Gunsmoke was a legendary Western radio drama series that ran from 1952 to 1961 on CBS. It was created by director Norman Macdonnell and writer John Meston. The series followed Marshal Matt Dillon, played by William Conrad, as he kept the peace in Dodge City, Kansas during the settling of the American frontier. The show was known for its gritty realism, complex characters, and mature themes. The episode "Custer" aired on December 13, 1952 as part of Gunsmoke's first season. It was the 15th episode of the series. The script was written by Les Crutchfield, one of the principal writers during the early years of Gunsmoke. In "Custer", Marshal Dillon faces off against a ruthless bully named Custer who is terrorizing the citizens of Dodge City. Custer, described as a "big, rough, tough hombre," intimidates and threatens people around town. He even gets into a confrontation with Chester, Dillon's assistant played by Parley Baer. The tension builds until Dillon and Custer have a dramatic showdown in the streets, with Dillon ultimately outdrawn Custer and forcing him to leave Dodge City for good. The episode is highly regarded by Gunsmoke fans and exemplifies the series' trademark blend of Western action, human drama, and moral complexity. William Conrad delivers a commanding performance as Dillon, showcasing the marshal's toughness, intelligence, and unwavering dedication to justice. The supporting cast, including Georgia Ellis as saloon owner Miss Kitty and Howard McNear as Doc Adams, also shine in their roles.