That was just excellent. I’m an LA native and grew up in the Hollywood Hills. We would go down to Newport on the weekend and occasionally my dad would rent a boat. I remember seeing John Wayne’s boat almost every time we went there. John fricken Wayne, the most famous actor you ever heard of. I had seen every one of his movies at least once. My grandfather got lung cancer and had one removed. He passed away seven months later, in 1965. When we heard John Wayne was going through the same thing it was devastating, but we all said he could beat it. JW was the toughest man alive, our hero. Thanks for the video, it brought back a special time that meant so much. I honestly think half the reason I joined the Air Force after the draft ended was because of John Wayne. A sense of duty.
I accidentally blocked "The Dukes" boat when my small sailboat ran out of wind while in the channel at Lido Ile, Newport Beach, summer of 1971. Mr. Wayne greeted me kindly and finally the breeze pick-up. A true good guy.
I’m a 70yo Veteran and retired Corporate Pilot and grew up watching John Wayne movies with my Dad. I still enjoy watching a JW movie today. His movies hopefully will live on forever.
In the early 70s my brother, Tim and a friend were near The city float ramp at low tide in downtown Ketchikan, AK when they heard someone at the bottom of the ramp yell ‘ hey you boys want to make a couple of bucks packing my laundry up the ramp’? That man was the one and only John Wayne! I wish one of those two would have been me! He was there on one of his regular fishing trips to the area for king salmon! The Wild Goose was tied up often at city float. I still watch all of his old movies as they were and still are some of the best! RIP Duke!
Long story short; I was in the 6th Special Forces at Fort Bragg around 1965-1966. We were ordered to man a Vietnamese village used from training and for hosting visits from visiting politicians. Your dad showed up one day for a tour and when we asked his purpose of visiting he told us he was making a movie about the SF in Southeast Asia. It was good to shake his hand, he was known to be a patriot! Years later I had a sailboat in Newport Harbor on a mooring cthe back bay, J-75, just a few rows back from where Wild Goose was docked. One day I was rowing around sightseeing when your dad’s canon went off. So I rowed over and there was the man himself standing on the after deck. I called up to him and reminded him of his visit to my group at Bragg. Bless his heart he invited me aboard for a drink, showed me around the ship, and we reminisced about those times years before. I can’t hear the Ballad of the Green Berets without thinking of your dad. Thanks for the video, it was good to see the Goose again!
I we as 16 years old sitting on the dock in Cataline Island,holding the bow line of the boston we forgot our ski rope.John Wayne just got off the small boat with his enterouge, walking past us,I asked Mr Wayne if we could borrow his ski rope.He said yes we used it for 2hours and returned to the wild goose. Thank you for the memory.
My brother and I were kids on a road trip with our dad to Mexico. We got really sick when my dad found Mr. Wayne, who took us aboard his boat, and everyone helped us get better. So basically, we owe him our lives. Thank you sir.
What? John Wayne saved your life when you were sick on a road trip? You dad just happened to find John Wayne and got him to help your random sick family? How? Where? When?
@@aaron___6014 Okay, so my dad and his friend took my brother and I to Mexico. We were just kids at the time and I think I was around 7 or 8 and my brother was 9 or 10. Anyway, my asshole dad and his friend spent the time drinking or whoring, and my brother and I were given these cheap ass fishing rods and we fished off this dock that was about two feet off the water. I remember I could dangle my feet in the water. The only thing we caught was puffer fish. You cannot do anything to them, so we got them off the hook and put them back in the water. Then, we get one who puffs up. We put it back in the water and it farts to expel the air. Still funny to this day, trust me. Anyway, some Mexican kids come over and try to tell us that puffer fish are bad, but no one speaks the others languages. So we hook a puffer and show them what we are doing to them. Soon, all of us are laughing like hell and catching puffer fish like crazy. The other kids go home and grab their rods and one even brings a bucket. The rest of the day was spent catching puffers, and laughing our asses off. Towards evening my brother and I both got sick. Our living arrangement was a a camper on a truck and best guess was perhaps some oil or something from the puffer fish made us sick. Either way, we were vomiting and just really sick. Our dad decided to stay with us while his friend went back to town to continue to drink or whatever. I am not sure when, but he came back with a new friend. I just remember being picked up and driven somewhere and then being placed in a room on a ship that I guess was the medical area. They had someone on board who was either a doctor or medically qualified, but I remember drinking something awful but frankly how I felt it could have been water for all I know. I just remember waking up feeling better and the first person I saw was Mr. Wayne. He explained that he was the new friend that visited the camper and had suggested that we be moved to the ship. My asshole dad and friend were basically still drinking, but at least Mr. Wayne was kind enough to check on us. That is what I remember. That and thanking him and this other guy and walking off the ship. My dad was an alcoholic if that was not apparent by now, and I believe I own my life to Mr. Wayne. Had he not stopped by and suggested like he did, there is no telling what could have happened. My dad recounted the story for years, so that was his version. Mine was really sick, woke up on a ship, saw John Wayne, talked to him a little, thanked him and left. Really nice guy.
@@JohnWayneTH-cam Thank you for sharing some of your life with us when talking about stories with your dad. Your dad did so much for this country like showing boys what men should be like. I am pushing 40 and the Duke was/is one of my favorite actors.
What a joy it is to have you share your childhood memories with your Dad's yacht. I'm in my 70s and grew up loving your Dad's movies and later his interviews with various entertainers like Johnny Carson. What a legacy he has given to your family and to our country as the great ambassador he always was. God bless his soul and memory.
John Wayne was one of those old actors who epitomised what Hollywood was like, and I love those actors. Not like today, I find Hollywood a grotesque monster. i watch the old films, not the today films. Well done Ethan on valuing your fathers character and legacy of the past going.
I am now 66 years old, and have had the opportunity and good fortune to see most of the John Wayne collection. He was my favorite cowboy and also my favorite WWII actor. He was a real man. I was born and raised in Australia. Just imagine my surprise when I found out that John was my eight cousin once removed. Now I realize that is not that big of a deal, but it made me happy to have even that slim of a connection. Fantastic!
When I was in Sea Cadets I did a 2 week training course on the MV Reah which is the same class of mine sweeper, they told us that John Wayne also owned one, so cool to see the yacht .👍😎
Hi Ethan, My name is Pete Phillips, and in 1969 I was the cove steward for Newport Harbor Yacht Club at Moonstone Cove, Catalina. Your dad used to come over and anchor the Goose between Whites and Moonstone and I was hailed at times to run him ashore with the 35 ft. motor launch thatvwas our shoreboat/tender. I was lucky enough to have been invited aboard for dinner twice by your dad during that summer of '69. Both times were on a wednesday night, when there were not many other boats around, and none of the other NHYC members there either. Your dad was always gracias and a lively dinner companion. We had grilled steaks, Billy made roasted potatoes and sauteed asparagus. I grew up sailing in So Cal. My family had a house on Harbor Island, kept our boat in front of the house, moored at NHYC. I belonged to the Los Angeles Yacht Club. Anyway, I have great memories of being aboard Wild Goose and of having dinner with the man who was legendary during my childhood. I am still cruising, on a 60' motor vessel now, and in my mid 70s. I am currently heading down the west coast from my home in Juneau, Ak. and will be in Ca. In a couple of days. Looking forward to being in Newport again for a couple of days before heading down to Mexico. Thanks for your youtube chanel! Pete Phillips MV Caroline Www.mvcaroline.com
I was a gymnastics coach at Balboa Bay Club in 1969 and I remember a tradition that for Christmas party for the “staff” the Bay Club members would serve the staff. John Wayne was our server that night and I had brought a fellow UC Irvine date who was shocked to learn who our server was that evening. The only person I ever met who’s hand was as large as John’s was Arnold Palmer who shook my hand many years later.
Ethan, I’m sure many people have had connections with your family…here’s mine! I went to Carden Hall in the early 70’s. I had Mrs. Ray in 2nd grade, Mrs. Draganza in 3rd grade and Mrs. Waltz in 4th. My younger brother was in Marisa’s class and attended a few holiday parties at your home. My mother and Pilar played tennis together on occasion. The most vivid memory I have of your father was him sitting in one of those tiny student chairs at Spring Fling passing out autographs. Your dad will always be one of my heroes!!
Thanks for sharing this great memory with us!!! I’m now 73 and I’ve seen every movie your dad made, probably 3-4 time, each and I truly loved him. You’re blessed to be his son and I’m sure you’ve got a lot more memories to share. I’ll subscribe and stay tuned, thanks again, Ron
When l was in college in the early 70's l took a print making class and did a silk screen print of John Wayne, my hero. Course, l think they were snickering behind my back, but l didn't care. He was my favorite actor. My man.
I met you in the '70s in the San Juan Islands. Our family use to boat up to Blakely Island just across from Rosario on Orcas Island. Your father invited my father and my younger brother and I aboard for a little tour. I was 10, you were 9 and my brother was 8... Thank You for bringing back some wonderful memories...
I'm 65 years old I grew up John Wayne was the dad that I never had. And without a doubt he was the best actor ever seen and it about killed me to see him go. I miss him very much. My family loves him still. He was a great man. My family sends our love and blessings to you all. God speed Duke.
I met John Wayne at the Acapulco Yacht club new Years morning in 1967. They had just come back from parting . I climbed the ladder to the pier and he said, "You looked like you had a good time last night". I was 26 years old and had sailed down on a 26 ft Cutter riged sail boat. Later I ran a 57ft. Christ Craft and was 2 boats down from the "Wild Goose". John Wayne was one of the nicest man I ever meet. He was a mans man. I wish the family all the "Best. Gman skipper of the "Play Time."from 1967 to 1068.
A life long fan and admirer of John Wayne. I think he would be so proud of his family knowing they have taken his legacy forward and knowing they include us in on their tour with The Wild Goose! Thanks for the *memories*...
I used to run a small launch in L. A. harbor. I remember seeing the Wild Goose tied up at the San Pedro Maritme Museum. I ended up spending 27 years in the merchant marine. JOHN WAYNE was an American treasure. Thank you.
Like almost every Baby Boomer, I idolized John 'The Duke' Wayne. When I did my first tour in Vietnam, there was a kid in my unit whose actual name can't recall, but he bore an amazing likeness to the Duke, so much so that we dubbed him "The Duke." Thank you for keeping the great man's legacy alive; looking forward to more of your memories.
I'm 68, Your Dad was a Big part ❤ of my life, even though we NEVER met. The Duke, was always there. Awesome VLOG! I LUV'ed ❤ every minute of it. Thank You for sharing.
See his boat everytime I take my boat out for the last 50 years, never gets old. I used to go by his home there until it was torn down some years ago. My Dad has been on his boat once back in the 70's when one of John Wayne's crew members were doing things on the boat.
Just going to say thanks for sharing a part of your life and history with the memories. I was a big fan of your father as a child. After seeing this it shows how awesome of a dad he was. Thank you.
At 52 years old I have finally realized that after not having a father in the home this man gave me all that I needed to learn from another man.. He was probably a father to many kids like me.
Thank you for the great video! He is still my favorite actor and I still haven't forgiven Bruce Dern for shooting him in the back in the movie "The Cowboys"!
Like so many. I grew up totally in awe of your father John Wayne. Still my favorite actor. I still remember the interview that Barbara Walters did with your father on that yacht. She had never met him in person. Barbara was 5ft nothing and John was a huge man. She said, lady's you know he seem so large on screen. I'm here to tell you in real life he is a mountain of a man. But oh so charming.
As someone that grew up around boats, and has had a wonderful career in the Merchant Marine, it’s refreshing to see someone confident on the bridge of a private boat.
My California Cousins; Bobby and Cindy played on the boat at the slip in Newport Beach. Their vacation home was just 200 feet away from the slip. They enjoyed their time there so much that as an adult, Cindy bought apartments overlooking the beach. That was a long time ago.
Time stands still for no one. It must feel like yesterday when you and your famous father sailed the seven seas. It sort of does for me. My father was a big band musician. He played all over the country, even Hollywood. One gig he had was playing a few summers on Bob Lo steamers in Detroit. It was pretty cool watching him perform live on stage. I was too young to realize that he was a famous musician. You probably know that feeling more than most children of well-known parents. That "fame" fades away...the younger generation doesn't really know history like we used to. Thank you for sharing your father's life with the world!
I am 66 and John Wayne was very important in my life, my grandad and i used to watch all of his movies , we loved when he was on the american sportsman . Where did the time go, things have changed so much this almost brought a tear to my eye
I miss Duke too. He was a great man. That's what I called my Dad in his older years. After his divorce he bought a Cris*Craft yacht and lived on it with the family cat over in beautiful Holland, Michigan.
This is awesome. I am 37 and have been a huge fan of John Wayne since i was a kid when me and my dad used to watch his movies. I still watch his movies every weekend. I am so glad i found this channel! I love that his legacy is being kept alive and passed on. He was such a quality man.
I remember my dad had a 20 foot runabout and we would cruise by JW house and see the Goose, always looking to catch a glimpse of The Duke. Newport was a fun place in the 60"s and 70's for me as a young boy. Thanks for making the video!
now that you mention it, I remember my folks saying that" Roy Rodgers house is over there". as we putted by. I was always a big JW fan though. LOL@@dethray1000
I am now 84 and I fondly remember mooring behind the Wild Goose waiting to go through the Malibu rapids at Princess Louisa British Columbia. We were walking the docks and on this occasion one of the Gabor sisters was on board walking the docks dripping in jewelry but being just one of the folks. On occasion I would see John Wayne in Friday Harbor, Washington. You would say hi John as that was what he liked. Just plain that is how I fondly remember John Wayne and the Wild Goose.
Those big Cleveland 8-268A two cycle diesels.. As soon as it was mentioned that it was a surplus minesweeper, my mind went to Calypso. Sure enough... What a beautiful vessel.
I was a bus boy at the Balboa Bay Club in 1970. I met your father, and several other stars during my time there. And I spent some time on that yacht loading it with booze and beer for their enjoyment. I have some wonderful memories from those wild days at the "club"
So happy I found this channel. When I was a kid I would sit on the floor in front of my dad’s chair to watch John Wayne movies. Some of my fondest memories with my dad. This so cool
I grew up watching old and new John Wayne westerns as my dad was a big fan. Growing up in Orange County as soon could drive, I would fish and explore the waters of Newport Bay. Shortly after your Fathers death, a friend of mine pointed out there is John Wayne's old house and in that slip is his old boat, the White Goose. It became a regular fishing stop after that. Those were some good times I had growing up in such an awesome area back then. I left O.C. in the 1980's never to return, way to crowded and expensive to raise a family for most folks.
I remember John as I am from Avalon, moved off in 84. He used to anchor out by the C.G. buoy as did I. At that time I had a stick boat before becoming a full Yacht Captain. John was a frequent visitor and most of us considered him a part time local. Always bringing stuff for the High School and a wave and a smile to everyone. He was smart as he came during off season which then, Avalon was very laid back. My name is Lynn Stokes and remember him well. I'm 71
@@coleparker I was in Huntington Beach in 2004 and I ran into this guy they called Tank Abott or something like that. Well, I caught Tank looking at me funny, so I got up and walked over to this guy Tank and I gave him the old 1-2. Poor Tank was knocked out and I went back to finish my beer.
I met John Wayne in Victoria, B.C., in 1977 or '78 when he came ashore off the Wild Goose, I got his autograph, very memorable.Nice to see your chocolate lab, great dogs.
Damn Ethan you still look like that young boy in Big Jake, just old like me , lol . Grit just had a week of great Duke movies , seen them all dozens of times and still enjoy them all !
I remember seeing his boat at anchor in the Gulf islands (Pirates Cove) in 1976. I did a quick cruise around it and was later told it was John Waynes. Nice yacht.
! was workig at a fishing lodge in alaska ,YES BAY LODGE in late 70s i believe,was 16 and this boat came to visit,got to talk to the crew etc.Was a shock for a vessel to stop by and didnt know it was Johns,cool for y-tube to recomend it .
I’m 69, and John Wayne movies are still my favorite. I just watched Big Jake this week. Ethan still looks the same. I’d love to have a conversation with him. He seems down to earth. Anyway, thanks for the tour of your dads boat. Excellent.
It took me a minute but I kept thinking that I recognized you. Then it hit me, "Big Jake," one of my favorite (and much watched), movies that your father made. It brings back memories, very good memories of watching John Wayne movies with my Dad when I was little. And when I watch those movies now, strangely I feel comforted. Not sure that's the right word but I think it's as close as I can get. Thank you again and take care.
I'm a Canadian 77 year old senior and John Wayne was a big part of my life. If there is a movie he made that I haven't seen means it was a top secret issue the government hid it. lol I don't think any man ( real Man ) in our age group who didn't consider John to be our hero when we were kids and thought he was the best actor and person in the world as we matured. I didn't follow John's family after he passed. I do know a big part of Canada and USA felt a huge loss when John passed. When I watched this video I can see John's good qualities were passed down to Ethan. So I am sure they went to his siblings as well.
We were young men in our 20s and had sailed a small sailboat to Avalon. Anchored was Wild Goose and John Wayne was looking out from the stern. It was a memorable moment.
Hello Ethan. I am 60 years old. In 1974-5 my father and I were on a small boat out of HB and while in Catalina we and saw your dad’s yacht anchored near the Ismas. We didn’t see anyone onboard but it was fun seeing The Wild Goose … my dad so excited. Thanks for the video.
I remember as a kid in Dana Point we would go to Balboa Island and never did find the John Wayne house. Sickens me that it was torn down for a new house-that's sacrilegious.
Ethan, I met you dad once up in Maine as he was on hand for the commissary program of a Navy ship at Bath Iron Works. As the bottle was smashed on the hull and cheers were loud the ship never slid down the way’s, it needed a “push”. The Duke himself gave it a shove and off it went into the river! (Staged but best launch ever) At the reception event your dad took the time for meet & great/photos for all that asked, showed character and obviously you follow. Well done!
In the 1970’s I lived on Lido Island in the Newport Beach Ca. Harbor. From my second floor living room you could look west a short distance across the water to the large boat docks, where the Wild Goose was kept. At that time the hull was black and it had already passed through a couple of owners. When I first moved there I really looked the ship over. I found it interesting that the aft half appeared larger than it really was because canvas sides on handrails raised the profile if the deck about five feet. The actual deck (fantail?) was only ten feet or so above the waterline. It sat for long periods of time and then you would hear a deep rumbling as the gigantic engines came to life. As it left the birth it would rotate 180 degrees. This took place right off my balcony and was always an impressive sight. As it would come and go, I would wave at the passengers and crew. I had a conversation with a neighbor who told me that he had accompanied the Waynes as they took the Goose to Alaska where a movie was being filmed. There were a bunch of kids on board and they had amazing adventures ashore during the summer shooting of the movie.
I grew up in and around the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. My mother worked in the hotel in numerous positions and finally as Director of Public Relations, which was a prominent position. John Wayne would dock the Wild Goose in the harbor and just stroll across the street right up the front steps. My mother had numerous interactions with him and always told me that he was the real deal. The person you saw on the screen was the person he was when interacting with people. He would just walk around the hotel, visit with the ladies in the shops and never required a fuss. She interacted with many famous people in this famous hotel and he was her favorite because of his down to earth nature.
I've been a Life long fan of the Duke , thank you for sharing memories of your father. ! Loved the tour of the Wild Goose ! To me your father is the epitome of what it means to be an American. Fun fact , my late Uncle recruited your brother , Patrick into the Coast Guard.
Saw her my first time in 1972 at Stuart Island British Columbia. Over the years I spotted her several times plying the B.C. coastal waters, she's a beauty!
I am 77 and served on a Minesweeper out of Charleston SC in 1967. Our mission was to intercept and interdict shipping heading into Cuba on the Windward Passage. Our accomodations were nothing like yours. I absolutely recognized the " ladder" going down to the engine room. After the MSO, I went to the USS NEW JERSEY BB62, the Navy's most decorated Battleship, in 1968 an 1969. Quite a contrast in accomodations. Thank you for the visit.
As a young man my folks, on special events, would take me along to go have dinner on the Reuben E Lee. Those were special times...every now and then we would see the Wild Goose maneuvering in the harbor. Dad could quote chapter and verse about her... My Dad and uncle restored a couple of small boats in Huntington Beach...he loved the Goose. Thanks so much for sharing...
Ethan.... like you because of your dad, I purchaseda new y64 foot yacht half the size of your dad's and like your dad with a captain, my wife and little dog motored down from San Diego to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta an ports farther south. We love Mexico and its people. Your dad had already past, but we were leaving San Diego and the Wild Goose was traveling behind us. Your dad was very instrumental in how I ran my life about fair play and to love America!
That was just excellent. I’m an LA native and grew up in the Hollywood Hills. We would go down to Newport on the weekend and occasionally my dad would rent a boat. I remember seeing John Wayne’s boat almost every time we went there. John fricken Wayne, the most famous actor you ever heard of. I had seen every one of his movies at least once.
My grandfather got lung cancer and had one removed. He passed away seven months later, in 1965. When we heard John Wayne was going through the same thing it was devastating, but we all said he could beat it. JW was the toughest man alive, our hero.
Thanks for the video, it brought back a special time that meant so much. I honestly think half the reason I joined the Air Force after the draft ended was because of John Wayne. A sense of duty.
I accidentally blocked "The Dukes" boat when my small sailboat ran out of wind while in the channel at Lido Ile, Newport Beach, summer of 1971. Mr. Wayne greeted me kindly and finally the breeze pick-up. A true good guy.
I’m a 70yo Veteran and retired Corporate Pilot and grew up watching John Wayne movies with my Dad. I still enjoy watching a JW movie today. His movies hopefully will live on forever.
In the early 70s my brother, Tim and a friend were near The city float ramp at low tide in downtown Ketchikan, AK when they heard someone at the bottom of the ramp yell ‘ hey you boys want to make a couple of bucks packing my laundry up the ramp’? That man was the one and only John Wayne! I wish one of those two would have been me! He was there on one of his regular fishing trips to the area for king salmon! The Wild Goose was tied up often at city float. I still watch all of his old movies as they were and still are some of the best! RIP Duke!
Long story short; I was in the 6th Special Forces at Fort Bragg around 1965-1966. We were ordered to man a Vietnamese village used from training and for hosting visits from visiting politicians. Your dad showed up one day for a tour and when we asked his purpose of visiting he told us he was making a movie about the SF in Southeast Asia. It was good to shake his hand, he was known to be a patriot! Years later I had a sailboat in Newport Harbor on a mooring cthe back bay, J-75, just a few rows back from where Wild Goose was docked. One day I was rowing around sightseeing when your dad’s canon went off. So I rowed over and there was the man himself standing on the after deck. I called up to him and reminded him of his visit to my group at Bragg. Bless his heart he invited me aboard for a drink, showed me around the ship, and we reminisced about those times years before. I can’t hear the Ballad of the Green Berets without thinking of your dad. Thanks for the video, it was good to see the Goose again!
Ethan it’s great that you’re keeping your father’s legacy alive! Keep them coming, look forward to seeing more of them!❤️
I we as 16 years old sitting on the dock in Cataline Island,holding the bow line of the boston we forgot our ski rope.John Wayne just got off the small boat with his enterouge, walking past us,I asked Mr Wayne if we could borrow his ski rope.He said yes we used it for 2hours and returned to the wild goose. Thank you for the memory.
My brother and I were kids on a road trip with our dad to Mexico. We got really sick when my dad found Mr. Wayne, who took us aboard his boat, and everyone helped us get better. So basically, we owe him our lives. Thank you sir.
What? John Wayne saved your life when you were sick on a road trip? You dad just happened to find John Wayne and got him to help your random sick family? How? Where? When?
@@aaron___6014 Okay, so my dad and his friend took my brother and I to Mexico. We were just kids at the time and I think I was around 7 or 8 and my brother was 9 or 10. Anyway, my asshole dad and his friend spent the time drinking or whoring, and my brother and I were given these cheap ass fishing rods and we fished off this dock that was about two feet off the water. I remember I could dangle my feet in the water. The only thing we caught was puffer fish. You cannot do anything to them, so we got them off the hook and put them back in the water. Then, we get one who puffs up. We put it back in the water and it farts to expel the air. Still funny to this day, trust me. Anyway, some Mexican kids come over and try to tell us that puffer fish are bad, but no one speaks the others languages. So we hook a puffer and show them what we are doing to them. Soon, all of us are laughing like hell and catching puffer fish like crazy. The other kids go home and grab their rods and one even brings a bucket. The rest of the day was spent catching puffers, and laughing our asses off. Towards evening my brother and I both got sick. Our living arrangement was a a camper on a truck and best guess was perhaps some oil or something from the puffer fish made us sick. Either way, we were vomiting and just really sick. Our dad decided to stay with us while his friend went back to town to continue to drink or whatever. I am not sure when, but he came back with a new friend. I just remember being picked up and driven somewhere and then being placed in a room on a ship that I guess was the medical area. They had someone on board who was either a doctor or medically qualified, but I remember drinking something awful but frankly how I felt it could have been water for all I know. I just remember waking up feeling better and the first person I saw was Mr. Wayne. He explained that he was the new friend that visited the camper and had suggested that we be moved to the ship. My asshole dad and friend were basically still drinking, but at least Mr. Wayne was kind enough to check on us. That is what I remember. That and thanking him and this other guy and walking off the ship. My dad was an alcoholic if that was not apparent by now, and I believe I own my life to Mr. Wayne. Had he not stopped by and suggested like he did, there is no telling what could have happened. My dad recounted the story for years, so that was his version. Mine was really sick, woke up on a ship, saw John Wayne, talked to him a little, thanked him and left. Really nice guy.
@@DMaster182Amazing story. It’s not easy growing up with alcoholic parents. Glad you came out on the other-side.
@@woska7493 Thank you so much.
What a wonderful trip down memory lane, thank you Ethan for sharing with us.
Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching
@@JohnWayneTH-cam Thank you for sharing some of your life with us when talking about stories with your dad. Your dad did so much for this country like showing boys what men should be like. I am pushing 40 and the Duke was/is one of my favorite actors.
Thank you
What a joy it is to have you share your childhood memories with your Dad's yacht. I'm in my 70s and grew up loving your Dad's movies and later his interviews with various entertainers like Johnny Carson. What a legacy he has given to your family and to our country as the great ambassador he always was. God bless his soul and memory.
Thanks for keeping your Dad's memories alive with all of us who were and will always be his fans.
John Wayne was one of those old actors who epitomised what Hollywood was like, and I love those actors. Not like today, I find Hollywood a grotesque monster. i watch the old films, not the today films. Well done Ethan on valuing your fathers character and legacy of the past going.
I am now 66 years old, and have had the opportunity and good fortune to see most of the John Wayne collection. He was my favorite cowboy and also my favorite WWII actor. He was a real man. I was born and raised in Australia. Just imagine my surprise when I found out that John was my eight cousin once removed. Now I realize that is not that big of a deal, but it made me happy to have even that slim of a connection. Fantastic!
My father was assigned to this minesweeper during WW II. He was the executive officer.
When I was in Sea Cadets I did a 2 week training course on the MV Reah which is the same class of mine sweeper, they told us that John Wayne also owned one, so cool to see the yacht .👍😎
Wow, I am a 75 yo Australian. John Wayne was my hero. Big, strong, and good.
Hi Ethan, My name is Pete Phillips, and in 1969 I was the cove steward for Newport Harbor Yacht Club at Moonstone Cove, Catalina. Your dad used to come over and anchor the Goose between Whites and Moonstone and I was hailed at times to run him ashore with the 35 ft. motor launch thatvwas our shoreboat/tender. I was lucky enough to have been invited aboard for dinner twice by your dad during that summer of '69. Both times were on a wednesday night, when there were not many other boats around, and none of the other NHYC members there either. Your dad was always gracias and a lively dinner companion. We had grilled steaks, Billy made roasted potatoes and sauteed asparagus.
I grew up sailing in So Cal. My family had a house on Harbor Island, kept our boat in front of the house, moored at NHYC. I belonged to the Los Angeles Yacht Club.
Anyway, I have great memories of being aboard Wild Goose and of having dinner with the man who was legendary during my childhood. I am still cruising, on a 60' motor vessel now, and in my mid 70s. I am currently heading down the west coast from my home in Juneau, Ak. and will be in Ca. In a couple of days. Looking forward to being in Newport again for a couple of days before heading down to Mexico.
Thanks for your youtube chanel!
Pete Phillips
MV Caroline
Www.mvcaroline.com
I was a gymnastics coach at Balboa Bay Club in 1969 and I remember a tradition that for Christmas party for the “staff” the Bay Club members would serve the staff. John Wayne was our server that night and I had brought a fellow UC Irvine date who was shocked to learn who our server was that evening. The only person I ever met who’s hand was as large as John’s was Arnold Palmer who shook my hand many years later.
John Wayne was a American Icon and treasure, todays youth would be well served to get to know more about the actor and man.
Ethan: Your love and admiration shows through every time you mention him. We all deserve a dad like him.
Thank you, Ethan, for your trip down memory lane. You are a tribute to your dad.
God bless you and your family.
Ethan, I’m sure many people have had connections with your family…here’s mine! I went to Carden Hall in the early 70’s. I had Mrs. Ray in 2nd grade, Mrs. Draganza in 3rd grade and Mrs. Waltz in 4th. My younger brother was in Marisa’s class and attended a few holiday parties at your home. My mother and Pilar played tennis together on occasion. The most vivid memory I have of your father was him sitting in one of those tiny student chairs at Spring Fling passing out autographs. Your dad will always be one of my heroes!!
My hero as well.
I can watch John Wayne movies over and over, never get tired of the duke, what a classy, charismatic gentleman!!!
Thanks for sharing this great memory with us!!!
I’m now 73 and I’ve seen every movie your dad made, probably 3-4 time, each and I truly loved him.
You’re blessed to be his son and I’m sure you’ve got a lot more memories to share.
I’ll subscribe and stay tuned, thanks again, Ron
Thx for the wonderful tour!
When l was in college in the early 70's l took a print making class and did a silk screen print of John Wayne, my hero. Course, l think they were snickering behind my back, but l didn't care. He was my favorite actor. My man.
I met you in the '70s in the San Juan Islands. Our family use to boat up to Blakely Island just across from Rosario on Orcas Island. Your father invited my father and my younger brother and I aboard for a little tour. I was 10, you were 9 and my brother was 8... Thank You for bringing back some wonderful memories...
I’m still watching movies with the “ The Duke.”
The Duke was my lifelong hero.If I missed missed a movie,it was only 1 or 2,otherwise I saw every movie he was in.
I'm 65 years old I grew up John Wayne was the dad that I never had. And without a doubt he was the best actor ever seen and it about killed me to see him go. I miss him very much. My family loves him still. He was a great man. My family sends our love and blessings to you all. God speed Duke.
Looks like your dad raised a good man, pleasant personality. A lot of great memories. Enjoyed the show and history of The Duke.
America needs John Wayne, hopefully our young will start to read about the Duke, Reagan and many more, God Bless USA.
Miss John Wayne and all those great actors from that great generation!
I am 61 , grew up watching your dad miss his voice of reason!! love the ship
I met John Wayne at the Acapulco Yacht club new Years morning in 1967. They had just come back from parting . I climbed the ladder to the pier and he said, "You looked like you had a good time last night". I was 26 years old and had sailed down on a 26 ft Cutter riged sail boat. Later I ran a 57ft. Christ Craft and was 2 boats down from the "Wild Goose". John Wayne was one of the nicest man I ever meet. He was a mans man. I wish the family all the "Best. Gman skipper of the "Play Time."from 1967 to 1068.
A life long fan and admirer of John Wayne. I think he would be so proud of his family knowing they have taken his legacy forward and knowing they include us in on their tour with The Wild Goose!
Thanks for the *memories*...
I miss him so much!!!! It would be awesome to have him with us.the great ones die to soon. GOD REST HIS SOUL and God bless his family. Love you
I really miss your Dad Ethan not only as the best actor that ever lived but, as a human being....
I used to run a small launch in L. A. harbor. I remember seeing the Wild Goose tied up at the San Pedro Maritme Museum. I ended up spending 27 years in the merchant marine. JOHN WAYNE was an American treasure. Thank you.
Like almost every Baby Boomer, I idolized John 'The Duke' Wayne. When I did my first tour in Vietnam, there was a kid in my unit whose actual name can't recall, but he bore an amazing likeness to the Duke, so much so that we dubbed him "The Duke." Thank you for keeping the great man's legacy alive; looking forward to more of your memories.
Your dad was a big part of growing up for me. Great to see this side of his life. Many, many thanks Ethan!
I'm 68, Your Dad was a Big part ❤ of my life, even though we NEVER met. The Duke, was always there. Awesome VLOG! I LUV'ed ❤ every minute of it. Thank You for sharing.
See his boat everytime I take my boat out for the last 50 years, never gets old. I used to go by his home there until it was torn down some years ago. My Dad has been on his boat once back in the 70's when one of John Wayne's crew members were doing things on the boat.
Fantastic job Ethan, the good old days they were. What a pleasure you sharing thanks Pilgrim.
Just going to say thanks for sharing a part of your life and history with the memories. I was a big fan of your father as a child. After seeing this it shows how awesome of a dad he was. Thank you.
I am 65 i have watched every movie he ever made probably 50 times every one loved him
At 52 years old I have finally realized that after not having a father in the home this man gave me all that I needed to learn from another man.. He was probably a father to many kids like me.
We have very similar stories. God speed, sir.
Thank you for the great video! He is still my favorite actor and I still haven't forgiven Bruce Dern for shooting him in the back in the movie "The Cowboys"!
Like so many. I grew up totally in awe of your father John Wayne. Still my favorite actor. I still remember the interview that Barbara Walters did with your father on that yacht. She had never met him in person. Barbara was 5ft nothing and John was a huge man.
She said, lady's you know he seem so large on screen. I'm here to tell you in real life he is a mountain of a man. But oh so charming.
Damn! I could watch a couple more hours of just listening to these stories.
As someone that grew up around boats, and has had a wonderful career in the Merchant Marine, it’s refreshing to see someone confident on the bridge of a private boat.
I worked on a treasure hunting boat in Louisiana circa 1990. Our Captain Bob used to be John Wayne’s yacht captain. Saw JW in the San Juan islands.
My California Cousins; Bobby and Cindy played on the boat at the slip in Newport Beach. Their vacation home was just 200 feet away from the slip. They enjoyed their time there so much that as an adult, Cindy bought apartments overlooking the beach. That was a long time ago.
Time stands still for no one. It must feel like yesterday when you and your famous father sailed the seven seas. It sort of does for me. My father was a big band musician. He played all over the country, even Hollywood. One gig he had was playing a few summers on Bob Lo steamers in Detroit. It was pretty cool watching him perform live on stage. I was too young to realize that he was a famous musician. You probably know that feeling more than most children of well-known parents. That "fame" fades away...the younger generation doesn't really know history like we used to. Thank you for sharing your father's life with the world!
Taking that boat up to Alaska sounds like a great, fun, relaxing vacation.
I am 66 and John Wayne was very important in my life, my grandad and i used to watch all of his movies , we loved when he was on the american sportsman . Where did the time go, things have changed so much this almost brought a tear to my eye
I miss Duke too. He was a great man. That's what I called my Dad in his older years. After his divorce he bought a Cris*Craft yacht and lived on it with the family cat over in beautiful Holland, Michigan.
Great stories about the man and not just the star.
This is a seriously well-made and well-told story. What a great trip down memory lane.
This is awesome. I am 37 and have been a huge fan of John Wayne since i was a kid when me and my dad used to watch his movies. I still watch his movies every weekend. I am so glad i found this channel! I love that his legacy is being kept alive and passed on. He was such a quality man.
I remember my dad had a 20 foot runabout and we would cruise by JW house and see the Goose, always looking to catch a glimpse of The Duke. Newport was a fun place in the 60"s and 70's for me as a young boy. Thanks for making the video!
across the bay lived another cowboy,roy rogers who would be working in his yard as you cruised by --we honk and he would wave
now that you mention it, I remember my folks saying that" Roy Rodgers house is over there". as we putted by. I was always a big JW fan though. LOL@@dethray1000
Did you hang out at the arcade in Balboa much?
I am now 84 and I fondly remember mooring behind the Wild Goose waiting to go through the Malibu rapids at Princess Louisa British Columbia. We were walking the docks and on this occasion one of the Gabor sisters was on board walking the docks dripping in jewelry but being just one of the folks. On occasion I would see John Wayne in Friday Harbor, Washington. You would say hi John as that was what he liked. Just plain that is how I fondly remember John Wayne and the Wild Goose.
My son and I went on the Wild Goose for the dinner cruise. Very nice!
❤ nice to see you keeping it real and alive .😊🌏👍
Those big Cleveland 8-268A two cycle diesels.. As soon as it was mentioned that it was a surplus minesweeper, my mind went to Calypso. Sure enough... What a beautiful vessel.
I was a bus boy at the Balboa Bay Club in 1970. I met your father, and several other stars during my time there. And I spent some time on that yacht loading it with booze and beer for their enjoyment. I have some wonderful memories from those wild days at the "club"
Thanks for the memories, your father was an American hero and icon.
So happy I found this channel. When I was a kid I would sit on the floor in front of my dad’s chair to watch John Wayne movies. Some of my fondest memories with my dad. This so cool
Great home movies. My dad was a huge fan of Duke. And was much like him. Thanks Ethan.
What a cool video. Loved the little clips of the family from a time gone by.
I grew up watching old and new John Wayne westerns as my dad was a big fan. Growing up in Orange County as soon could drive, I would fish and explore the waters of Newport Bay. Shortly after your Fathers death, a friend of mine pointed out there is John Wayne's old house and in that slip is his old boat, the White Goose. It became a regular fishing stop after that. Those were some good times I had growing up in such an awesome area back then. I left O.C. in the 1980's never to return, way to crowded and expensive to raise a family for most folks.
I remember John as I am from Avalon, moved off in 84. He used to anchor out by the C.G. buoy as did I. At that time I had a stick boat before becoming a full Yacht Captain. John was a frequent visitor and most of us considered him a part time local. Always bringing stuff for the High School and a wave and a smile to everyone. He was smart as he came during off season which then, Avalon was very laid back.
My name is Lynn Stokes and remember him well. I'm 71
As a kid my dad had a boat, we would pass by John Waynes house and sometimes see his boat. I think it is so cool that his son still has John's boat.
did you watch this video ... re watch ffs !
John's boat is now a tour boat... The family dose not run it...
How many sons does John Wayne have?
Really, did you live in Newport? I grew up in Huntington Beach. Moved there in 1963.
@@coleparker I was in Huntington Beach in 2004 and I ran into this guy they called Tank Abott or something like that. Well, I caught Tank looking at me funny, so I got up and walked over to this guy Tank and I gave him the old 1-2. Poor Tank was knocked out and I went back to finish my beer.
I met John Wayne in Victoria, B.C., in 1977 or '78 when he came ashore off the Wild Goose, I got his autograph, very memorable.Nice to see your chocolate lab, great dogs.
Damn Ethan you still look like that young boy in Big Jake, just old like me , lol .
Grit just had a week of great Duke movies , seen them all dozens of times and still enjoy them all !
Yes! I enjoyed watching those movies too!
I remember seeing his boat at anchor in the Gulf islands (Pirates Cove) in 1976. I did a quick cruise around it and was later told it was John Waynes. Nice yacht.
! was workig at a fishing lodge in alaska ,YES BAY LODGE in late 70s i believe,was 16 and this boat came to visit,got to talk to the crew etc.Was a shock for a vessel to stop by and didnt know it was Johns,cool for y-tube to recomend it .
My mother is a big John Wayne fan and that would be something she would love to see
I’m 69, and John Wayne movies are still my favorite. I just watched Big Jake this week. Ethan still looks the same. I’d love to have a conversation with him. He seems down to earth. Anyway, thanks for the tour of your dads boat. Excellent.
Thank you very much for doing this your father has been my hero since the 60s he was the greatest
It took me a minute but I kept thinking that I recognized you. Then it hit me, "Big Jake," one of my favorite (and much watched), movies that your father made. It brings back memories, very good memories of watching John Wayne movies with my Dad when I was little. And when I watch those movies now, strangely I feel comforted. Not sure that's the right word but I think it's as close as I can get. Thank you again and take care.
I am a very big fan of John Wayne and very cool video Ethan and very nice tour of the wild goose and John Wayne is a legend for ever .👍👏
I'm a Canadian 77 year old senior and John Wayne was a big part of my life. If there is a movie he made that I haven't seen means it was a top secret issue the government hid it. lol
I don't think any man ( real Man ) in our age group who didn't consider John to be our hero when we were kids and thought he was the best actor and person in the world as we matured.
I didn't follow John's family after he passed. I do know a big part of Canada and USA felt a huge loss when John passed. When I watched this video I can see John's good qualities were passed down to Ethan. So I am sure they went to his siblings as well.
I needed this trip down memory lane, even though they were not my memories,
I was 12 when I headed for Lock Logan and I bought a frisbee thank you very much.
We were young men in our 20s and had sailed a small sailboat to Avalon. Anchored was Wild Goose and John Wayne was looking out from the stern. It was a memorable moment.
Hello Ethan. I am 60 years old. In 1974-5 my father and I were on a small boat out of HB and while in Catalina we and saw your dad’s yacht anchored near the Ismas. We didn’t see anyone onboard but it was fun seeing The Wild Goose … my dad so excited.
Thanks for the video.
I remember as a kid in Dana Point we would go to Balboa Island and never did find the John Wayne house. Sickens me that it was torn down for a new house-that's sacrilegious.
Ethan, I met you dad once up in Maine as he was on hand for the commissary program of a Navy ship at Bath Iron Works. As the bottle was smashed on the hull and cheers were loud the ship never slid down the way’s, it needed a “push”. The Duke himself gave it a shove and off it went into the river! (Staged but best launch ever) At the reception event your dad took the time for meet & great/photos for all that asked, showed character and obviously you follow. Well done!
Nice you have his boat !
Family memories!
In the 1970’s I lived on Lido Island in the Newport Beach Ca. Harbor. From my second floor living room you could look west a short distance across the water to the large boat docks, where the Wild Goose was kept. At that time the hull was black and it had already passed through a couple of owners. When I first moved there I really looked the ship over. I found it interesting that the aft half appeared larger than it really was because canvas sides on handrails raised the profile if the deck about five feet. The actual deck (fantail?) was only ten feet or so above the waterline.
It sat for long periods of time and then you would hear a deep rumbling as the gigantic engines came to life. As it left the birth it would rotate 180 degrees. This took place right off my balcony and was always an impressive sight. As it would come and go, I would wave at the passengers and crew.
I had a conversation with a neighbor who told me that he had accompanied the Waynes as they took the Goose to Alaska where a movie was being filmed. There were a bunch of kids on board and they had amazing adventures ashore during the summer shooting of the movie.
Great memories of the Duke
I grew up in and around the Empress Hotel in Victoria, British Columbia, Canada. My mother worked in the hotel in numerous positions and finally as Director of Public Relations, which was a prominent position. John Wayne would dock the Wild Goose in the harbor and just stroll across the street right up the front steps. My mother had numerous interactions with him and always told me that he was the real deal. The person you saw on the screen was the person he was when interacting with people. He would just walk around the hotel, visit with the ladies in the shops and never required a fuss. She interacted with many famous people in this famous hotel and he was her favorite because of his down to earth nature.
I've been a Life long fan of the Duke , thank you for sharing memories of your father. ! Loved the tour of the Wild Goose ! To me your father is the epitome of what it means to be an American. Fun fact , my late Uncle recruited your brother , Patrick into the Coast Guard.
My wife and I were married on The Wild Goose- such a beautiful vessel and very meaningful. Thank you for this excellent video.
Saw her my first time in 1972 at Stuart Island British Columbia. Over the years I spotted her several times plying the B.C. coastal waters, she's a beauty!
Thats amazing! Thanks for sharing that
I am 77 and served on a Minesweeper out of Charleston SC in 1967. Our mission was to intercept and interdict shipping heading into Cuba on the Windward Passage. Our accomodations were nothing like yours. I absolutely recognized the " ladder" going down to the engine room. After the MSO, I went to the USS NEW JERSEY BB62, the Navy's most decorated Battleship, in 1968 an 1969. Quite a contrast in accomodations.
Thank you for the visit.
Legends live on. Great viewing.
As a young man my folks, on special events, would take me along to go have dinner on the Reuben E Lee. Those were special times...every now and then we would see the Wild Goose maneuvering in the harbor. Dad could quote chapter and verse about her... My Dad and uncle restored a couple of small boats in Huntington Beach...he loved the Goose.
Thanks so much for sharing...
Ethan.... like you because of your dad, I purchaseda new y64 foot yacht half the size of your dad's and like your dad with a captain, my wife and little dog motored down from San Diego to Cabo, Puerto Vallarta an ports farther south. We love Mexico and its people. Your dad had already past, but we were leaving San Diego and the Wild Goose was traveling behind us. Your dad was very instrumental in how I ran my life about fair play and to love America!
John Wayne was one of the good guys. RIP