The greatest line I've ever heard from a WW2 vet in person was to someone's response: "Thank you for being such a hero." "No, I'm wasn't a hero... But, I did fight within the company of heroes." My absolute respects.
That was said by Maj. Dick Winters, commander Easy Company 35 PIR, 101 IR. May he rest in peace. Band of Brothers hero. If you've never watched that series, I highly suggest you do.
I've only watched Band of Brothers in small bits, but this was waaay back in middle school (ironically in history class). The veteran was one of my classmate's grandfathers, great-grandfather's? I don't remember, but it was incredibly humbling to hear him speak.
As many know, my grandpa passed away on December 19th of 2016, cancer did what the Wehrmacht could not. In the wake of his passing we (my mother, myself, and step father) have been working closely to ensure that my Memere (his wife) can stay in the home they shared together for over 40 years. We will be moving on to help care for her, and help cope with the loss of my grandpa. Thank you to all of you who have left prayers, well wishes, kind words, and condolences, our family appreciates that. His Garand, is going home. It's like a dog that misses its owner, I will be taking it out to shoot fairly regularly in his honor. As we are in the middle of moving, content has been slow and I do apologize that I haven't been able to get back to many people. Thank you, and take care. -A veterans grandson.
Igneousedjr sorry for your loss man... I did this exact samething for my grandfather who served in Korea. The look your granddad had was the same look my granddad had when i handed him, our M1 Garand back in the summer. Thank you for sharing this video, your grandfather truely was The Greatest Generation
Heath Hampton I'm very happy to hear that you had the same chance I did. My condolences for your loss as well. Thank you for taking the time to watch this.
When I began my nursing career 12 years ago that was the population that was in the hospital and I would make a point to listen to them all the vets. What I noticed is that they are usually very humble. I sometimes already knew that one was highly decorated but they would never say they did anything heroic and they just got lucky and ran fast. They also all hated war. They isn't many left so cherish these special people.
I never expected this video to reach more than a few hundred people. My only hope was that seeing this old veteran reuniting with his service rifle would inspire others to do similar things for other veterans. To each and every one of you who have commented and viewed this video, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love, support, and admiration directed towards my great grandfather.
Jordan Parker quite the contrary actually, I'm a firearms collector and he is constantly asking if I've picked anything else up and he wants to see them. He is quite interested.
12/19/2016: My grandpa left this world this morning at the age of 91. He passed away peacefully at the Maine Veterans home with his youngest son by his side.
UPDATE 10/21/2016: My great grandfather fell yesterday and was admitted to the hospital. Unfortunately he will not be returning home and will be spending the rest of his life at a veterans facility here in Maine. Thank you everyone for your well wishes and thoughts. I will be seeing him nearly everyday and pass along all of the kind words and it brightens his day.
Sorry to hear that. I hope he knows that his service saved our country. All of us proud Americans owe him and his servicemen indefinitely. A lot of men these days wouldn't have the stones to go through what those men did. I hope he enjoys the rest of his days and gets to spend a lot of time with family.
He is right what you are going to say to your grandsons when they give you Call of Duty in your hand?? what a great days when i used to screaming and shouting in front of my TV screen because of the fucking ping was high!!
Betcha Sorrie I agree. I think its the fact that it's someone who has so much more experience than oneself. All of the memories and things they've seen and done. These are people who grew up in an era before your own. I think people need to have discussions with the elderly about their past more often.
UPDATE 10/23/2016: My grandpa is fine after his fall, however he is still staying in the hospital for now and will be attending rehab in a day or two. I've been getting several comments of RIP, he is not dead. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes and support and I will update further when I have more information.
Man he just looks like he wants to take that baby out and go shoot it. Hopefully when he's well enough ,I really feel that our WW2 vets are national treasures.
said part is my generation millennials have no sense of patriotism believing in globalism instead shoved down their throats with institutionalized education.
They were "the Greatest Generation". I never liked "the Silent Generation", they were too great for that. They saw silent films and said they were gay, they needed sound, so they fixed them and now we have sound in our movies. You shouldn't name a generation after a problem they fixed.
The last few of a dying breed, the strongest generation of men to take arms for our families. Nothing but complete and utter respect for you sir, if youre ever in Australia. I won't let you buy a beer, they're on the house. Thank you.
Igneousedjr I'll be honest man, that just about brought tears to my eyes. That was so nice of you to do that for him! I wish more people would do amazing things like this. You're a great guy!
LONEWOLF I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I appreciate the comments and support. It's very refreshing considering I was called an "ignorant fuck" about 20 minutes ago. Thank you for your support. I am nobody special though, I just had a unique opportunity.
Igneousedjr Wow! Some people, i tell you what. Its crazy how this world is filled with such good but then on the opposite side such evil. Dont pay those "people" any mind. They dont have a fraction of the class and character and heart that you have. Dont give em a second thought!
FAQ: hopefully this clears some things up! 1.) Is this his Garand? No, his was made in 1943 and this one was made in 1945. 2.) Isn't this triggering his PTSD? Why would you do this? He asked to see an M1 Garand before he passed away. 3.) Did he kill anyone? ....really? 4.) Who could ever dislike this video? People who disagree with some form or aspect in this video... or dislike me. 5.) Why isn't this filmed correctly? Because I'm an idiot. This recording wasn't planned, it was an impromptu recording and I wasn't concerned with camera angle. 6.) why are you asking questions? Because I was excited and didn't know enough to shut up and let him reminisce, I regret it now. 7.) Why are you badgering this old man? My grandpa is an odd duck. If you tell him they did nothing overseas he disagrees with you and cites what they did. If you tell him he's a hero he'll disagree with you. 8.) Your a moron/looser/asshole/idiot/______ Thanks for the compliment!
I Remember talking with my Grandpa about WW2 and some times he would talk about and other times he wouldn't............or couldn't. It was a sore spot with him. Never discussed it sober but sometimes when he'd had a few he'd talk about it.I'm glad your grandfather is able to open up about it.
gerald hablitzel I think it has helped him heal, being able to talk with someone who is not being judgmental. I always wished I could have reunited him with other World War Two veterans to see if that "group therapy" may have helped him.
This brought a tear to my eye. If it wasn't for your grandfather, none of us would be able to even watch this video. I salute you for giving this moment to your grandfather. May he Rest In Peace.
My great-grandpa, a WWII Marine, passed years ago. How ever my grandpa, a WWII veteran who was in the Navy passed recently, it's sad to see him go but I learned a lot from him. He showed me a lot like where he fought, gave me sand from Iwo Jima, showed me a painting of how you had to kiss a fat mans belly to be in the Navy. This really made me happy to see so thank you for this video.
He really isn't, we've spoken at length about what he went through. In this video he is just lost in thought and I should have been quiet to allow him to reminisce.
Your grandpa is an awesome man ! He fought nazis in my country , France . Thanks so much , he helped my country raising our beautiful flag and restoring freedom . I hope he can watch you from heaven . Thank you for this video , my grandpa was 17 years old the 6 June 1944 . Last Time , thank you and your grandpa !
im surehe was having flashbacks every scene he could remember with his friends running, walking, the sounds, everything. words cannot describe probably, but this is amazing for some reason. Respect to veterans and especially your great grandfather. thx OP
This video brought me to tears my grandpa served during WW2 and Korean war I wish he was still here tell your grandfather thanks for his service and God bless him .
Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching this video. Thank you for your grandfathers service as well. Those who served in this war share a special bond.
+Randall Abernathy it depends on the day. Some days he is very lucid and other days he gets confused and tired very easily. Unfortunately he isn't in good enough health to fire this rifle. I'm just glad I got everything for him when we did, he wouldn't be able to enjoy them now. I'm sorry that your grandfather has passed on. My grandfather was served in the 2nd battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 8th infantry division. They landed on Omaha beach on July 4th 1944.
+Igneousedjr That's cool my Papaw landed on June 7th of 44 he was under Col. Fuller he recvied a purple heart along with other metals he end up fishing WW2 as a Corpal and went on to serve in Korean with the same company but as a First sergeant.
5/20/2017: It has been over a year since the original posting and I would like to include all information right here. My grandfather passed on December 19th, 2016. ANY ASININE, RUDE, OR DISRESPECTFUL COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED.
thanks for the faq this vid was very heartwarming and shows us that we need to value the vets we still have because soon they will be gone forever and we won't have these people to share their stories of the world's biggest war.
My grandfather served in WWII as well, though in the Swedish army; Lance-Corporal Gunnar Eriksson, Infantry. He passed away in 1992 at the age of 90. We all still miss him, and we are proud of his service.
Emil Johansson Svenska armén - så han stred väl inte i sig, men nog var han redo att slåss för Moder Svea. Han var ganska patriotisk av sig, om man säger så och älskade Sverige. Därför gör det mig sorgsen att se vad det en gång så stolta Sverige har utvecklats till idag. :/
Emil Johansson Ja, det är en sak att vara stolt över - men vad man däremot skäms över dagligen är vårt lands regering och hur de lägger dövörat till, direkt man nämner utsatta förorter där polisen mer eller mindre totalt tappat kontrollen och oviljan att göra något konkret att ta tillbaka kontrollen. Daltandet med minoriteter är en sak som får mig att se rött, och jag är själv 50% utlänning. Jag älskar Sverige, och har burit en uniform från Livgardet med yttersta stolthet, något jag mer än gärna skulle göra igen. Naturligtvis finns det, precis som i alla länder, saker som funkar helt perfekt - och saker som inte funkar överhuvudtaget, men det känns inte som att det blir bättre för var år som går, tyvärr. :/
***** And i love to hear the stories. We all hit a point where we were in a target rich enviroment (aka surrounded) and it seems like its game over, then carl injects his morphine into his thumb because he had the inject pen upside down, and everyone laughs. Then the 2nd wind hits and since ackbars cant hit a fat chick at point black, the real killing starts
Cursed Sound My grandfather past away 2 years ago.. He served in New Guinea and Papa New Guinea.. I'm glad I had him as a grandfather. Another topic, if it weren't for the A-Bombs being dropped on Japan, my grandpa probably would've had to storm the beaches of Japan and he probably wouldn't have made it.. I thankful for our veterans a lot. It disgusts me whenever I see someone I my class not standing up for the Pledge of Allegiance at my high school
My grandfather passed away on 9/29/15. I am so sorry for your loss. I know when i lost both my grandmother and grandfather it was a really hard time for me. My grandfather also served in the war. Though i do not have much information about it since i never got to talk about it with him when he was still alive. Rest in peace to your grandfather. Seems like he was a really great man.
Sorry to hear about your Grandfather!!! I salute him for his service! This is just an amazing video a soldier reunited with the same kind of weapon that kept him alive in WW2 WOW I couldn't imagine what he must of felt
My father was a WWII vet and I like to think he would've had the same reaction if someone had given him an M1. Thanks to your grandfather for his service
Salute to him! I'll always stop and shake a vet's hand. Bravest men and women on the planet, no matter where they served or what country they belong to
Your great grandpa is in good shape for a WWII veteran! That man was much more instrumental at bringing world peace than any soldier currently enrolled in the army today. I am grateful for his service. Cheers from from France!
A good friend of mine who served in Korea, once he learned I had recently bought an M1 Garand, never let up until I brought it to him and let him shoot it. After almost 70 years since he last held it bill could still shoulder, load, and fire it with accuracy at 80 yards. Was like a kid had found his long lost toy ;) was an amazing moment to be a part of.
"A man fires a rifle for many years. And he goes to war. And afterward he turns the rifle in at the armory. And he believes he’s finished with the rifle. But no matter what else he might do with his hands, love a woman, build a house, change his son’s diaper. His hands still remember the rifle."
Only warriors who served in the military know this feeling. It was something that kept him and friends alive and was the one out of millions that fought tyranny and won.
This was a very nice moment to see. It's great that your great grandfather is still around and that you can talk to him about the war and learn some of his stories. That is something that should be cherished and remembered as it is a noble and brave thing that men like your great grandfather did fighting for what was right. I wish I could talk to some of the men who served in ww1 and 2 who served in my family but all of them are gone. Anyways if you see this I would like to personally thank your great grandfather for his service. There is not enough words that can be spoken to express my gratitude towards people like your great grandfather who put their lives on the line to defend others and what is right. It's people like your great grandfather who are the reason I am able to live the life I am able to today and for that I am forever grateful. So if you have a chance could you please pass on my message and thanks to him because he deserves it.
such bullshit...and what an insult to generations (of civilians AND soldiers) that lived before and come after...u are a fucking moron. if at least you would have said "one of the greatest"...75 years no major war, now that's an accomplishment! the current generations are much better one could argue, but that would be as stupid as your comment.
You are a great kid... I get it completely. My Grandfather was in WWII as well, and apparently I was the only person in the family he would share war stories with at all... His favorites were Dachau and The Battle of the Bulge. Amazing to watch him as he would tell them, you could see him go back. Great video... Hang on to this stuff, my fishing buddy just passed a couple of years back and I miss him dearly.
sparkytdg it's a special feeling, you know? These guys went through hell and we respect them more than they know, consider them heroes, and then they pick us, to share their stories with. They don't tell them to just anyone, they save them for someone special. I have no idea what my grandpa saw in me that made him share with me but I am grateful that he did. I'm sorry about your fishing buddy, I hope you still go in his memory, I have the dog tag my grandpa had on him when he was wounded, it goes everywhere with me.
There really is something to these rifles. I showed my grandfather mine when I got it. He said he still remembered how to field strip it. He said it was like seeing an old friend again. These M1's man..
I have a Garand. Vets are dying off. Anyway as I shoot a vet gets a certain look. I keep a couple of spare clips. I stop and go ask them if they would like to shoot the Garand. You can just see the memories coming back and how quickly they reorient to the rifle.
I bought my M1 Garand from the CMP just after I retired from active duty. It is an awesome rifle and my favorite. I shoot it with my grandfather in law. He is a Korean War veteran. I love your grandfather. He is a typically humble WWII vet and a wonderful person. Tell him thank you for me.
This man is a treasure and a true national hero. The WWII generation are dwindling in number and it is truly a travesty. I hope he continues to live a long, fruitful life of many years to come. Much respect, sir. America thanks you. The world thanks you. And we can never show enough gratitude. Thing is, they were so humble, they brushed it off. They did what they had to do, and they did it with dignity.
my hat goes off to you friend!!!! I thiught your video was awsome. nevermind the trolls and ignorant comments big guy!!!..the fact that your grand dad is alive and well is amazing g and you're a lucky man. enjoy that fella as much as possible and seeing him reunited woth the garage was absolutely an honor for him and kudos to you. for what it's worth pass the word along that I am very great full for his service to out country from the depths of my heart. it s real men like him that kept us from speaking German or Japanese now...and it was an honor to click the like button...andndndnd thank you for honoring your grand dad woth thos video...I hope and pray for a speedy recovery and hope to see many more of you and him...maybe if he were up to it the two of you could do an interview with his accounts of his experience as a soldier...thank you again for this video...makes me so proud to be born in thos country and for our vets!!!! God bless you friend
Jason yarbrough thank you for your kind words and support. These guys, and those who came before, and came after are all special and deserve the respect they've earned. Thank you for the well wishes but a recovery is just not in the cards.
I started watching this video because of it being of a veteran. I finished watching it with a smile on my face because of the info that was shared. Little did I know I would scroll down to read that he had passed away. I was gutted. Thank you for sharing this video of your grandfather. I liked knowing he was able to hold a rifle like the one he had used while serving, and even that you had purchased one for him after he had asked for it. To the soldier in this video, thank you for your service. Thank you for giving all of us Americans the right to be able to do what we need and want to. Thank you for putting your life on the line to defend what we take for granted each and every day. You are a sacred part of this world, and I will forever be standing behind you and the other millions that have come before and after you. I'd like to think that you're somewhere up in heaven giving orders to the jarheads up there, and resting easy when you can. Rest In Peace, sir.
Please thank your grandfather for his service! I live in the Netherlands (which is right next to Germany) and without your grandfather and the brave men that fought alongside him, I would probably be speaking German now!
this is very touching... it's just an amazing feel seeing a veteran who served in the biggest war in history reunited with the tool that he dependent his life on...
Jawad Ibrahim thank you! That was my point in doing this, to close another turbulent chapter in his mind. I'm willing to be if I gave him the chance he could still break it apart and clean it. I appreciate you watching, and your comment.
My grandpa fought in the Korean and Vietnam war. I only have a photo of him when he got stationed in Germany, and another of his jeep that had more bullet holes than you can count. He died right before I was born, I wish I could've met him. Great video once again Igneousedjr!
LiquidSkill thank you very much for the compliment! The recognition should go to my grandpa though as I'm just the "moron who can't operate a camera". I'm sorry to hear that you never had a chance to meet your grandfather. I hope you take care.
LiquidSkill not well, from what I heard. He is being watched over at a very nice hospital but, no one has told him he isn't going home yet. I'm hoping to actually get to see him today. Thank you for asking.
Good on ya mate you have done an amazing thing here. My grandfather was a Bren Gunner in the Purple Devils, an Australian commando squadron. If I, as a child, did or said something disrespectful he would take me by the shoulder, lead me to the frame on his wall containing his service medals and, in a quiet voice, remind me why he was given them and of the respect that was owed. I went to many of his reunions, more and more as I got older. I spoke with many of his brothers in arms and they would tell me funny stories of the hijinks they got up to and joke among themselves in reflection. Grandfather died some years ago now and was buried in the small town that had been his home for his entire life. It was, needless to say, a tough day for our family and friends but I was focused on supporting my mother, aunts and uncles. I was doing well until we left the church with Grandfather. I don't know where they came from. They were not there as we entered the church but from the church door the the hearse, that had to park 50 meters down the street to accommodate them, old men stood in a guard of honer, poppies on their breasts, hands raised in salute and in total silence. I think at that moment I understood what Grandfather was telling me all those years ago. The freedoms we have are paid for in blood and the debt we owe is respect. I went to their reunion the following year and was floored once again. The repeated stories of hijinks were gone. Instead, they told me stories of a man I had never met that did things nobody should ever have to do. Each of them in their own way told me something of my Grandfather that did not know. Some of these things were more difficult for them to say than they were for me to hear and though they never said the "H" word they made it very clear indeed that "Rusty" had earned his respect. I have never related this story to anyone before and I'm not really sure why I'm doing it here now but please pass my respect and gratitude to your Pa. He, as do they all, deserves to live his life in peace.
Wow, I feel very privileged for you to share your grandpas story. It is amazing that, as we grow up we look at these "old men" as just that, our old grandpa. Not thinking that 50+ years ago this generation was called upon to hold the line against the greatest evil that the Earth has ever seen. They were heroes, and asked for nothing in return. They were willing to sacrifice everything with the expectation of nothing. What your grandfathers comrades did at his service is an incredible show of the respect they had for him. As you know, your grandfather was a hero, and will never be forgotten. I am sure you display his service medals in a place of pride and smile when you think of him. Over here in America, it is often thought that we won the war alone, far from it. "We" won that war with the support of our allies around the world and we over here in America respect, and honor, men like your grandfather who marched into the darkness and returned victorious. Thank you for sharing, and please accept my condolences regarding the passing of your grandfather. -Thaddeus
Thanks mate I appreciate the kind words. My mother and father met in the army just before Dad went to Vietnam and they have Grandfathers service medals on display with their own (they loved your video). I will, in the fullness of time, be honored when it is my turn to carry the torch. Once again it is a great thing you have done. You have touched many people.
As he stares at it for a long time, you can just see the memories come back to him. The utterly gruesome things these men had to see and go through, it's intense to see a WW2 Veteran like this. Thank you for sharing.
"Felt light back then, heavy now" my favourite part. Really puts some things into perspective.
I had to rewind that and listen to it a couple times, man just the gravity of that sentence.
No pun intended
Good one
I hope in the next world war this generation will do that generation proud.
age will do that to you, that man was once strong and energetic. time has reduced him significantly
Get you a man that looks at you the way he looks at the Garand.
Reason HAHAHA OMG
Reason stop just stop
Is this anyway to be talking on a video about a Purple Heart recipient being reunited with an M1. Seriously, get a grip people.
Reason can you not
😂
The greatest line I've ever heard from a WW2 vet in person was to someone's response: "Thank you for being such a hero."
"No, I'm wasn't a hero... But, I did fight within the company of heroes."
My absolute respects.
That was said by Maj. Dick Winters, commander Easy Company 35 PIR, 101 IR. May he rest in peace. Band of Brothers hero. If you've never watched that series, I highly suggest you do.
Oh crud, I think that was him! Sure looks like what I remember of him.
Disturbed Duckling99543 he is saying someone said that somewhere else not in this vid
...You realize everyone in Band of Brothers were real people in real life, right? That quote was him to his grandchildren.
I've only watched Band of Brothers in small bits, but this was waaay back in middle school (ironically in history class). The veteran was one of my classmate's grandfathers, great-grandfather's? I don't remember, but it was incredibly humbling to hear him speak.
As many know, my grandpa passed away on December 19th of 2016, cancer did what the Wehrmacht could not. In the wake of his passing we (my mother, myself, and step father) have been working closely to ensure that my Memere (his wife) can stay in the home they shared together for over 40 years. We will be moving on to help care for her, and help cope with the loss of my grandpa. Thank you to all of you who have left prayers, well wishes, kind words, and condolences, our family appreciates that. His Garand, is going home. It's like a dog that misses its owner, I will be taking it out to shoot fairly regularly in his honor. As we are in the middle of moving, content has been slow and I do apologize that I haven't been able to get back to many people. Thank you, and take care.
-A veterans grandson.
God Bless
Igneousedjr Very sorry for your loss i hope he can rest easy now.
Igneousedjr sorry for your loss man... I did this exact samething for my grandfather who served in Korea. The look your granddad had was the same look my granddad had when i handed him, our M1 Garand back in the summer. Thank you for sharing this video, your grandfather truely was The Greatest Generation
Igneousedjr I'm very sorry for your loss, your grandpa was a hero
Heath Hampton I'm very happy to hear that you had the same chance I did. My condolences for your loss as well. Thank you for taking the time to watch this.
Remember lads. Always respect your elders.
Alexander Blaze amen
Alex Peralta damn straight
not all the elders :V
Karma isn't real.
Respect isn't given, it's earned. And this man deserves all respect for fighting in World War II.
It really saddens me to know that in the near future there will be no more WW2 veterans left. Cherish the moment
Lets hope there wont be any possibilities for "world war" veterans in the future too :)
When I began my nursing career 12 years ago that was the population that was in the hospital and I would make a point to listen to them all the vets. What I noticed is that they are usually very humble. I sometimes already knew that one was highly decorated but they would never say they did anything heroic and they just got lucky and ran fast. They also all hated war. They isn't many left so cherish these special people.
They said the same when the last civil war vets died
Always one in the bunch
Its a sad thought but Godbless these vets that had to fight against such tyranny
I never expected this video to reach more than a few hundred people. My only hope was that seeing this old veteran reuniting with his service rifle would inspire others to do similar things for other veterans. To each and every one of you who have commented and viewed this video, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love, support, and admiration directed towards my great grandfather.
Igneousedjr is that uppom from saving private Ryan lol
Esquire Taylor is what from saving private Ryan?
Great video! Though I don't think he has the same affinity for weapons as you or I might have. He's seen what they really can do!
Jordan Parker quite the contrary actually, I'm a firearms collector and he is constantly asking if I've picked anything else up and he wants to see them. He is quite interested.
Igneousedjr I have a few. Springfield or Remington ?
12/19/2016: My grandpa left this world this morning at the age of 91. He passed away peacefully at the Maine Veterans home with his youngest son by his side.
May he rest in peace. Thank you for his service.
Igneousedjr he did his country proud
Salute
Salute
he kept us free, may he rest peacefully forever
Rest in peace sir!
Zicoooooooooooooooooooooooooo
God bless him
UPDATE 10/21/2016: My great grandfather fell yesterday and was admitted to the hospital. Unfortunately he will not be returning home and will be spending the rest of his life at a veterans facility here in Maine. Thank you everyone for your well wishes and thoughts. I will be seeing him nearly everyday and pass along all of the kind words and it brightens his day.
Igneousedjr He is a hero and thank him from all of us for defending our freedoms.
I hope you're grandpa gets to enjoy many more years with his family! Prayers for you're grandpa! God bless !
im sad to hear that, he has served our country well,
Sorry to hear that. I hope he knows that his service saved our country. All of us proud Americans owe him and his servicemen indefinitely. A lot of men these days wouldn't have the stones to go through what those men did. I hope he enjoys the rest of his days and gets to spend a lot of time with family.
Update from an hour ago... that's sad to hear... hope he stays healthy!
that man is a hero. my best wishes to him and his family, and i hope he passed away in peace
"There are many rifles like this, but this one is mine"
pkbjorn35 shhhhhhh we've all watched the movies.
JARHEAD
pkbjorn35 you unorganized grabasstic piece of amphibian shit
Bunny Duckling i dont
Bunny Duckling im also sure little ducklings know nothing about human military
Rest in peace. I'm so sorry for your loss.
I salute what you did for this country
Thank you
thanks
RattlerX5150 thanks
By invading other country and destroying their lives.
Mitchell Wright Not exactly
Respect to you and your grandpa. Hope he passed a happy man.
what a wonderful moment to see, we will never have a generation like your grandfather again God bless them
He is right what you are going to say to your grandsons when they give you Call of Duty in your hand?? what a great days when i used to screaming and shouting in front of my TV screen because of the fucking ping was high!!
Lancer Captain Spadez unless trump becomes president.
Russia is powerful but the US is just as powerful if not more so. It's mutually assured destruction so neither will go to war with eachother
Lancer Captain Spadez agreed
I'm sorry about your granpa. This video was amazing, there have to be more videos like this, was amazing, seriously
something about old people is fascinating
I think it's the age.
Betcha Sorrie I agree. I think its the fact that it's someone who has so much more experience than oneself. All of the memories and things they've seen and done. These are people who grew up in an era before your own. I think people need to have discussions with the elderly about their past more often.
The have been through a lot. Much of it we haven't seen. Even the ones who aren't vets have seen a lot over the years. God bless these vets.
Dubeau_14 ya that's I see it
'Felt light back then, heavy now...' I feel like your great grandad meant that literally and figuratively. I'm sorry to hear about his passing.
UPDATE 10/23/2016: My grandpa is fine after his fall, however he is still staying in the hospital for now and will be attending rehab in a day or two. I've been getting several comments of RIP, he is not dead. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes and support and I will update further when I have more information.
I hope everything is well.
Man he just looks like he wants to take that baby out and go shoot it. Hopefully when he's well enough ,I really feel that our WW2 vets are national treasures.
Room237 they are.
Room237 they definitely are!
get well!!
I sincerely thank you're great granfather for his service.
Very fortunate that your grandfather had his health AND his memory for 90+ years. Great video glad I came across it.
Our greatest generation. Your great grandpa is a hero.
These old guys are real special I just wish there was more of them left
Salute to your great grand dad, you can tell a lot of memories are running thru his mind as he inspects the rifle. Awesome vid.
Thank you sir and all your brave brothers in arms
Silvanni Serko Amen
Hey man just wanted to bless your grandpa worlds not as good without that generation
This is heartwarming. Thank you for your service. The world would not be the same as it is today without men like your grandpa.
I laughed when he asked "How many more you gonna buy" as if he was going nazi hunting again lol
He could go clown hunting now lol
Rotger l Dead meme
C Wizzle It's not a dead meme You'll probably see them trashing the place tonight on Halloween! XD
Rotger Süßmann I watching one do that now.
C Wizzle See? XD
The way he studies it. Like a former gladiator looking over his gladius. God bless this old American warrior.
salute to your grandfather and to everyone that served in our armed services
Greatest Generation. There were no heroes, just men answering the call of duty and performing their service to this country.
I wouldn't say greatest. I'd say them and the generation before in WW1 are equally great.
said part is my generation millennials have no sense of patriotism believing in globalism instead shoved down their throats with institutionalized education.
-TheMasterSoldier- Oh. I actually wasn't aware of that!
They were "the Greatest Generation". I never liked "the Silent Generation", they were too great for that. They saw silent films and said they were gay, they needed sound, so they fixed them and now we have sound in our movies. You shouldn't name a generation after a problem they fixed.
Powerful video. I could see the gears connecting between him and the rifle. Sent chills down my spine. God bless him.
ur a commie
Ayy Lmao y?
i am an idiot communism is the definition of failure
Ayy Lmao so how is he a commie
i am an idiot its a joke. obviously he isn't a commie he even has a fukkin american flag as his profile pic.
I just kept wondering the memories going through his head. ✊🏼
not good ones ... i can tell
Same
Guess it'd hurt too much for him to share those ugly memories.
same... things that shouldn't be said are best left that way
RIP good sir, thank you for your service.
Tell your grandpa I said thank you. There will never be another generation like his.
Obi Juan thank you, I will pass it along to him.
Igneousedjr tell him I said thank you from a current active duty member. I respect his generation more than anything.
Thank you, I will pass it along to him.
The last few of a dying breed, the strongest generation of men to take arms for our families.
Nothing but complete and utter respect for you sir, if youre ever in Australia. I won't let you buy a beer, they're on the house.
Thank you.
Wyatt Stubbs never brother.
Were he a younger man he would take you up on that! Thank you for your support, and thank you for standing with us, then, and now!
Igneousedjr too right, I get you.
Your gramp is a humble humble man. God bless
Bush Pig I read it as "Your grandpa is a horrible horrible man" I was like WTF?! but then I read it again lol
k hahah nooooo :D
agreed. amazing
Can you imagine the things he saw?
I love grandpa
The Greatest Generation! Great video! Thanks for making it. That was awesome! Your grandfather is a hero!
LONEWOLF thank you! I recorded it for future generations in my family but felt others might enjoy it as well. Thank you for watching!
Igneousedjr I'll be honest man, that just about brought tears to my eyes. That was so nice of you to do that for him! I wish more people would do amazing things like this. You're a great guy!
LONEWOLF I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I appreciate the comments and support. It's very refreshing considering I was called an "ignorant fuck" about 20 minutes ago. Thank you for your support. I am nobody special though, I just had a unique opportunity.
Igneousedjr Wow! Some people, i tell you what. Its crazy how this world is filled with such good but then on the opposite side such evil. Dont pay those "people" any mind. They dont have a fraction of the class and character and heart that you have. Dont give em a second thought!
LONEWOLF thank you very much for that.
Nice job on the rifle
Better job on giving your great grandpa a chance of remembering the memories again
Thanks for this with us
PETER P I've seen some comments slamming me for this reunion but I agree, it was the right choice. Thanks for watching it!
Igneousedjr
Unfortunately
A lot of people are assholes
Igneousedjr
Right
On
its so nice to see memories from those who served our country and itll be a sad day when all the ww2 soilders are all gone
FAQ: hopefully this clears some things up!
1.) Is this his Garand?
No, his was made in 1943 and this one was made in 1945.
2.) Isn't this triggering his PTSD? Why would you do this?
He asked to see an M1 Garand before he passed away.
3.) Did he kill anyone?
....really?
4.) Who could ever dislike this video?
People who disagree with some form or aspect in this video... or dislike me.
5.) Why isn't this filmed correctly?
Because I'm an idiot. This recording wasn't planned, it was an impromptu recording and I wasn't concerned with camera angle.
6.) why are you asking questions?
Because I was excited and didn't know enough to shut up and let him reminisce, I regret it now.
7.) Why are you badgering this old man?
My grandpa is an odd duck. If you tell him they did nothing overseas he disagrees with you and cites what they did. If you tell him he's a hero he'll disagree with you.
8.) Your a moron/looser/asshole/idiot/______
Thanks for the compliment!
Thank for the extra info. Best wishes from Canada.
Punzer thanks for the support! Best wishes to your veterans as well!
I Remember talking with my Grandpa about WW2 and some times he would talk about and other times he wouldn't............or couldn't. It was a sore spot with him. Never discussed it sober but sometimes when he'd had a few he'd talk about it.I'm glad your grandfather is able to open up about it.
gerald hablitzel I think it has helped him heal, being able to talk with someone who is not being judgmental. I always wished I could have reunited him with other World War Two veterans to see if that "group therapy" may have helped him.
I swear, civilians think every vet gets PTSD.
This brought a tear to my eye. If it wasn't for your grandfather, none of us would be able to even watch this video. I salute you for giving this moment to your grandfather. May he Rest In Peace.
This veteran is a great man who fought for other peoples freedom he definitely is a one of a kind hero
My great-grandpa, a WWII Marine, passed years ago. How ever my grandpa, a WWII veteran who was in the Navy passed recently, it's sad to see him go but I learned a lot from him. He showed me a lot like where he fought, gave me sand from Iwo Jima, showed me a painting of how you had to kiss a fat mans belly to be in the Navy. This really made me happy to see so thank you for this video.
Thank you for taking the time to watch this, and for sharing your stories!
Stop cutting onions.
That's amazing. You can tell there was so much going through his mind.
Crowded House sadly probably not all happy memories...
louis1716 I wouldn't ask him he seems troubled
He really isn't, we've spoken at length about what he went through. In this video he is just lost in thought and I should have been quiet to allow him to reminisce.
Your grandpa is an awesome man ! He fought nazis in my country , France . Thanks so much , he helped my country raising our beautiful flag and restoring freedom . I hope he can watch you from heaven . Thank you for this video , my grandpa was 17 years old the 6 June 1944 . Last Time , thank you and your grandpa !
im surehe was having flashbacks every scene he could remember with his friends running, walking, the sounds, everything. words cannot describe probably, but this is amazing for some reason. Respect to veterans and especially your great grandfather. thx OP
Beautiful video man, sorry for your loss. Best of luck with everything in life from Scotland.
Kyle TheTreeKat Hello fellow scot!
This video brought me to tears my grandpa served during WW2 and Korean war I wish he was still here tell your grandfather thanks for his service and God bless him .
Thank you so much for your kind words and for watching this video. Thank you for your grandfathers service as well. Those who served in this war share a special bond.
+Igneousedjr How is your grandfather doing now ? my grandpa was in the 2nd infantry division he landed on Omaha beach with the 23 infantry regiment.
+Randall Abernathy it depends on the day. Some days he is very lucid and other days he gets confused and tired very easily. Unfortunately he isn't in good enough health to fire this rifle. I'm just glad I got everything for him when we did, he wouldn't be able to enjoy them now. I'm sorry that your grandfather has passed on. My grandfather was served in the 2nd battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 8th infantry division. They landed on Omaha beach on July 4th 1944.
+Igneousedjr That's cool my Papaw landed on June 7th of 44 he was under Col. Fuller he recvied a purple heart along with other metals he end up fishing WW2 as a Corpal and went on to serve in Korean with the same company but as a First sergeant.
+Randall Abernathy that's awesome. My grandpa requested to return to combat after he was wounded but the Army denied it and kept him stateside.
What was his rank when he was in the Us Army ?
Technical Corporal
Igneousedjr cool
*RESPECT*
5/20/2017: It has been over a year since the original posting and I would like to include all information right here. My grandfather passed on December 19th, 2016.
ANY ASININE, RUDE, OR DISRESPECTFUL COMMENTS WILL BE DELETED.
Rip
May he rest in peace. I have the utmost respect of the people who fought for this great country.
Igneousedjr may god have brought him into his gates of righteousness and valor
I'm extremely sorry for your loss. He's with his brothers in arms now.
thanks for the faq this vid was very heartwarming and shows us that we need to value the vets we still have because soon they will be gone forever and we won't have these people to share their stories of the world's biggest war.
this gave me chills. The look in his eyes when he just holds that rifle are worth a MILLION words..
Long lost friends!
My grandfather served in WWII as well, though in the Swedish army; Lance-Corporal Gunnar Eriksson, Infantry. He passed away in 1992 at the age of 90. We all still miss him, and we are proud of his service.
on which side did he fight?
Emil Johansson
Svenska armén - så han stred väl inte i sig, men nog var han redo att slåss för Moder Svea. Han var ganska patriotisk av sig, om man säger så och älskade Sverige. Därför gör det mig sorgsen att se vad det en gång så stolta Sverige har utvecklats till idag. :/
Emil Johansson
Ja, det är en sak att vara stolt över - men vad man däremot skäms över dagligen är vårt lands regering och hur de lägger dövörat till, direkt man nämner utsatta förorter där polisen mer eller mindre totalt tappat kontrollen och oviljan att göra något konkret att ta tillbaka kontrollen.
Daltandet med minoriteter är en sak som får mig att se rött, och jag är själv 50% utlänning. Jag älskar Sverige, och har burit en uniform från Livgardet med yttersta stolthet, något jag mer än gärna skulle göra igen.
Naturligtvis finns det, precis som i alla länder, saker som funkar helt perfekt - och saker som inte funkar överhuvudtaget, men det känns inte som att det blir bättre för var år som går, tyvärr. :/
I could only imagine the memories. Brought a tear to my eye and then a smile. I salute your grandfather and all soldiers who serve.
Tell your grand dad that he has my respect. Fellow CIB checking in
tank2003 thank you for your service as well. He would love to shake your hand.
***** Save it bro. Give it to a real hero. The guys who had an M1 Garand
tank2003 he loves getting to meet other infantryman, especially the ones who came after him.
***** And i love to hear the stories. We all hit a point where we were in a target rich enviroment (aka surrounded) and it seems like its game over, then carl injects his morphine into his thumb because he had the inject pen upside down, and everyone laughs. Then the 2nd wind hits and since ackbars cant hit a fat chick at point black, the real killing starts
He just seems so awed that hes holding one again, like he's seeing an old friend after a lifetime apart.
Super cool these old guys. The stories these people can tell... So amazing we still have people who fought in WW2!
Smoothbluehero they are an amazing generation!
stories of how people found ways to survive is also fascinating.
if u think about it wasn't that amazing to them. War is not about politics as a soldier. its about life and death
My grandpa also passed last year and fought in ww2 so I have huge respect for your grandpa may he rest in peace
Cursed Sound My grandfather past away 2 years ago.. He served in New Guinea and Papa New Guinea.. I'm glad I had him as a grandfather. Another topic, if it weren't for the A-Bombs being dropped on Japan, my grandpa probably would've had to storm the beaches of Japan and he probably wouldn't have made it.. I thankful for our veterans a lot. It disgusts me whenever I see someone I my class not standing up for the Pledge of Allegiance at my high school
My grandfather passed away on 9/29/15. I am so sorry for your loss. I know when i lost both my grandmother and grandfather it was a really hard time for me. My grandfather also served in the war. Though i do not have much information about it since i never got to talk about it with him when he was still alive. Rest in peace to your grandfather. Seems like he was a really great man.
Sorry to hear about your Grandfather!!! I salute him for his service! This is just an amazing video a soldier reunited with the same kind of weapon that kept him alive in WW2 WOW I couldn't imagine what he must of felt
The Greatest Generation. It saddens me to know we've lost so many. The generations that have followed can't fill those shoes. God Bless You Sir
My father was a WWII vet and I like to think he would've had the same reaction if someone had given him an M1. Thanks to your grandfather for his service
But where veterans allowed to take the guns for themselves after a war?
@@dewaldsteyn1306 I'm not really sure. My dad said he would've liked to keep his but I can't remember if he said if that was allowed.
This is inspiring
it is very inspiring may god bless them and those who fought for him
Amazing!
it sure is amazing
Salute to him! I'll always stop and shake a vet's hand. Bravest men and women on the planet, no matter where they served or what country they belong to
Your great grandpa is in good shape for a WWII veteran! That man was much more instrumental at bringing world peace than any soldier currently enrolled in the army today. I am grateful for his service. Cheers from from France!
The most honorable men amongst us in society, the WWII veterans. I applaud this man. Great video.
A good friend of mine who served in Korea, once he learned I had recently bought an M1 Garand, never let up until I brought it to him and let him shoot it. After almost 70 years since he last held it bill could still shoulder, load, and fire it with accuracy at 80 yards. Was like a kid had found his long lost toy ;) was an amazing moment to be a part of.
Its humbling to be in the presence of these men. I agree with the long lost toy part...
"A man fires a rifle for many years.
And he goes to war.
And afterward he turns the rifle in at the armory.
And he believes he’s finished with the rifle.
But no matter what else he might do with his hands, love a woman, build a house, change his son’s diaper.
His hands still remember the rifle."
wmeyer116 I absolutely LOVE that quote, and in fact it went through my mind when filming this video. He has not forgotten his rifle.
Where is that quote from?
Hilko Jongsma I saw it in the movie Jarhead but; beyond that I don't know.
***** Alright thanks!
Great Video! Man never forgets his rifle...
Only warriors who served in the military know this feeling. It was something that kept him and friends alive and was the one out of millions that fought tyranny and won.
This was a very nice moment to see. It's great that your great grandfather is still around and that you can talk to him about the war and learn some of his stories. That is something that should be cherished and remembered as it is a noble and brave thing that men like your great grandfather did fighting for what was right. I wish I could talk to some of the men who served in ww1 and 2 who served in my family but all of them are gone. Anyways if you see this I would like to personally thank your great grandfather for his service. There is not enough words that can be spoken to express my gratitude towards people like your great grandfather who put their lives on the line to defend others and what is right. It's people like your great grandfather who are the reason I am able to live the life I am able to today and for that I am forever grateful. So if you have a chance could you please pass on my message and thanks to him because he deserves it.
I don't blame him for wanting a reunification the M1 garand is a lovely weapon
Dark Crescent it sure is!
Thank you for your service sir! You are truly of the greatest generation that ever lived! GOD Bless you! 🇺🇸❤️️
such bullshit...and what an insult to generations (of civilians AND soldiers) that lived before and come after...u are a fucking moron. if at least you would have said "one of the greatest"...75 years no major war, now that's an accomplishment! the current generations are much better one could argue, but that would be as stupid as your comment.
Nils Urban rip
Trenton n Older generation killed millions of people so i dont think it was better before
Pine 0 Kio and we don't now? Google how many unarmed, innocent civilians the US has killed in the middle east
Trenton n At least its not the war now
You are a great kid...
I get it completely.
My Grandfather was in WWII as well, and apparently I was the only person in the family he would share war stories with at all...
His favorites were Dachau and The Battle of the Bulge. Amazing to watch him as he would tell them, you could see him go back.
Great video...
Hang on to this stuff, my fishing buddy just passed a couple of years back and I miss him dearly.
sparkytdg it's a special feeling, you know? These guys went through hell and we respect them more than they know, consider them heroes, and then they pick us, to share their stories with. They don't tell them to just anyone, they save them for someone special. I have no idea what my grandpa saw in me that made him share with me but I am grateful that he did. I'm sorry about your fishing buddy, I hope you still go in his memory, I have the dog tag my grandpa had on him when he was wounded, it goes everywhere with me.
only a man who has fought with a rifle like this can respect a rifle like this.
I agree. The admiration for that "ol piece of wood and steel" was immense. I was honored to be able to get it back to him.
There really is something to these rifles. I showed my grandfather mine when I got it. He said he still remembered how to field strip it. He said it was like seeing an old friend again. These M1's man..
justin f it's my favorite gun TBH..
justin f they definitely have a special place in many veterans hearts.
For us, it may seem like some rifle he used during the Great War, but to him: it was the only thing that stood between him and almost certain death.
Ricky Jr. Nomura ww2 vet, not one
Huh?
Ricky Jr. Nomura not one death, he fought alot
reactiegever I never said just one death.
Like having a life vest thrown to you in deep waters.
Thank you for your service. You sir, are a hero.
I have a Garand. Vets are dying off. Anyway as I shoot a vet gets a certain look. I keep a couple of spare clips. I stop and go ask them if they would like to shoot the Garand. You can just see the memories coming back and how quickly they reorient to the rifle.
Rip he seemed like a wonderful man.
Glad this was in my recommended videos. Please thank him for his service to this country.
TekEvolution thank you for watching! I will pass it along to him!
Very sorry for your loss. The world wouldn't be where it is today if it wasn't for people like him. What a hero
I bought my M1 Garand from the CMP just after I retired from active duty.
It is an awesome rifle and my favorite.
I shoot it with my grandfather in law. He is a Korean War veteran.
I love your grandfather. He is a typically humble WWII vet and a wonderful person.
Tell him thank you for me.
+William Baranowski these guys are a wonderful generation. I love them.
Retired AF CE Thanks for you're grandfather's service - just a random korean guy
:)
This man is a treasure and a true national hero. The WWII generation are dwindling in number and it is truly a travesty. I hope he continues to live a long, fruitful life of many years to come. Much respect, sir. America thanks you. The world thanks you. And we can never show enough gratitude. Thing is, they were so humble, they brushed it off. They did what they had to do, and they did it with dignity.
They were willing to sacrifice everything with nothing expected in return. They were all heroes.
***** Indeed.
my hat goes off to you friend!!!! I thiught your video was awsome. nevermind the trolls and ignorant comments big guy!!!..the fact that your grand dad is alive and well is amazing g and you're a lucky man. enjoy that fella as much as possible and seeing him reunited woth the garage was absolutely an honor for him and kudos to you. for what it's worth pass the word along that I am very great full for his service to out country from the depths of my heart. it s real men like him that kept us from speaking German or Japanese now...and it was an honor to click the like button...andndndnd thank you for honoring your grand dad woth thos video...I hope and pray for a speedy recovery and hope to see many more of you and him...maybe if he were up to it the two of you could do an interview with his accounts of his experience as a soldier...thank you again for this video...makes me so proud to be born in thos country and for our vets!!!! God bless you friend
Jason yarbrough thank you for your kind words and support. These guys, and those who came before, and came after are all special and deserve the respect they've earned. Thank you for the well wishes but a recovery is just not in the cards.
I started watching this video because of it being of a veteran. I finished watching it with a smile on my face because of the info that was shared. Little did I know I would scroll down to read that he had passed away. I was gutted. Thank you for sharing this video of your grandfather. I liked knowing he was able to hold a rifle like the one he had used while serving, and even that you had purchased one for him after he had asked for it.
To the soldier in this video, thank you for your service. Thank you for giving all of us Americans the right to be able to do what we need and want to. Thank you for putting your life on the line to defend what we take for granted each and every day. You are a sacred part of this world, and I will forever be standing behind you and the other millions that have come before and after you. I'd like to think that you're somewhere up in heaven giving orders to the jarheads up there, and resting easy when you can. Rest In Peace, sir.
It's men like him that bled on the sands and the country side so we can have our freedoms today. Thank you so much! God bless you!!
Joshua Whitmore thank you so much for your kind words and support.
It sucks that not so many veterans from WWII is still live to these day : /
Kevin Ho over 600,000
Kevin Ho its called war :l
Austin Wooley Oops, I think I made the same mistake he did. I didn't see the "not" in his comment lol
wow man, that's amazing. Happy veteran day.
RTX_NBA lol what about the ww1 vets? im sure they all have passed away.
Thank you for your service sir✊🏻
Please thank your grandfather for his service! I live in the Netherlands (which is right next to Germany) and without your grandfather and the brave men that fought alongside him, I would probably be speaking German now!
this is very touching...
it's just an amazing feel seeing a veteran who served in the biggest war in history reunited with the tool that he dependent his life on...
Jawad Ibrahim thank you! That was my point in doing this, to close another turbulent chapter in his mind. I'm willing to be if I gave him the chance he could still break it apart and clean it. I appreciate you watching, and your comment.
***** you're welcome! Mhmm I see.
My grandpa fought in the Korean and Vietnam war. I only have a photo of him when he got stationed in Germany, and another of his jeep that had more bullet holes than you can count. He died right before I was born, I wish I could've met him. Great video once again Igneousedjr!
LiquidSkill thank you very much for the compliment! The recognition should go to my grandpa though as I'm just the "moron who can't operate a camera". I'm sorry to hear that you never had a chance to meet your grandfather. I hope you take care.
*****
Yes, I do indeed thank your grandpa for his service. How is he doing?
LiquidSkill not well, from what I heard. He is being watched over at a very nice hospital but, no one has told him he isn't going home yet. I'm hoping to actually get to see him today. Thank you for asking.
+Igneousedjr thanks for the quick response! I hope you get to see him today too. Have a nice day, Igneousedjr!
LiquidSkill thank you! I did get to see him. He's doing very well, hope your day was good?
Good on ya mate you have done an amazing thing here. My grandfather was a Bren Gunner in the Purple Devils, an Australian commando squadron. If I, as a child, did or said something disrespectful he would take me by the shoulder, lead me to the frame on his wall containing his service medals and, in a quiet voice, remind me why he was given them and of the respect that was owed. I went to many of his reunions, more and more as I got older. I spoke with many of his brothers in arms and they would tell me funny stories of the hijinks they got up to and joke among themselves in reflection. Grandfather died some years ago now and was buried in the small town that had been his home for his entire life. It was, needless to say, a tough day for our family and friends but I was focused on supporting my mother, aunts and uncles. I was doing well until we left the church with Grandfather. I don't know where they came from. They were not there as we entered the church but from the church door the the hearse, that had to park 50 meters down the street to accommodate them, old men stood in a guard of honer, poppies on their breasts, hands raised in salute and in total silence. I think at that moment I understood what Grandfather was telling me all those years ago. The freedoms we have are paid for in blood and the debt we owe is respect. I went to their reunion the following year and was floored once again. The repeated stories of hijinks were gone. Instead, they told me stories of a man I had never met that did things nobody should ever have to do. Each of them in their own way told me something of my Grandfather that did not know. Some of these things were more difficult for them to say than they were for me to hear and though they never said the "H" word they made it very clear indeed that "Rusty" had earned his respect. I have never related this story to anyone before and I'm not really sure why I'm doing it here now but please pass my respect and gratitude to your Pa. He, as do they all, deserves to live his life in peace.
Wow, I feel very privileged for you to share your grandpas story. It is amazing that, as we grow up we look at these "old men" as just that, our old grandpa. Not thinking that 50+ years ago this generation was called upon to hold the line against the greatest evil that the Earth has ever seen. They were heroes, and asked for nothing in return. They were willing to sacrifice everything with the expectation of nothing. What your grandfathers comrades did at his service is an incredible show of the respect they had for him. As you know, your grandfather was a hero, and will never be forgotten. I am sure you display his service medals in a place of pride and smile when you think of him. Over here in America, it is often thought that we won the war alone, far from it. "We" won that war with the support of our allies around the world and we over here in America respect, and honor, men like your grandfather who marched into the darkness and returned victorious. Thank you for sharing, and please accept my condolences regarding the passing of your grandfather. -Thaddeus
Thanks mate I appreciate the kind words. My mother and father met in the army just before Dad went to Vietnam and they have Grandfathers service medals on display with their own (they loved your video). I will, in the fullness of time, be honored when it is my turn to carry the torch. Once again it is a great thing you have done. You have touched many people.
Must be very hard to see a rifle you used in war a long time ago where millions died. Great video and sorry for the loss.
As he stares at it for a long time, you can just see the memories come back to him. The utterly gruesome things these men had to see and go through, it's intense to see a WW2 Veteran like this. Thank you for sharing.
He asked to see this rifle one last time and I was proud to assist. I just wish I had remained silent to give him peace..