I wrote to Jimmy Stewart back in 1976 or so when my husband was stationed in Michigan. I told him how much I enjoyed his movies and what a wonderful man I thought he was. Much to my surprise, he wrote back! He told me about his time in service and that he appreciated all who served. Some years later, probably in 1996, I wrote him again. My sister had given me a book about Mr Stewart, and I sent the book along with a letter as well as a prepaid, return envelope, and asked if he would autograph it for me. He did autograph it! I’m sure his agent took care of handling all the legwork which I appreciate greatly. In addition, the signature on my letter from 1976 and the signature in the book from 1996 are perfect matches. I feel so honored to have that! It is one of my best treasures!
If I may ask, where was he stationed in MI, in the U.P? I live in SE MI. When we were younger. Thank you GOD BLESS YOU 🙏. My former husband was in the Navy.
I am an AF Veteran, and knew of his service. Brig. Gen. Stewart was a monumental man and is a personal hero of mine. We were blessed by his service and presence.
The studio that made it let the copyright expire. So when TV became a thing, and networks were looking for free content to run during the holiday, "It's a Wonderful Life" was snatched up and ran every year during the Christmas season. This exposure on TV to everyone in their homes made it into "one of the greatest films ever made."
I actually knew this about Jimmy Stewart with the exception of the Vietnam mission. You brought up John Wayne he spent his acting career playing the tough macho manly role while Jimmy Stewart lived it out in reality and he also didn't have to tell everyone how he was proud to be an American. Jimmy Stewart's actions said it all. As a veteran myself I have always had the utmost respect for Jimmy Stewart
I grew up in Indiana, Pa. I was at his 75th birthday celebration in the town. All of Indiana , pa is so proud of our most famous son, but I never knew of his war history! I have a whole new respect for this man.
Last year I finally made it to our town’s Jimmy Stewart Museum. It is on the third floor of the Community Center. Above the library. Actually catty- corner from his (now gone) father’s hardware. It makes much of his military career. Room after room of information. I think more prominently than his acting career. There was also a display of Grace Kelly’s dresses she wore in her movie rolls. Really a little gem of a museum.
My dad looked a lot like Mr Stewart, and was a lt. Colonel in the signal.corps. taught me Morse code on his father's telegraph key. When you showed those pictures of Wonderful life, I actually broke down in tears. I'm afraid todays Americans couldn't or wouldn't answer the call to defend our constitution and country . I pray im wrong.😮😮
@@ServraghGiorsalI hope you are correct , that you are wrong. But I fear that you aren't wrong. ?That said, I know some who will. If given proper leadership. Now THAT is where I'm really worried.
Jimmy Stewart and men like him can never be replaced. One of my favorite movies is "It's A Wonderful Life". Now i know thanks to you Nick that Jimmy Stewart was not acting but showing his actual wartime emotions. A true American and a true hero!!! May he R.I.P.
Thank you, So much, for mentioning PTSD in this clip. Also for mentioning the symptoms. Sleeping disorders, VERY bad nightmares, and memory loss, anxiety, alcohol abuse, etc... A few weeks ago a professor asked me about my service in Iraq in the 90's and he is a History professor. I don't remember any of it, and I told him a lie. The whole class was listening and he tried to correct me and then he fell silent. I guess he realized that I am suffering from PTSD and let it go. I only remember my service there in horrible dreams. Dreams that go on for days in my mind in the short amount of time that I actually do sleep. Still, there is hope. I am, after all, attending college at a University. Remaking my life, just as Jimmy Stewart remade his, in spite of the bad memories. I thank God for His love, grace, and mercy, and for heroes like Jimmy Stewart, who came out of the horrors of war and became an example to those of us suffering.
Alberto Garcia, my grandfather was an army field medic in WW1. When he returned, he suffered from "shell shock" for the rest of his life. He was in and out of the VA for years and eventually died there at the age of 52. When I hear of another soldier, like yourself who has a similar trauma. I pray to his memory. His name was Joseph Sander, a patriot, a father, grandfather and we continue on. Bless you and your loved ones.
I used to walk by his father’s hardware store often on my way to the library. There was an ugly gold statue in the window. I asked a friend what it was. She said, oh his son is some kind of an actor. That is “some award” he won. Yes it was an Oscar.
Some of these comments reflect the naiveté that most had about the world that made Stewart so genuine, and everyone's hero. The thing getting lost in the shuffle is that he tosses off everything seemingly effortlessly. He has genius level abilities in several areas, as well as killer determination and drive. He gets a Princeton degree as a backup plan to please his father rather than going to one of the military academies! To be sure, Jimmy has what sounds like a privileged family rearing, but on a closer look, nothing could be further from the truth. His father owns a hardware store in a small Midwestern town! During the Great Depression's deepest depths. That isn't exactly Abercrombie and Fitch in downtown Manhattan! Dad Stewart works his tail off providing a fantastic role model in all respects, inserting himself in the workings of his community of Indiana, Pennsylvania, his church, his family, and whatever else it took to be an extraordinary provider and role model in Depression choked America in the decade of the 1930's, the worst economic times of the first half of the 20th century, which also contained the worst health crisis, of that century, occurring as it did during the USA's belated entry into WW1, the "Spanish flu". There has been nothing like it since, perhaps not in the history of the USA. Dad Stewart was one of the First Parents of those who get credit for being the Greatest Generation. YET, Jimmy Stewart grew to be one of the "first men" of American history. And, BTW, a genuine movie star and idol in the period that created the movie and entertainment industry's Golden Age, from which it has come down quite sadly and dramatically. My Mom thought Jimmy was absolutely tops. She was right about this, too, even though she missed the timing of her idols coming a bit earlier with her favorites coming in the mid 1920's. Please keep up the fantastic work in the social history of America and its most important and exciting people. I think the Greatest Generation doesn't get there without those Great Parents of the greatest generation. They had challenges that were in some ways more difficult than war.!
I do love this deep dive into Stewart's service .....WHAT A REAL MAN!!! Of the likes, we never see again......I fear! I always loved his movies, and I knew he had served, but boy, this was on a whole new level.....RESPECT❣️💯🎯
As a retired vet from the 70's, 80's,90's my service generation knew the story of his career in the service. I am always amazed when I hear something new. Always one of my favorite actors I have often thought someone should make a film about his life with a focus on his military service. With that said who could play him? Maybe there is some new face in Hollywood waiting for that roll. Thanks Jimmy for the great movies, your service and for being a selfless American. God bless and RIP.
Jimmy was around for the creation of SAC, and even did a movie highlighting a mission flying the B-47. I cannot remember the name of the movie, but as a young aircraft/warbird crazy kid, I watched it several times. Sort of a cool thing when the actor can actually fly the jet bomber he is shown flying in a movie.
@@skaterdave03 It was a long time ago that I last watched it. Thanks for the title, which I should of remembered. Lol. I remembered the mission in the B-47, but had forgotten about the B-36. Thanks for your reply!
JS was my Uncle’s superior officer, and I actually have a photo of my Uncle receiving his Distinguished Flying Cross medal, and JS is pinning the same medal on the man standing next to him!
I never knew that about Jimmy Stewart. As a veteran myself, I can really appreciate his service. Thanks for this amazing & informative video of a true American hero! RIP Jimmy, you will never be forgotten!
Thank you so much for showing the entire depth of Jimmy Stewart's performances and his active military service and the heroism and that's why he was so beloved by so many and that's who I was named after Jimmy Stewart and I've been teased all my life about how I have the same name as the famous actor and I said what an honor to be associated with such a terrific and great human being and he never lost his sense of or lost his composure whenever he was interviewed or talked to by any talk show host he was always the epitome of grace and elegance the far beyond anybody of today what an amazing human being and I was glad to be named Jimmy Stewart thank you so much for showing this many people do not know how great did Jimmy Stewart was absolutely brilliant performance and thank you so much for showing this it was great everybody should share this with as many people as they possibly can Jimmy Stewart was truly a great American hero
In a book about aircraft nose art, one of his crew members said Jimmy was always cool-headed, but when the shooting started, he got even MORE cool-headed.
I never imagined that your channel about WWII would become my favorite channel. I watch it for hours everyday. And I’ll say it again. I have learned more about history on here than I ever did in school. Thank you so much. ❤
Wow you may be the greatest person on the planet. And our new favorite subscriber! 🇺🇸🇺🇸👍👍 We're gonna be dropping a very cool WWII badasses video this weekend, you're gonna love it!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you! As a baby boomer I know many of our parents, uncles and neighbors who served in WWII never spoke about it. Many would say the heroes were killed in action. The greatest generation, modest, humble and hard working. Sadly, many are now gone but let us not forget their courage, dedication, commitment, service and humility.
Most are now gone, but the interviews and memoirs are getting serious viewership on podcasts like this one. Another favorite of mine is The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War, with Seth Paridon and Bill Toti. It's become very successful, just passing 5 Million views. They post a new episode every Tuesday.
My parents were Greatest Generation plank holders, a little older than the ones who had been in combat. But they had many friends who were in the thick of it. One was our family doctor who was made a prisoner in the Ardennes German offensive. He weighed 190 lbs at capture, and 135 when liberated in May 1945. He had PTSD. HE kept three freezers full of food at all times. And a pretty full liquor cabinet. Another was a chemical engineer with Dupont having flown his requisite missions over Germany as pilot in one of the heavies, I don't know which command. He said that he and his crew chief kept a running card game going from takeoff on mission one, until they finished their tour. They were amongst one of the few crews that suffered no fatalities during the War. Our chemical engineer friend had pretty severe PTSD, depression that had no real understanding by medical or administrative services during the first decades post war. His tanks went dry in the early sixties when he killed himself. There were others in my parents' circle of friends. I haven't mentioned my two uncles on Mom's side of the family. Mom's brother and the man who married Mom's sister were both Coast Guard Academy graduates, class of 1934, who both were heavily involved in the Battle of the Atlantic against the German U-boat Scourge. One of them was involved in the capture of a weather ship that was sending data back to Germany in November 1944. When my uncle's ship on which he was Executive officer, cornered the German ship, he and a German speaking member of his crew, a Chief Petty Officer, conferred with the German captain and brokered a peaceful surrender. The German captain had to subdue the SS people in his crew before that could be accomplished. That's not the end of the story. The ship was of such sophistication that it was christened into our Navy within two weeks and was back on station as USS Someone by mid December! That German crew was all sent home postwar. Some made their way back via the USNavy, volunteering for sea duty during the invasion of Japan which never needed completing..thank You Lord.
Great job describing his service and how it affected his career. I never tire of hearing about his war service. If there is such a thing as a real America it was Jimmy Stewart
This was great. The depths, darkness are evident in Stewart’s George Bailey. Now I can appreciate what brought about the change in Stewart the actor. Thanks for bringing this side of Jimmy Stewart’s life to light.
Thank you so much for making this video . I’m 49 years old and I’ve loved watching his movies since I was a kid . I remember when he passed away in July of 1997 , I was finishing up my 4 years in the Marines , I was discharged July 12th , 10 days after his death . I was definitely an old soul when it came to movies as a youngster and young adult . I was probably the only 12 year old that watched Lawrence of Arabia and loved it . But my favorite Jimmy Stewart movie that is way underrated in my opinion is Carbine Williams . What a great job he done . Definitely my all time favorite actor and man of character is Jimmy Stewart . What a story and life he lived !
Me. R. I really appreciate you recommending this video about Mr. Stewart. He is one of my alltime favorite actors from Hollywood's Goden Era. Frank Capra is one of my top three favorite directors and I have many of his movies in my film collection. I knew Mr. Stewart was a combat Veteran of WWII and rose to rank of Admiral in the reserves, but I had no idea of the harrowing details you provided about many of his missions. Your presentation style is so informative, natural, and personable. Makes me admire and appreciate and respect Jimmy Stewart even more. Thanks!
Mr Ragone, as a veteran, a pilot, and a kid who grew up watching Jimmy Stewart movies, I can’t thank you enough. This is one of the better things I’ve watched in a long long time. Obviously I had to google you, and see you are from NJ. I’m originally from a small patriotic town in NJ called Audubon. It’s the home of former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, and more importantly, the home of three Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Only a square mile in size, it’s Patriotism always unwavering. You might look into it one day for some of your shorts. Samuel Sampler, William Benfold, Nelson Britton.
There’s no such medal as the congressional medal of honor it’s called the ‘Medal of Honor’ the corrupt scum in congress only give blanket approval to the greatest award our great nation has for Valor “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty”
Fantastic. Thank you so much for this. Jimmy Stewart has always been a hero of mine. Even more so now, after watching this. Lots of details here that I didn't know. God bless all those who selflessly sacrificed/are sacrificing, served and are serving. They are all heroes.
Thank you Nick. My father piloted a B-17 based at Kimbolton England in 1944, 379th Bomb Group, Heavy. He flew 36 missions, received the Air Medal with oak clusters, The Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple heart (from being shot down in France on the old Verdun battlefield).. Thank you for the video you posted about the bomber from Kimbolton, i tried to leave a comment but it did not post. At this writing i am in the UK, having spent Christmas with a kind family i met here (as my father had done the same in 1944 at Christmas). I went to visit Kimbolton and the remains of the main bomber runway, sinking into a farm field. With respect to the draft and enlisting; perhaps my father's story might help you understand Jimmy Stewart's. I can't be sure, but here it is. My dad was working at a warehouse in San Francisco and was already married in early 1942. it was not long after pearl Harbor. He had a low draft number, and he was pretty sure they were going to call him up. So he volunteered. He enlisted with a sense of duty, but also because there was apparently some added possibility of having a little control over his fate in the Army. So he enlisted aiming for the Air Corps. Getting picked for the Air Corps did not happen automatically however, it was definitely a long-shot. He ended up sent to basic training in Texas, with a class of something like 10,000 men. At the start the instructors announced they would be taking only 10 or 12 for the Air Corps. So his experience of "basic" later became a mythic story of self discipline, followed by the pride that he'd made it out of the general population of soldiers and into flight and officer training. There is a long story about training, and it took more than 2 years and a lot of moving around. By Spring 1944 my farther (the late Orin Wesley Adair) was a pilot flying daylight precision bombing missions over France at D-Day+10. The rest of his service in Europe coinciding with the events of the Battle of Germany during 1944, including towing gliders for Operation Market Garden and other iconic battles, 36 bombing missions, and being shot down over France and rescued.... He saw many things which were terrifying and which killed his friends. It nearly killed him many times. They are not my stories to tell, so i won't. I loved the man, and I mention him with respect. I extend this same respect and gratitude to the great James Stewart, a true American hero. Thank you
Wow, thank you for sharing. Your father is a true American hero. Wow, what an extraordinary man. I really appreciate your sharing some of his story. God bless him.
Thank you man thank you for letting the world know about Jimmy Stewart a true icon , hero and a man . And yes you have to compare ask why? because if someone is truly authentic there is no way around that not just a phony Hollywood star but a true star on screen and ground .
Nick - thanks for that incredible story about Jimmy Stewart changing his formation's flight path to protect the 389th, even though they were off-course and their flight commander refused to adjust their heading. This is truly military leadership at its finest, making tough decisions under fire to accomplish the mission and protect the men. These kind of actions are what is taught in leadership manuals and at military academies. Truly heroic and inspiring, in many ways head and shoulders above anything Jimmy accomplished as a movie star. Thanks as always, Nick!!
I'm a us Navy Veteran. My Great Uncle was Drafted into the Marine's During Vietnam . My Great Uncle. Has A Master degree, instead of reporting for His Draft Notice . He went and volunteered for The US Navy and Was Commissioned as A Officer. My prediction Jimmy Stewart Joined the Army after being Drafted, to get the assignment he wanted. When someone is Drafted, there assignment is the needs of the Service . Jimmy Stewart had a better chance of becoming a pilot volunteering for service, then being drafted. RIP Jimmy Stewart , From one veteran to another Thank you for your service.
You were exactly right in the fact I had always known Jimmy Stewart served in WWII but, I never knew in what capacity. Well done! He has always been one of my favorites and now it just solidifies it more. Thank you for sharing!
Served during the Vietnam War and already knew of Colonel Stewards accomplishments he was a true patriot and leader even when he thought he didn’t deserve the recognition which I’m sure he reserved for those that didn’t come home. He was a person who was the epitome of a true American who would do whatever he could to protect his comrades and country. God love ya ❤ Col Jimmy Steward you are immortalized in films for generations to see what a great generation you were.
I am a new fan of yours. I loved Jimmy and being VERY MUCH FAMILIAR WITH PTSD via Vietnam and Middle East, I pray that he received comfort on the other side. You show how much you truly care. Thank you
Jimmy Stewart was an amazing WW II hero. He poured his heart into his movie parts due to his experience in the war. I agree Jimmy Stewart actually played himself in all of his movies. These greatest generation stars can never be replaced. My dad went through a type of PTSD as an enlisted Navy seamsn in WW II. Something he never spoke about.
What a remarkably sincere video of one of our most genuine examples being true to oneself. I still think of how accountable a role JS played in ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’.
i was waiting for you to have a segment on this hero, he was great hero who didn't want the accolades, didn't want to leave but felt compelled to help our Country in the most dire of times, he became a Brigadier General. Selfless Hero
There are so many, who boomers just didn't know about. My mom and dad who were both born in the late 1918/19 would often say watching the T.V. he was in Europe or the Pacific. Being 9 years old I didn't understand but I do now.l The Professor from Gillangan's Island was a decorated war hero out of the Pacfic for an example. Also, Jimmy Stewart had to pull strings also because he was underweight. The one thing that no one has talked about at all concerning Jimmy Stewart, his PTSD because he was noticeably different when he got back. He got through it, but he did it by himself. Respect and R.I.P.
That he had PTSD there is no doubt, and pretty bad, too. The lifeline he was thrown by Frank Capra saved both his career and his life, as he told the story himself. He was saved by people who loved him and didn't talk around the malady, and who must have been way ahead of their time as great listeners and thinkers. We don't have better therapy than that now. It's probably the only treatment there is.
Outstanding coverage of one of the greatest Americans to have ever lived. More than a movie star, more than a war hero, Jimmy put his life on the line when he didn't have to, and not just once. His life deserves an epic biopic. The problem is .... who could possibly play him?
What a great man. I always knew him to be a fine man & wonderful actor but never knew this much about him. People of the highest character don’t blow their own horn. My favorite movie of his was always Spirit of St Louis.
Thank you for this story. It's the best one I have watched so far. Jimmy Stewart, what a man! I am going to try and get some of his movies now. Again thanks 😊
Jimmy Stewart, my favorite actor by far, lived out his war experiences on the screen! Made some of the greatest movies with his great acting skills-- not mentioned-- The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Spirit of St Louis, Broken Arrow, the FBI story, Flight of the Phoenix, etc,etc! Hopefully will never be forgotten especially around Christmas time!
Jimmy Stewart is a legend. I always look forward to your videos. I absolutely love them. Thank you, Sir, for teaching real history that SHOULD be taught in schools. These heroes are all amazing human beings, and their lives should be remembered and celebrated.
I’ve loved Jimmy since I was a little boy.. I was 7-8 years old watching his movies and loving it. My grandpa always said what a bad ass he was. Back when men were men
Truly great stuff. Thank you very much for your heart-felt praise of a real hero. You mentioned Frank Capra several times and he also had an incredible war story. He was 44 years and enlisted just four days after Pearl Harbor, even though he was president of Hollywood's Screen Director's Guild. He was quickly assigned to work directly under the highest ranking general of the Army, George C. Marshall. Marshall gave him the assignment of doing a training film to tell all the American men going into the Army why they are in uniform and being asked to fight. His series of films "Why We Fight" are still great to watch. He was reluctant to take the job, telling Marshall he was not experienced in doing documentaries. Marshall told him he was not experienced in leading an 8 million man Army fighting on nearly all the continents of the world.
GREAT video! Last year I read "Mission: Jimmy Stewart and the Fight for Europe"; can't recommend that book enough! Not only a great biography of Stewart but an excellent historical record of the bombing campaign in Europe.
I remember his story telling on the Johnny Carson show. He always had fantastic stories! What a unique man! Thank you for recommending his war experience to me!
Thanks Nick, wonderful show. I knew something about his wartime service but I didn't know he was a determined man to such a degree, he was truly courageous and isn't that what makes the hero stand out ? Great actor too.
You actually made me love, Jimmy Stewart, even more! That’s quite an accomplishment. I had no idea about Kiel and Bremen. Those targets were really extremely well defended. I think he’s very lucky that he didn’t get killed. I had no idea about the extent of his heroism. There is one thing that I think that you should’ve mentioned. He lost his son in Vietnam. I think the only thing that he said was, he did his duty. When I heard that it didn’t make much sense as a thing to say at your son’s death, but after watching this video, it makes sense. A favorite story of mine is when he attempted to check into a hotel in Italy. As I heard the story, he was trying to check in, and the hotel refused to admit him, it was a fancy hotel in Italy. They said that they didn’t accept Hollywood stars. He stared them down, then he reached into his pocket and pulled out his military identification and said: in that case, I’m not checking in as Jimmy Stewart from Hollywood I’m checking in as Colonel Jimmy Stewart in the US Air Force. How I would’ve liked to of seen the maître d’’s face. They had no choice, but to check him in. Well, it serves them right to eat a little humble pie, because as you say, he was a real war hero. Thanks for this excellent video. It’s very informative and I found it to be very emotionally moving and inspiring. He was truly a great man in so many ways. Thank you and happy new year!
I always knew General Stewart flew with the 8th, but I just finished reading Masters of The Air. WOW he flew 21 combat missions in WWII and even flew combat in Vietnam. Clark Gable also flew with the 8th, as well as Tom Landry & Andy Rooney. While we didn't have anyone in the family in the Air Corp in WWII, we did have one in the Navy & one in the USMC. I feel fortunate to have heard their stories first hand. We also had family members serve in WWI, Korea, Vietnam, & Cold War. Thanks to all now serving, those who have, and those who will in the future. FLY NAVY!!!
He was once appearing on a talk show in the UK called Parkinson, he was getting on a bit by then and he was talking about his dog Beau who had just passed away. He asked the host, Michael Parkinson, if he could read a poem about his dog, he reads it and there wasn’t a dry eye in the country, everyone has had a pet like that and we all know the heartbreak of loosing someone you love like that. What a man. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I'm 72 years old and have seen JS movies my entire life, and this is the first time I've ever heard of his military life. That amazes me. Never had a clue. Wow.
I met Jimmy at the Hollywood-Burbank airport. I was cleaning our corporate aircraft, a Piper Navajo, and he was about to wash his Super Cub. He came over, introduced himself, and asked if he could look inside. I wish I could have offered him some stick time. He was a true gentleman.
I love Jimmy Stewart. One of the best movies I've ever seen is Harvey, made in 1950. It's a comedy about a man and his "visions". All the side characters create the comedy moments, but Jimmy plays the main character whose family are trying to commit him for being insane. He's pleasant and polite throughout the whole thing, and he has some quiet, and quite wonderful speeches. When I hear of his war service and his PTSD I now understand the emotion he puts into these dialogues. Try to see it because it's enchanting and heartfelt and timeless. We've shown it to our kids, who are late 20s now, and they've shown it to their friends and everyone loves it. I used to love John Wayne too, until I found out what a bum he was.
Rear Window is also one of my top 5 favorite movies of all time. He knocked it out of the park, into the stratosphere, and straight to the moon. My gosh what an awesome performance.
You used the adjective "Incredible" several times and absolutely deservedly so. As a matter of fact, Incredible doesn't quite do justice to his life and devotion to his country. Great video. Thanks for making this.
Jimmy Stewart was one of my favorite actors. I use to have a 1940 something Life magazine with him on the front in his uniform. It is said a bounty was on his head and Clark Gabel by German high command, while they were in the Army Air Corps. Certain high ranking Germans were big fans and wanted to meet them..We owe alot to him and all the people that served this country.
To add 2 things, I read that Capra had to talk Jimmy into taking the role, for It's a Wonderful Life, as Jimmy just didn't think he was even able to act again, as you mentioned he was ready to go back to his old life. Also, when he first kissed Donna Reed on screen, during the phone call, it was all shot live, with the other caller on a different set calling in. I read that the kiss, which was only filmed once, was so passionate, that it had to be cut down in order to get past the censors, it was so passionate!!! Now that I know that Jimmy had one foot out the door to go home and actually take over his father's hardware store, and give up his dream of being an actor, just like George Bailey gave up his dream, I'm not surprised at all about the realism that he brought to the role. Side note: Jimmy was 13 years older than Donna Reed, who was a stunning 25 years old, and simply radiant. Which were the same ages my wife and I were when we met. But as a Gulf War vet, I was nothing and Jimmy Stewart and his generation were the real deal. This short should be added to any DVDs of Its a Wonderful Life! I'm going to send it to my kids.
Wow Jimmy Stewart truly a hero . I have always enjoyed his acting. I knew he had served but I didn't know all of this . Much respect for Mr. Stewart. Thank You 😊
Thank you so much for sharing this. This man was one of my heroes even before watching this. You however reinforced why I feel the way I do about him. Just a good man and wonderful spirit.
I knew some of Jimmy Stewart's story, but not all of this. I do know that three of my four great-uncles, two of whom fought in the Pacific Theater, essentially died from the results of PTSD, disguised as severe alcoholism. My 89 year-old mother and 78 year-old aunt still talk of how they all came back changed men from their service in World War II. Excellent video, sir; thank you so much!
I knew his story 50 years ago. Huge fan. I read the book about James Maitland Stewart. It was awesome and told the full story. Great synopsis here, well done
First time I’ve watched the channel. Superb and interesting presentation of the war hero Jimmy Steward. A humble man of integrity and bravery! Excellent Actor as well! 👍
Thank you for such a well done and beautiful video and tribute. Jimmy Stewart has always been one of my favorite actors. Now I like him even better! My grandpa served in the Navy in WW2 (Pacific Theater) and I always feel a kinship and gratitude to those who serve. He also never talked much about what he saw and refused any praise. They were truly the Greatest Generation. Thank you for educating us all. I appreciate the respectful and knowledgeable manner in which you present your material.
Nick!!! Thanks SO much! This was delightful! You are CORRECT, Jimmy went back & enlisted, so he could select & be eligible for the air corp. He was making sure he ended up in the skies instead of the trenches. A childhood & lifelong friend ' s father served as Jimmy Stewart 's navigator for little over a year, eleven missions.
Thanks so much for sharing all this history on Jimmy Stewart. Just love all his movies and the fact how much he loves America ❤ I love all the history you share.
74 years old and have loved Jimmy Stewart since I was a teenager. You did a great job on researching Stewart’s life and accomplishments. That being said you have succumbed to the old (and proven false story) of Wayne not being in the war. Simply google the question, I like you and many others thought this was the case for many years. His studio also had a hand in his exclusion.
Thanks. Wayne is open to discussion. My POV is that he could have tried harder. I hold him up to the Jimmy Stewart standard. But you raise a fair point, too.
I wrote to Jimmy Stewart back in 1976 or so when my husband was stationed in Michigan. I told him how much I enjoyed his movies and what a wonderful man I thought he was. Much to my surprise, he wrote back! He told me about his time in service and that he appreciated all who served.
Some years later, probably in 1996, I wrote him again. My sister had given me a book about Mr Stewart, and I sent the book along with a letter as well as a prepaid, return envelope, and asked if he would autograph it for me. He did autograph it! I’m sure his agent took care of handling all the legwork which I appreciate greatly. In addition, the signature on my letter from 1976 and the signature in the book from
1996 are perfect matches. I feel so honored to have that! It is one of my best treasures!
Wow! What an amazing amazing man!!!!!!!!
Cool
If I may ask, where was he stationed in MI, in the U.P?
I live in SE MI. When we were younger. Thank you
GOD BLESS YOU 🙏. My former husband was in the Navy.
That’s really awesome
What a fabulous story.
I am an AF Veteran, and knew of his service. Brig. Gen. Stewart was a monumental man and is a personal hero of mine. We were blessed by his service and presence.
Amen!
To quote a period retort for"right on!" "You can say that again!"
Mad when it's a wonderful life came out it didn't do great at the box office and then went on to become one of the greatest films ever made
Yup a classic now!
The film was remastered then became a classic. It's original form failed.
The original was so so
Ah ok , it's an all time classic now though
The studio that made it let the copyright expire. So when TV became a thing, and networks were looking for free content to run during the holiday, "It's a Wonderful Life" was snatched up and ran every year during the Christmas season. This exposure on TV to everyone in their homes made it into "one of the greatest films ever made."
I actually knew this about Jimmy Stewart with the exception of the Vietnam mission. You brought up John Wayne he spent his acting career playing the tough macho manly role while Jimmy Stewart lived it out in reality and he also didn't have to tell everyone how he was proud to be an American. Jimmy Stewart's actions said it all. As a veteran myself I have always had the utmost respect for Jimmy Stewart
Thank you for your service!
John Wayne Tried But Failed To Enter Service Due To me Medical Tests.
@@mikechevreaux7607 yeah that's the story
John Wayne was an asshole bigot.
@@juniormendoza657It's true. His gait wasn't fake.
I grew up in Indiana, Pa. I was at his 75th birthday celebration in the town. All of Indiana , pa is so proud of our most famous son, but I never knew of his war history! I have a whole new respect for this man.
Wow so cool!!!!!
I was there on Main Street I believe it was 1983. I was eight years old. I grew up in Home PA went to School in Marion center.
Last year I finally made it to our town’s Jimmy Stewart Museum. It is on the third floor of the Community Center. Above the library. Actually catty- corner from his (now gone) father’s hardware.
It makes much of his military career. Room after room of information. I think more prominently than his acting career.
There was also a display of Grace Kelly’s dresses she wore in her movie rolls.
Really a little gem of a museum.
True American Hero! One of the biggest stars in Hollywood - who walked away from it all - and into combat when his Nation needed him.
Thanks!!!!
A Very Brave and Humble man , and the best actor in Hollywood..
True on both!
Don't forget audie Murphy. And Charles Bronson
Didn't Clark Gable join after his wife, Carole Lombard died while on a bond raising tour. Oops, you just mentioned him😮😮
My dad looked a lot like Mr Stewart, and was a lt. Colonel in the signal.corps. taught me Morse code on his father's telegraph key. When you showed those pictures of Wonderful life, I actually broke down in tears. I'm afraid todays Americans couldn't or wouldn't answer the call to defend our constitution and country . I pray im wrong.😮😮
@@ServraghGiorsalI hope you are correct , that you are wrong. But I fear that you aren't wrong. ?That said, I know some who will. If given proper leadership. Now THAT is where I'm really worried.
Jimmy Stewart and men like him can never be replaced. One of my favorite movies is "It's A Wonderful Life". Now i know thanks to you
Nick that Jimmy Stewart was not acting but showing his actual wartime emotions. A true American and a true hero!!! May he R.I.P.
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️
Thank you, So much, for mentioning PTSD in this clip. Also for mentioning the symptoms. Sleeping disorders, VERY bad nightmares, and memory loss, anxiety, alcohol abuse, etc... A few weeks ago a professor asked me about my service in Iraq in the 90's and he is a History professor. I don't remember any of it, and I told him a lie. The whole class was listening and he tried to correct me and then he fell silent. I guess he realized that I am suffering from PTSD and let it go. I only remember my service there in horrible dreams. Dreams that go on for days in my mind in the short amount of time that I actually do sleep. Still, there is hope. I am, after all, attending college at a University. Remaking my life, just as Jimmy Stewart remade his, in spite of the bad memories. I thank God for His love, grace, and mercy, and for heroes like Jimmy Stewart, who came out of the horrors of war and became an example to those of us suffering.
Wow, thank you for sharing, and thank you for your service. I hope you are doing well. May God continue to bless you. 🙏🏼
❤❤❤
Thank you for your service and sacrifice. May you soon find peace, may the nightmares end. 💜
God bless you and thanks for your service
Alberto Garcia, my grandfather was an army field medic in WW1. When he returned, he suffered from "shell shock" for the rest of his life. He was in and out of the VA for years and eventually died there at the age of 52.
When I hear of another soldier, like yourself who has a similar trauma. I pray to his memory.
His name was Joseph Sander, a patriot, a father, grandfather and we continue on.
Bless you and your loved ones.
I used to walk by his father’s hardware store often on my way to the library.
There was an ugly gold statue in the window. I asked a friend what it was. She said, oh his son is some kind of an actor. That is “some award” he won.
Yes it was an Oscar.
Wow! That's amazing! Thanks for sharing!
Some of these comments reflect the naiveté that most had about the world that made Stewart so genuine, and everyone's hero. The thing getting lost in the shuffle is that he tosses off everything seemingly effortlessly. He has genius level abilities in several areas, as well as killer determination and drive. He gets a Princeton degree as a backup plan to please his father rather than going to one of the military academies! To be sure, Jimmy has what sounds like a privileged family rearing, but on a closer look, nothing could be further from the truth. His father owns a hardware store in a small Midwestern town! During the Great Depression's deepest depths. That isn't exactly Abercrombie and Fitch in downtown Manhattan! Dad Stewart works his tail off providing a fantastic role model in all respects, inserting himself in the workings of his community of Indiana, Pennsylvania, his church, his family, and whatever else it took to be an extraordinary provider and role model in Depression choked America in the decade of the 1930's, the worst economic times of the first half of the 20th century, which also contained the worst health crisis, of that century, occurring as it did during the USA's belated entry into WW1, the "Spanish flu". There has been nothing like it since, perhaps not in the history of the USA. Dad Stewart was one of the First Parents of those who get credit for being the Greatest Generation. YET, Jimmy Stewart grew to be one of the "first men" of American history. And, BTW, a genuine movie star and idol in the period that created the movie and entertainment industry's Golden Age, from which it has come down quite sadly and dramatically. My Mom thought Jimmy was absolutely tops. She was right about this, too, even though she missed the timing of her idols coming a bit earlier with her favorites coming in the mid 1920's.
Please keep up the fantastic work in the social history of America and its most important and exciting people. I think the Greatest Generation doesn't get there without those Great Parents of the greatest generation. They had challenges that were in some ways more difficult than war.!
"Ugly gold statue!" Jimmy couldn't have said it better.
I do love this deep dive into Stewart's service .....WHAT A REAL MAN!!! Of the likes, we never see again......I fear! I always loved his movies, and I knew he had served, but boy, this was on a whole new level.....RESPECT❣️💯🎯
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️♥️🇺🇸
As a retired vet from the 70's, 80's,90's my service generation knew the story of his career in the service. I am always amazed when I hear something new. Always one of my favorite actors I have often thought someone should make a film about his life with a focus on his military service. With that said who could play him? Maybe there is some new face in Hollywood waiting for that roll. Thanks Jimmy for the great movies, your service and for being a selfless American. God bless and RIP.
Would love to see a movie on his life. Not sure who could possibly play him!
Amen.
@@ThisDate
Exactly what I said aloud & was going to post.
as retired Strategic air command, I learned about Jimmy Stewart... His portrait was in every command center
Wow. Amazing!
LawrenW ....... "retired Strategic Air Command' ..... thank you for your service and important work for our military.
Jimmy was around for the creation of SAC, and even did a movie highlighting a mission flying the B-47. I cannot remember the name of the movie, but as a young aircraft/warbird crazy kid, I watched it several times. Sort of a cool thing when the actor can actually fly the jet bomber he is shown flying in a movie.
It's called Strategic Air Command. His character flew the B-36 and B-47. @ronfullerton3162
@@skaterdave03 It was a long time ago that I last watched it. Thanks for the title, which I should of remembered. Lol. I remembered the mission in the B-47, but had forgotten about the B-36. Thanks for your reply!
JS was my Uncle’s superior officer, and I actually have a photo of my Uncle receiving his Distinguished Flying Cross medal, and JS is pinning the same medal on the man standing next to him!
Wow amazing!!!
Wow, what a great story!!!!
My dad was also in the same squadron as navigator and always had such respect for JS
❤ What a TREASURE! ❤ 😊
@@williamheywood4219what squadron he was in?
I never knew that about Jimmy Stewart. As a veteran myself, I can really appreciate his service. Thanks for this amazing & informative video of a true American hero! RIP Jimmy, you will never be forgotten!
Thank you for your service!
Thank you so much for showing the entire depth of Jimmy Stewart's performances and his active military service and the heroism and that's why he was so beloved by so many and that's who I was named after Jimmy Stewart and I've been teased all my life about how I have the same name as the famous actor and I said what an honor to be associated with such a terrific and great human being and he never lost his sense of or lost his composure whenever he was interviewed or talked to by any talk show host he was always the epitome of grace and elegance the far beyond anybody of today what an amazing human being and I was glad to be named Jimmy Stewart thank you so much for showing this many people do not know how great did Jimmy Stewart was absolutely brilliant performance and thank you so much for showing this it was great everybody should share this with as many people as they possibly can Jimmy Stewart was truly a great American hero
Beautifully said! Thank you! ❤️❤️❤️❤️
In a book about aircraft nose art, one of his crew members said Jimmy was always cool-headed, but when the shooting started, he got even MORE cool-headed.
Wow! Amazing!
Betcha he got even more laconic, too...😊
I never imagined that your channel about WWII would become my favorite channel. I watch it for hours everyday. And I’ll say it again. I have learned more about history on here than I ever did in school. Thank you so much. ❤
Wow you may be the greatest person on the planet. And our new favorite subscriber! 🇺🇸🇺🇸👍👍 We're gonna be dropping a very cool WWII badasses video this weekend, you're gonna love it!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
@@ThisDate I can’t wait till the weekend. ❤️
❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you! As a baby boomer I know many of our parents, uncles and neighbors who served in WWII never spoke about it. Many would say the heroes were killed in action. The greatest generation, modest, humble and hard working. Sadly, many are now gone but let us not forget their courage, dedication, commitment, service and humility.
Beautifully said❤️❤️🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
Most are now gone, but the interviews and memoirs are getting serious viewership on podcasts like this one. Another favorite of mine is The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War, with Seth Paridon and Bill Toti. It's become very successful, just passing 5 Million views. They post a new episode every Tuesday.
My parents were Greatest Generation plank holders, a little older than the ones who had been in combat. But they had many friends who were in the thick of it. One was our family doctor who was made a prisoner in the Ardennes German offensive. He weighed 190 lbs at capture, and 135 when liberated in May 1945. He had PTSD. HE kept three freezers full of food at all times. And a pretty full liquor cabinet.
Another was a chemical engineer with Dupont having flown his requisite missions over Germany as pilot in one of the heavies, I don't know which command. He said that he and his crew chief kept a running card game going from takeoff on mission one, until they finished their tour. They were amongst one of the few crews that suffered no fatalities during the War. Our chemical engineer friend had pretty severe PTSD, depression that had no real understanding by medical or administrative services during the first decades post war. His tanks went dry in the early sixties when he killed himself. There were others in my parents' circle of friends. I haven't mentioned my two uncles on Mom's side of the family. Mom's brother and the man who married Mom's sister were both Coast Guard Academy graduates, class of 1934, who both were heavily involved in the Battle of the Atlantic against the German U-boat Scourge. One of them was involved in the capture of a weather ship that was sending data back to Germany in November 1944. When my uncle's ship on which he was Executive officer, cornered the German ship, he and a German speaking member of his crew, a Chief Petty Officer, conferred with the German captain and brokered a peaceful surrender. The German captain had to subdue the SS people in his crew before that could be accomplished. That's not the end of the story. The ship was of such sophistication that it was christened into our Navy within two weeks and was back on station as USS Someone by mid December! That German crew was all sent home postwar. Some made their way back via the USNavy, volunteering for sea duty during the invasion of Japan which never needed completing..thank You Lord.
Great job describing his service and how it affected his career. I never tire of hearing about his war service. If there is such a thing as a real America it was Jimmy Stewart
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
This was great. The depths, darkness are evident in Stewart’s George Bailey. Now I can appreciate what brought about the change in Stewart the actor. Thanks for bringing this side of Jimmy Stewart’s life to light.
Thank you for watching!
Thank you so much for making this video . I’m 49 years old and I’ve loved watching his movies since I was a kid . I remember when he passed away in July of 1997 , I was finishing up my 4 years in the Marines , I was discharged July 12th , 10 days after his death . I was definitely an old soul when it came to movies as a youngster and young adult . I was probably the only 12 year old that watched Lawrence of Arabia and loved it . But my favorite Jimmy Stewart movie that is way underrated in my opinion is
Carbine Williams . What a great job he done . Definitely my all time favorite actor and man of character is Jimmy Stewart .
What a story and life he lived !
Thank you! And thank you for your service! Semper Fi!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Me. R. I really appreciate you recommending this video about Mr. Stewart. He is one of my alltime favorite actors from Hollywood's Goden Era. Frank Capra is one of my top three favorite directors and I have many of his movies in my film collection. I knew Mr. Stewart was a combat Veteran of WWII and rose to rank of Admiral in the reserves, but I had no idea of the harrowing details you provided about many of his missions. Your presentation style is so informative, natural, and personable. Makes me admire and appreciate and respect Jimmy Stewart even more. Thanks!
Wow thank you! ❤️❤️❤️ Really appreciate it!!!!!!!!
Jimmy is one of my favorite humans. He was a real man.
P.s. Winchester 73 and it’s a wonderful life are my favorites
The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance
Both excellent!
Anatomy of a Murder.
@@milt6208The last Hollywood pic of this video…Rope.
The Rare Breed was a great film also ❤
Now that is a Great American Icon for all young people to emulate. Just a superb storyline and video.
Thanks!
Mr Ragone, as a veteran, a pilot, and a kid who grew up watching Jimmy Stewart movies, I can’t thank you enough. This is one of the better things I’ve watched in a long long time. Obviously I had to google you, and see you are from NJ. I’m originally from a small patriotic town in NJ called Audubon. It’s the home of former Ravens quarterback Joe Flacco, and more importantly, the home of three Congressional Medal of Honor recipients. Only a square mile in size, it’s Patriotism always unwavering. You might look into it one day for some of your shorts. Samuel Sampler, William Benfold, Nelson Britton.
Wow thank you! I'm Rutgers all the way! Will definitely do something on Audubon. And Thank You for your service! 🇺🇸🇺🇸
There is a ship named after Edward Benfold. Thank you so much, from a fellow Rutgers alumni!
♥️♥️♥️
There’s no such medal as the congressional medal of honor it’s called the ‘Medal of Honor’ the corrupt scum in congress only give blanket approval to the greatest award our great nation has for Valor “Above and Beyond the Call of Duty”
Fantastic. Thank you so much for this. Jimmy Stewart has always been a hero of mine. Even more so now, after watching this. Lots of details here that I didn't know. God bless all those who selflessly sacrificed/are sacrificing, served and are serving. They are all heroes.
Thank you for watching❤️❤️🇺🇸🇺🇸🙏🏼🙏🏼
Thank you for sharing. I have a deeper appreciation of Jimmy Stewart. He was a brave man. RIP Jimmy you are sadly missed.
Beautifully said, thank you!
Thank you. That was great
I served in the Royal Navy for 27 years & i feel humble😢
Thank you for your service!!!
Thank you Nick. My father piloted a B-17 based at Kimbolton England in 1944, 379th Bomb Group, Heavy. He flew 36 missions, received the Air Medal with oak clusters, The Distinguished Flying Cross, Purple heart (from being shot down in France on the old Verdun battlefield).. Thank you for the video you posted about the bomber from Kimbolton, i tried to leave a comment but it did not post. At this writing i am in the UK, having spent Christmas with a kind family i met here (as my father had done the same in 1944 at Christmas). I went to visit Kimbolton and the remains of the main bomber runway, sinking into a farm field. With respect to the draft and enlisting; perhaps my father's story might help you understand Jimmy Stewart's. I can't be sure, but here it is. My dad was working at a warehouse in San Francisco and was already married in early 1942. it was not long after pearl Harbor. He had a low draft number, and he was pretty sure they were going to call him up. So he volunteered. He enlisted with a sense of duty, but also because there was apparently some added possibility of having a little control over his fate in the Army. So he enlisted aiming for the Air Corps. Getting picked for the Air Corps did not happen automatically however, it was definitely a long-shot. He ended up sent to basic training in Texas, with a class of something like 10,000 men. At the start the instructors announced they would be taking only 10 or 12 for the Air Corps. So his experience of "basic" later became a mythic story of self discipline, followed by the pride that he'd made it out of the general population of soldiers and into flight and officer training. There is a long story about training, and it took more than 2 years and a lot of moving around. By Spring 1944 my farther (the late Orin Wesley Adair) was a pilot flying daylight precision bombing missions over France at D-Day+10. The rest of his service in Europe coinciding with the events of the Battle of Germany during 1944, including towing gliders for Operation Market Garden and other iconic battles, 36 bombing missions, and being shot down over France and rescued.... He saw many things which were terrifying and which killed his friends. It nearly killed him many times. They are not my stories to tell, so i won't. I loved the man, and I mention him with respect. I extend this same respect and gratitude to the great James Stewart, a true American hero. Thank you
Wow, thank you for sharing. Your father is a true American hero. Wow, what an extraordinary man. I really appreciate your sharing some of his story. God bless him.
Thank you man thank you for letting the world know about Jimmy Stewart a true icon , hero and a man . And yes you have to compare ask why? because if someone is truly authentic there is no way around that not just a phony Hollywood star but a true star on screen and ground .
Beautifully said❤️❤️❤️ thank you!
When men were real men.
Masculinity is not toxic.
He was a true legend!
And gender confusion was not a thing. I think that started when men, and their mothers, were trying to find ways out of the SS Draft.
Nick - thanks for that incredible story about Jimmy Stewart changing his formation's flight path to protect the 389th, even though they were off-course and their flight commander refused to adjust their heading.
This is truly military leadership at its finest, making tough decisions under fire to accomplish the mission and protect the men. These kind of actions are what is taught in leadership manuals and at military academies. Truly heroic and inspiring, in many ways head and shoulders above anything Jimmy accomplished as a movie star.
Thanks as always, Nick!!
Thank you!!!!!!
I'm a us Navy Veteran. My Great Uncle was Drafted into the Marine's During Vietnam . My Great Uncle. Has A Master degree, instead of reporting for His Draft Notice . He went and volunteered for The US Navy and Was Commissioned as A Officer. My prediction Jimmy Stewart Joined the Army after being Drafted, to get the assignment he wanted. When someone is Drafted, there assignment is the needs of the Service . Jimmy Stewart had a better chance of becoming a pilot volunteering for service, then being drafted. RIP Jimmy Stewart , From one veteran to another Thank you for your service.
Wow thank you for clarifying! AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SERVICE🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸❤️❤️❤️❤️
You were exactly right in the fact I had always known Jimmy Stewart served in WWII but, I never knew in what capacity. Well done! He has always been one of my favorites and now it just solidifies it more. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you for watching ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Served during the Vietnam War and already knew of Colonel Stewards accomplishments he was a true patriot and leader even when he thought he didn’t deserve the recognition which I’m sure he reserved for those that didn’t come home. He was a person who was the epitome of a true American who would do whatever he could to protect his comrades and country. God love ya ❤ Col Jimmy Steward you are immortalized in films for generations to see what a great generation you were.
Beautifully said!
I am a new fan of yours. I loved Jimmy and being VERY MUCH FAMILIAR WITH PTSD via Vietnam and Middle East, I pray that he received comfort on the other side. You show how much you truly care. Thank you
Thank you❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Jimmy Stewart is a treasure.
It's a Wonderful Life is the most cinematically perfect movie I have ever seen.
Agree!
Jimmy Stewart was an amazing WW II hero. He poured his heart into his movie parts due to his experience in the war. I agree Jimmy Stewart actually played himself in all of his movies. These greatest generation stars can never be replaced. My dad went through a type of PTSD as an enlisted Navy seamsn in WW II. Something he never spoke about.
Beautifully said♥️♥️
What a remarkably sincere video of one of our most genuine examples being true to oneself.
I still think of how accountable a role JS played in ‘The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance’.
Love that movie. And thank you!❤️
i was waiting for you to have a segment on this hero, he was great hero who didn't want the accolades, didn't want to leave but felt compelled to help our Country in the most dire of times, he became a Brigadier General. Selfless Hero
Amazing man!
There are so many, who boomers just didn't know about. My mom and dad who were both born in the late 1918/19 would often say watching the T.V. he was in Europe or the Pacific. Being 9 years old I didn't understand but I do now.l
The Professor from Gillangan's Island was a decorated war hero out of the Pacfic for an example. Also, Jimmy Stewart had to pull strings also because he was underweight. The one thing that no one has talked about at all concerning Jimmy Stewart, his PTSD because he was noticeably different when he got back. He got through it, but he did it by himself. Respect and R.I.P.
True. I talked about him being underweight half way through the video!🙀🙀🙀🤔🤔🤔
That he had PTSD there is no doubt, and pretty bad, too. The lifeline he was thrown by Frank Capra saved both his career and his life, as he told the story himself. He was saved by people who loved him and didn't talk around the malady, and who must have been way ahead of their time as great listeners and thinkers. We don't have better therapy than that now. It's probably the only treatment there is.
I think Lionel Barrymore talked him into acting again.
Outstanding coverage of one of the greatest Americans to have ever lived. More than a movie star, more than a war hero, Jimmy put his life on the line when he didn't have to, and not just once. His life deserves an epic biopic. The problem is .... who could possibly play him?
Great question. Not sure who could!
In a day when the word "hero"...or "legend"...is tossed about, Brig. Gen. Stewart was the absolute best. He will always be my highest level hero.
Beautifully said!♥️♥️♥️♥️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Thank you for all the stories, both famous and just regular people. So many heros not shirking their duty.
Thank you for watching!
What a great man. I always knew him to be a fine man & wonderful actor but never knew this much about him. People of the highest character don’t blow their own horn. My favorite movie of his was always Spirit of St Louis.
Beautifully said!
It was so great the Mr Stewart got to play Lindbergh. Spirit of St Louis is kind of a forgotten movie these days, which is unfortunate.
Thank you for this story. It's the best one I have watched so far. Jimmy Stewart, what a man!
I am going to try and get some of his movies now.
Again thanks 😊
Awesome tell me which movies!
@ThisDate have just ordered from eBay a collection including - Shenan doah Rear Window, It's a Wonderful Life and Vertigo.
RIP James. You are loved by millions and millions
Beautifully said
He was ..i still play his movies ..Wonderful life ..Glen Miller Story ..just to name two ..Rest In Peace Jimmy 🙏
@@angelamary9493 ❤️👍
Thank you, Nick. This was very well researched and produced. I learned a lot, and I'm going to show this to my sons.
Awesome ♥️♥️♥️♥️
Unbelievable courage! Thank you so much!
Thanks!
Jimmy Stewart, my favorite actor by far, lived out his war experiences on the screen! Made some of the greatest movies with his great acting skills-- not mentioned-- The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance, Spirit of St Louis, Broken Arrow, the FBI story, Flight of the Phoenix, etc,etc! Hopefully will never be forgotten especially around Christmas time!
One of the all time greats!
Thanks for that. Really enhanced my appreciation for a very special person. War brought out his true character.
Thank you for watching, we appreciate it❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Jimmy Stewart is a legend. I always look forward to your videos. I absolutely love them. Thank you, Sir, for teaching real history that SHOULD be taught in schools. These heroes are all amazing human beings, and their lives should be remembered and celebrated.
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Hi Nick - Great story - and of course particularly his willingness to serve as an enlisted man in such an important and dangerous role!
Thank you!
I’ve loved Jimmy since I was a little boy.. I was 7-8 years old watching his movies and loving it. My grandpa always said what a bad ass he was. Back when men were men
I agree. I hope it came through in the video!
Best actor ever. And heroic too! Very interesting; love him even more now!
Thanks!
What a beautifully fitting tribute to an American treasure. Thank you, well done sir.
Thank you! ❤️❤️ check out our tribute to John Basilone. You'll love it.
Truly great stuff. Thank you very much for your heart-felt praise of a real hero. You mentioned Frank Capra several times and he also had an incredible war story. He was 44 years and enlisted just four days after Pearl Harbor, even though he was president of Hollywood's Screen Director's Guild. He was quickly assigned to work directly under the highest ranking general of the Army, George C. Marshall. Marshall gave him the assignment of doing a training film to tell all the American men going into the Army why they are in uniform and being asked to fight. His series of films "Why We Fight" are still great to watch. He was reluctant to take the job, telling Marshall he was not experienced in doing documentaries. Marshall told him he was not experienced in leading an 8 million man Army fighting on nearly all the continents of the world.
Wow didn't know all that detail. Amazing. Maybe ill do a video on Capra! Thanks! Nick
An American Hero to be proud of!❤
Amen♥️♥️♥️
GREAT video! Last year I read "Mission: Jimmy Stewart and the Fight for Europe"; can't recommend that book enough! Not only a great biography of Stewart but an excellent historical record of the bombing campaign in Europe.
Thank you❤️❤️❤️❤️
I remember his story telling on the Johnny Carson show. He always had fantastic stories! What a unique man!
Thank you for recommending his war experience to me!
Amazing man
Jimmy Stewart is the example every man should follow. A real soldier of Christ. RIP Sir.
Amen!
Yep, Christ loved war and killing.
@@danacoleman4007
Only when necessary. He sees the whole picture, as only He can.
Maranatha ✝️🕊.
@@robynm7221 😂😂😂
Thanks Nick, wonderful show. I knew something about his wartime service but I didn't know he was a determined man to such a degree, he was truly courageous and isn't that what makes the hero stand out ? Great actor too.
Amazing right. Thank you for watching ❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I could listen to stories about Jimmy Stewart all day..
Me too!!!!
Good men do not boast about what they have done. Jimmy was a good man and a Great War hero
🇺🇸🫡
Amen!
You actually made me love, Jimmy Stewart, even more! That’s quite an accomplishment. I had no idea about Kiel and Bremen. Those targets were really extremely well defended. I think he’s very lucky that he didn’t get killed. I had no idea about the extent of his heroism. There is one thing that I think that you should’ve mentioned. He lost his son in Vietnam. I think the only thing that he said was, he did his duty. When I heard that it didn’t make much sense as a thing to say at your son’s death, but after watching this video, it makes sense.
A favorite story of mine is when he attempted to check into a hotel in Italy. As I heard the story, he was trying to check in, and the hotel refused to admit him, it was a fancy hotel in Italy. They said that they didn’t accept Hollywood stars. He stared them down, then he reached into his pocket and pulled out his military identification and said: in that case, I’m not checking in as Jimmy Stewart from Hollywood I’m checking in as Colonel Jimmy Stewart in the US Air Force. How I would’ve liked to of seen the maître d’’s face. They had no choice, but to check him in. Well, it serves them right to eat a little humble pie, because as you say, he was a real war hero. Thanks for this excellent video. It’s very informative and I found it to be very emotionally moving and inspiring. He was truly a great man in so many ways. Thank you and happy new year!
Wow love that story! Thanks for sharing!
I always knew General Stewart flew with the 8th, but I just finished reading Masters of The Air. WOW he flew 21 combat missions in WWII and even flew combat in Vietnam. Clark Gable also flew with the 8th, as well as Tom Landry & Andy Rooney. While we didn't have anyone in the family in the Air Corp in WWII, we did have one in the Navy & one in the USMC. I feel fortunate to have heard their stories first hand. We also had family members serve in WWI, Korea, Vietnam, & Cold War. Thanks to all now serving, those who have, and those who will in the future. FLY NAVY!!!
Amazing man!!!!!
I had no idea, thank you bro, my father and I use to love his films, we use to refer to him as Mr Shakey voice😂
Haha love it!
As a London cabbie I bang on about Jimmy Stewart and young Americans some times say who, that’s criminal
Wow. Thank you for watching! And teaching those American tourists!
He was once appearing on a talk show in the UK called Parkinson, he was getting on a bit by then and he was talking about his dog Beau who had just passed away. He asked the host, Michael Parkinson, if he could read a poem about his dog, he reads it and there wasn’t a dry eye in the country, everyone has had a pet like that and we all know the heartbreak of loosing someone you love like that. What a man. ❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤❤
I'm 72 years old and have seen JS movies my entire life, and this is the first time I've ever heard of his military life. That amazes me. Never had a clue. Wow.
Thanks for watching ♥️♥️♥️
I met Jimmy at the Hollywood-Burbank airport. I was cleaning our corporate aircraft, a Piper Navajo, and he was about to wash his Super Cub. He came over, introduced himself, and asked if he could look inside. I wish I could have offered him some stick time. He was a true gentleman.
Wow amazing!
I love Jimmy Stewart. One of the best movies I've ever seen is Harvey, made in 1950. It's a comedy about a man and his "visions". All the side characters create the comedy moments, but Jimmy plays the main character whose family are trying to commit him for being insane. He's pleasant and polite throughout the whole thing, and he has some quiet, and quite wonderful speeches. When I hear of his war service and his PTSD I now understand the emotion he puts into these dialogues. Try to see it because it's enchanting and heartfelt and timeless. We've shown it to our kids, who are late 20s now, and they've shown it to their friends and everyone loves it. I used to love John Wayne too, until I found out what a bum he was.
Love Harvey! What a classic! Agree with your analysis!
Rear Window is also one of my top 5 favorite movies of all time. He knocked it out of the park, into the stratosphere, and straight to the moon. My gosh what an awesome performance.
Love that movie!
You used the adjective "Incredible" several times and absolutely deservedly so. As a matter of fact, Incredible doesn't quite do justice to his life and devotion to his country.
Great video. Thanks for making this.
THANK YOU for this in-depth look at Jimmy Stuart’s life. He was an amazing man; & his life had some surprising twists and turns…. RIP…🙏🇺🇸❗️
Thank you for watching ❤️❤️❤️👍
My FAVORITE MOVIE and LOVE Jimmy Stewart! Humble and Honorable. 😇💖 🙏😊💖
You Can FEEL the Anguish and Despair in George's Voice, HEARTBREAKING!! 😥
So true!
Jimmy Stewart was one of my favorite actors. I use to have a 1940 something Life magazine with him on the front in his uniform. It is said a bounty was on his head and Clark Gabel by German high command, while they were in the Army Air Corps. Certain high ranking Germans were big fans and wanted to meet them..We owe alot to him and all the people that served this country.
Beautifully said!
To add 2 things, I read that Capra had to talk Jimmy into taking the role, for It's a Wonderful Life, as Jimmy just didn't think he was even able to act again, as you mentioned he was ready to go back to his old life. Also, when he first kissed Donna Reed on screen, during the phone call, it was all shot live, with the other caller on a different set calling in. I read that the kiss, which was only filmed once, was so passionate, that it had to be cut down in order to get past the censors, it was so passionate!!! Now that I know that Jimmy had one foot out the door to go home and actually take over his father's hardware store, and give up his dream of being an actor, just like George Bailey gave up his dream, I'm not surprised at all about the realism that he brought to the role. Side note: Jimmy was 13 years older than Donna Reed, who was a stunning 25 years old, and simply radiant. Which were the same ages my wife and I were when we met. But as a Gulf War vet, I was nothing and Jimmy Stewart and his generation were the real deal.
This short should be added to any DVDs of Its a Wonderful Life! I'm going to send it to my kids.
Wow didn't know that! Wow!!!!
Thank you for what you do!!
My pleasure!
Excellent video! The author Robert Matzen wrote the book “Mission: Jimmy Stewart and the fight for Europe”. Good book about his military career.
Thank you!♥️♥️♥️
Wow Jimmy Stewart truly a hero . I have always enjoyed his acting. I knew he had served but I didn't know all of this . Much respect for Mr. Stewart. Thank You 😊
Thanks for watching!
Always one of my favorite people. His true character shone through.
Absolutely. Thanks for watching!
Thank you for putting this masterpiece together.
Wow thank you!!!!!
This was a fantastic presentation of a great man.
Thank you♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Thank you!
Thank you for watching♥️♥️
God Bless Jimmy Stewart.
AMEN❤️
Thank you so much for sharing this. This man was one of my heroes even before watching this. You however reinforced why I feel the way I do about him. Just a good man and wonderful spirit.
Beautifully said♥️♥️♥️♥️
Thank you so much for all that you are doing. I really appreciate it 🙏
Thank you for watching ❤️❤️❤️❤️
I had no idea Jimmy Stewart was also war hero.Terrific actor!❤️
Amazing man!
I knew some of Jimmy Stewart's story, but not all of this.
I do know that three of my four great-uncles, two of whom fought in the Pacific Theater, essentially died from the results of PTSD, disguised as severe alcoholism. My 89 year-old mother and 78 year-old aunt still talk of how they all came back changed men from their service in World War II.
Excellent video, sir; thank you so much!
Wow! Thank you ♥️♥️♥️🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
What a wonderful man.
I always said that I wanted a man like Jimmy Stewart mixed with Super Man. !!
God bless you Jimmy !!
A good mix!
God bless and keep you, Jimmy.
Amen!
I knew his story 50 years ago. Huge fan. I read the book about James Maitland Stewart. It was awesome and told the full story. Great synopsis here, well done
Thank you!
That was awesome! I’ve always loved his movies but, I had no knowledge about his WW11 experiences or how heroic he was.
Thank you!
Thank you!
First time I’ve watched the channel. Superb and interesting presentation of the war hero Jimmy Steward. A humble man of integrity and bravery! Excellent Actor as well! 👍
Thank you!!!!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Thank you for such a well done and beautiful video and tribute. Jimmy Stewart has always been one of my favorite actors. Now I like him even better! My grandpa served in the Navy in WW2 (Pacific Theater) and I always feel a kinship and gratitude to those who serve. He also never talked much about what he saw and refused any praise. They were truly the Greatest Generation. Thank you for educating us all. I appreciate the respectful and knowledgeable manner in which you present your material.
Thank you ♥️♥️♥️♥️♥️
Nick!!! Thanks SO much! This was delightful!
You are CORRECT, Jimmy went back & enlisted, so he could select & be eligible for the air corp. He was making sure he ended up in the skies instead of the trenches. A childhood & lifelong friend ' s father served as Jimmy Stewart 's navigator for little over a year, eleven missions.
Wow really? Amazing! Wow! I loosely based one of our characters in our novel on Jimmy: rb.gy/w77x1w or www.thisdate.com
Thanks so much for sharing all this history on Jimmy Stewart. Just love all his movies and the fact how much he loves America ❤ I love all the history you share.
Thank you we really appreciate it!🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼🙏🏼
74 years old and have loved Jimmy Stewart since I was a teenager. You did a great job on researching Stewart’s life and accomplishments. That being said you have succumbed to the old (and proven false story) of Wayne not being in the war. Simply google the question, I like you and many others thought this was the case for many years. His studio also had a hand in his exclusion.
Thanks. Wayne is open to discussion. My POV is that he could have tried harder. I hold him up to the Jimmy Stewart standard. But you raise a fair point, too.
We stand on the shoulders of our Fathers and that generation.
Absolutely!