this moment in time possible. You really did “get it right” and we are deeply honored,” Mrs. Carroll said.
Carl Lamm has been well recognized for his public service. His many honors include the Order of the Long Leaf Pine; the N.C. Sports Broadcaster of the Year in 1971; and induction into the N.C. Broadcasters Hall of Fame in 2004. He also one of the first members of the Smithfield Rotary Club.
The highway signs will be manufactured, erected and unveiled at a suitable time to be announced later.
Well deserved recognition for such an honorable man. Congratulations Mr. Lamm!