absolutely! And they NEVER complain or argue unreasonably ! I hate that these guys went through so much and saved the world in essence, only to have to see millionaire football players kneeling and idiots across the country wanting statues taken down. Seriously! WTF!!!
I’m the son of a WW2 marine who was in the 3rd division. He still lives and will be 99 years old in August. I’m very proud of him and will be until I die
merit2591 As the son of a now deceased WW2 Aussie digger, believe me mate, you will remain proud long after your dear dad is gone. My dad passed away 10 years ago this July & each & every day I thank him, his brothers, his mates, all of our allies for what they sacrificed. RIP... Lest We Forget...
My dad is a vietnam veteran and ran into this man in an Applebee’s and Hershel shook my dads hand and thanked him for his service not even mentioning his service or Medal of Honor. True hero and honorable man.
@laserus3333 there is a Marine in my DAV chapter that served with the 4th Marine Division on Iwo Jima and is still alive at 96. I am in awe of him every time I see him.
@@krisknowlton2658 They were/Are the best generation. My dad is still with us. And I've been to a few of his reunions and a couple Marine Corps balls (I was in Marine Corps myself) and was able to get the scoop from his unit.My dad was a Master tech seargent.top NCO at only 20 years old. His guys loved him. And now hes one of only a few that are still with us. They fought on 6 Islands together 3 years.(Im about to get choked up).so semper fi!
@@laserus3333 ask your dad if he knows Gerald Gwaltney from NC. He fought on as many islands and has been to the reunions and in fact became friends with Lee Marvin when he was still alive.
Do you think you could do an interview with him? We need interviews with survivors. There are less than 300,000 soldiers left who fought in WWII. Anything you can document would be immensely valuable, either audio or video or written!
My grandpa joined the army in 1942 at age 17 where he served as a paratrooper in ww2 in the pacific theater- Japan. He gained his master parachutist badge before heading off to Korea at the end of the war where he joined an infantry unit. He earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Battlefield Commission. He was almost killed when a grenade went off and sent shrapnel to his chest, and he also got malaria in Korea. He saw men die around him, and he killed men. After that he served in the Signal Corps stationed in Viet Nam. He retired a lieutenant colonel in 1970. A true American hero and badass to me. He died aged 91. Rest In Peace, Papa. 1925-2017 US Army 11th Airborne Division 24th Infantry Division Army Signal Corps
Danny lifts That’s what I’m trying to do, he always believed in Taking care of yourself and he always told me if I didn’t have anything nice to say I shouldn’t say anything at all, but I should always speak my mind if I need to. also he taught me the value of hard work. So I’ve been trying to incorporate those things into my life. He wasn’t famous or rich, but he was one of the most influential people in my life .
Danny lifts I’m sorry you didn’t get to know them well enough. My grandpa never talked about his time in the Army, ever. I never heard one word about it honestly. But he had a ton of pictures from all his time in the army, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Europe, Panama, Dominican Republic. Everywhere. But he never talked about it
I was a young marine a long time ago I met this Marine in person in Pennsylvania and I saw him and his medal and heard his story, I was and still am aw struck not a very big man but one tough sob I went to go shake his hand gently cause I didn't want to hurt him and he squeezed my hand, looked me in the eye and said "Give me a real handshake Marine" I'll never forget that moment.❤
Yeah man You save them soft handshakes for sailors and airmen. That what I was always told by men much like this one. Had two uncle's in that theater Hard as hell To their last breath
@@calypsohandjack9278 man, what a sad life you must lead. I hope you never have to do the things those good men did... They didnt have a choice in the matter. Something you dont understand . and i hope you find peace in that warring mind of yours...
What a contrast to the Godless snowflakes, antifa, blm, phony Hollywood actors and rich tech inventors, athletes and media who have no honor nor appreciation of America. Keep America great!
@@kentonwood9155 I'm 32 years old this year and I look up to those who sacrificed or survived WW1 & WW2 because they knew what loyalty, honour and fighting for freedom truly mattered. Too many snowflakes scattered in recent times, it made me feel out of place.
I still see WW1 vets in their late 60's and 70's and WW2 vets in their mid 40's and 50's, in my head. I mourn deeply, all the stories never told. All the questions now never to be answered.
Every single one of these stories makes me cry, I live such a comfortable life, I will never ever understand what these brave brave men went through, the fear, watching your friends die around you, the potential PTSD when coming home, I sincerely hope that we never forget these men even long after their families have passed, we musn't forget the tremendous sacrifices made for what we have today.
I lost my grandpa in 1999, I was about to turn 9 we he past. I wish i had the chance to sit with him as an adult and listen to him talk about WWII and Korea. I know where all he went and how he got the silver star but that was my dad telling me. What they’re doing with this channel is amazing.
My grandfather flew P- 51's in WW2, the stories he told were so captivating, its likes you just wanted to hear more, after the war he went into crop dusting, he also ferry aircraft across America, he was hired by Bob Hoover to ferry his P-51 to airshows and also ferryed Hoovers Aero Commander a few times, sadly my grandfather passed away 2 years ago, but his legacy lives on....
@@MemoirsofWWII i wish my grandpa could have been on here, he was in the army signal corps, he put up radio lines in burma, india, china and other places, a few weeks ago i found some of his medals and other things he got there, i wish people could of heard him, he had some really good stories, although he never liked to talk about it to much. he passed away this september at 98.
My great grandfather was in the Navy during WW2 and built his own meat distribution business after the war. He never once mentioned WW2. We were always curious about it but he wouldn't tell us anything if he was asked.
He definitely had Angels protecting him during that period up to this day. What a blessing to have such a man walk this earth. I am greatly humbled and thankful.
That is dumb and disrespectful. He did not have Angels protecting him, he had four Marines protecting him. Those four marines, two of which paid the ultimate price, is the reason this man still walked. Stop trying attribute everything to divine intervention. Your God is not real, it's time to wake up and smell the roses.
@@gypsykingg our constitution and what America was founded on is based off of Christianity and freedom. Just because you’re an edgy atheist that has never experienced tragedy before doesn’t mean everyone thinks the same way. Yea he had soldiers protecting him but you can’t dispute a higher power not giving him protection.
@@plaguedoctor5657 - Oh do you tell me about my life story. Go on. Your god, just like the thousands before, is easily disproven. It's not anyone else's fault that you are so simple-minded to believe in fairy tales.
@@gypsykingg please easily disprove it for me oh knowledgeable random atheist on TH-cam. With your argument you cannot prove or disprove the idea of higher entities/power Edit: maybe you are the simple minded one for not opening your mind to possibilities humans cannot fathom
@@justinpasternak5192 He got the hero's send off on 7/3/22, just a day before the 4th of July. One of the very few that was left of the greatest generation. RIP Woody.
I tear up at every one of these episodes that I watch. What incredible men and women, and in a few short years not one of them will still be with us. It still haunts me remembering when I heard that the last WWI vet had died...so many missed opportunities to know those folks and hear it straight from them. I still remember the hearing my grandpas telling of the things they saw and experienced.
My Father In Law was at D-Day and survived, he was eventually captured by the Germans and was a POW for just over a year. We have his mugshot and documents the Nazi’s had of him. He is 96 still alive and kicking and one of the best men i’ve ever had the honor of knowing. He doesn’t like to speak of the battle, but you can see the pain in his eyes from what he had to endure those days. God bless all the men and women in out armed forces standing and laying down.
I know Woody he came to my dad's funeral Wetzel SUNDOWN Sanders on August 2019 he was a Pearl Harbor survivor they only lived about 30 miles away from each other in W.V. Woody and my Dad were good friends. Woody is a hell of a HERO AND MAN !!!
There's something about those WW2 veterans. They have a certain dignity and humility. They speak clearly to the point and you can sense they received different kind of education and upbringing from a long gone world.
I’ve noticed that not one of these guys takes credit for any of it. They all ensure every name they knew gets recognized bc it was a team effort. True team effort. I can’t thank every veteran enough for our freedom. That was true work
My great uncle was a flame thrower and fought on Saipan and Iwo Jima and was killed by a sniper on Iwo Jima 3 days before the battle ended and had 47 confirmed kills alone on Iwo jima
That island was the cause of a lot of sadness for families on both sides. Why didn't the Japanese just pull out and go home. It was a futile plan to defend Iwo Jima.
@@markr.devereux2713 Why? Three reasons come to mind: 1. Japanese were a Godless, pagan people, who worshipped their emperor as God. 2. Death was considered honorable. 3. Their children were brainwashed from birth to blindly follow a ruler, with no thoughts as an individual of right or wrong.
Heartless I agree 100%. We are fortunate to have people like him who stepped into the mouth of Hell and lived to tell about it. Have a good one. Blessed Be⛥⛥⛥
Exactly @ Heartless, I think it's because most of them live for today. That's how my grandpa was, I have never seen him sad or upset always smiling till he passed at 98 years young. He was Italian but came to the United States and served in WW2 for this country he fell in love with! My other grandpa served under Benito Mussolini. Crazy to think that they went to war against each other?
Great Work! Just met a 99 year old WWII vet at work yesterday. Order a house Gin Martini, No Vermouth on the rocks. Had every couple at the bar arguing about who was going to pay for his drink. These guys will be forever Legendary throughout America!
You cover a lot of heroes Josh, but I think you're a real hero too. What this channel does is priceless. These people's experiences and the precious history behind them will forever be preserved, thanks to you and your team. Thank you!
I was a Marine recruiter from 2003-2006 with a headquarters in Charleston WV. I met Woody probably 5 times during my tour of duty. He was truly a Marine's Marine. Semper Fi!
"I'm just the caretaker of the medal." Yep, crying again. So many of your videos touch my soul. Thank you for implementing the telling of these men's stories.
“They lost part of themselves when they lost their loved ones.” My Great Uncle was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honour for his actions in The Marshall Islands - my grandmother (who practically raised him after their own mother fell ill) was never the same. The loss left deep psychological scars on our family that are just starting to heal two generations later.
RIP Hershel...this is a sad day. Albeit inevitable, it isn't any less difficult. Hershel's passing is a reminder that very soon, the remainder of the greatest generation will soon be gone. He and his comrades were the bravest and strongest men to walk the earth. Thank you for your service.
Feeling like the word “hero” is being thrown around too casually when you hear these stories. These are more than heroes. The bravery for a safer world is... I don’t know no words
Thanks the war took my grandad. My father never spoke of him maybe because he was to young to remember him. My grandmother opened a drawer when l was young said "he was a brave man those are his medals" my point,the loss is generations deep.
My Dad was wounded in France he's gone now but he loved his country. Watching people not respecting the flag would have broke his heart. These men are amazing Patriots who will be missed.
I met Mr Williams at the USO in Charlotte NC in 2011 prior to deploying to Afghanistan. I at the time had no idea who he was and didn’t even see his MOH pin on his lapel until after he finished talking to me. Someone came up to me and asked what “woody Williams” had said to me, and mentioned that it was so cool to see him. I naïvely said, “who’s Woody?”. I wish now I had known at the time so I could have talked with him more about his service. He was very kind and told me that he was very proud of what our men and women were doing at the time. He told me that he thought that we had a lot of guts fighting the enemy in the Middle East who didn’t even ware uniforms. So cool to see his story on here. Thanks for what you guys are doing! I love every one of these story’s.
Let us take a moment to say thank u for these heroes that fought for the protection of their people. We are the last generation that are able to talk and look at these WW2 veterans.
I once had a dear friend of mine that served in the pacific campaign. Wore a different uniform than this man, but had the same duty. He never spoke of his time until very close to his next assignment. We spoke as brothers then, not an uncle to his nephew. I will always hold the opportunity to listen to his sorrow, anguish and love for his brothers very close. Maybe one day I'll share my story with my grandchildren. Damn I miss you uncle red.
My Grandfather served in the Pacific and earned a bronze star. From what I've been told he held a position that was advanced on be a dozen or so Japanese. He waited until they were right on top of him to open fire. I think it bothered him for the rest of his life. He became a big part of his church for the next 60yrs and was a very gentle man that I never seen angered. I believe he was trying to repent for taking so many lives. There is more than physical injuries that are suffered from combat.
Been watching these everyday for a week now. And its changed my perception of life. Thank God for all the people that saved humanity from the evil of the AXIS. For a long time i never understood why these men went so willingly so unselfishly knowing they were probably gonna die. I understand now. Not saying i wouldnt do the same. I would. I just think its easy to say you would. But listen to these men talk. Its like it happened yesterday
I just love these stories, helps recharge my momories. I'm 62 years old and knew a lot of WWII veterans throughout the years. Been to a few funerals too. We have to record these for the future because people forget these historical events. I think ignorance and narrow minded people is what makes history repeat itself . Thanks for the video.
He has joined those two Marines who assisted him that day, along with many other comrades and loved ones who passed along the way. Rest easy, Hershel "Woody" Williams. You're story will live in our hearts forever.
Here in West Virginia we are so proud of Woody Williams. He was born, raised and still lives in our great Mountain State. Semper Fi from an old Marine Sergeant.
Confessions of a Beginning Homesteader where are you from in WV? I am from Huntington, his home town and have met him a couple times! This too makes me feel like a good patriotic American.
@@Nimrodbodeinejr You might have met my Dad he was a Pearl Harbor survivor and Purple heart recipient and lived in Lincoln county he passed away August 2019 his name was Wetzel SUNDOWN Sanders
As a current college student in ROTC training to become an Army officer, I can honestly say I believe with every fiber of my being, that I was born in the wrong generation. Every time I watch one these documentaries/memoirs of these old, grizzled badasses...I can't help but feel like I missed out on some sort of opportunity. I feel at home when I watch these things. It's very unexplainable and at the same time, interesting to me.
The ww2 guys have always been my heroes since I began reading about them when I was 8. These Marines are the ones who inspired me to join the Corps one day, and that day is coming after college graduation
I wished you guys could have been around when I was a kid, and the WWI vets were in their late 70's, 80's, and 90's (1970's/80's time frame). If you want to know where the roots were in "The Greatest Generation", meet the generation that were their parents. Thanks for creating this series, I grew up among veterans, my dad was a post commander for both the American Legion and The VFW (at different times). I got to know a wide variety of veterans and their backgrounds as a result.
My Dad and some of my uncles were in the service at the time of ww2 I was very lucky to hear some of their stories, and wow what a life they had. My Father in law was in North Africa, My Dad in the South pacific , one of my Uncles was at Bastogne, he had a lot of Medals including the Silver Star.
@Big Bill O'Reilly I'm not here to argue who's right or wrong but since u think this badly of the president then here's some history and facts if u think about it the president's are pawns now they don't do anything only congress is at fault alot of the times that hurts this country and so does the president's at times. But no matter wat u do or vote for all of them are garbage we haven't had a great president or congress in a very long time in fact I could say pre Vietnam and Korea was the last time we had a system that was great. That's why I love the WW11 era cuz people were more united at that time than any other time after WW11. So let that sink in if we want to be a great nation again the fighting has to stop amongst are selves.
I will always have the deepest respect for veterans like him. I’m proud to say my grandpa was one of the brave men who fought in the pacific in WWII. And I wouldn’t be here today if he didn’t make it home. But I’m glad he did. I miss him a lot...
I was lucky enough to have him at my high school as a guest speaker for our Marine Corps birthday celebration in 2011 and I was a part of color guard and as I lowered the Marine Corps flag and everyone stood while the national anthem played, Woody was standing, in uniform, saluting and crying... he is the epitome of humble and glad to have known and had meaningful conversation with him on numerous occasion. Fellow West Virginian as well , I’ll never forget those moments with him.
Since I started to study Social Studies I feel more Thankful with our Veterans... I could not understand the big meaning before until now... and I feel so proud of them. They deserve everything in this world, the best of the best.❤❤❤🙌🙏❤❤❤🙌🙏❤❤❤ "God Bless all our Veterans".
I cannot tell you how pleased I am to hear the REAL Pledge Of Allegiance in your opening sequence. How it was recited when these men and women fought for the flag to whom they pledged their allegiance. Thank You!
It was a privilege and an honor to meet Woody a few years ago, when he spoke at a wounded veterans benefit dinner put on by motorcycle racer Kenny Roberts. Woody has an amazing, dynamic presence...a razor sharp mind and keen wit, with a powerful handshake like a steel vise! Above all, he's truly a gentleman and a grateful one. Men just don't come any better than him. 🇺🇸
About two years ago I had the chance to mark one more thing off of my bucket list. I had wanted to have the honor of shaking hands with a Medal of Honor recipient. I had the great honor of meeting Woody in Elkins, WV. When I first met him I choked up so bad I had to walk away so I could compose myself. So humble and gave all the credit to his buddies that didn't come back. I still get emotional just thinking about it.
I have had the honor of meeting 26 recipients. Each one as humble as Woody, in fact one was Woody. If you ever get the opportunity to meet one, absolutely take the time. You will never regret it.
I was born when you were in the islands fighting for your life and our way of life. January 1945, thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart sir. God Bless you
Mr. Williams is a true American Hero. I was so happy to see that he is still living, at 96 years young. God Bless him and every other of the men and women of the Greatest Generation. Thank you for your service, your bravery, and your humility.
Amazing story. I'm from Guam and every year in July we honor those who liberated our island and we celebrate them and the liberation those braves warriors gave us. Respect to all those who serve past present and future! 🇬🇺
What a wonderful, humble man. No hooting or hollering and talking about how great they are. Just class personified. These are the men we were taught to emulate as I grew up, not the selfish, thin skinned, egotistical dummies we see today. Humility and honor. Thank you and God bless you all.
RIP Woody you were a Warrior and a major caretaker of gold star families. As a militsry brat I cant thank you enough for what you did and continue to do through your memory. May we continue to remember you and your brother's and sister's legacy throughout time.
Years ago in Huntington, WV- I got to meet Woody and hear his story personally while eating at the table with him. He has inspired me in so many ways that continue to impact my day to day life, and I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to all who serve, have served and have lost their lives serving Our country.
What’s funny is in the comments, when people question why “under god” is not in the pledge, some people immediately start bashing Christians and what not. People can’t just look at these men and the sacrifices they made that the millennial generation could never make...instead, when asked why under god was not in the pledge, the PC police does the nice thing and bashes Christians. It’s a shame that people have to make this political. These men are truly the greatest generation and it’s a shame so few of them are still with us.
@@haroldshogren7304 It's because the people who are asking are most likely assuming that the video creator edited "under God" out, when in fact it's just a recording of children reciting the Pledge before the phrase was put in in the 1950's.
If more people knew about this channel then it would have a lot more fans, I'm honoured that your doing this before they meet their resting place. Your preserving the memories of heroes who saved the world without any look for gratitude, praise or reward. Thank you
These are the real heroes. Not sports stars and Hollywood actors. Thank you all for your service and sacrifice. God bless.
absolutely! And they NEVER complain or argue unreasonably ! I hate that these guys went through so much and saved the world in essence, only to have to see millionaire football players kneeling and idiots across the country wanting statues taken down. Seriously! WTF!!!
I agree
@rebe brke very well said.
Neno Branco tell that to Megan rapinoe
Couldn't agree with you more...
When he said "I'm wearing it in their honour", that got me
James de Klerk totally
Me too pal me too
Me too.
Shit hit hard. Love this guy
Amen we owe these men are freedom
I’m the son of a WW2 marine who was in the 3rd division. He still lives and will be 99 years old in August. I’m very proud of him and will be until I die
Semper fi to him ...
I hope he makes it to 100 years old
My Dad was a Pearl Harbor survivor he passed away Aug.2019 he was 96 I hope your dad makes into his 100,s tell him I said HOWDY.
Please tell him we say thank you
merit2591 As the son of a now deceased WW2 Aussie digger, believe me mate, you will remain proud long after your dear dad is gone. My dad passed away 10 years ago this July & each & every day I thank him, his brothers, his mates, all of our allies for what they sacrificed. RIP... Lest We Forget...
My dad is a vietnam veteran and ran into this man in an Applebee’s and Hershel shook my dads hand and thanked him for his service not even mentioning his service or Medal of Honor. True hero and honorable man.
My Dad's 96 years old. He also fought on Iwo Jima. Semper Fi !
Damn u must be a middle aged man
@laserus3333 there is a Marine in my DAV chapter that served with the 4th Marine Division on Iwo Jima and is still alive at 96. I am in awe of him every time I see him.
@@krisknowlton2658 They were/Are the best generation. My dad is still with us. And I've been to a few of his reunions and a couple Marine Corps balls (I was in Marine Corps myself) and was able to get the scoop from his unit.My dad was a Master tech seargent.top NCO at only 20 years old. His guys loved him. And now hes one of only a few that are still with us. They fought on 6 Islands together 3 years.(Im about to get choked up).so semper fi!
@@laserus3333 ask your dad if he knows Gerald Gwaltney from NC. He fought on as many islands and has been to the reunions and in fact became friends with Lee Marvin when he was still alive.
Do you think you could do an interview with him? We need interviews with survivors. There are less than 300,000 soldiers left who fought in WWII. Anything you can document would be immensely valuable, either audio or video or written!
"I'm just the caretaker of the medal." That's what got me.
@Nigel Hopkins in respect to those marines Woody did the right thing keeping their names anon. He honors them completely and owes his life to him.
@Nigel Hopkins the medal was awarded to Woody for his service, he’s the one who decides who the medal belongs to now.
Me too!
My grandpa joined the army in 1942 at age 17 where he served as a paratrooper in ww2 in the pacific theater- Japan. He gained his master parachutist badge before heading off to Korea at the end of the war where he joined an infantry unit. He earned a Purple Heart, Bronze Star, and Battlefield Commission. He was almost killed when a grenade went off and sent shrapnel to his chest, and he also got malaria in Korea. He saw men die around him, and he killed men. After that he served in the Signal Corps stationed in Viet Nam. He retired a lieutenant colonel in 1970. A true American hero and badass to me. He died aged 91. Rest In Peace, Papa.
1925-2017
US Army
11th Airborne Division
24th Infantry Division
Army Signal Corps
Danny lifts That’s what I’m trying to do, he always believed in Taking care of yourself and he always told me if I didn’t have anything nice to say I shouldn’t say anything at all, but I should always speak my mind if I need to. also he taught me the value of hard work. So I’ve been trying to incorporate those things into my life. He wasn’t famous or rich, but he was one of the most influential people in my life .
Danny lifts I’m sorry you didn’t get to know them well enough. My grandpa never talked about his time in the Army, ever. I never heard one word about it honestly. But he had a ton of pictures from all his time in the army, Japan, Korea, Vietnam, Europe, Panama, Dominican Republic. Everywhere. But he never talked about it
Danny lifts I agree. Also that’s a great picture/story.
Danny lifts You too!
Your Grandpa was a pacific paratrooper The famous 11th ABN. Division, awesome paratroop outfit God bless all the u.s. vets ! AIRBORNE ..
I was a young marine a long time ago I met this Marine in person in Pennsylvania and I saw him and his medal and heard his story, I was and still am aw struck not a very big man but one tough sob I went to go shake his hand gently cause I didn't want to hurt him and he squeezed my hand, looked me in the eye and said "Give me a real handshake Marine" I'll never forget that moment.❤
Yeah man
You save them soft handshakes for sailors and airmen.
That what I was always told by men much like this one.
Had two uncle's in that theater
Hard as hell
To their last breath
M Whitelaw hey man , we all work together , no worse or better , don’t be disrespectful like that
Keegan Pyle it isn’t disrespect, it’s part of being a Marine.
@@mwhitelaw8569 Save soft handshakes for Sailors? Not American Sailors! Tough as nails...
@@calypsohandjack9278 man, what a sad life you must lead. I hope you never have to do the things those good men did... They didnt have a choice in the matter. Something you dont understand .
and i hope you find peace in that warring mind of yours...
"Until they read my citation, I had no idea why I was receiving it." THE GREATEST GENERATION.
Humblest fella he was. Amazing character and a real life hero he is.
What a contrast to the Godless snowflakes, antifa, blm, phony Hollywood actors and rich tech inventors, athletes and media who have no honor nor appreciation of America.
Keep America great!
@@kentonwood9155 I'm 32 years old this year and I look up to those who sacrificed or survived WW1 & WW2 because they knew what loyalty, honour and fighting for freedom truly mattered.
Too many snowflakes scattered in recent times, it made me feel out of place.
Just did what was needed to be done, with no sense of entitlement.
The boomers
It felt like yesterday that WW2 vets were in their late 60s. Time flies.
I still see WW1 vets in their late 60's and 70's and WW2 vets in their mid 40's and 50's, in my head.
I mourn deeply, all the stories never told. All the questions now never to be answered.
Well most of them are deceased now. Never to be forgotten
Every single one of these stories makes me cry, I live such a comfortable life, I will never ever understand what these brave brave men went through, the fear, watching your friends die around you, the potential PTSD when coming home, I sincerely hope that we never forget these men even long after their families have passed, we musn't forget the tremendous sacrifices made for what we have today.
We feel exactly the same. Thank you so much for watching!
That is what all the Heroes say. They believe they were just doing their job like everyone else.
Me 2
All without ballistic vests that todays military uses. A steel pot helmet that didn't stop a bullet the way the modern helmet does.
I lost my grandpa in 1999, I was about to turn 9 we he past. I wish i had the chance to sit with him as an adult and listen to him talk about WWII and Korea. I know where all he went and how he got the silver star but that was my dad telling me. What they’re doing with this channel is amazing.
My grandfather flew P- 51's in WW2, the stories he told were so captivating, its likes you just wanted to hear more, after the war he went into crop dusting, he also ferry aircraft across America, he was hired by Bob Hoover to ferry his P-51 to airshows and also ferryed Hoovers Aero Commander a few times, sadly my grandfather passed away 2 years ago, but his legacy lives on....
Thank you for sharing. We greatly appreciate his service.
My great grandfather was in CBI in ww2 China Burma India where he dropped supplies for the troops
🌹
@@MemoirsofWWII i wish my grandpa could have been on here, he was in the army signal corps, he put up radio lines in burma, india, china and other places, a few weeks ago i found some of his medals and other things he got there, i wish people could of heard him, he had some really good stories, although he never liked to talk about it to much. he passed away this september at 98.
My great grandfather was in the Navy during WW2 and built his own meat distribution business after the war. He never once mentioned WW2. We were always curious about it but he wouldn't tell us anything if he was asked.
The man working the flame throwers life expectancy was seconds not minutes. This man was truly blessed. He had Angel on his shoulder.
Semper Fidelis.
He definitely had Angels protecting him during that period up to this day. What a blessing to have such a man walk this earth. I am greatly humbled and thankful.
That is dumb and disrespectful. He did not have Angels protecting him, he had four Marines protecting him. Those four marines, two of which paid the ultimate price, is the reason this man still walked. Stop trying attribute everything to divine intervention. Your God is not real, it's time to wake up and smell the roses.
@@gypsykingg our constitution and what America was founded on is based off of Christianity and freedom. Just because you’re an edgy atheist that has never experienced tragedy before doesn’t mean everyone thinks the same way. Yea he had soldiers protecting him but you can’t dispute a higher power not giving him protection.
@@plaguedoctor5657 - Oh do you tell me about my life story. Go on.
Your god, just like the thousands before, is easily disproven. It's not anyone else's fault that you are so simple-minded to believe in fairy tales.
@@gypsykingg please easily disprove it for me oh knowledgeable random atheist on TH-cam. With your argument you cannot prove or disprove the idea of higher entities/power
Edit: maybe you are the simple minded one for not opening your mind to possibilities humans cannot fathom
As of 2019, Woody Williams is the last marine and pacific war veteran to have received the Medal of Honor for heroism and valor during World War II.
Here after the news of his passing. A real American hero that will forever be remembered!
Sadly today this hero has passed💔🇺🇲
@@justinpasternak5192 He got the hero's send off on 7/3/22, just a day before the 4th of July. One of the very few that was left of the greatest generation. RIP Woody.
Just heard the news. Rest in peace Hershel "Woody" Williams. Thank you for your service.
I tear up at every one of these episodes that I watch. What incredible men and women, and in a few short years not one of them will still be with us. It still haunts me remembering when I heard that the last WWI vet had died...so many missed opportunities to know those folks and hear it straight from them. I still remember the hearing my grandpas telling of the things they saw and experienced.
Yes men and women, have you been under a rock the past 70+ years? women served in several vital roles during WWII, especially the nurses.
Tyson Cott I’m sorry that was a stupid joke I made, I wasn’t thinking properly. My Great Grandma was a field medic for the British forces.
joshuawfinn GOD BLESS YOU SIR WE ALL STORE GREAT LOVE FOR THE GREATEST GENERATION FOR OUR FREEDOMS 👈🏻🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
ain't that the truth. i wish i was a quarter of the man these men were. just an incredible generation of human beings.
My Father In Law was at D-Day and survived, he was eventually captured by the Germans and was a POW for just over a year. We have his mugshot and documents the Nazi’s had of him. He is 96 still alive and kicking and one of the best men i’ve ever had the honor of knowing. He doesn’t like to speak of the battle, but you can see the pain in his eyes from what he had to endure those days. God bless all the men and women in out armed forces standing and laying down.
I know Woody he came to my dad's funeral Wetzel SUNDOWN Sanders on August 2019 he was a Pearl Harbor survivor they only lived about 30 miles away from each other in W.V. Woody and my Dad were good friends. Woody is a hell of a HERO AND MAN !!!
God bless bless your dad, man. He was a true man. Sorry for your loss
There's something about those WW2 veterans. They have a certain dignity and humility.
They speak clearly to the point and you can sense they received different kind of education and upbringing from a long gone world.
“It is foolish and wrong to mourn the men who died. Rather we should thank God that such men lived.” - General Patton
That man’s body has aged, but his mind seems just as sharp as it was when he was young.
Yea I dont belive that he does not remember what happend that day. He just dont wanna talk about it.
A true hero, we're lucky these men existed.
J.R. Handley for sure!
I dont thing is spesial everyone is the same
@@George-ly4ys unfortunately we should have let the germans destroy people like you.
Truly the greatest generation
@@George-ly4ys you need to learn how to talk shit before you try to.....
I’ve noticed that not one of these guys takes credit for any of it. They all ensure every name they knew gets recognized bc it was a team effort. True team effort. I can’t thank every veteran enough for our freedom. That was true work
My great uncle was a flame thrower and fought on Saipan and Iwo Jima and was killed by a sniper on Iwo Jima 3 days before the battle ended and had 47 confirmed kills alone on Iwo jima
Rebel Blacksmith True marine
God bless your uncle my Dad was a Pearl Harbor survivor Wetzel SUNDOWN Sanders from W.V.
That island was the cause of a lot of sadness for families on both sides. Why didn't the Japanese just pull out and go home. It was a futile plan to defend Iwo Jima.
True hero from UK 🇬🇧
@@markr.devereux2713 Why? Three reasons come to mind:
1. Japanese were a Godless, pagan people, who worshipped their emperor as God.
2. Death was considered honorable.
3. Their children were brainwashed from birth to blindly follow a ruler, with no thoughts as an individual of right or wrong.
"I wear it in their honor."
Rip, woody thank you for your service, your a true hero and will never be forgotten.
It's inspiring to see how humble he is after all that misery!
Heartless I agree 100%. We are fortunate to have people like him who stepped into the mouth of Hell and lived to tell about it. Have a good one. Blessed Be⛥⛥⛥
the reality of the situation is humbling, and he knows a lot of people died. His humility reflects that reality.
Exactly @ Heartless, I think it's because most of them live for today. That's how my grandpa was, I have never seen him sad or upset always smiling till he passed at 98 years young.
He was Italian but came to the United States and served in WW2 for this country he fell in love with! My other grandpa served under Benito Mussolini. Crazy to think that they went to war against each other?
Great Work! Just met a 99 year old WWII vet at work yesterday. Order a house Gin Martini, No Vermouth on the rocks. Had every couple at the bar arguing about who was going to pay for his drink. These guys will be forever Legendary throughout America!
I am honored to have helped build a ship in Mr. Williams name at NASSCO San Diego.
Right oustide national city! My home!
His humbleness and honoring the two who were with him and killed brings me to tears. He is a hero in so many ways. Thank you for my freedom.
You cover a lot of heroes Josh, but I think you're a real hero too. What this channel does is priceless. These people's experiences and the precious history behind them will forever be preserved, thanks to you and your team. Thank you!
Great
“I am just the caretaker.”
God damn man...
I know it hit me right in the gut.
I’m tears when he says about “caretaker”
Because of them now we are safe and live peacefully
Hasnt america been in almost constant war since ww2 😆🙊
@@wakeup2theNWO But we don't speak Japanese or German
wakeup2theNWO stfu bitch
@@luisitosantiago6098 You mad bro?
Cameron J yeah I’m fucking mad. I’ll gladly crack this kid. Tht shit isn’t funny.
I was a Marine recruiter from 2003-2006 with a headquarters in Charleston WV. I met Woody probably 5 times during my tour of duty. He was truly a Marine's Marine. Semper Fi!
"I'm just the caretaker of the medal." Yep, crying again. So many of your videos touch my soul. Thank you for implementing the telling of these men's stories.
“They lost part of themselves when they lost their loved ones.” My Great Uncle was posthumously awarded the Medal of Honour for his actions in The Marshall Islands - my grandmother (who practically raised him after their own mother fell ill) was never the same. The loss left deep psychological scars on our family that are just starting to heal two generations later.
I still cant believe that this great man has put his signature on my eagle scout certificate.
This is the best world war 2 channel.
RIP Hershel...this is a sad day. Albeit inevitable, it isn't any less difficult. Hershel's passing is a reminder that very soon, the remainder of the greatest generation will soon be gone. He and his comrades were the bravest and strongest men to walk the earth. Thank you for your service.
Feeling like the word “hero” is being thrown around too casually when you hear these stories. These are more than heroes. The bravery for a safer world is... I don’t know no words
Thanks the war took my grandad. My father never spoke of him maybe because he was to young to remember him. My grandmother opened a drawer when l was young said "he was a brave man those are his medals" my point,the loss is generations deep.
My Dad was wounded in France he's gone now but he loved his country. Watching people not respecting the flag would have broke his heart. These men are amazing Patriots who will be missed.
My dad walked into Berlin and then was sent to Okinawa. He was with the Army 726th. He died in 06. He'd have turned 99 last Jan. God bless these men.
I wish they’d posted an “In Memoriam” at the end of/for the two soldiers who died covering him.
Why did you call them soldiers?
United States Marines
Semper Fi Devil Dogs
@@stevek8829 Steve, you don't need to nit-pick on a civilian.
Constantine had good intentions. ❤️
@@sterling557 excuse me, was asking a question nit picking? I think you're the one being accusatory--nit picking.
I met Mr Williams at the USO in Charlotte NC in 2011 prior to deploying to Afghanistan. I at the time had no idea who he was and didn’t even see his MOH pin on his lapel until after he finished talking to me. Someone came up to me and asked what “woody Williams” had said to me, and mentioned that it was so cool to see him. I naïvely said, “who’s Woody?”. I wish now I had known at the time so I could have talked with him more about his service.
He was very kind and told me that he was very proud of what our men and women were doing at the time. He told me that he thought that we had a lot of guts fighting the enemy in the Middle East who didn’t even ware uniforms.
So cool to see his story on here.
Thanks for what you guys are doing! I love every one of these story’s.
Let us take a moment to say thank u for these heroes that fought for the protection of their people. We are the last generation that are able to talk and look at these WW2 veterans.
Rest In Peace brother. Thank you for your service.
Rest in Peace Woody, you were a hero even if you refused to believe it
Rest in peace Hershel. Thank you for all you did during and after the war. Our world needs more people with your kindness and wisdom.
“I am the caretaker”. What a humble and honourable man.
Rip woody. You will be remembered as one of the war heroes in Iwo Jima.
Myself being British and proud I thank you and your American service men in the Second World War . Real warriors. Men of men
THE DUDE The same thanks can be said to you.
Thank God our country has men like this.
I once had a dear friend of mine that served in the pacific campaign.
Wore a different uniform than this man, but had the same duty.
He never spoke of his time until very close to his next assignment.
We spoke as brothers then, not an uncle to his nephew.
I will always hold the opportunity to listen to his sorrow, anguish and love for his brothers very close.
Maybe one day I'll share my story with my grandchildren.
Damn I miss you uncle red.
M Whitelaw it’s sad when they’re gone, but it’s so great you had the opportunity to connect with him like that.
Rest In Peace. A true hero of the greatest generation.
My Grandfather served in the Pacific and earned a bronze star. From what I've been told he held a position that was advanced on be a dozen or so Japanese. He waited until they were right on top of him to open fire. I think it bothered him for the rest of his life. He became a big part of his church for the next 60yrs and was a very gentle man that I never seen angered. I believe he was trying to repent for taking so many lives. There is more than physical injuries that are suffered from combat.
I have met this man a few times he is a very humble person and will talk with anyone just a great man.
what is sweet humble man wearing his Medal of Honor for the two marines that died protecting him!!!!!
"I wear it in their honor", so well deserved! this is a true marine right here. god bless you woody
R.i.p Woody! Thank you for your sacrifice and service for this great country!
Been watching these everyday for a week now. And its changed my perception of life. Thank God for all the people that saved humanity from the evil of the AXIS.
For a long time i never understood why these men went so willingly so unselfishly knowing they were probably gonna die. I understand now. Not saying i wouldnt do the same. I would. I just think its easy to say you would. But listen to these men talk. Its like it happened yesterday
Rip woody thank you for your service a true patriot that loved his country
I just love these stories, helps recharge my momories. I'm 62 years old and knew a lot of WWII veterans throughout the years. Been to a few funerals too. We have to record these for the future because people forget these historical events. I think ignorance and narrow minded people is what makes history repeat itself .
Thanks for the video.
Kid Goku we completely agree. Thank you for watching!
“I am just the caretaker of this medal.” Dang!!
that was humbling
He has joined those two Marines who assisted him that day, along with many other comrades and loved ones who passed along the way. Rest easy, Hershel "Woody" Williams. You're story will live in our hearts forever.
Great American hero!! Honorable ,Respectful .
Here in West Virginia we are so proud of Woody Williams. He was born, raised and still lives in our great Mountain State. Semper Fi from an old Marine Sergeant.
@@usmc-veteran73-77 You guys are fortunate to have a great man among you.!! Semper Fi.
@@astari39 in my book Woody Williams is "The Marines Marine" another saying, "Once a Marine always a Marine"
This Marine makes me proud to be an American and a West Virginia native.
Confessions of a Beginning Homesteader understandable :)
Confessions of a Beginning Homesteader where are you from in WV? I am from Huntington, his home town and have met him a couple times! This too makes me feel like a good patriotic American.
Me too brother I'm from Logan county WV
@@Nimrodbodeinejr You might have met my Dad he was a Pearl Harbor survivor and Purple heart recipient and lived in Lincoln county he passed away August 2019 his name was Wetzel SUNDOWN Sanders
@@gregsanders2584 no sir I never had the honor to meet your father he was a true hero I wish I could have had that honor
Woody is an amazing hero and M.O.H. Recipient ,Thank You for Your Service,Salute.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
As a current college student in ROTC training to become an Army officer, I can honestly say I believe with every fiber of my being, that I was born in the wrong generation. Every time I watch one these documentaries/memoirs of these old, grizzled badasses...I can't help but feel like I missed out on some sort of opportunity. I feel at home when I watch these things. It's very unexplainable and at the same time, interesting to me.
I'm going to the marines this year I understand the feeling its kind of weird to want combat but I want to prove my self and become a warrior
Tristan Soto No glory in war,learned that from a old Navy man that was in WW2
Tristan Soto I’m goin to join the Corp as well just for a new experience
Everything a medal of honor recipient should be...brave...modest...true to his fallen comrades...
A true hero.
Just looked him up, 97 years young and still kicking ass. What a hero
The ww2 guys have always been my heroes since I began reading about them when I was 8. These Marines are the ones who inspired me to join the Corps one day, and that day is coming after college graduation
I wished you guys could have been around when I was a kid, and the WWI vets were in their late 70's, 80's, and 90's (1970's/80's time frame). If you want to know where the roots were in "The Greatest Generation", meet the generation that were their parents. Thanks for creating this series, I grew up among veterans, my dad was a post commander for both the American Legion and The VFW (at different times). I got to know a wide variety of veterans and their backgrounds as a result.
@Big Bill O'Reilly
Why is he a scumbag?..You liked that sellout muslim Obama?
My Dad and some of my uncles were in the service at the time of ww2 I was very lucky to hear some of their stories, and wow what a life they had. My Father in law was in North Africa, My Dad in the South pacific , one of my Uncles was at Bastogne, he had a lot of Medals including the Silver Star.
@Big Bill O'Reilly
We see right thru anti Americans and fake names. Im gonna guess, Russian troller.
@Big Bill O'Reilly wow youre a very toxic person
@Big Bill O'Reilly I'm not here to argue who's right or wrong but since u think this badly of the president then here's some history and facts if u think about it the president's are pawns now they don't do anything only congress is at fault alot of the times that hurts this country and so does the president's at times. But no matter wat u do or vote for all of them are garbage we haven't had a great president or congress in a very long time in fact I could say pre Vietnam and Korea was the last time we had a system that was great. That's why I love the WW11 era cuz people were more united at that time than any other time after WW11. So let that sink in if we want to be a great nation again the fighting has to stop amongst are selves.
I will always have the deepest respect for veterans like him. I’m proud to say my grandpa was one of the brave men who fought in the pacific in WWII. And I wouldn’t be here today if he didn’t make it home. But I’m glad he did. I miss him a lot...
Man I love ww2 veterans but I never met one maybe I won't but these guys are the best of their generation
I wanna give that man a hug
I was lucky enough to have him at my high school as a guest speaker for our Marine Corps birthday celebration in 2011 and I was a part of color guard and as I lowered the Marine Corps flag and everyone stood while the national anthem played, Woody was standing, in uniform, saluting and crying... he is the epitome of humble and glad to have known and had meaningful conversation with him on numerous occasion. Fellow West Virginian as well , I’ll never forget those moments with him.
Since I started to study Social Studies I feel more Thankful with our Veterans... I could not understand the big meaning before until now... and I feel so proud of them. They deserve everything in this world, the best of the best.❤❤❤🙌🙏❤❤❤🙌🙏❤❤❤ "God Bless all our Veterans".
I cannot tell you how pleased I am to hear the REAL Pledge Of Allegiance in your opening sequence. How it was recited when these men and women fought for the flag to whom they pledged their allegiance. Thank You!
It was a privilege and an honor to meet Woody a few years ago, when he spoke at a wounded veterans benefit dinner put on by motorcycle racer Kenny Roberts. Woody has an amazing, dynamic presence...a razor sharp mind and keen wit, with a powerful handshake like a steel vise! Above all, he's truly a gentleman and a grateful one. Men just don't come any better than him. 🇺🇸
I am a marine in my heart. I respect this Marine because he is the caretaker of the medal.
About two years ago I had the chance to mark one more thing off of my bucket list. I had wanted to have the honor of shaking hands with a Medal of Honor recipient. I had the great honor of meeting Woody in Elkins, WV. When I first met him I choked up so bad I had to walk away so I could compose myself. So humble and gave all the credit to his buddies that didn't come back. I still get emotional just thinking about it.
James Skidmore love this
I have had the honor of meeting 26 recipients. Each one as humble as Woody, in fact one was Woody. If you ever get the opportunity to meet one, absolutely take the time. You will never regret it.
Words can’t describe courage that profound. It’s beyond comprehension.
I was born when you were in the islands fighting for your life and our way of life. January 1945, thank you so very much from the bottom of my heart sir. God Bless you
Mr. Williams is a true American Hero. I was so happy to see that he is still living, at 96 years young. God Bless him and every other of the men and women of the Greatest Generation. Thank you for your service, your bravery, and your humility.
God bless you. Thank you for your service. My grandfather was sent to fight in Indonesia. We live in Holland. Miss him every day. Thanks
Amazing story. I'm from Guam and every year in July we honor those who liberated our island and we celebrate them and the liberation those braves warriors gave us. Respect to all those who serve past present and future! 🇬🇺
These stories really show you how much of a sacrifice these men made. Damn near every one of these episodes bring tears man mad respect
What a wonderful, humble man. No hooting or hollering and talking about how great they are. Just class personified.
These are the men we were taught to emulate as I grew up, not the selfish, thin skinned, egotistical dummies we see today.
Humility and honor. Thank you and God bless you all.
RIP Woody you were a Warrior and a major caretaker of gold star families. As a militsry brat I cant thank you enough for what you did and continue to do through your memory. May we continue to remember you and your brother's and sister's legacy throughout time.
Years ago in Huntington, WV- I got to meet Woody and hear his story personally while eating at the table with him. He has inspired me in so many ways that continue to impact my day to day life, and I just wanted to say thank you. Thank you to all who serve, have served and have lost their lives serving Our country.
No dislikes this is why this channel is so great
Dual Ride respect
So of course, three cocksucking cowards read your post and dislike the video. I puke on those pathetic fucks.
What’s funny is in the comments, when people question why “under god” is not in the pledge, some people immediately start bashing Christians and what not. People can’t just look at these men and the sacrifices they made that the millennial generation could never make...instead, when asked why under god was not in the pledge, the PC police does the nice thing and bashes Christians. It’s a shame that people have to make this political. These men are truly the greatest generation and it’s a shame so few of them are still with us.
@@haroldshogren7304 It's because the people who are asking are most likely assuming that the video creator edited "under God" out, when in fact it's just a recording of children reciting the Pledge before the phrase was put in in the 1950's.
I salute you Hershel and other veterans dead and alive because you risked your like so we could live in this country.
This is my favorite episode. He’s done so much for these Gold Star families.
How tough does one man have to be to stand in these shoes? Simply unimaginable
The humbleness of this man is something we truly don't see enough of.
"I'm the last of the thirteen, they have......all gone on."
If more people knew about this channel then it would have a lot more fans, I'm honoured that your doing this before they meet their resting place. Your preserving the memories of heroes who saved the world without any look for gratitude, praise or reward. Thank you
Thank you! Please feel free to share these videos to help us get these stories seen by more people.
It’s just so amazing to see how a human being can do so much in one life time in one world and still be more humble then everyone else after the wars
Thank you Mr. Williams. No one will ever be able to tell your generation of heroes just how much we love and appreciate you.