WWII 101st Airborne Paratrooper Combat on D-Day, Market Garden, & the Bulge | Jim 'Pee Wee' Martin

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 27 ก.ย. 2024
  • One of Colonel Sink's original "Toccoa Men", James Martin joined the now famous 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment at Camp Toccoa in July, 1942 - the regiment featuring the acclaimed 'Band of Brothers.' He was soon given the nickname "Pee Wee" due to being the lightest man in the regiment.
    Martin parachuted into Normandy (landing near Saint-Côme-du-Mont behind Utah Beach) at 12:30 AM on June 6, 1944. "Pee Wee" Martin fought in the Normandy campaign for thirty-three days until the 101st Airborne was relieved and returned to England in July.
    On September 17, 1944 the 101st Airborne Division jumped into Holland in the leading wave of "Operation Market Garden". Jim Martin landed near the town of Son. G Company fought to secure "Hell's Highway" during this ill-fated operation.
    On December 16, 1944 Germany launched its last major offensive in the West, The Ardennes Offensive...soon to be known as the "Battle of the Bulge". The 101st Airborne Division was trucked over 100 miles to the Belgian crossroads town of Bastogne. The 3rd Battalion established defensive positions on the northern perimeter where they endured bitter cold and some of the most difficult fighting on the Western Front.
    James H. "Pee Wee" Martin passed away on September 11, 2022 at 101 years old.
    Interview recorded on November 8, 2014
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ความคิดเห็น • 1K

  • @Nick.random
    @Nick.random 2 ปีที่แล้ว +427

    Absolute privilege to have heard this man’s story.

  • @mathieu8641
    @mathieu8641 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    French here, thanking the man and his fellow comrades for what they did. Still appreciate it today - more than ever perhaps…

  • @michaeldouglas1243
    @michaeldouglas1243 2 ปีที่แล้ว +122

    His mind, mannerisms and everything else was like he was much younger than he really was. Another hero lost. RIP sir.

    • @emau2459
      @emau2459 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      The spirit will keep the body alive much longer than the mind.

  • @jimrenderer2784
    @jimrenderer2784 2 ปีที่แล้ว +152

    As a member of the hundred first airborne in Vietnam I am so humbled buy these gentlemen that served in WWII. Everything he said about the training was exactly the same for us. They had a different War they had to stand up and fight face-to-face with their enemy. We had a jungle that we had to worry about. At least we could hear the enemy coming and prepare for them. I am so proud to wear the Screamin Eagle and paratrooper on my hat and I'm surprised at how many normal people that I come in contact with know what the Screamin Eagle patch is and what it stands for. Also I want to thank you and your organization for bringing the stories to light for the General Public. I finally got the welcome-home, that we all missed when we got home, at the recent Heroes honor Festival in Daytona Beach on Memorial Day weekend. I took my oldest son with me so that he could see some of the stories that were being told by the people that were there and people that had come to entertain us. Again thank you for all that you do for us veterans.
    PFC. Jim Renderer (Doc Sleepy) combat medic.
    1/327th inf.
    101st Airborne
    Tiger Force

    • @seanodwyer4322
      @seanodwyer4322 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Jim- had a uncle in new zealand born 4 months premature. in bush in 1915 a.d. - he was a runt with a bad inferority complex. when w.w.2 started he kept well away from it in the bush but someone kept posting him white feathers, which inplied that he was a guttless coward. it pissed him off so much he went to nearest rectritin post in- Waipawa town thinki they would refuse him. But he got a shock when they said he had the perfect snipers body and he ended upp as a trained sniper in north africa and italy. in new zealand army. he made it back too the bush in new zealand in 1946.- 17 men out off 120 men in his company committed suicide in Italy as it got mosr nasty on road too Berlin city.

    • @kenpierce8946
      @kenpierce8946 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Doc- I'm a Veteran of OIF '03-'04. I spoke to a Korean war vet who'd been through the ringer. I told him despite my hardships I'd never seen anything like what he'd seen. He told me, the Vietnam guys said the same thing about Korean War vets, he said the same about WW2 vets, and the WW2 vets said the same about the fellas in WW1. In the end we all agree, war is hell. And nobody feels worthy of this statement since time immemorial but Thank You for your service.

    • @robmorris7128
      @robmorris7128 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Read my comment. Their training was tough!

    • @doranblakehutchinson7037
      @doranblakehutchinson7037 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Thanks for your sacrifice.

    • @mtlbstrd
      @mtlbstrd ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Jim, you boys didn’t fail America, America failed you. I was born in ‘66 so barely remember much about the war, but I’ve read a LOT about it. EFF the hippies who have no idea what you guys were faced with, the decisions that were made and the reasons why. Our war fighters are the absolute best in the world when tasked with a clear mission, and support to accomplish the objective. Y’all were not. This grateful American appreciates your service, so thank you and welcome home.

  • @samwise1790
    @samwise1790 ปีที่แล้ว +167

    The title of the video and the subject and soldier caught me, because the neighbor next door when I was 9-13 years old was a 101st veteran (around 99-03, he passed around that time). I didnt even know he was in the 101st when he was alive, he never mentioned it. The man wasnt much for words, but he did walk over one day and taught me how to split wood rounds with a sledgehammer and wedges when I was about 13, and I always remember him when I split wood to this day. He walked over to me struggling in the driveway and said "you don't really know what you're doing, do you? Here, grab a wedge and I'll show you..." His name was Griffith ("Griff"). He named his son Jeep, which I imagine there had to have been a story from the war about, though I never thought to ask.
    After he passed I would go next door and help his wife with problems she had from time to time and watch the house when she was away. Once, after helping her, she took me into a room of the house which had some framed mementos from his service, insignia of the 101st, uniform, pictures, and so on. She explained to me that he was in the battle of the bulge and was seriously wounded in combat. Since things were so dire, they were doing triage for wounded, and he was put in the 'do not save' tent where they were just making them comfortable as they could but had little prospect of survival. A nurse making rounds talked to him and they realized that he was close to someone she knew back home, so she grabbed a doctor and got him to agree to try to save him. Luckily he was able to do so so he could make it back home to meet and marry Helen, and eventually teach me how to split wood one summer.

    • @debrathomas1904
      @debrathomas1904 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      I wish some of today's politicians could hear this man's story. He teaches us all so much about what life is all about. So modest & humble. A real life history book. What a man. So proud of men like him.

    • @Kdpainted
      @Kdpainted 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      That’s an amazing story, so sad so a few of these people are left

    • @elitehacker1416
      @elitehacker1416 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      These are the type of men who should run out country. Not the ones with money that hide behind closed doors. I say this because these men know first hand depending on the decision you make will determine the outcome of your decision.

    • @williamhauswirth5315
      @williamhauswirth5315 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +10

      I had the same experience with my neighbor who lived across the street from me. I was about 9 or 10 years old. I was hiding by his porch playing and he came out and asked me if I ever heard of Bastogne. I said I hadn't. He went on to tell me he was with the 101st in Bastogne. That got me to finding books and reading about it. God bless our Vets!

    • @crystalheart9
      @crystalheart9 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

      That was a fantastic story. Makes me tear up and thank you for sharing.💖

  • @schrisdellopoulos9244
    @schrisdellopoulos9244 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    My father also fought in the Ardennes. Mom told us he had to be hospitalized for months in hospital in Belgium due to frostbite. Doctors warned of amputating a leg. He kept it & went back to the war.
    His discharge papers show five Bronze Stars. Normandy, Ardennes, Northern France, Central Europe, Rhineland.
    His hands were also affected & he often wore cotton gloves w Vaseline on them for skin problems.
    Imagine sleeping in a truck, or hole in the ground, with no fires in the coldest winter of your life. He never talked about the war. As a boy, I'd ask him what he did there.
    "Played a lot of poker." Didn't keep his medals. I never saw them.

  • @BigDonKedick
    @BigDonKedick ปีที่แล้ว +148

    Crazy how sharp this man's mind is at his age. Very fortunate that you were able to get an interview with him before he passed away. 9/11/22 RIP to an amazing human being and an American Hero!

    • @sirchromiumdowns2015
      @sirchromiumdowns2015 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I didn't know he had died. RIP Mr. Martin.

    • @redeye6560
      @redeye6560 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸 🇺🇸

  • @StatmanRN
    @StatmanRN 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    RIP Sir. Men like you inspired me to become a paratrooper. AATW!

  • @henryjumbohead5391
    @henryjumbohead5391 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Thank you for bringing us these men’s stories. It’s important for our future generations to hear directly from these heroes.

  • @pmtsreno7347
    @pmtsreno7347 6 ปีที่แล้ว +346

    This man makes me so proud to be an American. His legacy will never be forgotten, Thank you Pee Wee,for everything.

    • @eazle
      @eazle 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      100 %

    • @dring83
      @dring83 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      sadly i disagree with you it is already forgotten look at the usa today and tell me i am wrong

    • @chirschirs576
      @chirschirs576 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@dring83
      Not here matey, even though he doesnt belong to us his values as well as those of many of your veterans are still held strong here in Oz!!
      We may be your annoying little brother but were still here punching above our weight in the way we always have and always will do.
      We remember our ex-servicemen as well as your veterans and live by their values and enjoy knowing that we are honouring them.
      Our biggest day of memory "Anzac Day" is growing in numbers every year.
      You should make an Anzac holiday one year and share the love

    • @dks13827
      @dks13827 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      How do you like the U.S. right now ?

    • @dks13827
      @dks13827 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      It's forgotten.

  • @Pilbaratrucking
    @Pilbaratrucking 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +4

    What a humble man. God bless you sir.

  • @turtle19dad
    @turtle19dad ปีที่แล้ว +9

    You sir, are a total bad ass!!!! Even at 98!!!! Thank you for my freedom. I know it isn’t free. Because of you men, I was able to serve. OIF Vet here. Honestly I don’t feel worthy of stepping into your boots. Because of you we have what we have today.

    • @scottw5315
      @scottw5315 5 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Iraq was no picnic. Thank you for your service.

  • @pugsly1961
    @pugsly1961 5 ปีที่แล้ว +79

    Thank you. My dad was a young boy in Eindhoven when the americans liberated them in 1945. He immigrated to canada where we were all born. Once again THANK YOU

  • @camswar
    @camswar 2 ปีที่แล้ว +26

    This man did more by the time he hit 25 then most people in their life.
    God bless you Sir.

  • @glennie5345
    @glennie5345 6 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    I’m so thankful for this man. He is a treasure.

  • @sparkleybitz
    @sparkleybitz 5 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    God Bless you Mr Martin you are a top bloke. From South Australia.

  • @logansergi23
    @logansergi23 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    God bless this man it's a privilege to be able to hear this man's story Salute

  • @davidcannon7143
    @davidcannon7143 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    My Dad was with A Company, 502nd PIR, 101ST ABN and was there. He did not talk much about the war. What I learned was from my Mother. He died very young at 49. I am now 77 and to this day he is my hero. After he died I was able to do enough research to know what he went through.

  • @herbertpatron144
    @herbertpatron144 5 ปีที่แล้ว +30

    I have the ut most respect for soldiers like this gentleman , I was also a paratrooper as was my retired late Father who was a Sargent Majour in the Special Forces , and my son was also a paratrooper , "I salute you sir "

    • @schrisdellopoulos9244
      @schrisdellopoulos9244 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sergeant. You were a paratrooper and can't spell that? Find that hard to believe. Is your father retired or late? He can't be both can he?

  • @macnutz4206
    @macnutz4206 5 ปีที่แล้ว +29

    A very honest, and intelligent individual.

  • @joshwise9894
    @joshwise9894 5 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    He’s a hero to me. Thanks for your service!

  • @billhale9740
    @billhale9740 2 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    Had an uncle that was with Patton's army that headed north during the battle of The Bulge to help relieve Bastogne the only story he ever told was while in patrol they came up on a cellar of a house that had a large quantity of potatoes they went back to get a truck to liberate those potatoes and when they came back they encountered a German patrol that wanted those potatoes well my uncle's group won the shootout. My uncle died in an auto accident in 1959 when a woman ran a stop sign amongst some corn fields in Northwest Ohio rest in peace Uncle Howard!

    • @seanodwyer4322
      @seanodwyer4322 ปีที่แล้ว

      Bill- had a neighbour with 12,000 arce farm his family had since 1854 and he won suprme Gallanrty medal in france- w.w.1. and when he got back in 1919 A.D. too new zealand he killed by car near his farm upp in hills. Wonder what type off car it was in 1919 in the Wop's.''

  • @pszczepanski1
    @pszczepanski1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    Mr. Martin, is a symbol of the front line soldier/marine/sailor in WWII. An amazing man. My Dad was lucky enough to be one of the few fighting survivors of the 28th Inf. Div., 110 Inf. Regiment-A Company who became attached with 101st in the defense of Bastogne. Bless all these Veterans .

    • @johnwad7468
      @johnwad7468 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Those Pennsylvania's of the 28th Bloody Bucket Division were one tough bunch. What did the Germans expect would happen from a bunch of pissed off coal miners and lumberjacks?

    • @ToreDL87
      @ToreDL87 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@johnwad7468 🤣 Love the way you said that!
      And yeah, the Germans probably expected a whole lot less than what said miners & lumberjacks gave, that's for sure!

  • @pplusbthrust
    @pplusbthrust 2 ปีที่แล้ว +19

    I was privileged to spend a lot of time with a 101st Airborne Division veteran. Those guys know how to survive and after their training and experience they can handle nearly anything in life. True grit says it.

  • @alanfike
    @alanfike 5 ปีที่แล้ว +44

    I wanna be like Jim "Pee Wee" Martin when I grow old. Completely serious. This is a great man.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      Killing people is NOT a good thing. Wasn't necessary.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Norberto Fontanez Exactly! Yet people like this guy are so quick to fight and kill. Shame!

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Norberto Fontanez Not sure what that even means. That old man was a brainwashed fool.

    • @alanfike
      @alanfike ปีที่แล้ว

      @Norberto Fontanez What you said, with your passive aggressive salutation at the end as if it makes your belligerent statement polite, reveals the stereotype of Baby Boomers that so many of you you're lazy, ignorant, arrogant, and have the nerve to put blame that belongs to you on the shoulders of your children. I don't know a greater shame for a generation, but I feel pretty safe that the younger generations living now won't make at least many of these same mistakes that your generation makes.
      How old were the people who caught Bin Laden, and how old were the people who shrugged him off for a decade while focusing on a war that was sold to capture Bin Laden, but had nothing to do with Bin Laden?
      I think the President of the Baby Boomers, George W. Bush, said that he wasn't concerned with catching Bin Laden at one point, and Bin Laden attacked America on his watch!
      Proof:
      th-cam.com/video/jJmFkbBjbO0/w-d-xo.html
      So tell me, which generation knows what they're doing, and which generation is all too happy to put problems (sometimes create problems, terrorism, sleeping on a mass shooting epidemic, unaccounted murders by police, senseless military action, etc.) that they're tasked to solve, on the next generation?
      Let me simplify that question, because I know your generation doesn't like to read past a headline. IS THE BABY BOOMER GENERATION RESPONSIBLE OR IRRESPONSIBLE?
      Please say "responsible". I'm not finished listing reasons that Baby Boomers don't have any place to be proud of themselves. CLIMATE CHANGE. Yeah, I know your brain just breezed past those words, as if they don't exist. CLIMATE CHANGE. Boomers get confused when they see those words. CLIMATE CHANGE!
      Oh, here let me make this polite. 🍺👈😎 "Go get drunk!"

    • @alanfike
      @alanfike ปีที่แล้ว

      @Norberto Fontanez Stop typing while drunk. Or maybe Boomers just always behave like you're drunk. I guess that's how you were raised.
      🍺👈😎🤮

  • @gabemccall3523
    @gabemccall3523 5 ปีที่แล้ว +183

    Its hard to imagine what these men went through. This generation right now isn’t grateful for all the bloodshed and sacrifice that was spilled and spent for these beautiful rights and great living conditions. What these men did is heroic and should be remembered and respected forever.

    • @chairmanoftheboard11
      @chairmanoftheboard11 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I am very much so. Those guys are real-life heroes big bruh

    • @hugbug4408
      @hugbug4408 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      USA has its flaws. Still the best country innthe world!

    • @conpop6924
      @conpop6924 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@hugbug4408 every country has flaws

    • @conpop6924
      @conpop6924 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Stop assuming a whole generation

    • @andrewdowling8821
      @andrewdowling8821 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Nobody does. Schools are literally trying to take WW2 out the class room ect. It's bullshit

  • @livingwaterutube
    @livingwaterutube 4 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Great man, speaks pure of heart, kids should listen to this instead of watching tv...especially the last part.

  • @TGOIIHome
    @TGOIIHome 6 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    True American and Outstanding Solder!!!!

  • @nickgray6305
    @nickgray6305 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I’ve deployed to 3 combat zones..Iraq, Afghanistan and Africa. The thing that has American units apart from our enemies is the ability for every one in the simple chain of command can do the task of his upper and lower ranks. Our enemies lose a commander, they go into chaos without instruction. We lose an XO or CO with rounds incoming, our squad leaders and even fire team leaders are conditioned to take over at any point and lead the charge to accomplish the mission

    • @rayclark474
      @rayclark474 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      I agree 100%, I am a Marine and I was a jet mech, but every year we would go out to the field for a week to keep trained on small unit tactics. As you said, a Lcpl would work with a Cpl to learn his job, the Cpl would work with a Sgt etc. It was a "next Marine up" mentality.

  • @desertrat6075
    @desertrat6075 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    You would be hard pressed to find a modern day Private First Class who has such a clear understanding of the overall battle space. That he so clearly remembered the finite details of the operations he was involved in is amazing and it was a pleasure to hear this interview. He and his comrades met their Rendezvous with Destiny with heads held high.

  • @tashyole149
    @tashyole149 11 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    A privilege to hear his story!
    Sending love from a history nerd in Australia ❤️

  • @dustinewing7974
    @dustinewing7974 5 ปีที่แล้ว +20

    We need more uncut interviews like this; it's great to feel like you're sitting in the same room as them and listening to the conversation. Thanks to the people that produced this!

  • @2147B
    @2147B 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

    This is so wonderful. What a well spoken man right here. Every word he said had my full attention and he painted a picture. Thank you hero

    • @josephfleer6989
      @josephfleer6989 ปีที่แล้ว

      😂😂😂😂😂

    • @2147B
      @2147B ปีที่แล้ว

      @@josephfleer6989 🤡

  • @Stew357
    @Stew357 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    What a fantastic interview! Mr. Martin is one tough guy and so humble. He must be a helluva good husband, father and grandfather. Thank you for your service Mr. Martin.

  • @thomasstripes9169
    @thomasstripes9169 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    This man as old as he is makes more sense and is more punctual then most people. I loved hearing this man’s story.

    • @mikrosixtysix
      @mikrosixtysix ปีที่แล้ว

      yes sir. he died age 101 in september

  • @stevethecountrycook1227
    @stevethecountrycook1227 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Imagine! A man that demoted himself to a PFC when they called him a sarg! A truely honest man! God Bless You Sir!

    • @RW4X4X3006
      @RW4X4X3006 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Not unusual for a PFC to be running a squad or even a platoon, considering the attrition. Acting promotions were SOP due to experience.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      What a loser.

  • @dout9929
    @dout9929 5 ปีที่แล้ว +48

    I would like to honor this man with great words. But I don’t have words that measure up to him. I will settle for THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE AND SACRIFICE

    • @mr.invisable6919
      @mr.invisable6919 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Well said.

    • @pappap1702
      @pappap1702 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      They truly did save the world.

    • @ceos425
      @ceos425 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is wonderful how Americans say thank you for your service loudly and often however, I fear that an essential element of that thanks should be remembering which seems to be absent.
      Sure those service men appreciate the thanks but I'm certain they would prefer actions that demonstrate remembrance rather than the glib

    • @DarkSygil666
      @DarkSygil666 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Remember what he said he didn't sacrifice anything.

    • @paddypibblet846
      @paddypibblet846 ปีที่แล้ว

      You can literally honor him by punching a Nahtzee!!! If this man can die to stop white people from having safe and homogeneous societies, than you can too comrade.

  • @lowkey213
    @lowkey213 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    He said when you live in a country like this, it’s an obligation to go when your called. And we didn’t go alone. It was an honor to be part of history…
    That’s a real man right there. Thanks for the knowledge old timer. My grandpa died before I became a man, so I want able to have these conversations with him about the WW2. He served on the USSR side. I thought he had left with his brother, but my dad corrected me and said grampa went with his dad, my great grandpa, who didn’t make it back. They rarely talk about these things, so it gets confusing sometimes. That’s why it’s an honor to hear these great men tell their story.

    • @babynautilus
      @babynautilus 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      it makes me so sad how the cold war followed ww2.. in another world i think the usa and ussr could have been great friends 🥹

    • @lowkey213
      @lowkey213 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      @@babynautilus I honestly believe that behind closed doors, we actually are, probably the best allies of each other. Just secretly. I have reasons for believing that, it’s just my opinion. But I really think it’s all propaganda for the masses. They probably laugh at the game they’re playing

  • @dpcNOV59
    @dpcNOV59 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This generation and their allied counterparts saved the world. If they were here now I wonder how they would feel about their heroic efforts.

  • @jamestiscareno4387
    @jamestiscareno4387 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a very fine gentleman. I could listen to his stories endlessly. He makes me so proud to be an American. Thank you Sir 🇺🇸

  • @OldFellaDave
    @OldFellaDave 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I'd have to say - the best interview I've seen with a WW2 Veteran. Mr Martin certainly didn't hold back nor did he allow ANY distortion of his service record or what he did to gain extra kudos or adulation. He told it straight as he experienced it or saw it himself. It's a pity the interviewer didn't get onto the subject of Band of Brothers and his take on it. Based on the rest of what he said I reckon it would have been a real eye opener and very different from Ambrose' book and the TV Series.
    I also confused him with the StSgt Johnny Martin from Easy Company that is in the TV Series. Two different guys.

    • @RW4X4X3006
      @RW4X4X3006 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Remember, Band Of Brothers was just one Company's story within a whole Division.

  • @Spooceaduece
    @Spooceaduece 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Wow. We need more of these kinds of men in today’s society. Forever grateful for this man and his service.

  • @blackdogexcavator21
    @blackdogexcavator21 5 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    It amazes me with the tactical and strategic knowledge this man has as a PFC. With his knowledge and especially his guts, I wonder why he never promoted?

    • @KarlBeeThree
      @KarlBeeThree 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @ Military promotions, at least for enlisted men, are classified as temporary until you've served at that rank for a specified period of time. Only then is your rank classification upgraded to permanent. His permanent rank at that time was PFC. Apparently the war ended and he left the army before his rank of sergeant was upgraded to permanent and he's chosen to identify himself with his permanent rank of PFC.

    • @richardallen3289
      @richardallen3289 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I was in the 101 in the 60es Pee Wee walked my wife down the isle when we got married.Her father is the youngest buried on the beach.Roy U
      .Talhelm.Am honored to be in the company of my heros.Go Gus ,Ed,&the rest of the men who made my life complete

  • @valentinovale5338
    @valentinovale5338 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    An inspirational man , so much to learn from great men like this , bless you sir .

  • @dscrappygolani7981
    @dscrappygolani7981 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    That generation was something else. My god, these men...🙏

  • @finnurth
    @finnurth 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Listening to these stories and recollections is truly intense. Puts things in brutal perspective. Respect!

  • @susantaylor5584
    @susantaylor5584 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you sir! It was an absolute pleasure to hear you speak. Your patriotism is awesome. Your love of this country and pride in having served so honorably is breathtaking! It comes from a time when you were proud to be American! Something people don't feel nowadays. I will be 70 this year and remember when being an American was cool. I still feel that way. This country, warts and all, is still the greatest country on the planet. I am moved to tears when I see our flag waving proudly in the wind. Thank you again sir for warming my heart with the pride and the love. God Bless America! Now and Always!

  • @Shaboomquisa
    @Shaboomquisa 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Thank you for those words about general sink. he was my great grandfather and getting any perspective on him is greatly appreciated.

  • @mikeswilp6001
    @mikeswilp6001 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    No wonder they were America's greatest Generation !

  • @kylerodenberg4089
    @kylerodenberg4089 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    I like this guy. He tells it how it is without a filter. We need more men like him.

  • @darstman2396
    @darstman2396 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    This man is a true patriot. I’m glad I’ve seen this story. Humble man

  • @GraemePayne1967Marine
    @GraemePayne1967Marine 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    "Follow Me!" is ALWAYS far better leadership than "go there!" Much respect for PFC Martin and his fellow paratroopers from this old Marine Sergeant. (Vietnam 1969-1970). Airborne!

  • @pablocortes9880
    @pablocortes9880 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a humble Man! Much respect, and Thank You for protecting our Country! No disrespect, but you are a HERO!

  • @eqcicil
    @eqcicil 6 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    We need more humble hero’s like this man in our country. Thank you for your service!

  • @jonmulack4226
    @jonmulack4226 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    What an amazing man. The tasks he so unselfishly performed, and to honor us with his stories, sides of which may have never been told is incredible. Thank you Mr Martin.

  • @dalezapple2493
    @dalezapple2493 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Pee Wee, you are surely a great man amongst other great men!
    Thank you for bringing an end to WW2.

  • @BasedOkie
    @BasedOkie 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    I have so much respect for this man and his generation. This interview makes me miss men being real men more than ever.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      Real men kill innocent people? I don't agree!

    • @BasedOkie
      @BasedOkie ปีที่แล้ว

      I can’t see the reply.

  • @Mr.Humphrey60
    @Mr.Humphrey60 6 ปีที่แล้ว +21

    Thank you sir 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

  • @stokiestewpotter7956
    @stokiestewpotter7956 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thanks to you Sir,and all of our brave men and girls,all the allies.
    R I P.

  • @TRIChuckles
    @TRIChuckles ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I'm sure his family already knows, but what an incredible human being.
    A hero in every sense of the word. God be with him.
    I wish I could act in this manner.
    I absolutely know I could not.

  • @proxlamuz4591
    @proxlamuz4591 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    His response to sacrifice and heroism was so powerful. What an amazing man. Thank you for your service.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      Nah, he was brainwashed. What a fool.

    • @proxlamuz4591
      @proxlamuz4591 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mattolivier1835 Booo! 👎

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@proxlamuz4591 Haha. Don't cry.

    • @proxlamuz4591
      @proxlamuz4591 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mattolivier1835 sounds like you'd be the one crying when the world was at war and you were drafted to serve this country.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@proxlamuz4591 I wouldn't go fight in a meaningless war. I'd just move to a neutral country. I speak multiple languages and could live in a lot of different countries. People need to learn to respect human life. If the gov't of the country where I was residing tried to make me fight a war that didn't concern me, I'd move to a different country. I have no loyalty to governments. None of them. That's what wars are - governments fighting other governments.

  • @jacobgansley7760
    @jacobgansley7760 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I met Mr. martin several years ago. What a wonderful man. R.I.P. Mr. Martin .

  • @hugbug4408
    @hugbug4408 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    My grandpa was in dday, market garden and wounded in the battle of the bulge. He was with the 82nd airborne as a medic with rank of captain and carried a 30.calcarbine. Medics had the option of carrying a weapon.
    Granpa wasn't enthused in conversing about his rough experiences! Can't say I blame him!

  • @jessicablank6470
    @jessicablank6470 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

    An outstanding man, thank you for the interview. I could listen to him for hours. My only complaint about these interviews is that they are so short.

  • @MGBranco
    @MGBranco 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This interviews are so so important! It will be available for millions to learn something real valuable into eternity! Big thanks for all the work to make this possible and a special thanks to all the MEN that fought the nazis making this a better world to live on! I'm from Portugal (one of the oldest country's in the world that was neutral in this bloody war) and my grandfather was guarding the American base (Lajes) in Açores in middle Atlantic. Maybe he saw some of this fellows on their way to Europe...God Save the Good America!

  • @missymason2377
    @missymason2377 5 ปีที่แล้ว +9

    I'm civilian. I listened. Thankyou for the amazing amazing story.

  • @jack42011
    @jack42011 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    this guy is a fine specimen of a human being.
    Humble, appreciative... Bless his progeny

  • @brettjones8567
    @brettjones8567 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    What a f*cking LEGEND! Thx for your service sir.

  • @johnwad7468
    @johnwad7468 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Awesome interview,as all of them are. Thank you Mr. Martin for your service to our country.

  • @austinharris2961
    @austinharris2961 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    The last 10 minutes he speaks such heavy and powerful words... thank you to all involved in getting this man out to the world. History should never be forgotten and its an honor to hear history first hand from someone who lived it.

  • @DM-oq3kk
    @DM-oq3kk ปีที่แล้ว +2

    It was an honor to be able to hear this man's story.

  • @X0verXDriveX
    @X0verXDriveX ปีที่แล้ว +1

    What he said at the end touched me.

  • @SuperDuetos
    @SuperDuetos 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

    What a great man!!!! Big lesson to learn from him.

  • @jeffnunes9780
    @jeffnunes9780 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

    My deep interest in WWII history didn’t get serious until I was nearly 50. Then I realized how many old veterans I knew or had known. How I wish I would had the nerve to ask questions. Some had been at Normandy, Bulge and Holland. Others in the Pacific and drove landing craft, another won the Silver Star on Iwo and my uncle was an officer at Okinawa, others did mop up and were traumatized. They were heroes among us. I wish I had been able to tell them how much I respect and admire them.

  • @toninobologny
    @toninobologny 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    What a sweat ❤️. Thank you Sir. The sacrifice is losing such a wise man.

  • @jerryhammack1318
    @jerryhammack1318 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    The end of the interview is the most humbling When he says I'm not much! They don't make them like that anymore!

  • @SunnyIlha
    @SunnyIlha 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Mr. Martin's other interviews are also very interesting, informative.
    An awesome Man.
    The Allies achieved Victory due to Men like Him.

  • @shermansquires3979
    @shermansquires3979 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Wow, this guy, what a legend......his closing comments, I have a tear in my eye..

  • @markmaendel5889
    @markmaendel5889 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a incredible class act!!! Thank you for your service!!!

  • @paulk7390
    @paulk7390 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Amazing heroes, our servicemen! Thank you❤️🇺🇸

  • @michaelwhite1247
    @michaelwhite1247 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Mate!!!! What a damn story you have!!!! I love you!!! You are the essence of all that is good!!! I don't know if you are still alive but mate you are just inspirational!!! The world is indeed a better place because of you Sir!!!

  • @bassnut57
    @bassnut57 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    What a marvelous man. I wish more people could see this. Young people.

  • @thetruth1862
    @thetruth1862 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This man was a bad ass , his Christmas Dinner was snow with lemon powder.

  • @Timothythebrewer
    @Timothythebrewer ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Wow, this is by far the best account I have ever heard from a WW2 veteran. What an incredibly humble individual. He may not consider himself a hero, or accept any thanks, but he is for sure a national treasure. This should be mandatory listening for anyone who has served, plans to serve or simply has the privilege to call themself an American.

  • @AstroGremlinAmerican
    @AstroGremlinAmerican 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    When I was younger I was interested in bath escapes, too. Paratroopers in this series are sharp as tacks in their years. The best of the best America trained and sent into battle. The Germans called them "devils in baggy pants."

  • @shovelhead56
    @shovelhead56 ปีที่แล้ว

    Have No Words to verbalize the Awe and Admiration for all of these Soldiers.

  • @whitecaps775
    @whitecaps775 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Bless this man for him humbling attitude and willingness to perform his duties. Our freedoms gained from his actions as well.

  • @kalvaxus
    @kalvaxus 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a goddamn wonderful human being.

  • @tigrisphotosynthesis9796
    @tigrisphotosynthesis9796 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    upsetting hearing the news, rest in peace, jim
    thank you @American Veterans Center
    for preserving this mans words

  • @bebereyes5514
    @bebereyes5514 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    The greatest thing going for thisman is his mindset. I guess the same goes with everyman in his outfit. They were not heroes because all they did was the job they were trained to do. The mark of a true hero!

  • @dylanfry7978
    @dylanfry7978 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    There are no surviving members of East Company left. All have passed on now. Very, very sad. I pray they will not ever be forgotten.

  • @barbararey843
    @barbararey843 6 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I agree with him, leading by example inspires everyone to follow and be loyal, thank you.

    • @nicj.tessier1689
      @nicj.tessier1689 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      Barbara Rey problem is, this new new generation does not understand that nor respect what came before and was done for them

    • @barbararey843
      @barbararey843 6 ปีที่แล้ว

      It is terribly sad. I'm 52 and they stopped teaching history in high school when I was in school. Everything I have learned about the history of our country and the world has been by myself. I was blessed with a father that read one book a week all of his life, so I followed his example. I've been reading about WWI and WWII for about twelve years now. You can't appreciate what you don't know. Also so many young people have no interaction with grandparents and they lose that connection with their history and the country's history. God bless you.

  • @robert5661
    @robert5661 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This is my favorite interview I've seen. Just wow.

  • @irn2flying
    @irn2flying 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    He has the rank of a PVT...However he thinks like a wise general. He has the knowing conviction of a patriot. His heart is that of a lion... the wisdom, humility and maturity of a saint. What a wonderful soul. God bless you and keep you. You will be missed.

  • @shotty2164
    @shotty2164 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    So glad you recorded these stories. They deserved this, at the least.

  • @colbypride2268
    @colbypride2268 5 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    God bless these men!!! This is why you say the pledge and stand for the anthem!!!

    • @peacequiet
      @peacequiet 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      i was a daughter of a Marine survivor of Okinawa and you have captured my statement about saluting our flag. i am 71 and remember vividly
      saluting our flag every morning in grade school. Every person who does not salute our flag needs to watch a few videos of the greatest generation.
      my God what a bunch of great Americans. Saluting our flag is simply saying I love my country and thank you to every man who fought to keep this flag flying.
      Football players and other athletes who kneel make me sick. Go some place else if you don't support our country. Have you noted not one kneeler has given 5 minutes service to our country?

  • @ianscyclewerkz5135
    @ianscyclewerkz5135 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Jim recently passed last month. One hell of a man. Rest easy sir. Your sacrifice will never be forgotten.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว

      Sacrifice? For what? War is NOT good! Killing should be a last resort.

    • @ianscyclewerkz5135
      @ianscyclewerkz5135 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mattolivier1835 I’m sure you have all the answers. Cure world hunger while you’re at it.

    • @mattolivier1835
      @mattolivier1835 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@ianscyclewerkz5135 Never claimed to have all the answers, but I do know that killing humans is not a good idea. You should learn that.

    • @Sweettea_Muddin
      @Sweettea_Muddin ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mattolivier1835 soldier get dirty so the world stays clean.. stfu or join your armed forces pussy

    • @301MG
      @301MG ปีที่แล้ว

      @@mattolivier1835 obviously, it’s not a good idea, don’t be daft, Real American lives were lost and he went to do something…!

  • @malcolmneate5852
    @malcolmneate5852 ปีที่แล้ว

    What a great interview and what an amazing guy who can tell such vivid memories of his experience.

  • @2anthro
    @2anthro 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Well spoken, front line report of history. What a privilege for us!

  • @dwaynekoblitz6032
    @dwaynekoblitz6032 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    This man is a true hero. Even though he’s remained so humble. I am beyond humbled. War is hell. But these men went to hell and back. AND WON!!! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸