There were a lot of unnecessary forced landings back then.
There were also a lot of pilots whose hides were saved because when they got into trouble (remember no GPS back then) the Flight service blokes had local knowledge (or enough contacts to find someone who did) and helped many a lost aviator establish their position and make it to an airport.
Also don't forget the many times the FSU helped pilots out by calling the refueller (no mobile phones back then, but most airports
did have fuel), or arranging a cab, or a million other helpful tasks that they undertook. We tended to take their many kindnesses for granted, and these things are sadly missed today.
Change is not always for the better.........