"S.W.A.T.", an acronym meaning "Special Weapons and Tactics", was a spin-off from the popular crime drama "The Rookies" (1972-1976). Steve Forrest starred as Lt. Dan "Hondo" Harrelson, leader of the elite police team who were stationed in the basement of the fictional Olympic division of the WCPD. The other officers were Sgt. Deke Kay (Rod Perry), Officer Jim Street (Robert Urich), Officer Dominic Luca (Mark Shera), and Officer/sharpshooter TJ McCabe (James Coleman). The purpose of S.W.A.T. was to handle the most dangerous incidents, such as hostage situations, snipers, and guarding high-risk prisoners. Although the series garnered solid ratings it was forced off the airwaves after less than two full seasons due to concerns about the violent content. It aired on ABC from February 1975 to August 1976. The series' memorable instrumental theme song, covered by "Rhythm Heritage", went to #1 on the US Top Forty chart in mid-1975.

--Scott Schaeffer

What a show. And somewhere at my Mom's house I still have the 45 of the SWAT theme. Rhythm Heritage, I believe.

--I'll give up my Huffy when you pry....