My Dad was a Staff Sargeant with the Red Ball Express. It was a great honor to see him lay a wreath at the opening of the WWII memorial in Washington DC. He went to his eternal rest 2 years ago at the age of 99!🙏❤🙏
gen 1965 grew up with "This Gen" from every front, every place. Miss these Guys! as my friends, family, public servants, teachers, bosses, neighbors, Fishing and hunting buddies. RIP Greatest Gen! "I am Sorry" we let America come this far down from the Gift Ya' All, Ya'al gave us.
1965 RIP GREATEST! "I Miss!" Ya'll YA' AL! sorry WeGave Away the BLESSING you gave all of US, your Sacrifices and Service without a fight and for FREE@@matthewweber9859
Yeah I was born in '64 and I have to sometimes remind myself that the fellows that were in WWII are no longer with us. As an adult, I had a stepdad that was assigned to the 83rd Thunderbolt Infantry, was D plus two I believe, was the sharpshooter in his company for a little while I think, got shell shocked and then wound up as a MP. Brought a French woman home with him, I have all the paperwork from that (commanding officer, chaplain, local French authorities). Interesting life. Sure do miss him.
Nothing better in a movie of WW2, then to have it filmed in black and white. That format gives the movie a raw authenticity. God bless all of our troops, both from our history, and future. They are and have done a job no one else would do. God bless America, our home sweet home,
Amen! We Vets appreciate your support, although, as a female Marine, I was never in combat like my 3 war father. Aside from modern WWII films like Saving Private Ryan and a few others, the good stuff ended in the 60s. Those 'classics' usually had sleazy women in heavy makeup and some GI trying to save her while defeating the Nazis single-handedly. Junk. I'm grateful to the people that spend time posting these old, and TRUE, classics. TY Lionheart.
@@ianmangham4570 I agree with you, they did not have color film in WW2, and IF they did, it would have been really rough in quality. I still say black and white filming as you say. Have a good day.
Saw this on TV in 1959, and according to my Mom, who survived Hitler's 1938-1945 Germany on a Farm... The script is pretty accurate for the times. Red Ball always fascinated me about things done during War Times. That and the Historical value should be taught every kid from grade 5 through College. 👍👍 10⭐
I was born in 52 , six yrs after WW2 end. My Dad was a paratrooper, jumped out of a Dakota over Arnheim. He came back from war and abandoned me to go to his village in Cumberland. I grew up in Sth. Wales, fatherless. This film reminds me of rationing, blokes in hospitals ( shellshock ) , ex.forces men with no work. Iff the Americans didn't give Britain their help , we would be talking German . Thanks yanks !!!. Movie 10/10. Dave
Make no mistake my friend, by the end of the war, Great Britain suffered just as many soldiers lost as did the United States. We had the advantage of having far more industrial capacity and men to sacrifice than any other combatants in WW2. Had it not been for the stalwart determination and courage of the British people before the United States came over, the outcome of the conflict would have been totally different. My father served and was proud to fight along side you folks. Hold your head up and be proud of what your own country sacrificed and achieved. 🤕 I am....👍 Keep the memories alive. Tell your children and your children's children about the 'Greatest Generation' that came from both sides of the ocean. Cheers and best wishes.
@@stargazer5784 Thanks for your reply . I know absolutely , about British Bulldog and American prowess. Just wanted to thank you !!. Stargazer, like your handle. Merci my friend. Dave
True. The limeys wouldn't exist had it not been for the United States. Canada. New Zealand and Australia and the partisans. Had Great Britain been annilated we surely would have been next.
It took the United effort of all the Allies to put down the enemy. Everyone added their abilities towards the victory. We in the US were just fortunate to be out of the reach of the enemy so that our industries could keep the Allies supplied and moving g forward. Those of the Greatest Generation all talked about sqaubles between different countries back behind the front, but united at the front. Just like any family with a lot of siblings.
MY Uncle Jim was a truck driver in Europe during WWII. He was not a nice man. A man most people would avoid. Just before he passed away ... he loosened up and shared some stories with me. He had driven his truck onto 5 beach heads 3 of which were contested at the time ... including Anzio. He almost got court-marshalled when he refused to go give "his" truck. He had been driving for 72 hours straight and had "his" truck setup like a home away from home. His commanding office had to remind that it was not his truck but the United States Army's truck and he could either give up the truck or be court-marshalled. It also came to light that he had been assigned to Red Ball Express and had been wounded when his truck fell into a burned-out house's cellar. To top all that off. He was taken prisoner of war during the Battle of the Bulge. No body in our family knew anything about all this. I ended up with his DD214 which confirmed his service. God Bless him and all those who serve without recognition especially those young people now serving.
I have to seeb this movie for a very long, long time. I enjoy watching classic war movies. My parents and I enjoyed watching classic movies. And war movie. Especially me and my mother. May God rest her soul. Whenever a war movie comes on. Me and my mom be right in front of the TV. Ready to watvh it. And I did have family members in the Arm forces during WW2. And I am proud of them. I already a nephew served 5 years in United States Marine Corps. And I am proud of him. As nation of freedom. We. The American people should honor and salute our brave men and women in United States Arm Forces. And give all the respect they earned. As well as our Veterans. May God bless America. Thank you so much for putting movies like this on TH-cam.
Great plot, cast and filming making this a wonderful movie. A tribute to logistics which is actually the most important element in any battle. These men were just as important as any soldier in the war. Nice to see they are getting recognition.
Absolutely correct, manufacturer of materials transport of logistics that were handel by support personal, One of the most unrecognizable was the merchant marine, couldn't imagine being in a Convoy, watching a ship getting hit by a torpedo knowing your next..
@@daleslover2771 When I was an apprentice electrician I worked with a guy who was in the Merchant Marine, he had joined as a teenager. The ship was torpedoed in the Mediterranean and the survivors were picked up by another ship. Two weeks later they were torpedoed again and he spent his 17th birthday on a life raft.
Though I didn't finish college at age 20, it was time to be on my own, and help my parents. I scoured the newspaper ads and found one offering a 4 year apprenticeship at Hunters Point Naval Shipyard (HPNS). Working in a Shipyard wasn't even a thought in my mind. In high school, I was planning to either join the Army or pursue a medical lab technician course at SF City College. I wanted to follow. my father's burning shipyard trade at the Kaiser Shipyard across the bay. I told my father of ❤ my plan, but when he should me all the burn scars on his chest and arms. I told Dad, that's not the job for me, I don't want to be burned!!! Dad recommended me to apply for the Shipfitter. They work with burners and welders. I applied for the Shipfitter Apprenticeship. First, I had to take a Civil Service Entrance Exam. After he exam, I felt, I had a gut feeling I didn't pass the exam. Some months later I received a letter from HPNS to report for the Shipfitter interview. The Shipfitter Counselor interviewed me. He told me,I have a very low score on the exam, but I'm going to take a chance on you. The passing score is 70. I scored 70.3. Just barely passed by the skin of my teeth. As a Shipfitter Apprentice, I had to work with a Shipfitter journeyman for 3 weeks and attend apprentice school the last week of every month throughout the 4 year. In 1956, I graduated my apprenticeship and promoted to Journeyman Shipfitter. My Apprentice Class (1952-1956) was the biggest 15:08 class with 101 apprentices to graduate and be promoted to Journeymen in the various trades ( Auto mechanics, Shipfitters, Sheetmetal, Combination Burner-Welder, Fire Control, Electricians, Pipefitter, Inside😮 Machinist, Outside Machinist, Electronics, and other trades at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard (SFÑS, formerly HPNS). Before the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard (SFBNS, formerly SFNS and HPNS) closed down business in 1974, I transferred to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WÀ in 1973. I ended my 35 years career as a Structural Planner and Estimator (Shipfitter) in 1989. While working in the Naval añd private shipyards, I served in the CA & WA National Guard for 26+ years, retiring in 1992 from the WA National Guard in Seattle.
My father was in Pattons Third Army 95th Infantry Division, he landed on Omaha beach 100 days after D Day , waited 1 week and because he had an army drivers license was taken with other men and put on the red ball express. They drove at night in blackout from the English Channel to the front and back. They drove Duce and half GMC trucks back and forth with gasoline, rations , ammo and artillery shells . Daddy never got shot at or bombed while on his truck but saw a lot of blown up trucks along the way . After 30 days they parked the trucks and marched thru the French Lorraine fighting at the underground forts , fort jussy , fort Durant and so forth . Daddy was shot and wounded on a rail yard Dec 9 1944 in Fraulaturn Germany. One thing he said about the trucks was they broke the governors so they could run about 45 mph.
I had the privilege and honor of serving in the 95 Infantry Division which is now a reserve training division, during the start up of the war on terror and Iraq freedom we were sent to many army forts and national guard camps to train National Guard units, Ready Reserve individuals, and regular basic training. Many of us were activated and sent to theater. The 95th Infantry Division is known as “The Iron Men of Metz”. Look that up.
@@sidgarrett7247 yep I know about Metz , Daddy spoke volumes about it and I taped him in 1990 . Daddy built a 20 feet long table and during the 90’s 6 or 7 of his comrades would come down to Tennessee with their wives and stay a week in RVs on the farm and recall war stories. Knights of the long table l called them.One guy was named Kalodji,and was on the history channel once .He was a machine gunner and claimed that their machine guns had a slower rate of fire compared to the German’s but that they could put a penny behind the buffer and increase rate of fire but it over heated the barrel so they had to fire burst and cool the barrel.It was strictly against army regulations to ‘tune up ‘ the MG . Kalodji was on the front line just below the crest of a rolling meadow below sniper sight in the line waiting for the Germans to attack.An officer walked up behind him and he looked and it was Old Blood And Guts himself.Patton looked at his MG then glared at Kalodji and asked ‘son have you got that gun tuned up ‘? .Kalodji swallowed and said yes Sir I have a penny behind the buffer ,which Patton replied’then boy you let those sons of bitches have it when they come out ‘! Kalodji told me this story every summer and each time I pretended not to have heard it and the story never changed . I have no doubt it was true .Daddy was shot through the carpel area of his right forearm, hurt like hell and never fully recovered motor usage . The wound only bled a little and he got to keep shirt which is in my closet bullet hole and all and the super cool 9 transfixed with Roman numeral V .THANKS FOR SERVING IN THE 95TH
@@randyblackburn9765 It was always my honor, in my civilian job I was a carpenter, on a large job, refitting and modernizing the Alcohol aluminum plant I kept getting different apprentice buildings complicated concrete forms, bases for motors and pumps. During a training class the instructor said that he was going to retire and ask who should take over the classes, in one voice they all called my name. Taught the apprenticeship classes from 96-2001 when I got a phone call and was invited to apply for a full time job, so 2001-2017 I taught carpentry full time. 2001-2003 I was an instructor both as a civilian and a citizen solider. I put part of my military training to work as a civilian. Infantry instructor in the army reserve.
@@randyblackburn9765 I thank your father for his service and I consider him my brother in arms. My father was a weatherman for the army Air Force, he was usually in the first wave of aircraft support personnel, knowing the weather when flying is important. He died in the VA hospital 2 months before I was born.
Yes! And more Americans need to remember that and stop whining about trivial matters. There are very few men or women living today who could equal the valor of men (and women) who lived through that time. I will be the first one to admit that I have absolutely NOTHING to feel down or depressed about.
Jeff Chandler was a very good actor, who appeared in a number of movies, including as Indian chief Cochise in the Western "Broken Arrow". This movie has similar themes to another Jeff Chandler movie, "Away All Boats", which was about a U.S. Navy transport ship. In both movies he plays a hardcore, no nonsense military officer, often hated or misunderstood by his subordinate officers and men, who pushes his command to the fullest.
I can't remember my brothers company or group number, but he was over there doing the same as you! I was really young, but he said it got pretty sticky and rough over there! Did you by any slim chance know an Eddie Mann?
As an infantryman I never looked down on support troops and don't think my peers did either. Nobody has an easy job in the army. We did mess duties and saw how cooks worked, our band were familiar medics in the field and the quartermasters were all seasoned soldiers. Without support you've got maybe a week.
Good but fictious. Patton's 3rd Army went South from Normandy, while everyone else & the Redball Express went East, following the Channel Coast to Belgium & Holland because this was the shortest route to Germany.
Great movie. i was a .50 cal gunner on convoys security in Iraq. We hit IEDs that were no joke. More people were killed by those than anything else. You are NOT "in the rear with the gear" on missions like these men . Very dangerous work and very necessary.
Hey Bubba did you know that more Americans have been killed BY Americans in AMERICA than ALL the Americans killed in ALL the foreign wars combined that Americans have fought in,mainly thanks to the second amendment, Hey Bubba did you know that 120,000 men women and children are shot every year in the U.S.A, mainly thanks to the second amendment ....
My Grandpa served in General Patton's 3rd Army during WW2. I have a great admiration for Patton. He was indeed one of the World's Greatest Generals!! I believe that we won WW2 because of Patton!! This is an excellent movie! Thank you for sharing this!!
@@58biggles Well Eisenhower did quite well. And so did General McAuliffe during the Battle for Bastogne...at least in the European Theater...in the Pacific Theater it would be Admiral Halsey and Admiral Nimitz and Admiral King and Admiral Sprurance and Admiral Mitscher... But definitely General Patton and General McAuliffe for the European Theater... This is of course my opinion....🤷♀️
Begging your pardon it was us russians that won the war the YANKS were bit players , we lost millions of soldiers while the USA lost 400,000 !! Infact more Americans have been killed BY Americans in AMERICA than ALL the Americans killed in ALL the foreign wars combined that Americans have fought in!!!
I saw this movie when I was a young teenager. Sometime in the middle of the movie my dad said 'That is what I did during the war'. It is the only thing he ever said about the war. When he was stationed in Germany we took a road trip summer vacation that started where he entered the war until it's conclusion. RIP Sgt.
This is how you can tell if a comment is the real truth, or if someone is just posting BS. It's a key line from the information he posted. It's this one: "It is the only thing he ever said about the war." Most WWII vets, like this man's father and my father, did not say a word about this experience for the rest of their lives. It is an experience they did not want to revisit. Ever. Although, at night when the dreams came, many of them did.
Real vets never BS but only tell you what they think you can Handel? "I was Blessed!" with 1st hand info of So Maney WWII vets from all theaters and murchant marines from neither? RIP GREATEST! "I Know What!" I Know, TAHNK YOU.@@BillBird2111
The convoy system went into operation on August 21, 1944.Allied reconstruction of the French railroad system brought the Red Ball Express to an end on November 16, 1944. During the brief 83-day lifespan of the Red Ball Express, around 23,000 men had worked on the route, 75% of whom were African American.
My dad and his two brothers were in the service. Each in a different branch. His oldest brother, Andrew, was drafted late in the war in his thirties. The other men referred to him as the old man so he was sent to drive trucks to avoid combat. That put him place to become part of the Red Ball Express. He told us kids a few stories like driving all night to the front lines without lights and coming back with a load of prisoners. He was by himself with only his M-1. He said they never tried to escape.
These men were the Heroes we all should believe in, and should strive to be. The truth is, it was the greatest American Generation, as the whole country worked together in the military, in building the machines, bullets, food and anything to make the war a better place to win. Men, many Women, and even some children worked to keep the allies going. Are we that strong today???😊
Thrilled to have found this film. Has to be 40-50 years since I saw it on telly and still remember the plot. I absolutely love both Jeff Chandler and Sidney Poitier. Edit: Have just watched it and it was just as I remembered.
Impressive to read the reactions of those whose fathers served. Makes it come frigheningly close than just a movie... Why on earth do we still have wars?!
Exactly! He did do quite a bit after his plane landed in France in July of 1944! His 4th Armored Divisions excelled at destroying whatever german units they faced!! Plus his 3rd Army got further through France than most of the other American units did!! Infact his 4th Armored Division was nicknamed, "The Spearhead Unit" after their unbelievable push through France....
That would be your little secret. He treated enlisted troops like they were expendable. He was also a racist but the press wrote great war stories about him.
The red ball express (which I heard about many years ago due to my interest in the Second World War) did a fantastic job in bringing in supplies. Most of them bringing them supplies, African Americans. It was vital. Posted from Britain.
Very good movie indeed, bcos it demonstrates true characters, esp the LTA. I was an Officer of the Armoured Logistics Support too. I can appreciate all these men. Thank the Lord.
It's a movie, and bears virtually no resemblance to the reality. Patton's 3rd Army went South from Normandy, while everyone else & the Redball Express went East following the channel coast to Belgium & Holland because this was the shortest route to Germany !!!
Never heard of the red ball line. But it seemed to work pretty effectively . They got everybody the supplies they needed when they needed them, pretty ingenious actually. General Patton seems to be a pretty important fella for everybody to fall in line like that. Good movie thanks for posting.
During Desert Storm the logistics fan day and night on pipeline road. They were 1st coscom. After the war I spoke to a couple of the drivers. They never got any medals. The brass and the senior NCOs got that. Could not have done it without them.
I was up in the front with 3 ACR when I was flown back to the naval hospital. My return was on that Highway and inside of a HHMV with a E4 and a Lt . I kept talking to em so he wouldn’t fall asleep . Arrived at night to bed down with only 1 wool blanket inside of a GP Large tent with kerosene heaters going but it was still damn cold but not as cold when we would later get rained on and we had one soldier die from the onset of hypothermia.
I had never seen this movie. It was very good. It had some big actors in it, Sidney Poitier I never knew he did this movie. Thank you for showing this movie.
Where were you station at, I was at Bad Kissengen, Daily Barracks, Hawk Missel for 36 months, cam in 75, they still had the 5/4 jeeps with the white stars painted on them, doors & hood, drove 1/4 tons M151 ....2 1/2 tons and the 5 tons short beds, we had the SPL self propell launchers the Hawks, still have my 348, licenses, 1970 form qualifications, plus a couple of 240/4 That was the first 4 years, when I got out had every thing from Cut V up to a M109 howser & 20 Crain... (3) 348 stapel together, but back to driving on that cobble stone, wow you had to pay attention.
This is a cut above , far better than I was expecting a good movie but the reality of what those truckers did was far more brutal and inspiring and most were African Americans , true heroes .
Its more Propaganda than fact. Indeed Patton's 3rd Army was not supplied by the Redball Express. Because Patton's Army went south from Normandy, while everyone else including the Redball Express went East following the Channel Coast to Belgium & then Holland, which was the shortest route to Germany !!!
Once again a hater in the midst. During the battle o the bulge it was the red ball express that got pattons army up there to disrupt the german offensive.@@railwaymechanicalengineer4587
As World War II drew to a close, Patton was fairly vocal at times saying that as long as we are here we might as well go ahead and finish off the Russians. Not an exact quote but close. Short period of time later he died from a accident. Many, including myself, believe he was killed intentionally to shut him up. Here is one of the best generals United States ever had but like many he had good points and bad points. If you think about all the communist nation is that developed after World War II through the work of Russia, he was right on the money. Hindsight
FDR's administration was shot through with communist sympathizers. FDR's second VP Henry Wallace was in awe of Stalin. After Kursk in July 1943 the aid to Russia should have been decreased to zero by the end of 1943 and Stalin put on notice. FDR treated Stalin like a human being. There's only bad explanations for FDR's treatment of Stalin as an equal and a mostly normal human being. I don't have a high opinion of Truman where communists are concerned as well.
My uncle, TEK-5(Corporal) Paul Dunkel, was a deuce and a half driver in the European theater. Those guys went through hell and back again. There is a few historical discrepancies in this film, but a half decent film and Seeing Sidney Poitier in one of his early roles is a special treat in itself.
Bravo! I'm 73 and my dad was a lieutenant in the US Army in Germany in WWll. I still believe this was, "the greatest generation," in US history. One of the men I admire most was Brig. Gen. George C. Marshall who was in charge of logistics for both the European and Pacific theaters simultaneously. He even won a Nobel Peace Prize for his logistics work. I live in Mississippi and I've spoken to several men who drove trucks in the Red Ball Express. All of them black men. I think black people could only have foodservice or supply/maintenance jobs in the army at that time though I'm not sure. I don't think black drivers have been given enough credit for their heroic contributions. As somebody once said, "An Army doesn't fight on an empty stomach."
I remember asking my mother about red ball trucking company in the United States when I was a little kid and she told me this story before the movie came out
As I understand it, the Red Ball Express was primarily powered by Cummins diesel engines, which is why Cummins featured a red ball in it's logo for many years after WWII.
The best Sherman Tank Engine was from the Hitler Admirer - the Ford V8 Petrol- A V12 (aero engine) with 4 cyclinders cut off - very late in ww2 the limeys were using the Rolls Royce V12 Merlin version tank petrol engine - All the German Tanks ran on Petrol -
75% of the Express was Black and their mission was suicidal. It was calculated that if 1/10th of the trucks could make to Patton, the 3rd Army could be saved and continue.
My Father the son of a Norwegian Immigrant and an American Wife, was A company Capt., of a truck company, his 2nd in command Lt. Brenzo was of Italian extraction, the rest of the Men were Black Americans, a company has 100 men, so it was more like 98% Black to 2% White and all 100% Americans. My father only related the humorous things that happened never talked about combat.
I love the way old movies were filmed and directed. The actors were the stars and they tried to make the camera a window into each scene. Like you were actually there witnessing it. The actors had to actually have chemistry because you could instantly tell when they didn't. Now movies are filmed and directed like we are spectators watching a football game or a rock concert. You don't feel like you are standing across from the characters going through exactly what they were. I wish someone would bring that filming style back. Hitchcock was a master of it and why his movies captivate you. 24:52 This scene captures my point exactly. See how it opens with the camera being slowly surrounded? Then it expands into a group like you were sitting talking to the men. Then the music hits hard and the battle explodes. It continues to develop, slows down then explodes into a finaly with a star being mistook as a coward. I have no doubt he will be a great hero at the end. This was just a dime a dozen war movie from the early 50s but was directed better than several Oscar winners of the past decade.
Excellent film on a very interesting subject of the post Normandy campaign of 1944. The leaders of men have long known that racial and/or religious prejudices between groups of people are largely forgotten during times of serious strife, especially during wartime. With all groups knowing that their very survival is dependent upon the full unity of everyone caught up in the conflict, "brotherhood among men" is sure to take its rightful place.
Nice of you to remind God about this with such respect towards Him that you use His name the same you would a curse word. Seriously, please consider more seriously the expressions you use.
This show does not mention the gross mismanagement of the US Army Source of Supply commanded by Major General John C.H. Lee. From September 1944 there were constant fuel shortages at the Front Lines, as Lee and his men colluded in the wholesale theft of fuel and supplies needed on the front lines. These being sold to the French Black Market, used to fund expensive gifts and lavish trips to Paris. Lee himself was certainly involved, but nothing could be done as he had the highest connections in Washington and was not answerable to Eisenhower. Senior US Army Officers were seldom disciplined, Lee and his crimes were swept under the carpet.
OMG ! THIS NEEEEEEDS A GOOD CONTEMPORARY REMAKE. I mean, it has everything needed for a classic war movie, smash hit, potential for a total bad-ass war movie about the forgotten heroes of 1944 - The Redball Express. A new 2hr movie could have everything- race against time, german attack and ambushes, racial tensions within units and conflicts, linear travel - story, some protagonist and antagonist. Story could start pararely in detroit war plant, d-day beaches, rural america where young black boys volunteer..... trucks and soldiers cros the atlantic, FF to DDay + 120: Patton charging forward, 10s thousands of materiel being spent, 1000 of trucks needed., on the other hand mounting obstacles from the germans - bockades, ambushes, combat air patrols..I totally see it upgraded , with practical models, reanactors, dozens of trucks, burning towns and some 2-3 main characters, some quality name to play Patton and some of his officers. Opening scenes to the tune "lift and load..one for h***er of the road"
My father was a truck driver in WWII and eventually found himself as part of this. He told me all the stories when I was growing up. He also told me that he went & saw this movie with my Mom and that it had some little details that the writers must have gotten from guys who were actually there.
Young generation need to watch this and many other well made factual war movies to appreciate what it took to keep our country free and not give up any of our freedoms and rights like we are that men and yes women fought and died for in all the wars.
Me thinks the number of the Black GIs in this movie is a little unrepresented. The ratio in this movie is about 50/50. In reality, Black Americans made up 75% of the of drivers in the Red Ball.
My father did his duty in ww2 two Naples two jima were some of were hefought the enemy reach the rank of usm marine captain from him I got the appreciation of history hedge at 92 there aren't many veterans from ww2 god bless America a great nation
Sergeant Kelly’s proper rank is First Sergeant. His rank insignia displays six stripes with a diamond ♦️in the middle. Vaguely remember seeing this movie once. In 1967, Sidney Poitier teams up with Rod Steiger in the movie, 🍿 “In the Heat of the Night.” Both actors give their performances of a lifetime and establishes Portier as one of the greatest actors on the planet 🌎! thank you 🎌
My uncle was a mechanic in Patton's third Army. He was killed near Nancy when the Jeep he was riding in hit a hole and threw him out during a night repair. He was 20 years old.
My Dad was a Staff Sargeant with the Red Ball Express. It was a great honor to see him lay a wreath at the opening of the WWII memorial in Washington DC. He went to his eternal rest 2 years ago at the age of 99!🙏❤🙏
gen 1965 grew up with "This Gen" from every front, every place. Miss these Guys! as my friends, family, public servants, teachers, bosses, neighbors, Fishing and hunting buddies. RIP Greatest Gen! "I am Sorry" we let America come this far down from the Gift Ya' All, Ya'al gave us.
Me, born 1963. I miss that greatest generation. They taught me so much. We are down to the last few now. Thank them whenever you have a chance.
1965 RIP GREATEST! "I Miss!" Ya'll YA' AL!
sorry WeGave Away the BLESSING you gave all of US, your Sacrifices and Service without a fight and for FREE@@matthewweber9859
Yeah I was born in '64 and I have to sometimes remind myself that the fellows that were in WWII are no longer with us. As an adult, I had a stepdad that was assigned to the 83rd Thunderbolt Infantry, was D plus two I believe, was the sharpshooter in his company for a little while I think, got shell shocked and then wound up as a MP. Brought a French woman home with him, I have all the paperwork from that (commanding officer, chaplain, local French authorities). Interesting life. Sure do miss him.
thank you very much for his sacrifice and GOD BLESS YOUR FATHER AND YOUR ENTIRE FAMILY
I had an uncle, John Harrison who drove for the red ball express. He had an auto body shop in Cleveland in later years. RIP !!!
Nothing better in a movie of WW2, then to have it filmed in black and white. That format gives the movie a raw authenticity. God bless all of our troops, both from our history, and future. They are and have done a job no one else would do. God bless America, our home sweet home,
Amen! We Vets appreciate your support, although, as a female Marine, I was never in combat like my 3 war father. Aside from modern WWII films like Saving Private Ryan and a few others, the good stuff ended in the 60s. Those 'classics' usually had sleazy women in heavy makeup and some GI trying to save her while defeating the Nazis single-handedly. Junk. I'm grateful to the people that spend time posting these old, and TRUE, classics. TY Lionheart.
Disagree. The war was fought in color.
This movie was black and white. NOT color, @@chessthecat
@chessthecat No,the war was in black and white you may have seen it in color but that's just for the TV.
@@ianmangham4570 I agree with you, they did not have color film in WW2, and IF they did, it would have been really rough in quality. I still say black and white filming as you say. Have a good day.
This was sidney poteirs first movie,and boy did he have a stellar career.One of a kind.
en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sidney_Poitier_filmography
Saw this on TV in 1959, and according to my Mom, who survived Hitler's 1938-1945 Germany on a Farm... The script is pretty accurate for the times. Red Ball always fascinated me about things done during War Times. That and the Historical value should be taught every kid from grade 5 through College. 👍👍 10⭐
My was a long range reconnaissance driver. He though and behind German longs.
I was born in 52 , six yrs after WW2 end. My Dad was a paratrooper, jumped out of a Dakota over Arnheim. He came back from war and abandoned me to go to his village in Cumberland. I grew up in Sth. Wales, fatherless. This film reminds me of rationing, blokes in hospitals ( shellshock ) , ex.forces men with no work. Iff the Americans didn't give Britain their help , we would be talking German . Thanks yanks !!!. Movie 10/10. Dave
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Make no mistake my friend, by the end of the war, Great Britain suffered just as many soldiers lost as did the United States. We had the advantage of having far more industrial capacity and men to sacrifice than any other combatants in WW2. Had it not been for the stalwart determination and courage of the British people before the United States came over, the outcome of the conflict would have been totally different. My father served and was proud to fight along side you folks. Hold your head up and be proud of what your own country sacrificed and achieved. 🤕 I am....👍 Keep the memories alive. Tell your children and your children's children about the 'Greatest Generation' that came from both sides of the ocean. Cheers and best wishes.
@@stargazer5784 Thanks for your reply . I know absolutely , about British Bulldog and American prowess. Just wanted to thank you !!. Stargazer, like your handle. Merci my friend. Dave
True. The limeys wouldn't exist had it not been for the United States. Canada. New Zealand and Australia and the partisans. Had Great Britain been annilated we surely would have been next.
It took the United effort of all the Allies to put down the enemy. Everyone added their abilities towards the victory. We in the US were just fortunate to be out of the reach of the enemy so that our industries could keep the Allies supplied and moving g forward. Those of the Greatest Generation all talked about sqaubles between different countries back behind the front, but united at the front. Just like any family with a lot of siblings.
MY Uncle Jim was a truck driver in Europe during WWII. He was not a nice man. A man most people would avoid. Just before he passed away ... he loosened up and shared some stories with me. He had driven his truck onto 5 beach heads 3 of which were contested at the time ... including Anzio. He almost got court-marshalled when he refused to go give "his" truck. He had been driving for 72 hours straight and had "his" truck setup like a home away from home. His commanding office had to remind that it was not his truck but the United States Army's truck and he could either give up the truck or be court-marshalled. It also came to light that he had been assigned to Red Ball Express and had been wounded when his truck fell into a burned-out house's cellar. To top all that off. He was taken prisoner of war during the Battle of the Bulge. No body in our family knew anything about all this. I ended up with his DD214 which confirmed his service. God Bless him and all those who serve without recognition especially those young people now serving.
TH-cam. 🙄
Yes that generation knew how to keep their mouths shut, I didnt find out about my father til his death
Silent Hero 🌟
I have to seeb this movie for a very long, long time. I enjoy watching classic war movies. My parents and I enjoyed watching classic movies. And war movie. Especially me and my mother. May God rest her soul. Whenever a war movie comes on. Me and my mom be right in front of the TV. Ready to watvh it. And I did have family members in the Arm forces during WW2. And I am proud of them. I already a nephew served 5 years in United States Marine Corps. And I am proud of him. As nation of freedom. We. The American people should honor and salute our brave men and women in United States Arm Forces. And give all the respect they earned. As well as our Veterans. May God bless America. Thank you so much for putting movies like this on TH-cam.
Great plot, cast and filming making this a wonderful movie. A tribute to logistics which is actually the most important element in any battle. These men were just as important as any soldier in the war. Nice to see they are getting recognition.
Bull.
Every cliche about the "ugly American" you could want in a little more than an hour.
- -
Absolutely correct, manufacturer of materials transport of logistics that were handel by support personal,
One of the most unrecognizable was the merchant marine, couldn't imagine being in a Convoy, watching a ship getting hit by a torpedo knowing your next..
@@daleslover2771 When I was an apprentice electrician I worked with a guy who was in the Merchant Marine, he had joined as a teenager. The ship was torpedoed in the Mediterranean and the survivors were picked up by another ship. Two weeks later they were torpedoed again and he spent his 17th birthday on a life raft.
Hitler lost because of the logistical challenges of fighting on three fronts.
Though I didn't finish college at age 20, it was time to be on my own, and help my parents. I scoured the newspaper ads and found one offering a 4 year apprenticeship at Hunters Point Naval Shipyard (HPNS). Working in a Shipyard wasn't even a thought in my mind. In high school, I was planning to either join the Army or pursue a medical lab technician course at SF City College. I wanted to follow. my father's burning shipyard trade at the Kaiser Shipyard across the bay. I told my father of
❤ my plan, but when he should me all the burn scars on his chest and arms. I told Dad, that's not the job for me, I don't want to be burned!!! Dad recommended me to apply for the Shipfitter. They work with burners and welders. I applied for the
Shipfitter Apprenticeship. First, I had to take a Civil Service Entrance Exam. After he exam, I felt, I had a gut feeling I didn't
pass the exam. Some months later I received a letter from HPNS to report for the Shipfitter interview. The Shipfitter Counselor interviewed me. He told me,I have a very low score on the exam, but I'm going to take a chance on you. The passing score is 70. I scored 70.3. Just barely passed by the skin of my teeth. As a Shipfitter Apprentice, I had to work with a Shipfitter journeyman for 3 weeks and attend apprentice school the last week of every month throughout the 4 year. In 1956, I graduated my apprenticeship and promoted to Journeyman Shipfitter. My Apprentice Class (1952-1956) was the biggest 15:08 class with 101 apprentices to graduate and be promoted to Journeymen in the various trades ( Auto mechanics, Shipfitters, Sheetmetal, Combination Burner-Welder, Fire Control, Electricians, Pipefitter, Inside😮 Machinist, Outside Machinist, Electronics, and other trades at the San Francisco Naval Shipyard (SFÑS, formerly HPNS). Before the San Francisco Bay Naval Shipyard (SFBNS, formerly SFNS and HPNS) closed down business in 1974, I transferred to the Puget Sound Naval Shipyard, Bremerton, WÀ in 1973. I ended my 35 years career as a Structural Planner and Estimator (Shipfitter) in 1989. While working in the Naval añd private shipyards, I served in the CA & WA National Guard for 26+ years, retiring in 1992 from the WA National Guard in Seattle.
Great movie!! Never heard of the Red Ball Express!! May all who lost their lives,, RIP!! They gave their all!!💓💓
My father was in Pattons Third Army 95th Infantry Division, he landed on Omaha beach 100 days after D Day , waited 1 week and because he had an army drivers license was taken with other men and put on the red ball express. They drove at night in blackout from the English Channel to the front and back. They drove Duce and half GMC trucks back and forth with gasoline, rations , ammo and artillery shells . Daddy never got shot at or bombed while on his truck but saw a lot of blown up trucks along the way . After 30 days they parked the trucks and marched thru the French Lorraine fighting at the underground forts , fort jussy , fort Durant and so forth . Daddy was shot and wounded on a rail yard Dec 9 1944 in Fraulaturn Germany. One thing he said about the trucks was they broke the governors so they could run about 45 mph.
Superb, 🎉
I had the privilege and honor of serving in the 95 Infantry Division which is now a reserve training division, during the start up of the war on terror and Iraq freedom we were sent to many army forts and national guard camps to train National Guard units, Ready Reserve individuals, and regular basic training. Many of us were activated and sent to theater. The 95th Infantry Division is known as “The Iron Men of Metz”. Look that up.
@@sidgarrett7247 yep I know about Metz , Daddy spoke volumes about it and I taped him in 1990 . Daddy built a 20 feet long table and during the 90’s 6 or 7 of his comrades would come down to Tennessee with their wives and stay a week in RVs on the farm and recall war stories. Knights of the long table l called them.One guy was named Kalodji,and was on the history channel once .He was a machine gunner and claimed that their machine guns had a slower rate of fire compared to the German’s but that they could put a penny behind the buffer and increase rate of fire but it over heated the barrel so they had to fire burst and cool the barrel.It was strictly against army regulations to ‘tune up ‘ the MG . Kalodji was on the front line just below the crest of a rolling meadow below sniper sight in the line waiting for the Germans to attack.An officer walked up behind him and he looked and it was Old Blood And Guts himself.Patton looked at his MG then glared at Kalodji and asked ‘son have you got that gun tuned up ‘? .Kalodji swallowed and said yes Sir I have a penny behind the buffer ,which Patton replied’then boy you let those sons of bitches have it when they come out ‘! Kalodji told me this story every summer and each time I pretended not to have heard it and the story never changed . I have no doubt it was true .Daddy was shot through the carpel area of his right forearm, hurt like hell and never fully recovered motor usage . The wound only bled a little and he got to keep shirt which is in my closet bullet hole and all and the super cool 9 transfixed with Roman numeral V .THANKS FOR SERVING IN THE 95TH
@@randyblackburn9765 It was always my honor, in my civilian job I was a carpenter, on a large job, refitting and modernizing the Alcohol aluminum plant I kept getting different apprentice buildings complicated concrete forms, bases for motors and pumps. During a training class the instructor said that he was going to retire and ask who should take over the classes, in one voice they all called my name.
Taught the apprenticeship classes from 96-2001 when I got a phone call and was invited to apply for a full time job, so 2001-2017 I taught carpentry full time. 2001-2003 I was an instructor both as a civilian and a citizen solider. I put part of my military training to work as a civilian.
Infantry instructor in the army reserve.
@@randyblackburn9765 I thank your father for his service and I consider him my brother in arms. My father was a weatherman for the army Air Force, he was usually in the first wave of aircraft support personnel, knowing the weather when flying is important. He died in the VA hospital 2 months before I was born.
Thank you we Americans owe our privileged life to men and women represented here 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Yes! And more Americans need to remember that and stop whining about trivial matters. There are very few men or women living today who could equal the valor of men (and women) who lived through that time. I will be the first one to admit that I have absolutely NOTHING to feel down or depressed about.
Jeff Chandler was a very good actor, who appeared in a number of movies, including as Indian chief Cochise in the Western "Broken Arrow". This movie has similar themes to another Jeff Chandler movie, "Away All Boats", which was about a U.S. Navy transport ship. In both movies he plays a hardcore, no nonsense military officer, often hated or misunderstood by his subordinate officers and men, who pushes his command to the fullest.
Jeff Chandler was one of the best actors ever. He wasn't given a real opportunity to show how good he was. God bless him for all the joy he gave us.
This is better than I expected and I could have watched it for hours more
I love this movie second time i'v seen it , I was a truck driver in Vietnam 70/71 128th Trans. Co. 48th Group known as the " DELTA EXPRESS "
I can't remember my brothers company or group number, but he was over there doing the same as you! I was really young, but he said it got pretty sticky and rough over there! Did you by any slim chance know an Eddie Mann?
@@am77734 I can't say that I did it's been so long I hope he made it home ok
@@felipetijerina4419 he and my oldest brother both made it home physically safe! Thanks for your service and glad you made it back!
As an infantryman I never looked down on support troops and don't think my peers did either. Nobody has an easy job in the army. We did mess duties and saw how cooks worked, our band were familiar medics in the field and the quartermasters were all seasoned soldiers. Without support you've got maybe a week.
Sidney Poitier and Hugh O'Brian in their prime. Doesn't get any better than that.
I thought it was Hugh O'Brian but was not sure.
The stars keep on popping up. Great movie.
Good but fictious. Patton's 3rd Army went South from Normandy, while everyone else & the Redball Express went East, following the Channel Coast to Belgium & Holland because this was the shortest route to Germany.
Wyatt Earp and Mr. Tibbs duking it out.
Great movie. i was a .50 cal gunner on convoys security in Iraq. We hit IEDs that were no joke. More people were killed by those than anything else. You are NOT "in the rear with the gear" on missions like these men . Very dangerous work and very necessary.
Driver on!🗽😅
😢😢😢😢😢😢
Hey Bubba did you know that more Americans have been killed BY Americans in AMERICA than ALL the Americans killed in ALL the foreign wars combined that Americans have fought in,mainly thanks to the second amendment, Hey Bubba did you know that 120,000 men women and children are shot every year in the U.S.A, mainly thanks to the second amendment ....
@@darylenyland3702 Hoooahhh!!
God bless you now you are in good health
When I was a kid I knew an old Veteran who drove in this unit. I enjoyed listening to his stories. His name was Carlo Cristy.
Pretty good movie.....My father served under Patton for a while in the 3rd army (687th FAB 1941-1946).....
My Grandpa served in General Patton's 3rd Army during WW2.
I have a great admiration for Patton.
He was indeed one of the World's Greatest Generals!!
I believe that we won WW2 because of Patton!!
This is an excellent movie!
Thank you for sharing this!!
Indeed and Pigs might fly !!!
😂❤😂😢😮😮
So no thanks to all the other generals?
@@58biggles Well Eisenhower did quite well. And so did General McAuliffe during the Battle for Bastogne...at least in the European Theater...in the Pacific Theater it would be Admiral Halsey and Admiral Nimitz and Admiral King and Admiral Sprurance and Admiral Mitscher...
But definitely General Patton and General McAuliffe for the European Theater...
This is of course my opinion....🤷♀️
Begging your pardon it was us russians that won the war the YANKS were bit players , we lost millions of soldiers while the USA lost 400,000 !! Infact more Americans have been killed BY Americans in AMERICA than ALL the Americans killed in ALL the foreign wars combined that Americans have fought in!!!
As an Army truck driver and mechanic stationed in Germany during the 80s, I salute these guys that came before me.
I was stationed in Muenster by D-burg in 83
I saw this movie when I was a young teenager. Sometime in the middle of the movie my dad said 'That is what I did during the war'. It is the only thing he ever said about the war. When he was stationed in Germany we took a road trip summer vacation that started where he entered the war until it's conclusion. RIP Sgt.
This is how you can tell if a comment is the real truth, or if someone is just posting BS. It's a key line from the information he posted. It's this one: "It is the only thing he ever said about the war." Most WWII vets, like this man's father and my father, did not say a word about this experience for the rest of their lives. It is an experience they did not want to revisit. Ever. Although, at night when the dreams came, many of them did.
My father was a Sargent in British Army. He never spoke about it either.
RIP Greatest! "I Love You" Ya All Ya' all! sorry "I"!, or we failed to pay it forward.
Real vets never BS but only tell you what they think you can Handel? "I was Blessed!" with 1st hand info of So Maney WWII vets from all theaters and murchant marines from neither? RIP GREATEST! "I Know What!" I Know, TAHNK YOU.@@BillBird2111
The convoy system went into operation on August 21, 1944.Allied reconstruction of the French railroad system brought the Red Ball Express to an end on November 16, 1944.
During the brief 83-day lifespan of the Red Ball Express, around 23,000 men had worked on the route, 75% of whom were African American.
Reconstruction of "War damage" to the French rail network was not complete until 1950.
The Red ball express worked all the way to the fall of Berlin
It's really irritating to have US army World war II vets segregated by ethnicity and race 80 years
Thank You
@@deepredstate4414 You're welcome
HS Sidney Poitier! Was not expecting that. What a treat.
One of the Best WW2 Related Movies that can never be replicated.
My dad and his two brothers were in the service. Each in a different branch. His oldest brother, Andrew, was drafted late in the war in his thirties. The other men referred to him as the old man so he was sent to drive trucks to avoid combat. That put him place to become part of the Red Ball Express. He told us kids a few stories like driving all night to the front lines without lights and coming back with a load of prisoners. He was by himself with only his M-1. He said they never tried to escape.
Of course they did. TH-cam!
Very glad to have seen this movie. I remembered seeing it on TV when I was a kid but souvenirs were quite vague. Now I can fully appreciate it.
These men were the Heroes we all should believe in, and should strive to be. The truth is, it was the greatest American Generation, as the whole country worked together in the military, in building the machines, bullets, food and anything to make the war a better place to win. Men, many Women, and even some children worked to keep the allies going. Are we that strong today???😊
A whole movie about US Army Logistics? I don’t think they will ever do this today, but this is great. Logistics is under appreciated.
Thrilled to have found this film. Has to be 40-50 years since I saw it on telly and still remember the plot. I absolutely love both Jeff Chandler and Sidney Poitier.
Edit: Have just watched it and it was just as I remembered.
A VERY GOOD FILM FOR IT'S TIME . GREAT CAST. THOROUGHLY ENJOYABLE. NICE STORYLINE AND FOR A WW2 FILM LITTLE OR NO VIOLENCE. VERY GOOD FILM.
A perfect, realistic movie. Well done!
This was really good! Nice to see other than combat units get recognized.
Impressive to read the reactions of those whose fathers served. Makes it come frigheningly close than just a movie... Why on earth do we still have wars?!
Like all of us, Patton had his issues.....He was not perfect, only God is perfect. But he was a winner and a great leader!
Exactly! He did do quite a bit after his plane landed in France in July of 1944!
His 4th Armored Divisions excelled at destroying whatever german units they faced!!
Plus his 3rd Army got further through France than most of the other American units did!!
Infact his 4th Armored Division was nicknamed, "The Spearhead Unit" after their unbelievable push through France....
That would be your little secret. He treated enlisted troops like they were expendable. He was also a racist but the press wrote great war stories about him.
I DID NOT LIKE WHAT HE SAID ABOUT OUR BLACK TROOPS , YES HE WAS A GREAT GENERAL BUT HE HAD HIS NEGATIVITY !@@456swagger
@@gerardpoltawsky4656
It was the 1940s. What did you expect him to say about blacks?
Excellent. I don't get to see these anymore. What a treat.
The red ball express (which I heard about many years ago due to my interest in the Second World War) did a fantastic job in bringing in supplies. Most of them bringing them supplies, African Americans.
It was vital.
Posted from Britain.
Very good movie indeed, bcos it demonstrates true characters, esp the LTA. I was an Officer of the Armoured Logistics Support too. I can appreciate all these men. Thank the Lord.
Great tribute to a great cause.
It's a movie, and bears virtually no resemblance to the reality. Patton's 3rd Army went South from Normandy, while everyone else & the Redball Express went East following the channel coast to Belgium & Holland because this was the shortest route to Germany !!!
My uncle, a Black GI, was a driver with the Red Ball Express.
That’s awesome sir. Appreciate his service
God bless all your family. He's up w God, so he's in a great place.
One of the Greatest Generation!
Never heard of the red ball line. But it seemed to work pretty effectively . They got everybody the supplies they needed when they needed them, pretty ingenious actually. General Patton seems to be a pretty important fella for everybody to fall in line like that. Good movie thanks for posting.
During Desert Storm the logistics fan day and night on pipeline road. They were 1st coscom. After the war I spoke to a couple of the drivers. They never got any medals. The brass and the senior NCOs got that. Could not have done it without them.
I was up in the front with 3 ACR when I was flown back to the naval hospital.
My return was on that Highway and inside of a HHMV with a E4 and a Lt . I kept talking to em so he wouldn’t fall asleep .
Arrived at night to bed down with only 1 wool blanket inside of a GP Large tent with kerosene heaters going but it was still damn cold but not as cold when we would later get rained on and we had one soldier die from the onset of hypothermia.
I had never seen this movie. It was very good. It had some big actors in it, Sidney Poitier I never knew he did this movie. Thank you for showing this movie.
Where were you station at, I was at Bad Kissengen, Daily Barracks, Hawk Missel for 36 months, cam in 75, they still had the 5/4 jeeps with the white stars painted on them, doors & hood, drove 1/4 tons M151 ....2 1/2 tons and the 5 tons short beds, we had the SPL self propell launchers the Hawks, still have my 348, licenses, 1970 form qualifications, plus a couple of 240/4
That was the first 4 years, when I got out had every thing from Cut V up to a M109 howser & 20 Crain... (3) 348 stapel together, but back to driving on that cobble stone, wow you had to pay attention.
A beautiful movie.
This is a cut above , far better than I was expecting a good movie but the reality of what those truckers did was far more brutal and inspiring and most were African Americans , true heroes .
Its more Propaganda than fact. Indeed Patton's 3rd Army was not supplied by the Redball Express. Because Patton's Army went south from Normandy, while everyone else including the Redball Express went East following the Channel Coast to Belgium & then Holland, which was the shortest route to Germany !!!
Once again a hater in the midst. During the battle o the bulge it was the red ball express that got pattons army up there to disrupt the german offensive.@@railwaymechanicalengineer4587
TRUE! I just google the Red Ball Express, most of the drivers 75% were AA, brave heroes.
As World War II drew to a close, Patton was fairly vocal at times saying that as long as we are here we might as well go ahead and finish off the Russians. Not an exact quote but close. Short period of time later he died from a accident. Many, including myself, believe he was killed intentionally to shut him up. Here is one of the best generals United States ever had but like many he had good points and bad points. If you think about all the communist nation is that developed after World War II through the work of Russia, he was right on the money. Hindsight
I concur with everything you said!!
I believe that he was indeed killed because of his outspokenness!!
Millions of US soldiers would have died fighting the Russians. 90% of the German military dead died on the Russian front.
FDR's administration was shot through with communist sympathizers. FDR's second VP Henry Wallace was in awe of Stalin. After Kursk in July 1943 the aid to Russia should have been decreased to zero by the end of 1943 and Stalin put on notice. FDR treated Stalin like a human being. There's only bad explanations for FDR's treatment of Stalin as an equal and a mostly normal human being. I don't have a high opinion of Truman where communists are concerned as well.
Evidence ?
You must be rather dense to think a traffic accident was a sure way to commit murder
Damn straight he was no gen car especially his would loose breaks
My uncle, TEK-5(Corporal) Paul Dunkel, was a deuce and a half driver in the European theater. Those guys went through hell and back again.
There is a few historical discrepancies in this film, but a half decent film and Seeing Sidney Poitier in one of his early roles is a special treat in itself.
Bravo! I'm 73 and my dad was a lieutenant in the US Army in Germany in WWll. I still believe this was, "the greatest generation," in US history. One of the men I admire most was Brig. Gen. George C. Marshall who was in charge of logistics for both the European and Pacific theaters simultaneously. He even won a Nobel Peace Prize for his logistics work. I live in Mississippi and I've spoken to several men who drove trucks in the Red Ball Express. All of them black men. I think black people could only have foodservice or supply/maintenance jobs in the army at that time though I'm not sure. I don't think black drivers have been given enough credit for their heroic contributions. As somebody once said, "An Army doesn't fight on an empty stomach."
An Army marches on its stomach that's a saying from Napolian
The Tuskeegee Airmen were an exception - and exceptional . . .
My uncle was one of those black drivers. He was at Bastogne.
I hope he returned home safely. i visited that place in 2004 - it was very cold . . . @@TricksterDa123
@@lordeden2732 Yes, thx for the original quote.
Better than I expected. And now I know where the idea for Radar ORiley came from....
A good outcome among all the dangerous paths that great men had and still going through, God Bless And Protect Them All !!!
I think I had sneakers in the '60's called "Red Ball Express." "You can run faster and jump higher with Red Ball Express!"
"Red ball jets"
@@robertbean8116 Yes, that's what they were.😃
Red ball express ment. That it was a priotary load
Red ball express ment. That it was a priotary load
Red ball express ment. That it was a priotary load
I remember asking my mother about red ball trucking company in the United States when I was a little kid and she told me this story before the movie came out
Sidney Poitier is a class act
Well acted and riveting storyline
This is the first time I Saw this movie. I felt every emotion. THANK YOU 🙏🙏🙏🙏❤❤❤ .
Thoroughly enjoyed this unfamiliar film. Thanks for making it available!
Ut's finally on DvD.
Proud to be an Army Truck driver. I drove Red Ball while stationed in Germany. Great fun.
HOOAH!!
What a great movie! I had never heard of the Red Ball Express before. I am happy I found this little gem.
Watched this twice. Just as good the second time ..
😮The Red Ball Express operations are almost always studied during professional logistics- supply chain management courses.
As I understand it, the Red Ball Express was primarily powered by Cummins diesel engines, which is why Cummins featured a red ball in it's logo for many years after WWII.
Most trucks in WW2 were gasoline
@@RobertAllen-x4s I always heard they were multi fuel
@@captainjohnh9405 I think the multi fuels came out in the fifty's.
@@captainjohnh9405the .multi fuel was made by contintel at a later time all these trucks were gas with magnito ignitons
The best Sherman Tank Engine was from the Hitler Admirer - the Ford V8 Petrol- A V12 (aero engine) with 4 cyclinders cut off - very late in ww2 the limeys were using the Rolls Royce V12 Merlin version tank petrol engine - All the German Tanks ran on Petrol -
"Then why don't you tell a joke?" - I didn't realize until this line that Sidney Poitier was in this film. Seems promising 9:29
75% of the Express was Black and their mission was suicidal. It was calculated that if 1/10th of the trucks could make to Patton, the 3rd Army could be saved and continue.
Patton's 3rd Army went South from Normandy. Everyone else went East, as did the "Redball Express" following the Channel coast to Belgium & Holland !!!
Every troop was on a suicide mission. Death was part of war. Not just black troops
I am sure that black lives means more to fellow Americans than nazis 😂
My Father the son of a Norwegian Immigrant and an American Wife, was A company Capt., of a truck company, his 2nd in command Lt. Brenzo was of Italian extraction, the rest of the Men were Black Americans, a company has 100 men, so it was more like 98% Black to 2% White and all 100% Americans. My father only related the humorous things that happened never talked about combat.
I was waiting to see who the actors were. This could have been such a star studded cast of the black actors at the time. Nothing but white wash.
This is a new movie on me. Thank you so much for this added piece of history
I love the way old movies were filmed and directed. The actors were the stars and they tried to make the camera a window into each scene. Like you were actually there witnessing it. The actors had to actually have chemistry because you could instantly tell when they didn't. Now movies are filmed and directed like we are spectators watching a football game or a rock concert. You don't feel like you are standing across from the characters going through exactly what they were. I wish someone would bring that filming style back. Hitchcock was a master of it and why his movies captivate you. 24:52 This scene captures my point exactly. See how it opens with the camera being slowly surrounded? Then it expands into a group like you were sitting talking to the men. Then the music hits hard and the battle explodes. It continues to develop, slows down then explodes into a finaly with a star being mistook as a coward. I have no doubt he will be a great hero at the end. This was just a dime a dozen war movie from the early 50s but was directed better than several Oscar winners of the past decade.
Thank you, I love these old B&W WW2 🎥 movies.
An excelent film , it could have just carried on and on ,great . Good to see behind the lines and not so much guns an glory .
A powerful message about teamwork!
Thank you for uploading! Enjoyed this very much. Little known stories of the logistics troops who keep the front moving forward!
Pretty good cast; a young SIDNEY POITIER, HUGH O' BRIAN among others.
I like that story.
Excellent film on a very interesting subject of the post Normandy campaign of 1944. The leaders of men have long known that racial and/or religious prejudices between groups of people are largely forgotten during times of serious strife, especially during wartime. With all groups knowing that their very survival is dependent upon the full unity of everyone caught up in the conflict, "brotherhood among men" is sure to take its rightful place.
Just goes to show the absolutely massive amount of supplies and manufacturing ability.
Great flick...seen it when I was a kid back in the 60s.
I enjoyed that way more than I thought I would.
OMG! SIDNEY POITIER was so young in this movie!
Nice of you to remind God about this with such respect towards Him that you use His name the same you would a curse word. Seriously, please consider more seriously the expressions you use.
Great movie. Thank you so much. I just subscribed.
This show does not mention the gross mismanagement of the US Army Source of Supply commanded by Major General John C.H. Lee. From September 1944 there were constant fuel shortages at the Front Lines, as Lee and his men colluded in the wholesale theft of fuel and supplies needed on the front lines. These being sold to the French Black Market, used to fund expensive gifts and lavish trips to Paris. Lee himself was certainly involved, but nothing could be done as he had the highest connections in Washington and was not answerable to Eisenhower. Senior US Army Officers were seldom disciplined, Lee and his crimes were swept under the carpet.
WOW THAT SUCKS !
@SteveGooden-Godman Stick to your day job, your poetry is crap
OMG ! THIS NEEEEEEDS A GOOD CONTEMPORARY REMAKE.
I mean, it has everything needed for a classic war movie, smash hit, potential for a total bad-ass war movie about the forgotten heroes of 1944 - The Redball Express. A new 2hr movie could have everything- race against time, german attack and ambushes, racial tensions within units and conflicts, linear travel - story, some protagonist and antagonist. Story could start pararely in detroit war plant, d-day beaches, rural america where young black boys volunteer..... trucks and soldiers cros the atlantic, FF to DDay + 120: Patton charging forward, 10s thousands of materiel being spent, 1000 of trucks needed., on the other hand mounting obstacles from the germans - bockades, ambushes, combat air patrols..I totally see it upgraded , with practical models, reanactors, dozens of trucks, burning towns and some 2-3 main characters, some quality name to play Patton and some of his officers. Opening scenes to the tune "lift and load..one for h***er of the road"
Perfect as is. Doesn't need a remake. Everything they remake is crap.
first time i have seen this - excellent film
It's a Post WW2 American Propaganda Movie. Lots of action, but VERY LITTLE real fact.
@@railwaymechanicalengineer4587 communist
Man, the Girl on the bicycle has got a hell of a rack ! Excellent Movie !
you took the effin words right out of my mouth! That was Jaquelain Duval. She was 20 yrs old when she did that movie.
A cool classic movie and classic how they dropped the info about jazz and bebop ..
My father was a truck driver in WWII and eventually found himself as part of this. He told me all the stories when I was growing up. He also told me that he went & saw this movie with my Mom and that it had some little details that the writers must have gotten from guys who were actually there.
Young generation need to watch this and many other well made factual war movies to appreciate what it took to keep our country free and not give up any of our freedoms and rights like we are that men and yes women fought and died for in all the wars.
Wonderful time spent. Great painting 🎨
I've seen this a few times in my life. It deserves to be remade with all of the care of a "Saving Private Ryan". Great movie.
Me thinks the number of the Black GIs in this movie is a little unrepresented. The ratio in this movie is about 50/50. In reality, Black Americans made up 75% of the of drivers in the Red Ball.
My father did his duty in ww2 two Naples two jima were some of were hefought the enemy reach the rank of usm marine captain from him I got the appreciation of history hedge at 92 there aren't many veterans from ww2 god bless America a great nation
This channel is awesome. I love the history of World War II.
Sergeant Kelly’s proper rank is First Sergeant. His rank insignia displays six stripes with a diamond ♦️in the middle. Vaguely remember seeing this movie once. In 1967, Sidney Poitier teams up with Rod Steiger in the movie, 🍿 “In the Heat of the Night.” Both actors give their performances of a lifetime and establishes Portier as one of the greatest actors on the planet 🌎! thank you 🎌
My grandfather brother was part of this loved his stories
My dad helped organize a portion of the Redball Express.
I was born 1953 and my brother was born 1951. Our Dad was a Tech Sergeant in the 3rd Recon, 4th Division Infantry. We were raised right!
Yea....same kinda boat. Raised on this kinda stuff. Cool seeing early Sidney
My uncle was a mechanic in Patton's third Army. He was killed near Nancy when the Jeep he was riding in hit a hole and threw him out during a night repair. He was 20 years old.
" a men's s world " 🖤
Start to finish, in your chair, with so many stories in the tell, at the same time. In the end, he's called "Red".
This movie was a nice surprise…thanks for the upload