I’m proud to count Franz Stigler, May he Rest In Peace as a friend. Franz was a member of the same Royal Canadian Air Force Association unit as I was in Abbotsford, B.C. Canada and spent many a delightful hour having a drink and listening to his stories, until ‘Momma’ told him it was time to go home. Franz was a gentle spirit and never gloated about his many kills and was reluctant to speak of them. There is a special place in Heaven for such men.
@@BrickGnat1435 Sympathy has been seen across species and even amongst traditional enemies in the animal kingdom. I doubt any religion has the monopoly on compassion.
Yes, facial expression is hard, eyes only is really hard, especially with a high level of realism, and it's often badly neglected. This was really impressive.
Franz Stiggler had just lost his brother's shortly before this incident. His commander told the unit that if he found them shooting at enemies decending on parachutes that he would kill them himself, Stiggler later described the pub as a parachute, completely defenseless, he passed up the Knights cross that day and never got it, but he always said, that he got something better, to him, Charlie Brown was as much his brother. They later became best friends and Charlie invited Franz to a reunion of his unit, while there Franz felt uncomfortable for obvious reasons, and then Charlie opened up and said, these families are here today thanks to you, for escorting us to safety.
He lost his brother in 1941 in France. That was the reason he joined the fight as bf109 pilot, he first started in north africa, then sicily, balkans and germany where he intercepted the bomber.
If we accept that there are American families here today because of Stigler, then we also have to accept that there are German families who are not here because of him. I don't envy the moral dilemma he faced.
@@robtenorio3608, I appreciate what you are saying and it is partially true, however, that puts things in a moral conundrum. In war, it is mutual combat, both sides agree to rules and in those rules, it is a violation to kill those incapable of fighting back, while still in an aircraft, all weapons were inoperable and the payload already dropped, so it would he equivalent to shooting an unarmed fleeing enemy, while both sides surely did that at least a few times, they likely couldn't confirm the weapon status of the fleeing enemy like Stiggler did. So I feel that he could have shot them down without it entirely being immoral, but it would undoubtedly haunt him knowing that they were defenseless. But more to your point, you are correct.
For some context as I didn't understand at first. Franz pointing down was him asking Charlie to land and surrender. When that didn't work, they flew together to safety. Then Franz pointed towards Sweden which was half an hour away so that they can land safely as their plane was badly damaged. Charlie then said to back off. Franz said when he waved goodbye, the wave was him saying to "get back safely". This is truly an inspirational story and I will be buying the book very soon.
Charlie’s way of saying to “back off” was by telling his Top Turret gunner “Frenchy” to go up & swing the guns towards Franz to try & scare him off. And when Franz seen this happening he knew what was next so that’s when he saluted Charlie & peeled off. Actually Franz went to the right & up over the B17 to Head back to Germany, not to the left like what is depicted in the video.
@@tieroneactual2228 thats all wrong they bombercrew knew that franz was no danger to them france gestured for them to man the turret as he would no longer be able to escort them since his fuel ran low
I learned about this encounter fairly recently. The German pilot thought it would have been dishonorable to shoot down a crippled plane even if it was the enemy. It was remarkable that this incident was largely kept secret until after the war. The two pilots met again many years later and became friends. Truly inspiring story.
Deshonrado fue el piloto del harrier que derribo a traición al hércules Argentino en la guerra de las Malvinas.. Bombardero Inglés que masacraron a ala población Civil de desdre???? Inglaterra fomenta la guerra entre los pueblos..
@Shizune Schneider 卍 If he shot down the bomber and his Commanding Officer found out Stigler would’ve been killed by him anyways. If you bothered to read the description but this is probably a bot so idk why I bother
Get the book, "A Higher Call". It's the story of this incident and it is one of the best war stories I've ever read. Charlie and Franz both died in 2008 within a few months of each other after coming within the pull of a trigger in 1943, and they died loving each other. I've read their story twice and both times I'm not ashamed to say I cried. Those two men came from a generation of men the likes of which we will never see again.
they are still among us. The 9-11 response proved that for me. Back then, as today... I remember that our youth were vacant when it came to patriotism or caring about society. Lord: Please forgive me: "PissChrist"; was an accepted piece of artwork. NAMBLA and it's clones were running amok. And yet, when it got bad.... good people came out of the wood work for their society and/or country. I believe that to still be true today.
Not a single spoken word and I’m crying like a baby. Moments of humanity that shine through war are what remind me to be the most human and kind that I can. We’re in this together.
I agree. Not everyone involved in war are psychopaths. Especially WW2 they were basically forced to participate. It's nice to know that when he was about to engage but saw the B17 basically defenseless, he helped them get home.
_Today we're all brothers, tonight we're all friends, a moment of peace in a war that never ends_ We need this honor and morals before orders kind of attitude back again, because it seems to be woefully missing in this day and age.
His true iron cross, was in fact already in him, when he decided to save his enemy, by offering him a safe conduct and escorting him to a safe place, this medal is his kindness of the soul and his heart. Up there, the enemies of yesterday, I hope, found themselves in paradise and forgiven their past offenses, to live in peace for eternity.
At german Bundeswehr (military) we had a trainer (Stabsunteroffizier) who allways told us: "The enemy is a comrade just on the false side of the line. He doesn't want to be in a war as you doesn't want it either." It's good to see that a soldier is sometimes more a human than a soldier. Thank you!
"The murder of a man is still murder, even in wartime." "But remember, our tasks is to bring down aeroplanes, not men. So stop firing when your opponent's falling. Gentlemen, we are sportsmen, not butchers." -Manfred von Richtofen, A.K.A. The Red Baron
@@kevinramsey417 Which doesn't contradict the above quote from what I can tell. As long as they can shoot back, a guess it's still part of the gentleman code.
@@kevinramsey417 that was weirdly neccessary back then during WWI because of how comicaly resilient those planes where back then. during WWII the planes where noticably weaker in terms of being able to absorb ammo wich gave rise to a even more nuts case: hans joachim marseille form germany. he might have been the best fighter pilot in history and one of the few who not only tried to avoid killing as much as possible but also informed the RAF whenever he scored a victory about the whereabouts of the downed avaitors and or helped to recover them. he even once found a dude that wasnt white in a plane he had shot down. and well he noticed that the black guy was friend shaped so he was declared friend and marseiles squad mates even protected the guy from the race mania if the third reich after marseiles death.
It's a noble statement. Unfortunately those fighting on the ground don't have such a moral luxury. It's also interesting that today we have missiles that intentionally target the cockpit with the goal of depriving the enemy of a fully trained pilot. War used to have much more honour, especially before WW1. But as we've got more technologically advanced we've also distanced ourselves both physically and emotionally from the act of killing a man. Soon it will be just pressing a button and leaving the dirty work up to an automated drone... We've lost our humanity in war.
I'm sorry, but this video is on a whole other level. I'm just spellbound by its power. Every detail, from the music to the timing , I cant stop watching this. The people or person that made this has a gift of talent that literally the whole world needs to experience.
I am his godson, I have spent many hours with both him and Charlie and I don't think anyone has heard the story in more detail or more often than myself. Charlie was quite a guy, he loved to tell stories as where Franz was more quiet and you sometimes had to pry stuff out of him but both together could give you the perspective from each side, Charlie thought for sure they were gone when the 109 approached. Franz always said he got too close when coming in from the rear of the 17 and had a view of the people inside. Seeing the tail gunner condition up close and then realized that's why the tail gunner never fired a shot is what really made him think about not shooting at the 17 along with the others inside he could see attending to the injured. Franz knew he would most likely get caught, court martialed and shot but he let them go anyway. Funny story with Franz... Many times I drove him to Everett Washington to watch the Me-262's being built at Paine Field, we would drive down and cross the border at Blaine Washington (Pacific Border Crossing) as we got to the border we gave the U.S. border guard our Passports (Franz was never a Canadian citizen, he was still German) the border guard looked at mine and dismissed it right away... then he looked at Franz's and his eyeballs grew about twice the size and he read what seemed forever on the computer. We were then directed inside where Franz had to pay his usual few bucks but this time all the U.S. immigration officers had lined up to shake his hand. I believe Mr. Jim Brodie... (a good friend of Charlies and JEB Bush) had adding something to his information so he would be recognized when in the U.S. but this was before 9/11 when things weren't so tight at the border. Many good stories with Franz, he is missed by everyone here.
warriors always have honour. Those who fight without honour, be it the honour of defending kin and country, or a fight of equals, are the real monsters that bring out the worst in humanity. Canadians did awful things in WW1 and 2 in the name of trying to get home alive and faster, but they didn't bring out truly monstrous tactics before being gassed. Man maketh man monstrous by being monstrous, honour breedth honour.
The interview with Charlie is amazing. He later 40 or 50 years told everyone about the incident.. and someone somehow heard the same story from a German WW2 pilot veteran. They got eachother on the phone and the story matched up and they both broke down crying on the phone. The interview is amazing too. This 3d edit of it does it this guy did a 10/10 job on the small detail even.
Невероятно сопливая история. Американский бомбардировщик отбомбился , растер в прах немецкий город, а немецкий летчик истребитель его непокорал за это. Кто в это верит проиграет будущую войну.
@@СергейСеменов-м8к an eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind. We will one day live in peace comrade. It is not we the people of the United States who want war, it is a small group of our corrupt politicians.
the eyes took the talking ,,it was the best feeling ever to see these brave pilots went thru espcially the american bomber pilot shock! and he didnt know what the german wanted him to do,,,if i were in his situation - i would have reacted the same!
This is hands-down THE BEST animation I have ever witnessed for this true event. I'm an avid WWII enthusiast and I absolutely revere these men and women that served during this war and have such a passion and respect for their sacrifices. This video and the aftermath is the truest representation of utter humanity that I have ever witnessed and I'm an inactive Gulf War Era US Marine Veteran and Law Enforcement Veteran of 22 years. These men of men went on to become the best of friends before their deaths in 2008, in which they both perished in that same year! The many lives that had the opportunity to live due to Franz's humanitarian decision is remarkable and the fact that he performed this mercy in the wake of potential military service suicide to himself and his family is truly remarkable. War is HELL, but HUMANITY rules and this is a story worthy of movie stature. None of these men involved in this event ever forgot that sacrifice of mercy and it brought enemies to become the best of friends. Franz was already an ACE and this would have been an easy target at best, but mercy and humanity prevailed. Praise the Lord!
For those wondering what Franz tried to signal to Charlie: - first he tried to tell them to fly low as they were heading toward the atlantic wall and its strong AA defenses. - then he signaled right which was the direction of Sweden (as they were near Bremen). That was technically a safer route for them than trying to cross back to England.
Thanks for the translation. First I thought he has signed them to land. But what u have said makes more sense. What he's trying to sign and what they're thinking doesn't have to match. They aiming the gun at him because it's ww2 and he's an enemy, but still they didn't shoot him. They still have to play safe
I heard about it as well…😢🥲🥲 Stigler had the bomber dead in sight but saw what damage was done to the plane showed respect to save the bomber crew. Even in war there are heroes among enemies. Beautifully Epic! They flew to heaven together in 2008! Stigler escorting Charlie Brown! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Mad Respect!
I can’t help to see humanity between enemies in war.. Stigler earned his Flying Cross by God that day! Iron Crosses wouldn’t get Stigler into Heaven but escort a wounded bomber to safety took courage-love and the crew through the fuselage was the honest way to show compassion. 🥲🥲🥲😇😇😇
Good afternoon - I'm a retired air force officer colonel - the story I've seen is very moving, it's well done and conveys great humanity on the part of the M-109 pilot. He had everything to win and easily shoot down that ship. However, what moved me the most is the photograph that is veiled at the end of the story: showing the evidence of a true story. My fraternal salute to those pilots Thank you very much for sharing this story.
Mi coronel saludos de TNT del extinto EPS que hoy no existe la guerra es lo más triste para un ser humano yo perdí a mis tres hermanos en esta guerra de mi país solo para volver a caer en otra dictadura saludos desde nicaragua
Bf-109 and Bf-110 but Me-163(Komet) and Me-262(Schwalbe).All produced under rules Dr (Me)sserschmidt) in (B)ayern (Fl)ugzeugwerk factory near Augsburg. I am not a German and not live in Germany but like a History. Salute!
At first, I thought the pilots were real actors. Unbelievable detail on body movements and facial expressions. Very well done and very impressive! Thanks...
Amen to that. The warfighter knows the true cost of war, its a shame we don't have more politicians that have served and understand the price peace and freedom comes at.
I did 2 tours as well. And saw so much death and carnage. It’s crippled my soul. People are just as evil and nasty as they can be kind and humane. I got so angry at being hit with IED after IED that I lost my self and my humanity, and now the weight is heavy. I carry the dead with me. I wish for never another war bc now I know the true cost of it. But give it another 20 years and young Americans will be marching to their demise just like I did and generation after generation before us did.
My dad had a classmate who served in the AAF during the war. He said that when the German jets showed up some of the pilots would come close, wave and then go off. After they knew the war was lost they stopped attacking. They were soldiers, not killers.
And were the AAF also not dropping bombs on cities full of civilians? The enemy is the enemy and you get paid to do what you have to do, not to play games with them.
@@gerardosalazar161 Absolutely! Too much sentimentalism on this topic. War is hell and it does dreadful things to people. If one day we ever realise this, there may be a hope for civilisation
@@marka2463 It is precisely because war is hell and does dreadful things to people that these stories and moments are important, to ensure that not all humanity is lost, even in the midst of all the misery you spoke about. I get you may be sceptical and think there is no place for sentimentalism in war. But trying to take that away from people who find some solace in these stories and moments is not really fair and a low blow, in my opinion. Hope no one does the same to you with something you hold dear or that helps you keep hope in Humankind.. Thumbs down to you sir
@@gerardosalazar161 the me109 pilots knew it was going to have to be done. To end the war. It was the only way. So yes. The moral decision. The soldier decision, ""Go ahead and let's get it over with, sooner rather than later". It is the only way, and in war, the quickest way is always the choice. Soldiers of every rank were constantly told, "when faced with a decision on the battlefield you do not know the answer to: Think, "End the war", that's your guide in all things.
@@luisfilipe756 Luis, I think with respect you do me a disservice. If you or other people want to believe this story then please do. It’s a nice story and if it makes people feel better, I am happy for them. I have read the book and have many years of academic research into the combined bomber offensive. My aim is not to be negative about this story, I am merely pointing out some ‘holes’ in it. I do worry though that if we find too much ‘solace’ in stories like this, that we may forget that war is so terrible and destroys people - both physically and psychologically.
Well the pilots didn’t have Dialoge, plus it’s a very neat way to convay emotions that the men would have felt , like not knowing exactly what was going on through dialog etc
Fake. Posted the exact same comment as "Celebes Magazine". People always duped in comments by clowns who claim to be associated with someone in the story. Never believe everything you see written
I'm a disabled veteran and I'm proud of someone that I'm distantly related to. This is an amazing story and I don't see the need or value in being adversarial. My last name is Stigler my family moved to the US from Germany in the 1930's my father and grandfather have always talked about Franz.
It's amazing how loudly this video speaks without a single word being said. This story is beautiful. The two. Pilot's ended up being friends in later years as well.
This feels like it should be in Love, Death, Robots as the animation is simply top-notch. The music was very fitting in all its somberness and the emotions portrayed and conveyed so well without either speaking a word. A truly moving piece of art.
Maybe there is a new better season I did not see, Love Death ans Robots is shyte compared to this. This should be an independent short release title on it s own.
I am proud to say that I have had the distinct honor of flying aboard the B-17 "Ye Olde Pub" operated by the Liberty Foundation. Their B-17 has been painted in the complete livery and nose art of the original "Ye Olde Pub" bomber depicted here. Truly, the experience of a lifetime.
That had to be awesome to say the least, especially if you were familiar with the original Pubs background. I went up in the 909 back in 2015, and it was well worth every penny! Then the tragic demise of it a few years later was just such a loss in so many ways.
I've read about this a thousand times. Never thought seeing it in animation would hit me like that.. Their whole generation is quickly disappearing and that's a huge shame because there were some unbelievably good human beings back then. We will never see this type of respect out of anyone in any situation these days and it's heartbreaking to admit that. I'm glad these guys all got to live long lives.. Hell is an understatement when describing the second world war.
What an amazing story, which until now never knew existed, BUT because of this video I can look into this so more people realise common decency prevailed between pilots on different sides of the war ! Thank you
th-cam.com/video/SQe4roNR8Nc/w-d-xo.html here the best storytelling of the event that’s out there but it’s not nearly as good in animation and if your interested in a singe based on this event search up sabaton no bullets fly and if you go for the animated story video it’s a mix between the link and the song you will understand it if you watch it.
This is just one story about the Allies bombing of Berlin during World War ll. That German pilot, liking disillusioned by the war, saw that US B-17 flying back over the Alps. But instead of firing on it, he saw that it had been severely damages: 3 engines were smoking about to fail, and it was full of holes. It was a lone survivor of an aerial attack group. So this German pilot escorted this bomber past anti-aircraft guns and out to the English Channel. He ever pointed them to their way home.
There's a book "A Higher Call" which documents this story. I bought it when I first learned of this story some years ago, I must get around to reading it.
An honorable warrior would've carefully shot out the engines, one at a time, pausing to motion the plane down each time. A warrior's primary duty is to his tribe and this bomber just left a mission where they'd undoubtedly dropped ordinance on that warrior's homeland and countrymen (civilian or otherwise) and would do it again after returning to Britain to repair and recuperate. It would indeed be dishonorable to viciously down a helpless plane full of wounded men but, it would be equally dishonorable to just let them go instead of trying to make POWs of them. I think Herr Stigler's heart was in the right place but, you have to risk and sometimes even embrace a fossilized heart to win wars, which depend on decimating an enemy's capacity to wage them against you. Herr Stigler did the _sentimental_ thing, who knows how many Germans died as a direct result of his compassion? ALL LIVES must be weighed in relation to one's mission, both the ones you end and the ones you save by ending them.
Want me to destroy that faith again? Franz couldn't say what he have done coz Nazis would take him behind a barn and put a bullet in his head. Charlie couldn't speak out coz allies didn't want to show to the world that even a Nazi can have hearts.
@@Mr.Ambrose_Dyer_Armitage_Esq.I mean, he did ask them to land in Sweden where the plane and crew would be interned. When they didn't, he thought they would probably crash before they reached England. There was also the slim chance of another plane intercepting it. and like it really mattered. Stigler must've known the Americans had an endless supply of bombers and the repair costs to the plane would be hefty even if they made it back. but yeah it's odd. I'm sure the thought bothered him though, and maybe he found solace in the fact that any potential Germans the b17 would go on to kill helped speed up the inevitable defeat
I've seen 100 different versions of this story, told 100 different ways, and it always makes me sad for the lessons we still have failed to learn. Fantastic animation, well done!
The story speaks for itself, but I have to comment on the animation; absolutely incredible. It’s possibly the best aviation animation I’ve ever seen in terms of placing you in the scene - it somehow takes a simplified style yet brings a heightened sense of reality. Consider me subscribed.
If you can watch this, as a service member or veteran, with dry eyes, then you must be dead inside. The incredible internal strength and integrity displayed by Franz Stigler that day is nothing short of heroic.
I had a chance to met a Spetnaz and as we conversed about our families we smiled. Just before we departed he called me "Drugg" ( friend in Russian ). The Political officer (KGB) came over and chastised him and told him he would be written up and punished. I still think of him and wondered if we could have been friends in another time >
Este es uno de los mejores videos que he visto en TH-cam. Sobriedad, elegancia, excelente montaje y musica perfectamente sincronizada. Una pequeña joya digna de disfrutarse. felicidades
Never knew of this moment in history until hearing Sabaton's - No Bullets Fly WW2 has been a period of interest but it is some of the lesser known instances where they have brought mine & others attention to them. Circumstances leading up to it aside...this is surely one of the most heartwarming moments to survive to be told out of the mess that WW2 was. VERY well done. FLAWLESS.
This animation, and the 3d Models that went into making this are absolutely incredible. An amazing way to show this amazing story, well done, top notch creation.
This was incredible. Didn’t want it to end. Your work is top notch - please keep doing WW2 content - your channel is passing the history onto so many viewers who wouldn’t otherwise know these stories
The most amazing part of this is how their wasn’t any words you could hear from the crew or pilots. To me that is what gives this a plus! No words or voice acting needed to tell a story such as this!
I can feel the emotion and thrill behind your animation. It is so satisfying to watch machines move and operate, but to also see the humanity gel so well alongside makes this as good as I've seen.
As one of my favorite stories from WWII I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate this video. My uncle was a tail gunner on a B17 and ended up as a POW. Great work as always.
My God, this is moving. One of the most beautiful creations I’ve ever seen. The animation and soundtrack are of premier quality. I am forever changed by this, thank you!
Absolutely phenomal animation for such a blessed and memorable story of chivalry and heroism... very very well done to the team for keeping this treasured story alive!
I am a military aviator of a much later generation. I don't think today's military aviators wouldn't have the same level of respect that aviators of that era had for each other. I can't help but get emotional watching this. The animation allows you to put yourself in the decision making process of both crew members which deepens the impact for me. This is an awesome presentation.... Thank you....
Think it helps the time period. If a huge war did break out I’d imagine they may be a tad couple moments of compassion but let’s hope we never find out
Some stories don't need words to be understood. Some, like this one, hits at the very core of what it means to be a human being. Thank you for telling this story in such an amazing way.
He could've torn that b-17 to shreds in 2 seconds but it was already in critical condition he spared it because it couldn't fight back it's a code of honor amongst soldiers
Knowing this Story well I thought this was so beautifully done and shows how your enemy could have enough respect for a Fellow airman whom being in such a dire situation with almost zero chance of defending oneself he refused to fire on the injured plane and then escorted them to safety. They became good friends after the war. Thanks for your rendering of such an amazing story of the kindness that can be found in a horrible situation. R.I.P. to the both of you, eternally skyward...
I wish I could like this more than once. Just finished the book. This animation was spot on, but most importantly, the chivalry and humanity of Franz Stigler, and the friendship that Franz and Charlie had for each other later in life is inspiring.
this makes me remember a wonderful event in my much younger years. In 1957 ( in Ottawa) my father introduced me to a vaccum salesman he had just purchased from. He was a Luftwaffe pilot that after much discussion had been in the same space as my fathers Wellington and had missed one another. They became good friends and often communicated during my fathers years. I met him again the day we said goodbye to my dad. Taught me a lot about appreciating a person for who they really are and not where they come from and has stood me well lifelong .
@@MrFEARFLASH Try to act smart and cry all you want about the side effects of Allied strategic bombings it doesn't change the fact that it was extremely vital in ending the Nazi Regime which is literally hellbent on worldwide genocide.
@@MrFEARFLASH 1. The B-17's mission was to bomb a Focker-Wulf factory, not a city. 2. That's what makes this story so impactful. Despite everything, the German pilot did not shoot them down. He chose to show mercy and helped the injured crew escape. He held on to his humanity, something that war usually destroys.
They met in Seattle. Franz lived in British Columbia & Charlie lived in Florida. Franz was supposed to travel to Florida but had to cancel because of an illness, so Charlie asked Franz if he could manage to meet up in Seattle, and the rest is history.
A story that went untold for decades. There are millions of acts of humanity and chivalry that happen every day such as this, not just during war. We're lucky when we discover them. And morally obligated to share them.
@MrSteve280 : Hay montones de actos de honor, caridad y caballerosa humanidad de los guerreros germanos pero está casi prohíbido y autocensurado dar el perfil de humanidad a los "malvados nazis" ....
This was one of the cleanest animations I've ever seen. A true test of CGI is when the viewer can't tell if the people are real actors or animated figures. For a long time, I thought they were live actors interspersed with shots of CGI. Nicely done.
This is one of the best stories I’ve ever read. Just shows that not everyone is an enemy, they’re trying to get through a horrible situation like the next man. True courage.
Outstanding. Everything about this is wonderful, but the subtle clarity of emotion in the eyes is particularly noteworthy. Thank you for making this, it clearly comes from love.
Emotionally one of the most heart wrenching productions I have ever seen. And proves the power of a good (in this case true) story and sound track, and that dialogue isn't necessary to communicate the message or story, although it helps. Fantastic work! I never knew of this event and appreciate it appearing in my feed.
Thank you for paying such a vibrant tribute to these men, and for showing that in all this madness, acts of chivalry and humanity still had their place. I'm sure Franz Stigler and Charlie Brown would have been immensely touched by your beautiful short film.
This is absolutely phenomenal. The music and sound effects were wonderful. The animation, the attention to detail in every regard is masterfully well done.. I think the animators should be given an award for this bit. I'm moved that someone has taken the time to pay homage to such an amazing story. Absolutely top notch in every possible way. All without a single word uttered. The emotion in the eyes of every man... I'm honestly blown away by the quality of this animated short! I cannot say anything else, this is a masterpiece. I'd give a standing ovation, if I could. Please for the love of god, do NOT stop here.
I highly recommend “A Higher Call” by Adam Makos. While the climax of the book is this incident, it fills in a lot of backstory on Stigler and his time as a Luftwaffe pilot. He flew Me-262 by the war’s end. (Makos also wrote the excellent book “Devotion”, now a movie).
Reading the book now, highly recommend. I've seen this video before but never knew the whole story. Just rediscovered the video. My grandfather was a mechanic on the b17's in England. Gave me a piece of flak he pulled from one of his birds.
Heard that story before cause i have always been interested with all that is aviation history and especially the WWII era, but to see with such emotion what happen between Franz and Charlie in an animated production is out of this world, so much details, no words, just glimpse of each other in eyed contacts....Bravo....Sorry for my writing, i'm french Canadiens
I'm so happy this video exists, it's an extraordinary story and seeing it animated so well brings me joy. I recommend giving a look at Ron Weil's depiction of this as it is a beautiful painting.
I love this animation, and damn, I'd say it's museum worthy. Amazing detail especially with how the light bounces off and goes through the skin. Amazing, amazing detail.
I have also read the book "A Higher Call", which details the facts of this true event. It is one of the best books I've ever read, and shows that even the enemy, in this case a Luftwaffe Ace, Franz Stigler, can show compassion even in war time. The book recounts their early military experiences which led up to this momentous, heart-warming event. This would make a fantastic movie. Their eventual face-to-face meeting is so emotional, and their enduring friendship for the rest of their lives. By not shooting the B-17, Stigler risked court-martial - and possibly a death sentence - if his superiors had found out. Adolf Galland, another Act, eventually learned about it, and grudgingly admitted he "probably would have done the same thing". Neither were true Nazis, but rather fiercely loyal (to Germany) and highly skilled German Luftwaffe Aces. Both were highly respected by the Allies. All of us should read "A Higher Call".
There's no honor in shooting down an already damaged aircraft, barely able to keep flying, and with a wounded aircrew. Had the B-17 been a stray suffering from mechanical issues, with a healthy crew, I'm sure gunfire would have been exchanged between the two aircraft. It likely struck Stigler as odd that he was able to approach without being fired upon, so when he saw the top turret turning in his direction, he decided to head for home instead of shooting the plane down.
I'm not much of a reader, but "A Higher Call" was one book I simply could not put down and have read it twice since, purchased numerous copies for friends and am sure I will read it many times over in the future. A finer story of all the greatness and tragedy that is humanity I cannot think of.
This is a great video. Those 2 became close friends when they finally met. My own dad was in the navy before and during World War 2. He met the Japanese sailor who sank his ship. I was 12 that day and learned more about forgiveness than in the rest of my life.
@@jamesburns2232 If it was out of ammo, he need not have to escort the b17. Him escorting the plane led to ground forces not firing their artillery. If he didn't escort and the b17 was flying solo with that much damage, it might have been easy target for ground forces.
@@jamesburns2232 Records show Stigler landed, re-fueled and re-armed before taking off to meet the bomber "Ye Olde Pub." Thus, if he had desired to shoot down the B-17, he had a full load of 20mm, more than sufficient for the job. I do not suppose it ever occurred to you to check facts before spouting off. Oh, that is correct; this is the internet and truth never signed-on. One interesting point; Stigler, after landing the second time that day, discovered a .50 cal bullet embedded in his radiator. The Bf-109 was as tough as the B-17. Oh, BTW, it is Bf-109, not ME-109.
a masterpiece, both the theme that tells us about a story that was hidden until many years after the end of the war, and the realism achieved in these 3D images. I have seen some historical failures, like that the BF109 that you have put was a BF109F-4, the numeral that you used was the 1 Blanco and the Jagdgeschwader 53 "Pik as" unit. In reality, Franz Stigler took off with his Messerschmitt BF109G-6, Gelbe "Yellow" 2 and his unit, which Franz commanded at the time, was Jagdgeschwader 27. For the rest, you deserve a 10! I would like to see more cinematics like this from WWI and WWII aviation veterans, there are truly amazing stories with equally shocking endings. Thank you for this Journey to the past, for lovers of classic aviation, this is a gift.
Most of the time these historical inaccuracies are not done deliberately, but rather a lack of availability of appropriate textures or models. This was most likely the case here
May Franz Stigler and the crew of the Ye Old Pub rest in piece this wad an amazing animation that brought tears to my eyes literally the emotions and just everything was amazing.
To all whom watch this. Give this video a like so it may find light in the TH-cam Recommended section. Best animation I have seen telling of a historical event, and it tells the story of the common soldier in WWII and how both sides were fought by humans instead of the indoctrinated good versus evil.
An incredible story, two rivals who showed respect and sympathy for each other in the midst of the most devastating war history has ever known. If they were capable of such gentleman’s behavior, why can’t we get along and respect each other’s points of view, etc. in a time of much more advancements and technological achievements?
I hope the soldiers in Ukraine put down their rifles, stop their tanks and land their planes and turn around and either go home or find a home somewhere in Europe. It's a hire call
Perhaps advancements and technological achievements aren't what life's really all about. Perhaps they don't improve people. Perhaps the issues in the core of people haven't really changed over time. Some people recognize that life has meaning, and there is goodness and badness, and they seek a better path. They are mocked and insulted by those who don't see it. Perhaps they find themselves in a war.
I’m proud to count Franz Stigler, May he Rest In Peace as a friend. Franz was a member of the same Royal Canadian Air Force Association unit as I was in Abbotsford, B.C. Canada and spent many a delightful hour having a drink and listening to his stories, until ‘Momma’ told him it was time to go home. Franz was a gentle spirit and never gloated about his many kills and was reluctant to speak of them. There is a special place in Heaven for such men.
@@BrickGnat1435 Sympathy has been seen across species and even amongst traditional enemies in the animal kingdom. I doubt any religion has the monopoly on compassion.
@@BrickGnat1435 nah
no doubt the last declared war we will see where decency was not a uncomman virtue,
RESPECT.
Never let his story died within life there is always good when you think you see evil .As he has done
The way this was animated, the movement and facial expressions conveyed so much emotional expression. Truly a well crafted animated short.
its was truly a masterpiece it moved me
I totally agree!!! Fascinating! Surreal .....
The book is incredible. A movie should be made.
Yes, facial expression is hard, eyes only is really hard, especially with a high level of realism, and it's often badly neglected. This was really impressive.
@@Vinemaple YES IT was a GREAT ONE- i creid about this
Franz Stiggler had just lost his brother's shortly before this incident. His commander told the unit that if he found them shooting at enemies decending on parachutes that he would kill them himself, Stiggler later described the pub as a parachute, completely defenseless, he passed up the Knights cross that day and never got it, but he always said, that he got something better, to him, Charlie Brown was as much his brother. They later became best friends and Charlie invited Franz to a reunion of his unit, while there Franz felt uncomfortable for obvious reasons, and then Charlie opened up and said, these families are here today thanks to you, for escorting us to safety.
These families are here today because of you! WOW!!!
@@mantirig4139, that statement hits hard
He lost his brother in 1941 in France. That was the reason he joined the fight as bf109 pilot, he first started in north africa, then sicily, balkans and germany where he intercepted the bomber.
If we accept that there are American families here today because of Stigler, then we also have to accept that there are German families who are not here because of him. I don't envy the moral dilemma he faced.
@@robtenorio3608, I appreciate what you are saying and it is partially true, however, that puts things in a moral conundrum. In war, it is mutual combat, both sides agree to rules and in those rules, it is a violation to kill those incapable of fighting back, while still in an aircraft, all weapons were inoperable and the payload already dropped, so it would he equivalent to shooting an unarmed fleeing enemy, while both sides surely did that at least a few times, they likely couldn't confirm the weapon status of the fleeing enemy like Stiggler did. So I feel that he could have shot them down without it entirely being immoral, but it would undoubtedly haunt him knowing that they were defenseless. But more to your point, you are correct.
For some context as I didn't understand at first. Franz pointing down was him asking Charlie to land and surrender. When that didn't work, they flew together to safety. Then Franz pointed towards Sweden which was half an hour away so that they can land safely as their plane was badly damaged. Charlie then said to back off. Franz said when he waved goodbye, the wave was him saying to "get back safely". This is truly an inspirational story and I will be buying the book very soon.
Thanks for this, I didn’t totally understand at first
Did you buy the book?
@@ThaTrisme good namr
Charlie’s way of saying to “back off” was by telling his Top Turret gunner “Frenchy” to go up & swing the guns towards Franz to try & scare him off. And when Franz seen this happening he knew what was next so that’s when he saluted Charlie & peeled off. Actually Franz went to the right & up over the B17 to Head back to Germany, not to the left like what is depicted in the video.
@@tieroneactual2228 thats all wrong
they bombercrew knew that franz was no danger to them
france gestured for them to man the turret as he would no longer be able to escort them since his fuel ran low
I learned about this encounter fairly recently. The German pilot thought it would have been dishonorable to shoot down a crippled plane even if it was the enemy. It was remarkable that this incident was largely kept secret until after the war. The two pilots met again many years later and became friends. Truly inspiring story.
They became brothers
Deshonrado fue el piloto del harrier que derribo a traición al hércules Argentino en la guerra de las Malvinas.. Bombardero Inglés que masacraron a ala población Civil de desdre???? Inglaterra fomenta la guerra entre los pueblos..
?
@Shizune Schneider 卍 If he shot down the bomber and his Commanding Officer found out Stigler would’ve been killed by him anyways. If you bothered to read the description but this is probably a bot so idk why I bother
some german pilots shot US pilots hanging in a parachute its well confirmed by us pilots
Get the book, "A Higher Call". It's the story of this incident and it is one of the best war stories I've ever read. Charlie and Franz both died in 2008 within a few months of each other after coming within the pull of a trigger in 1943, and they died loving each other. I've read their story twice and both times I'm not ashamed to say I cried. Those two men came from a generation of men the likes of which we will never see again.
One of the best books I've ever read. Excellent story, cover to cover.
Yeah agreed its a great book!
Could not agree more...... that generation were special
they are still among us. The 9-11 response proved that for me. Back then, as today... I remember that our youth were vacant when it came to patriotism or caring about society. Lord: Please forgive me: "PissChrist"; was an accepted piece of artwork. NAMBLA and it's clones were running amok. And yet, when it got bad.... good people came out of the wood work for their society and/or country. I believe that to still be true today.
@TRUMP2020-FOREVER Russia could be an alternative for you. Some texan is already there
Not a single spoken word and I’m crying like a baby. Moments of humanity that shine through war are what remind me to be the most human and kind that I can. We’re in this together.
Mesmo inimigos pode se respeitar em momentos críticos de vulnerabilidades👏👏👏👏👏
I agree. Not everyone involved in war are psychopaths. Especially WW2 they were basically forced to participate.
It's nice to know that when he was about to engage but saw the B17 basically defenseless, he helped them get home.
_Today we're all brothers, tonight we're all friends, a moment of peace in a war that never ends_
We need this honor and morals before orders kind of attitude back again, because it seems to be woefully missing in this day and age.
yes i was crying too
Same here boss.
As I'm writing this comment, tomorrow will be exactly 80 years of that incident.
For me that was not incident.. 😔
Is that right???
81 years today ❤
Stigler may have not got an iron cross, but he got immortality as a hero!
A medal is nothing more than some polished metal. You are very right, he was rewarded with immortality and is forever known as a Hero
What's heroic in not destroying the enemy, carpet-bombing your Fatherland?
His true iron cross, was in fact already in him, when he decided to save his enemy, by offering him a safe conduct and escorting him to a safe place, this medal is his kindness of the soul and his heart.
Up there, the enemies of yesterday, I hope, found themselves in paradise and forgiven their past offenses, to live in peace for eternity.
Kind of ironic since he died in 2008.
For Russians, he is a fascist pig.
At german Bundeswehr (military) we had a trainer (Stabsunteroffizier) who allways told us: "The enemy is a comrade just on the false side of the line. He doesn't want to be in a war as you doesn't want it either." It's good to see that a soldier is sometimes more a human than a soldier. Thank you!
Maybe someone should repeat this to Vladimir Putin...
@@teddouglas953 Maybe to Selenskyj too?
@@christianmontagx8461 you may be right - takes two sides to stop a war…
@@teddouglas953 Nope! Ukraine has been invaded and being destroyed.
@@christianmontagx8461 Please don't forget who the aggressor is, Christian.
"The murder of a man is still murder, even in wartime."
"But remember, our tasks is to bring down aeroplanes, not men. So stop firing when your opponent's falling. Gentlemen, we are sportsmen, not butchers."
-Manfred von Richtofen, A.K.A. The Red Baron
He also said "Aim for the man, and don't miss."
@@kevinramsey417 Which doesn't contradict the above quote from what I can tell. As long as they can shoot back, a guess it's still part of the gentleman code.
@@kevinramsey417 that was weirdly neccessary back then during WWI because of how comicaly resilient those planes where back then. during WWII the planes where noticably weaker in terms of being able to absorb ammo wich gave rise to a even more nuts case: hans joachim marseille form germany. he might have been the best fighter pilot in history and one of the few who not only tried to avoid killing as much as possible but also informed the RAF whenever he scored a victory about the whereabouts of the downed avaitors and or helped to recover them. he even once found a dude that wasnt white in a plane he had shot down. and well he noticed that the black guy was friend shaped so he was declared friend and marseiles squad mates even protected the guy from the race mania if the third reich after marseiles death.
Эта правда, не мясники.
It's a noble statement. Unfortunately those fighting on the ground don't have such a moral luxury.
It's also interesting that today we have missiles that intentionally target the cockpit with the goal of depriving the enemy of a fully trained pilot.
War used to have much more honour, especially before WW1. But as we've got more technologically advanced we've also distanced ourselves both physically and emotionally from the act of killing a man. Soon it will be just pressing a button and leaving the dirty work up to an automated drone... We've lost our humanity in war.
I'm sorry, but this video is on a whole other level. I'm just spellbound by its power. Every detail, from the music to the timing , I cant stop watching this. The people or person that made this has a gift of talent that literally the whole world needs to experience.
Visual storytelling, its really something powerful isn't it?
I am his godson, I have spent many hours with both him and Charlie and I don't think anyone has heard the story in more detail or more often than myself. Charlie was quite a guy, he loved to tell stories as where Franz was more quiet and you sometimes had to pry stuff out of him but both together could give you the perspective from each side, Charlie thought for sure they were gone when the 109 approached. Franz always said he got too close when coming in from the rear of the 17 and had a view of the people inside. Seeing the tail gunner condition up close and then realized that's why the tail gunner never fired a shot is what really made him think about not shooting at the 17 along with the others inside he could see attending to the injured. Franz knew he would most likely get caught, court martialed and shot but he let them go anyway.
Funny story with Franz... Many times I drove him to Everett Washington to watch the Me-262's being built at Paine Field, we would drive down and cross the border at Blaine Washington (Pacific Border Crossing) as we got to the border we gave the U.S. border guard our Passports (Franz was never a Canadian citizen, he was still German) the border guard looked at mine and dismissed it right away... then he looked at Franz's and his eyeballs grew about twice the size and he read what seemed forever on the computer. We were then directed inside where Franz had to pay his usual few bucks but this time all the U.S. immigration officers had lined up to shake his hand. I believe Mr. Jim Brodie... (a good friend of Charlies and JEB Bush) had adding something to his information so he would be recognized when in the U.S. but this was before 9/11 when things weren't so tight at the border. Many good stories with Franz, he is missed by everyone here.
Thank you for sharing this with us
Wonderful info for posterity. Thanks
Lucky you.. 🥺
That gave me goosebumps !
Thank you so much for sharing this!
A warrior with honor. He knew they were out of the fight.
cdf-o
True
warriors always have honour. Those who fight without honour, be it the honour of defending kin and country, or a fight of equals, are the real monsters that bring out the worst in humanity. Canadians did awful things in WW1 and 2 in the name of trying to get home alive and faster, but they didn't bring out truly monstrous tactics before being gassed. Man maketh man monstrous by being monstrous, honour breedth honour.
The interview with Charlie is amazing. He later 40 or 50 years told everyone about the incident.. and someone somehow heard the same story from a German WW2 pilot veteran. They got eachother on the phone and the story matched up and they both broke down crying on the phone. The interview is amazing too. This 3d edit of it does it this guy did a 10/10 job on the small detail even.
Невероятно сопливая история. Американский бомбардировщик отбомбился , растер в прах немецкий город, а немецкий летчик истребитель его непокорал за это. Кто в это верит проиграет будущую войну.
@@СергейСеменов-м8к an eye for an eye leaves the whole world blind. We will one day live in peace comrade. It is not we the people of the United States who want war, it is a small group of our corrupt politicians.
Not how it went down.
@@coastiesaurus6810 Got your voices back, huh? Modern
medications may help to silence those voices. Good luck.
@Combatography Your last name is Kill, huh?
First name Buzz. Please go back to sleep.
The emotion shown in their eyes is incredible. Still fighting back tears as I write. Well done.
the eyes took the talking ,,it was the best feeling ever to see these brave pilots went thru espcially the american bomber pilot shock! and he didnt know what the german wanted him to do,,,if i were in his situation - i would have reacted the same!
same.
I share your feelings and tears! Chivalry ❤
I always cry with this story. Once again. Franz and Charlie. Never forgotten.
o7
oh bro same and this one relly just hit the spot
Freaking awesomeness, much appreciated for all the hours putting this together.
Ditto!!!!!!!!!!!!!1
Pretty good quality. I can't begin to imagine how long it took.
Incredible story. Thank you for the video.
Thought I was watching a movie.Freakishly real animation.
@@josephalvaro5244 ITS AMAZING
Franz Stigler was a true Knight of the Air, a man of honor.
Vale
Franz Stigler era un verdadero caballero del aire. Un hombre de honor.
Could I see the text to continue transĺating?
He was in deed a true gentleman.
This is hands-down THE BEST animation I have ever witnessed for this true event. I'm an avid WWII enthusiast and I absolutely revere these men and women that served during this war and have such a passion and respect for their sacrifices. This video and the aftermath is the truest representation of utter humanity that I have ever witnessed and I'm an inactive Gulf War Era US Marine Veteran and Law Enforcement Veteran of 22 years. These men of men went on to become the best of friends before their deaths in 2008, in which they both perished in that same year! The many lives that had the opportunity to live due to Franz's humanitarian decision is remarkable and the fact that he performed this mercy in the wake of potential military service suicide to himself and his family is truly remarkable. War is HELL, but HUMANITY rules and this is a story worthy of movie stature. None of these men involved in this event ever forgot that sacrifice of mercy and it brought enemies to become the best of friends. Franz was already an ACE and this would have been an easy target at best, but mercy and humanity prevailed. Praise the Lord!
For those wondering what Franz tried to signal to Charlie:
- first he tried to tell them to fly low as they were heading toward the atlantic wall and its strong AA defenses.
- then he signaled right which was the direction of Sweden (as they were near Bremen). That was technically a safer route for them than trying to cross back to England.
How come that signal at the end prompted the US crew to point their machine guns at Franz? Seemed Franz took that as a cue to turn back
@@savwire Perhaps something to do with Air Drag or stabile the Plane a bit
Why did his last signal cause them to aim guns at him? What was that signal?
@@seskalarafey9285 I don't see it. The whole signal/reaction at the end makes zero sense to me.
Thanks for the translation. First I thought he has signed them to land. But what u have said makes more sense.
What he's trying to sign and what they're thinking doesn't have to match. They aiming the gun at him because it's ww2 and he's an enemy, but still they didn't shoot him. They still have to play safe
That was absolutely fantastic. I got a little misty eyed at the end. Such a great story, I am glad you told it!
I got misty right off the bat, as I have known about it before.
I heard about it as well…😢🥲🥲 Stigler had the bomber dead in sight but saw what damage was done to the plane showed respect to save the bomber crew. Even in war there are heroes among enemies. Beautifully Epic! They flew to heaven together in 2008! Stigler escorting Charlie Brown! ❤️❤️❤️❤️ Mad Respect!
Count me too. 😥
I was peeling onions when i watched it.
I can’t help to see humanity between enemies in war.. Stigler earned his Flying Cross by God that day! Iron Crosses wouldn’t get Stigler into Heaven but escort a wounded bomber to safety took courage-love and the crew through the fuselage was the honest way to show compassion. 🥲🥲🥲😇😇😇
Good afternoon - I'm a retired air force officer colonel - the story I've seen is very moving, it's well done and conveys great humanity on the part of the M-109 pilot. He had everything to win and easily shoot down that ship.
However, what moved me the most is the photograph that is veiled at the end of the story: showing the evidence of a true story.
My fraternal salute to those pilots
Thank you very much for sharing this story.
Look up the video of them talking the day they reunited it's so moving
Sabaton makes a good one too. th-cam.com/video/dslO-3GgenY/w-d-xo.html
Mi coronel saludos de TNT del extinto EPS que hoy no existe la guerra es lo más triste para un ser humano yo perdí a mis tres hermanos en esta guerra de mi país solo para volver a caer en otra dictadura saludos desde nicaragua
Останется только добавить сколько детей и женщин до этого он расстрелял со своего самолёта.
Bf-109 and Bf-110 but Me-163(Komet) and Me-262(Schwalbe).All produced under rules Dr (Me)sserschmidt) in (B)ayern (Fl)ugzeugwerk factory near Augsburg.
I am not a German and not live in Germany but like a History.
Salute!
How on earth was this animated? Absolutely wonderful animation.
The story of Charlie and Franz is one of my favorites from WW2. Rest in peace, gentlemen. Fly high and fly fast through the heavens and beyond.
The animations in this story are unreal. The confusion of the pilots looks so natural. I'll put this animation in my hall of fame
At first, I thought the pilots were real actors.
Unbelievable detail on body movements and facial expressions.
Very well done and very impressive!
Thanks...
Human decency and compassion. No one prays for peace more than a soldier.
Soldier's and Marine's mothers o
And the politicians and their media stooges pound the war drums daily.
No, than some few soldiers.
Amen to that. The warfighter knows the true cost of war, its a shame we don't have more politicians that have served and understand the price peace and freedom comes at.
I did 2 tours as well. And saw so much death and carnage. It’s crippled my soul. People are just as evil and nasty as they can be kind and humane. I got so angry at being hit with IED after IED that I lost my self and my humanity, and now the weight is heavy. I carry the dead with me. I wish for never another war bc now I know the true cost of it. But give it another 20 years and young Americans will be marching to their demise just like I did and generation after generation before us did.
I have a neighbor who is Charlie’s Daughter, and she mourns the loss of both men. RIP Charlie Brown and Franz Stigler
so you are a canadian
@@LewisAvinash No I’m not related to the neighbor.
Stunning recreation of a rare human moment in war, bravo 👏
Melissa Aikens send you the video
✅
Melissa
🥵
There were many incidents if compassion from both sides, both reported and unreported
My dad had a classmate who served in the AAF during the war. He said that when the German jets showed up some of the pilots would come close, wave and then go off. After they knew the war was lost they stopped attacking. They were soldiers, not killers.
And were the AAF also not dropping bombs on cities full of civilians? The enemy is the enemy and you get paid to do what you have to do, not to play games with them.
@@gerardosalazar161 Absolutely! Too much sentimentalism on this topic. War is hell and it does dreadful things to people. If one day we ever realise this, there may be a hope for civilisation
@@marka2463 It is precisely because war is hell and does dreadful things to people that these stories and moments are important, to ensure that not all humanity is lost, even in the midst of all the misery you spoke about. I get you may be sceptical and think there is no place for sentimentalism in war. But trying to take that away from people who find some solace in these stories and moments is not really fair and a low blow, in my opinion. Hope no one does the same to you with something you hold dear or that helps you keep hope in Humankind.. Thumbs down to you sir
@@gerardosalazar161 the me109 pilots knew it was going to have to be done. To end the war. It was the only way.
So yes. The moral decision. The soldier decision, ""Go ahead and let's get it over with, sooner rather than later".
It is the only way, and in war, the quickest way is always the choice.
Soldiers of every rank were constantly told, "when faced with a decision on the battlefield you do not know the answer to:
Think, "End the war", that's your guide in all things.
@@luisfilipe756 Luis, I think with respect you do me a disservice. If you or other people want to believe this story then please do. It’s a nice story and if it makes people feel better, I am happy for them. I have read the book and have many years of academic research into the combined bomber offensive. My aim is not to be negative about this story, I am merely pointing out some ‘holes’ in it. I do worry though that if we find too much ‘solace’ in stories like this, that we may forget that war is so terrible and destroys people - both physically and psychologically.
Beautiful video. No dialog required. The honor, the strength of character, the emotions are all there. Thank you for making it.
Well the pilots didn’t have Dialoge, plus it’s a very neat way to convay emotions that the men would have felt , like not knowing exactly what was going on through dialog etc
An incredible story and got to give props to whoever did the animation, the emotion and expression in everybodies face is just sublime.
Franz was my uncle, a time or two removed, thank you for telling this story.
Yeah what a awesome story and the work of art of this video.
You should be proud , you have the blood of a true hero.
Dude, you must have been the most popular kid in school for sure!
Fake. Posted the exact same comment as "Celebes Magazine". People always duped in comments by clowns who claim to be associated with someone in the story. Never believe everything you see written
I'm a disabled veteran and I'm proud of someone that I'm distantly related to. This is an amazing story and I don't see the need or value in being adversarial. My last name is Stigler my family moved to the US from Germany in the 1930's my father and grandfather have always talked about Franz.
It's amazing how loudly this video speaks without a single word being said. This story is beautiful. The two. Pilot's ended up being friends in later years as well.
I've heard this story many times but your animations made it hit just as hard as the first time thanks
You can say that again! I agree 1000%!
This deserves a full-length feature hollywood film. Excellent animation by the way!
This feels like it should be in Love, Death, Robots as the animation is simply top-notch. The music was very fitting in all its somberness and the emotions portrayed and conveyed so well without either speaking a word. A truly moving piece of art.
Awesome idea and totally on target. I hope someone pitches a version of it to them.
You can really see the "oh shit oh shit oh shit" on their face
Yes, LDR would be perfect. Moving, fluid and tender. (and great soundtrack). And leaving the voices out is the work of a master. I'm not worthy!
Exactly my thoughts ❤️🔥
Maybe there is a new better season I did not see, Love Death ans Robots is shyte compared to this. This should be an independent short release title on it s own.
Absolutely stunning story, told in a compelling and gorgeous way! Thank you for bringing us this amazing tale!
I am proud to say that I have had the distinct honor of flying aboard the B-17 "Ye Olde Pub" operated by the Liberty Foundation. Their B-17 has been painted in the complete livery and nose art of the original "Ye Olde Pub" bomber depicted here. Truly, the experience of a lifetime.
Awesome. I've flown aboard Aluminum Overcast, another B-17 maintained by the Commemorative Air Force. Amazing experience.
Yeah, the original was scrapped right after it was landed, and the story buried.
That had to be awesome to say the least, especially if you were familiar with the original Pubs background. I went up in the 909 back in 2015, and it was well worth every penny! Then the tragic demise of it a few years later was just such a loss in so many ways.
Beautiful recreation of a beautiful moment in history.
May Franz and Charlie Rest in Peace...and immortalised in Legend.
I've read about this a thousand times. Never thought seeing it in animation would hit me like that.. Their whole generation is quickly disappearing and that's a huge shame because there were some unbelievably good human beings back then. We will never see this type of respect out of anyone in any situation these days and it's heartbreaking to admit that. I'm glad these guys all got to live long lives.. Hell is an understatement when describing the second world war.
What an amazing story, which until now never knew existed, BUT because of this video I can look into this so more people realise common decency prevailed between pilots on different sides of the war ! Thank you
th-cam.com/video/SQe4roNR8Nc/w-d-xo.html here the best storytelling of the event that’s out there but it’s not nearly as good in animation and if your interested in a singe based on this event search up sabaton no bullets fly and if you go for the animated story video it’s a mix between the link and the song you will understand it if you watch it.
This is just one story about the Allies bombing of Berlin during World War ll. That German pilot, liking disillusioned by the war, saw that US B-17 flying back over the Alps. But instead of firing on it, he saw that it had been severely damages: 3 engines were smoking about to fail, and it was full of holes. It was a lone survivor of an aerial attack group. So this German pilot escorted this bomber past anti-aircraft guns and out to the English Channel. He ever pointed them to their way home.
Sabaton No bullets fly!
th-cam.com/video/dslO-3GgenY/w-d-xo.html
There's a book "A Higher Call" which documents this story. I bought it when I first learned of this story some years ago, I must get around to reading it.
@@djtaylorutube do so, you won't regret it
I'm not an emotional person, but this restores faith in man and an honorable warrior. Salute herr Stigler!!!
An honorable warrior would've carefully shot out the engines, one at a time, pausing to motion the plane down each time. A warrior's primary duty is to his tribe and this bomber just left a mission where they'd undoubtedly dropped ordinance on that warrior's homeland and countrymen (civilian or otherwise) and would do it again after returning to Britain to repair and recuperate. It would indeed be dishonorable to viciously down a helpless plane full of wounded men but, it would be equally dishonorable to just let them go instead of trying to make POWs of them.
I think Herr Stigler's heart was in the right place but, you have to risk and sometimes even embrace a fossilized heart to win wars, which depend on decimating an enemy's capacity to wage them against you.
Herr Stigler did the _sentimental_ thing, who knows how many Germans died as a direct result of his compassion? ALL LIVES must be weighed in relation to one's mission, both the ones you end and the ones you save by ending them.
Want me to destroy that faith again?
Franz couldn't say what he have done coz Nazis would take him behind a barn and put a bullet in his head.
Charlie couldn't speak out coz allies didn't want to show to the world that even a Nazi can have hearts.
@@Mr.Ambrose_Dyer_Armitage_Esq.I mean, he did ask them to land in Sweden where the plane and crew would be interned. When they didn't, he thought they would probably crash before they reached England. There was also the slim chance of another plane intercepting it. and like it really mattered. Stigler must've known the Americans had an endless supply of bombers and the repair costs to the plane would be hefty even if they made it back. but yeah it's odd. I'm sure the thought bothered him though, and maybe he found solace in the fact that any potential Germans the b17 would go on to kill helped speed up the inevitable defeat
@@hfhfffhfhf
People who love their country don't think that way.
This is some of the finest editing and film making ive seen from a non major movie company in like EVER
I've seen 100 different versions of this story, told 100 different ways, and it always makes me sad for the lessons we still have failed to learn. Fantastic animation, well done!
Нашим бы сейчас это понять .
The story speaks for itself, but I have to comment on the animation; absolutely incredible. It’s possibly the best aviation animation I’ve ever seen in terms of placing you in the scene - it somehow takes a simplified style yet brings a heightened sense of reality. Consider me subscribed.
Amen!!
Wenigstens etwas Ehren Haftes und Menschlichkeit, egal ob es Krieg war.
If you can watch this, as a service member or veteran, with dry eyes, then you must be dead inside. The incredible internal strength and integrity displayed by Franz Stigler that day is nothing short of heroic.
I watch this story twice, and I cry twice.
It's good to know that I'm not dead inside _(just yet)._
Just watched this at work right now, and I'm still wiping my eyes.
Amazing story!
I had a chance to met a Spetnaz and as we conversed about our families we smiled. Just before we departed he called me "Drugg" ( friend in Russian ). The Political officer (KGB) came over and chastised him and told him he would be written up and punished. I still think of him and wondered if we could have been friends in another time >
Este es uno de los mejores videos que he visto en TH-cam. Sobriedad, elegancia, excelente montaje y musica perfectamente sincronizada. Una pequeña joya digna de disfrutarse. felicidades
Never knew of this moment in history until hearing Sabaton's - No Bullets Fly
WW2 has been a period of interest but it is some of the lesser known instances where they have brought mine & others attention to them.
Circumstances leading up to it aside...this is surely one of the most heartwarming moments to survive to be told out of the mess that WW2 was.
VERY well done. FLAWLESS.
Brothers! Hero's! Foes.
Never knew it was a Sabaton song; very cool, I read the book.
I was about to say that’s what the song was based off of
What's a Sabaton?
a sabaton is piece of armor
This animation, and the 3d Models that went into making this are absolutely incredible. An amazing way to show this amazing story, well done, top notch creation.
This was incredible. Didn’t want it to end. Your work is top notch - please keep doing WW2 content - your channel is passing the history onto so many viewers who wouldn’t otherwise know these stories
Well said
The most amazing part of this is how their wasn’t any words you could hear from the crew or pilots. To me that is what gives this a plus! No words or voice acting needed to tell a story such as this!
I can feel the emotion and thrill behind your animation. It is so satisfying to watch machines move and operate, but to also see the humanity gel so well alongside makes this as good as I've seen.
As one of my favorite stories from WWII I can't begin to tell you how much I appreciate this video. My uncle was a tail gunner on a B17 and ended up as a POW. Great work as always.
What happened to your uncle?
My God, this is moving. One of the most beautiful creations I’ve ever seen. The animation and soundtrack are of premier quality. I am forever changed by this, thank you!
Read the book "A Higher Call" by Adam Makos - you won't regret it
That is for sure, danke Herr Franz
No god only science and fact
This animation told the story "PERFECTLY"!!! It's the BEST I have ever seen!!! SALUTE to the Production Company!!!
This animation hit harder than many "emotional" animations I have seen on the platform. All of that with partially covered faces and not a word spoken
Absolutely phenomal animation for such a blessed and memorable story of chivalry and heroism... very very well done to the team for keeping this treasured story alive!
This is ANIMATION?!
I thought it was a recreation with vintage airplanes in real life!
🎯
@@lee3900 I'm thinking the same thing. Where the Animation. 🤔
@@MrMJmusicLover I guess I should have thought about they couldn't fly a real B52 in that wrecked condition.
@@MrMJmusicLover do you know what the German signaled at the end, and why the top gunner pointed his weapons at him?
I am a military aviator of a much later generation. I don't think today's military aviators wouldn't have the same level of respect that aviators of that era had for each other. I can't help but get emotional watching this. The animation allows you to put yourself in the decision making process of both crew members which deepens the impact for me. This is an awesome presentation.... Thank you....
Hard to show compassion at 500mph with a 20 mile effective range.
Think it helps the time period. If a huge war did break out I’d imagine they may be a tad couple moments of compassion but let’s hope we never find out
This incident would be highly improbable nowadays.
Some stories don't need words to be understood. Some, like this one, hits at the very core of what it means to be a human being.
Thank you for telling this story in such an amazing way.
He could've torn that b-17 to shreds in 2 seconds but it was already in critical condition he spared it because it couldn't fight back it's a code of honor amongst soldiers
Knowing this Story well I thought this was so beautifully done and shows how your enemy could have enough respect for a Fellow airman whom being in such a dire situation with almost zero chance of defending oneself he refused to fire on the injured plane and then escorted them to safety. They became good friends after the war. Thanks for your rendering of such an amazing story of the kindness that can be found in a horrible situation. R.I.P. to the both of you, eternally skyward...
I wish I could like this more than once. Just finished the book. This animation was spot on, but most importantly, the chivalry and humanity of Franz Stigler, and the friendship that Franz and Charlie had for each other later in life is inspiring.
this makes me remember a wonderful event in my much younger years. In 1957 ( in Ottawa) my father introduced me to a vaccum salesman he had just purchased from. He was a Luftwaffe pilot that after much discussion had been in the same space as my fathers Wellington and had missed one another. They became good friends and often communicated during my fathers years. I met him again the day we said goodbye to my dad. Taught me a lot about appreciating a person for who they really are and not where they come from and has stood me well lifelong .
Beside the moving story, let's take a minute to enjoy the absolutely fabulous animation.
Movments are fluids and realists.
A masterpiece !
it feels like a bomber flew for a walk. And he did not bomb the German cities where civilians died. What a wonderful story. Powder people brains.
@@MrFEARFLASH адекватные немцы понимали что они агрессоры что они развязали войну и то что бомбят их города это только их вина ...
I thought this was gonna be like
“putting the animation aside, todays sponsor nord vpn!”
@@MrFEARFLASH Try to act smart and cry all you want about the side effects of Allied strategic bombings it doesn't change the fact that it was extremely vital in ending the Nazi Regime which is literally hellbent on worldwide genocide.
@@MrFEARFLASH
1. The B-17's mission was to bomb a Focker-Wulf factory, not a city.
2. That's what makes this story so impactful. Despite everything, the German pilot did not shoot them down. He chose to show mercy and helped the injured crew escape. He held on to his humanity, something that war usually destroys.
I know that history. They met decades later somewhere in Canada. A high emotional animated movie. Well done! Thx for upload
They met in Seattle. Franz lived in British Columbia & Charlie lived in Florida. Franz was supposed to travel to Florida but had to cancel because of an illness, so Charlie asked Franz if he could manage to meet up in Seattle, and the rest is history.
A story that went untold for decades. There are millions of acts of humanity and chivalry that happen every day such as this, not just during war. We're lucky when we discover them. And morally obligated to share them.
@MrSteve280 : Hay montones de actos de honor, caridad y caballerosa humanidad de los guerreros germanos pero está casi prohíbido y autocensurado dar el perfil de humanidad a los "malvados nazis" ....
This was one of the cleanest animations I've ever seen. A true test of CGI is when the viewer can't tell if the people are real actors or animated figures. For a long time, I thought they were live actors interspersed with shots of CGI. Nicely done.
This is one of the best stories I’ve ever read. Just shows that not everyone is an enemy, they’re trying to get through a horrible situation like the next man. True courage.
Outstanding. Everything about this is wonderful, but the subtle clarity of emotion in the eyes is particularly noteworthy. Thank you for making this, it clearly comes from love.
Most emotional video sir
Emotionally one of the most heart wrenching productions I have ever seen. And proves the power of a good (in this case true) story and sound track, and that dialogue isn't necessary to communicate the message or story, although it helps.
Fantastic work! I never knew of this event and appreciate it appearing in my feed.
Thank you for paying such a vibrant tribute to these men, and for showing that in all this madness, acts of chivalry and humanity still had their place. I'm sure Franz Stigler and Charlie Brown would have been immensely touched by your beautiful short film.
This is absolutely phenomenal. The music and sound effects were wonderful. The animation, the attention to detail in every regard is masterfully well done.. I think the animators should be given an award for this bit. I'm moved that someone has taken the time to pay homage to such an amazing story. Absolutely top notch in every possible way. All without a single word uttered. The emotion in the eyes of every man... I'm honestly blown away by the quality of this animated short! I cannot say anything else, this is a masterpiece. I'd give a standing ovation, if I could. Please for the love of god, do NOT stop here.
This is a beautiful work you have created to tell an incredible story. Thank you.
I highly recommend “A Higher Call” by Adam Makos. While the climax of the book is this incident, it fills in a lot of backstory on Stigler and his time as a Luftwaffe pilot. He flew Me-262 by the war’s end. (Makos also wrote the excellent book “Devotion”, now a movie).
I agree , the book was an absolute wonderful read.
Reading the book now, highly recommend.
I've seen this video before but never knew the whole story. Just rediscovered the video.
My grandfather was a mechanic on the b17's in England. Gave me a piece of flak he pulled from one of his birds.
They promised to make A Higher Call a movie too, but 15 years after the book's release still no movie?
Heard that story before cause i have always been interested with all that is aviation history and especially the WWII era, but to see with such emotion what happen between Franz and Charlie in an animated production is out of this world, so much details, no words, just glimpse of each other in eyed contacts....Bravo....Sorry for my writing, i'm french Canadiens
I'm so happy this video exists, it's an extraordinary story and seeing it animated so well brings me joy. I recommend giving a look at Ron Weil's depiction of this as it is a beautiful painting.
Thanks to whomever created this 👏
This is a very meaningful video. Well done. You should be very proud of your effort.
Beautiful tribute. No words were needed. The love of telling the story, and the faces disbelief said it all.
The animation was outstanding. Thank you for sharing and showing us in these dark days that there is humanity in each of us.
Hey C-Bass thanks for putting this together. Great presentation. Makes me emotional every time I see it.
I love this animation, and damn, I'd say it's museum worthy. Amazing detail especially with how the light bounces off and goes through the skin. Amazing, amazing detail.
I have also read the book "A Higher Call", which details the facts of this true event. It is one of the best books I've ever read, and shows that even the enemy, in this case a Luftwaffe Ace, Franz Stigler, can show compassion even in war time. The book recounts their early military experiences which led up to this momentous, heart-warming event. This would make a fantastic movie. Their eventual face-to-face meeting is so emotional, and their enduring friendship for the rest of their lives. By not shooting the B-17, Stigler risked court-martial - and possibly a death sentence - if his superiors had found out. Adolf Galland, another Act, eventually learned about it, and grudgingly admitted he "probably would have done the same thing". Neither were true Nazis, but rather fiercely loyal (to Germany) and highly skilled German Luftwaffe Aces. Both were highly respected by the Allies. All of us should read "A Higher Call".
There's no honor in shooting down an already damaged aircraft, barely able to keep flying, and with a wounded aircrew. Had the B-17 been a stray suffering from mechanical issues, with a healthy crew, I'm sure gunfire would have been exchanged between the two aircraft. It likely struck Stigler as odd that he was able to approach without being fired upon, so when he saw the top turret turning in his direction, he decided to head for home instead of shooting the plane down.
will search and read it
@@jeffburnham6611 FOR THE AMERICANS IT WAS A SAFE DEATH+++
I bloody cried reading your post!
I'm not much of a reader, but "A Higher Call" was one book I simply could not put down and have read it twice since, purchased numerous copies for friends and am sure I will read it many times over in the future. A finer story of all the greatness and tragedy that is humanity I cannot think of.
This is a great video. Those 2 became close friends when they finally met. My own dad was in the navy before and during World War 2. He met the Japanese sailor who sank his ship. I was 12 that day and learned more about forgiveness than in the rest of my life.
I find then old enemy soldiers meet up long after a conflict…..they become friends most often.🥲
the animation skills are top notch!
Beautiful piece. Beautifully executed in all aspects. A dignified and moving depiction of this story. Thank you for creating it.
The fullest meaning of mercy without one word being spoken,outstanding.
I don't suppose it ever occurred to you that Franz Stigler's ME-109 was out of ammo?
@@jamesburns2232 Was it? Or are you guessing?
@@jamesburns2232 If it was out of ammo, he need not have to escort the b17. Him escorting the plane led to ground forces not firing their artillery. If he didn't escort and the b17 was flying solo with that much damage, it might have been easy target for ground forces.
@@jamesburns2232 Records show Stigler landed, re-fueled and re-armed before taking off to meet the bomber "Ye Olde Pub." Thus, if he had desired to shoot down the B-17, he had a full load of 20mm, more than sufficient for the job. I do not suppose it ever occurred to you to check facts before spouting off. Oh, that is correct; this is the internet and truth never signed-on. One interesting point; Stigler, after landing the second time that day, discovered a .50 cal bullet embedded in his radiator. The Bf-109 was as tough as the B-17. Oh, BTW, it is Bf-109, not ME-109.
a masterpiece, both the theme that tells us about a story that was hidden until many years after the end of the war, and the realism achieved in these 3D images.
I have seen some historical failures, like that the BF109 that you have put was a BF109F-4, the numeral that you used was the 1 Blanco and the Jagdgeschwader 53 "Pik as" unit.
In reality, Franz Stigler took off with his Messerschmitt BF109G-6, Gelbe "Yellow" 2 and his unit, which Franz commanded at the time, was Jagdgeschwader 27.
For the rest, you deserve a 10! I would like to see more cinematics like this from WWI and WWII aviation veterans, there are truly amazing stories with equally shocking endings.
Thank you for this Journey to the past, for lovers of classic aviation, this is a gift.
Thanks for the info, I was actually just wondering about wich model Stigler was flying.
I'd like to recreate his plane as a model plane some day.
It's not really about the planes though is it?
@@kevinpeterson1398 It is. Because otherwise, this still raises a lot more moral dilemmas.p
Most of the time these historical inaccuracies are not done deliberately, but rather a lack of availability of appropriate textures or models. This was most likely the case here
@@apathtrampledbydeer8446 I'm actually doing his plane now, Border Models 1/35 Bf 109-G6.
Animation? Amazing. Incredible job. abosutlutely amazing
May Franz Stigler and the crew of the Ye Old Pub rest in piece this wad an amazing animation that brought tears to my eyes literally the emotions and just everything was amazing.
To all whom watch this. Give this video a like so it may find light in the TH-cam Recommended section. Best animation I have seen telling of a historical event, and it tells the story of the common soldier in WWII and how both sides were fought by humans instead of the indoctrinated good versus evil.
An incredible story, two rivals who showed respect and sympathy for each other in the midst of the most devastating war history has ever known. If they were capable of such gentleman’s behavior, why can’t we get along and respect each other’s points of view, etc. in a time of much more advancements and technological achievements?
I hope the soldiers in Ukraine put down their rifles, stop their tanks and land their planes and turn around and either go home or find a home somewhere in Europe. It's a hire call
It's what happens when Christians fight eachother in a war. You will not experience compassion with any other religion
@@richjames6923 The most bullshit I've seen in a comment ever.
Perhaps advancements and technological achievements aren't what life's really all about. Perhaps they don't improve people. Perhaps the issues in the core of people haven't really changed over time. Some people recognize that life has meaning, and there is goodness and badness, and they seek a better path. They are mocked and insulted by those who don't see it. Perhaps they find themselves in a war.
@@richjames6923 Even as a Christian I'd call BS on that one. Germany initiated a war that killed 20 million people. Not a very Christian thing to do.
So glad to know this story; a very high class production, also. Congrats for doing it so well, and spreading some hope in this nasty world.
Extremely well done. As horrid as the war was, there were indeed episodes of honor and mercy that happened. Thank you for highlighting this one.
Fantastic work. The character animation is particularly nice.
This is an AMAZING animation and story. Heard it before but this brings it home. You're a genius!
Thank for this amazing video! This is the truth humanity
First time i heard of this was because of Sabaton's "No Bullets Fly" in 2014. Amazing story and well done vid. Bravo!
This made me emotional, bloody good job!