I think, based on replies on PPBB that the steering wheel had tension on it pushing it up against the lock. All he needed to do was move the wheel while he was trying to turn the ignition key.
The comment was something like, "I never lock my steering wheel but my dad did". Seems someone doesn't know how steering locks have worked for the last 20 years.........
It would be fun watching him try to start a 60's era Ford pickup (is there anyone else here that remembers the cross handed technique needed to get the steering lock to release?)