This documentary is superb. put together in a logical, truthful, and respectful manner. War is the worst experience a Human being can witness, its magnitude unimaginable, its memory unforgettable. Your work is Top Notch.
Why can I reply to this comment, but I can't post an original comment? BTW- been watching WW2 docs for decades. You are doing solid original work my man. Permanent fan here.
Dr. Gassend, thank you for sharing the amazing story of PFC Marvin Moles. It's a remarkable piece of investigative research -- and I'm glad you were able to host Mr. Moles for the 60th anniversary. He certainly had some close calls in WWII, but I'm happy he was able to recover from his wounds and return home to his wife and child in Virginia. Mr. Moles story gave me a renewed appreciation for the bravery of our soldiers -- and just how random surviving a war can be. Thanks again for taking the time to bring this story to life.
This should be made into a movie or full hour documentary. What an amazing adventure this is. Jean-Loup, your research is second to none and I really appreciate it. Absolutely top shelf content here and I always look forward to your uploads. Thank you for all you do!
As always, one of the worlds and internets greatest WW2 researhers. Great guy and his channel is one of my favorites. Just awesome. I will be purchasing this book.
Jumper Moles' authentic story stands with those of other WW11 airborne soldiers about whom I have learned...it is good of you to bring it to light for us...Moles, you good man, I am glad you lived to recap your exploits!
You did a marvelous job in telling us about Marvin Moles service record and about that interesting helmet of his, "strangely Moles is also my family surname too but from 4he UK", I also had family who served in WW2 in the British Army and I believe my Grandfather served in the far east and died there. I think he is buried in a cemetery in India but I have no idea how he died though. Your love for history shines through your documentary here. Thanks for doing a wonderful job.
Thank you for such a well done video of Mr Moles. The part of the soldiers adjusting the straps “rigers “ reminds me, I have my late father’s marine knapsack tucked away. He’d kept it through the years, occasionally used it when he was on an outdoors trip. I’ll need to get it out, hold it and feel the material again and his memory. Wonderful documentary
Riggers did lots of uniform and gear modifications in general for all paratroopers (cargo pockets made from shelter halves, arm pockets, web gear and sling improvements, etc). Riggers are/were a very talented group of soldiers, very valued.
Wow! This is incredible and amazing in so many ways. I have done my own research on the Vietnam War and I guess this is why your channel popped up in my suggested videos. I’m blown away by your professionalism and attention to detail, especially when it comes to telling both sides of a tragic story when possible. Your hard work and passion for accuracy and authenticity is very much appreciated. I am now a subscriber and look forward to more content as I gradually catch up on these incredible stories.
Your Moles helmet investigation is by far outstanding and extremely thorough. What a great piece of work. I always enjoy watching your superb video productions which define your research capabilities and dedication. Thank you!
This was a really interesting story. Thanks for all the hard work you did on it, especially since lots of us know some of Marvin's war-time story now and we wouldn't have otherwise.
I love your videos, and I can't thank you enough for the time and hard work you are doing for the peace and tranquility for the military family members on both sides .thank you
Thanks for sharing this! I thought I had seen some images before, but I don't remember the context. Your efforts are much appreciated and the presentation of your findings is just spot on. Enjoy your weekend!
Great video 👍 my grandfather was with the 504/82 ABN on D-Day I didn’t realize some of the guys painted their uniforms. I thank them all for their service
Now this is quality research and documentation, I love it. I like yourself love History especially WW-2 . I have a small collection of uniforms -weapons -helmets collected over my lifetime. I will be contacting you . I have a mans military records -what little can be found, daughter advised most of her fathers papers were lost by VA in a fire. She asked me for help in learning of her fathers actions. She also said her dads unit went from Normandy - Berlin . He was never the same when he came back from the War. Will be buying your book .
Well I can say without a doubt not only did I find that story interesting I found it one of the most reassuring stories in the goodness of people.. that was one of the most noblest things that man could have done I know you're proud to have met that man as you should be.. my next step will be to email you to see if you can help me find a family friend
0:40 They sprayed the paint on top of the net, it wasn't the point, but I think it makes it looks like scales. Pretty cool :p Also, the modern photos of places superimposed onto photos of the time are always fascinating. I am always amazed by how similar everything looks after all this time. Humans come and go, landscapes and buildings remain. A testament to the shortness and fragility of our lives on Earth.
I love how guys responsible for saving Europe just went back home and lived normal lives. But how could it be any other way? We owe them a great deal of gratitude. It was kinda like the Cossacks in the Napoleonic wars. After they pushed him out of Russia they followed his armies all the way back to France. There were stories about them in every European Capitol. Then they went back to their Steppes.
Great story, detailed research. My family has a pair of binoculars supposedly taken from the dead captain’s neck of a sunken German submarine that washed up in Denmark. Would love to find the history of them.
I should have explained that. Fingers have a large surface compared to their mass, so they quickly dry out and mumify. They were probably looking at fingers that resembled a raisin, and they injected fluid under the finger skin so the fingers would regain their normal shape. I tried doing that once but it didnt work. I didnt have the experience these guys had.
The Germans planted thousands of mines along the Denmark coast. Right after the war Denmark made German teens dig them up to clear the beach. Very dangerous work!. There is a recent movie about it called "Land of Mine" in the English version.
the story of the young soldier Bailey digging into the ground with his bare hands and ripping out his fingernails reminds me of a movie or series I have seen.. I think it may have been Band of Brothers, or Saving Private Ryan.. anyone else recall this depiction?
@@CrocodileTear no politics intended. Invade is defined in the dictionary (a non-political entity). (of an armed force or its commander) enter (a country or region) so as to subjugate or occupy it.
@@az55544 Sorry to correct you. The National WW II Museum in New Orleans, for example, uses the invasion term for Operation Overlord ("the Allies launched the long-anticipated INVASION of Normandy, France"). So there's nothing wrong with that.
How you gonna say that he was pictured with his new baby but right underneath the photo in clear print that he was “pictured with niece on wife’s side”?
The most obvious is what usualy escapes us. I have been looking at that picture for 25 years but never read the inscription since 1999. If my memory serves, one of his children was born before he shipped out, but your comment has instilled doubt.
Generally a well balanced interesting documentary and I assume factually correct. I'm not sure I equate being liberated to the current situation in Europe however.
This documentary is superb. put together in a logical, truthful, and respectful manner. War is the worst experience a Human being can witness, its magnitude unimaginable, its memory unforgettable. Your work is Top Notch.
Why can I reply to this comment, but I can't post an original comment?
BTW- been watching WW2 docs for decades. You are doing solid original work my man. Permanent fan here.
It's insane how the story of a random soldier could have so many twists and turns that an action movie could be made about it!
Now that we got a guy who takes the time to find (exam?) the story film makers would have it even easy.
This is an updated and improved version of my old Marvin Moles video
Loved it.
he was 89 when he passed tho❤
Dr. Gassend, thank you for sharing the amazing story of PFC Marvin Moles. It's a remarkable piece of investigative research -- and I'm glad you were able to host Mr. Moles for the 60th anniversary. He certainly had some close calls in WWII, but I'm happy he was able to recover from his wounds and return home to his wife and child in Virginia. Mr. Moles story gave me a renewed appreciation for the bravery of our soldiers -- and just how random surviving a war can be. Thanks again for taking the time to bring this story to life.
This should be made into a movie or full hour documentary. What an amazing adventure this is. Jean-Loup, your research is second to none and I really appreciate it. Absolutely top shelf content here and I always look forward to your uploads. Thank you for all you do!
Agreed
As always, one of the worlds and internets greatest WW2 researhers. Great guy and his channel is one of my favorites. Just awesome. I will be purchasing this book.
If you email me your adress, I will get a copy of the book sent to my greatest fan
You and Mark Felton are my favorite People to listen to about ww2. The battlefield diggings are hard to watch but none the less, incredible.
Jumper Moles' authentic story stands with those of other WW11 airborne soldiers about whom I have learned...it is good of you to bring it to light for us...Moles, you good man, I am glad you lived to recap your exploits!
You did a marvelous job in telling us about Marvin Moles service record and about that interesting helmet of his, "strangely Moles is also my family surname too but from 4he UK", I also had family who served in WW2 in the British Army and I believe my Grandfather served in the far east and died there. I think he is buried in a cemetery in India but I have no idea how he died though.
Your love for history shines through your documentary here. Thanks for doing a wonderful job.
Look up your granddad on the CWGC website.
Moles' ancestors surely came from the UK.
Thank you for such a well done video of Mr Moles.
The part of the soldiers adjusting the straps “rigers “ reminds me, I have my late father’s marine knapsack tucked away. He’d kept it through the years, occasionally used it when he was on an outdoors trip. I’ll need to get it out, hold it and feel the material again and his memory.
Wonderful documentary
Riggers did lots of uniform and gear modifications in general for all paratroopers (cargo pockets made from shelter halves, arm pockets, web gear and sling improvements, etc). Riggers are/were a very talented group of soldiers, very valued.
I never did manage to find a single paratrooper of the 517th, including one rigger, who remembered these improvised chinstraps.
Wow! This is incredible and amazing in so many ways. I have done my own research on the Vietnam War and I guess this is why your channel popped up in my suggested videos. I’m blown away by your professionalism and attention to detail, especially when it comes to telling both sides of a tragic story when possible. Your hard work and passion for accuracy and authenticity is very much appreciated. I am now a subscriber and look forward to more content as I gradually catch up on these incredible stories.
Your Moles helmet investigation is by far outstanding and extremely thorough. What a great piece of work. I always enjoy watching your superb video productions which define your research capabilities and dedication. Thank you!
Great story, with excellent research. Add Marvin Moles name to the legion of heroes to which we owe so much.
You do an excellent job of telling the "personal" side of war. Keep up the great work !
This was a really interesting story. Thanks for all the hard work you did on it, especially since lots of us know some of Marvin's war-time story now and we wouldn't have otherwise.
Thank you for sharing this with us my friend. I felt deeply touched by the story. ❤
I love your videos, and I can't thank you enough for the time and hard work you are doing for the peace and tranquility for the military family members on both sides .thank you
Another excellent video as always
Very interesting. Nice bit of research to find Marvin Moles. Ten children is pretty optimistic I’d say.
Outstanding and highly valuable work
Great video. The picture overlays are awesome.
Outstanding story and appreciate the detailed research. I enjoy your work so much. These are “ordinary” men forced into extraordinary situations.
Enjoy listening and watching your investigations. Thank you for all you do. 🙂
Great video mate, very good work. Loving your content out here in New Zealand. Rest in peace all the men and woman of the greatest generation.
As always first rate and very enjoyable, great update of the tale of this soldier, cheers Jean-Loup 😊😊😊😊
Fascinating video. Great research. You are a true Poirot. Jim in California
Always great to see your videos drop in
Wonderful!!!! Enjoyed this so much!! Your diligent research paid off, and you met the veteran as well 😄 Awesome ❤
Thanks for sharing this! I thought I had seen some images before, but I don't remember the context. Your efforts are much appreciated and the presentation of your findings is just spot on. Enjoy your weekend!
Great research, thorough explanations. THANK YOU!
Awesome Historic transparent Truth R.I.P All Who Served All Sides 👍🙃🍺🦘
Thank you for putting all of this together. Awesome history thanks for taking us along.
Thank you for another interesting and heart warming story.
Great video 👍 my grandfather was with the 504/82 ABN on D-Day I didn’t realize some of the guys painted their uniforms. I thank them all for their service
You are a pro researcher. Very moving, well done.
Thank you Crocodile Tears. Absolutely amazing work you do in bringing back the details of history that otherwise was lost.
❤❤❤❤❤ God Bless Marvin Moles& his family!
Now this is quality research and documentation, I love it. I like yourself love History especially WW-2 . I have a small collection of uniforms -weapons -helmets collected over my lifetime. I will be contacting you . I have a mans military records -what little can be found, daughter advised most of her fathers papers were lost by VA in a fire. She asked me for help in learning of her fathers actions. She also said her dads unit went from Normandy - Berlin . He was never the same when he came back from the War. Will be buying your book .
These videos are invaluable 💚
That’s a grisly task, fingerprinting a headless dessicated corpse, especially when you’re only young
The daily buisness of war
Thanks for recommending!!! I am blown away that it happened this close. good work
Thank you for another fine video you do fantastic work
Well done. Kudos! Excellent work
Excellent! Loved this TH-cam video, keep up the good videos glad I subscribed!!👌👍😁
Thank you for all your hard work on bringing this to me!
This is incredible thank you for sharing!
Thank you, like always another extremely interesting story
Amazing history. Thank you!
Good stuff, I really need to buy your book.
Another excellent video to add to an excellent list.
Interesting story, thank you for your research and sharing. ❤🇺🇸
Well I can say without a doubt not only did I find that story interesting I found it one of the most reassuring stories in the goodness of people.. that was one of the most noblest things that man could have done I know you're proud to have met that man as you should be.. my next step will be to email you to see if you can help me find a family friend
Thank you, outstanding video
Absolutely incredible research and incredible story. Nice work!!!
Thank you. It is slightly irritating that videos about anything German are always more succesfull then stories about Allies.
What a great guy and awesome story!
Dr. Gassand I ❤ youre channel, and im saving up to order youre book. Cant wait to read it 👍
It's incredible that he noticed that engraving on the side
0:40 They sprayed the paint on top of the net, it wasn't the point, but I think it makes it looks like scales. Pretty cool :p
Also, the modern photos of places superimposed onto photos of the time are always fascinating. I am always amazed by how similar everything looks after all this time. Humans come and go, landscapes and buildings remain. A testament to the shortness and fragility of our lives on Earth.
GREAT WORK THANK YOU !!!!
rip Marvin. Your legacy and name live on.
Great content
Thank you!
Absolutely Amazing History of an Amazing Human ,, 🇺🇸
I love how guys responsible for saving Europe just went back home and lived normal lives. But how could it be any other way? We owe them a great deal of gratitude. It was kinda like the Cossacks in the Napoleonic wars. After they pushed him out of Russia they followed his armies all the way back to France. There were stories about them in every European Capitol. Then they went back to their Steppes.
Great story, detailed research. My family has a pair of binoculars supposedly taken from the dead captain’s neck of a sunken German submarine that washed up in Denmark. Would love to find the history of them.
Do you have some photos? Specialised collectors would probably have some interesting observations.
Fabulous ✌️
How exactly does the pumping method for fingerprints work? What do they pump where?
I should have explained that. Fingers have a large surface compared to their mass, so they quickly dry out and mumify. They were probably looking at fingers that resembled a raisin, and they injected fluid under the finger skin so the fingers would regain their normal shape.
I tried doing that once but it didnt work. I didnt have the experience these guys had.
Wow. Moles' unit saw a lot of combat it seems.
awesome
Moles crawled through a minefield to locate mines? He had steel ones, that's for sure. It took guys like him, to rout out the Nazis.
He was decorated for having helped save a human being, not for having killed his kin.
The Germans planted thousands of mines along the Denmark coast. Right after the war Denmark made German teens dig them up to clear the beach. Very dangerous work!. There is a recent movie about it called "Land of Mine" in the English version.
Your book cost €90,00 on Amazon. Is there any way to buy it at a better price? Keep the great videos coming.
Moles was a smart and great soldier. Many of the fighters for freedom are. The good lord had him .
the story of the young soldier Bailey digging into the ground with his bare hands and ripping out his fingernails reminds me of a movie or series I have seen.. I think it may have been Band of Brothers, or Saving Private Ryan.. anyone else recall this depiction?
Great story
How do you find this info out?
My grandfather served in Korea. i would love to figure out where all he served and information about his service.
I found out because Mr Moles told me, and I cross checked his statements with US and German archives
He could finally turn the helmet in and get his statement of charges reversed. lol
The value may have slightly increased in the meantime
Now, he can finally return his helmet to Supply. Im sure they have been chasing him for it for the last 80 years
Do you research just ww2 and ww1 items ? I have some American civil war items with names that I could use some help researching
I only have experience researching WWII items.
The greatest generation!
God bless all those old ghosts.
these soldiers need to tell their stories before it's too late and is totally lost to history... there simply are not many wwii vets left....
There is a TH-cam channel called "Memoirs of WWII" that has very short interviews of Vets. It is very interesting.
00:20 and other instances. Invasion of southern France or defensive rescue or some other war term? Russia invaded Ukraine.
In those days people didnt bicker over politically correct terms.
@@CrocodileTear no politics intended.
Invade is defined in the dictionary (a non-political entity).
(of an armed force or its commander) enter (a country or region) so as to subjugate or occupy it.
@@az55544 Sorry to correct you. The National WW II Museum in New Orleans, for example, uses the invasion term for Operation Overlord ("the Allies launched the long-anticipated INVASION of Normandy, France"). So there's nothing wrong with that.
@@az55544 Look at some of the major headlines from the time period, the word used is "invasion", despite the dictionary.
What?
How you gonna say that he was pictured with his new baby but right underneath the photo in clear print that he was “pictured with niece on wife’s side”?
The most obvious is what usualy escapes us. I have been looking at that picture for 25 years but never read the inscription since 1999.
If my memory serves, one of his children was born before he shipped out, but your comment has instilled doubt.
Just bought your book AoaB. If it's half as interesting as your vidoes, - I won't be dissapointed!
Thanks, I would be interested to hear your feedback.
You are saving so many soldiers stories. US Government couldn’t be bothered. As a granddaughter of a WW2 Green Beret, you’re appreciated greatly.
The Green Berets weren't even founded until 1952.
Yeah one thing for sure… the corrupt government doesn’t have any problem sending the guy’s out to die in their corrupt wars…
Haven't I Seen this before?
Indeed, this is an updated version of an old video
Generally a well balanced interesting documentary and I assume factually correct.
I'm not sure I equate being liberated to the current situation in Europe however.
Shouldn’t he be put on a charge for losing US equipment 😂
They probably put him on KP duty 😜