I've only gotten 44 seconds into this movie and stopped to write a comment. The interviews of these young men, are a picture of past humans that we will never see again ( at least in my lifetime) what I'm talking about is this generation of people we will never see the likes of again. Our society has changed dramatically and I feel we pail in comparison to this era.
@@plasticman3952 No, not taught weapons training, but of their sacrifice for something far larger than a selfie and "me", of their youthful joy and love for their friends, about their strength to put that horror behind them to have families and work to have a life. Far better for the Children to hear of that in school instead of the nonsense being taught now.
These gentlemen gave up their Youth for an experience that most of us will never know their comradeship to one another kept them alive they are the lucky ones who can tell their stories..You can only but imagine the stories of the men and women who gave their lives for our peace...🌹🙏🌹. Thank you isn't enough...
Thank God the "Great Generation" was there when most needed. Fought a two front war to the death, against two evil military juggernauts. Finished the job, came home and quietly raised families and went to work. What a great tribute this was to a few of those "ordinary" men.
My Dad was a Seabee in the Pacific during WW2. He went in with Marines to constrict airfields on many islands. He never spoke of it. We learned of it through his dreams...and nightmares. RIP 6/98. Miss you but glad you didn't live to see America in 2023.
This show brought tears to my eyes. Not ashamed. My Dad servered on the South Dakota during the war. Watching old vids like this. Many years after he passed away, us kids learned why at times we would be woken up by his screams and yelling. Night mares of war. A few years ago. My wife woke me up one morning and said, lets go to Soux Falls and see the USS South Dakota Memorial. Very emotional when we pulled into that parking lot. They were just kids. So brave. Paul E Garber. Would have been 100 years old January 21, 2024. RIP to my Dad and all that have passed. God Bless those Vets.
Hi! My late father CDR James Woodrow Wyrick, USN, was a "quick graduate" of Annapolis Naval Academy, days after Pearl Harbor. He was quickly assigned to CV-6 USS Enterprise, as an ensign and he commanded the forward 5" anti-aircraft, port-side, gun position! He had a "ring-side seat" for all the incredible events, during 1942. He watched the Doolittle bombers taking off from the USS Hornet. He watched the Big E's ill-fated torpedo squadron taking off, and the successful SBD's too, for the Battle of Midway. He was honored with the USN Navy Cross, second only to the Medal Of Honor, for saving the Big E from secondary explosions, during the Battle of the Eastern Solomons, when a Japanese Val diver bomber hit the flight deck, next to dad's position. The bomb exploded, and ignited the ammo magazine. Dad quickly organized a "bucket-brigade" of crew survivors, who grabbed burning ammo and tossed it overboard. After the Big E was deployed back to the shipyards in Washington State for repair and upgrade, Dad was reassigned to Annapolis, where he met, and advised a young H. Ross Perot, and he told him "Keep doing what you are doing, and you'll be okay(!)" If you google "Ensign James Woodrow Wyrick" you can read of his actions. God Bless that great generation! Please visit" www.PrometheanAction.com for the wise ideas of my philosopher friends, who are fighting the same fight, that the "Greatest Generation" sacrificed for! - Jimbo Wyrick jamesdwyrick10@gmail.com
The moment I sat down and started watching this brilliant movie I was entranced. My father was a dive bomber pilot with Air Group 11, and here I was listening to his fellow squadron mates. The way that Retelas interviewed these extraordinary men was excellent…he just let them talk, and wove the rest of the story around their recollections. And it wasn’t just a recitation of the bombing missions and dogfights, it revealed the pilots’ feelings, the environment they lived in, the banter, the sideshows that served to bind these men together. The movie brought to life the stories my dad would rarely talk about, and filled in so many gaps. One doesn’t have to be related to these brave men to be spellbound from start to finish. Highly entertaining and well-produced.
It is amazing to me that he gets them to tell so much. My dad was in the 8th in a B-24 flying out of England. He would tell many stories of his service experience but _never_ said one word about any of the actual missions he flew. I learned after he passed that his squadron had 25% losses.
I’d had many hours of conversation with my father who passed away in 2016 at age 99. He was sharp as a tack until the end. He was a naval aviator, winged in December 1941, just before Pearl Harbor. He flew USN for 20+ years. This included two wwii tours, one flying SOCs from the New Orleans and then flying Venturas. He had many stories, his memories were still fresh. Great film, helps me put dads experiences in context.
Dang, what these men went through and survived. Truly the Greatest Generation. What is so touching is how happy they are to be appreciated and have their stories told for future generations. Makes tears come to my eyes.
These elderly gentlemen were so young when they put their lives on the line. The flight deck of an aircraft carrier is one of the most dangerous places on earth- not to mention flying into combat. Hearing their first-person accounts is better than all the books I have read on the Pacific War.
I'll be 51 in February of 2021and I am Humbled every time I get to watch these hero's, my grandfather served in the Army in North Africa and the European theater, he went ashore D+ 3 at Normandy and fought in the hedge rows, then in Market Garden and was surrounded in Bastogne. He was 23, I can't imagine! My Grandfather has been dead since 1975, what I wouldn't give to spend a few minutes with him! Thank you for sharing
I could never get tired of listening to them talk about aviation, the military, and life in general. I'm glad someone took the time to make this documentary
It’s been a while since this film was released and I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling a sense of gratitude not only to these men, the subjects of the documentary- most, if not all of whom have now shoved off to better skies- but to the filmmakers for adding these flyers to our collective memory.
My dad, John Douglas Owens, was a radioman/gunner on VB-11 on the USS Hornet Fromm 1944-1945. His pilot was Ltjg George Russell. They flew two Helldivers together: numbers 112 and 114. My dad was in that famous photo of plane 114 circling over the Hornet that day.
Your comment literally gave me goosebumps - that's like THE quintessential photo of The Beast. I've seen it for more than 40 years... and today, I learned who those men were. THANK YOU for this - and my thanks to your dad for doing his part to help win the war.
As a more modern veteran, I found this so amazing. God bless them. Truly the greatest generation. Thank you to all veterans, you are part of the willing .4%. Be proud, remain humble, do what’s right. America looks up to you.
Wow! Thank-you so much for this. As an ex-pilot, I could relate to all of this. Half my family was killed during the Japanese occupation of Malaya and Singapore. My dad served in the Royal Air Force, These men were heroes. These men inspire me and their stories brought me to tears. Thank you, friend. Wish I could have shaken each of their hands God Bless You.
These short stories from the men brings the whole experience to life and help one to realize these were a neighbor or someone’s father, brother, uncle…. they all did their part- flying and dying in the dark days of “42. Way too few people care to listen and understand how they transformed disaster into eventual victory. They are and were much better men than myself. Thank you Dad.
I was a Naval jet mechanic during The Viet Nam War and served a while as plane captain and I can tell you that Navy pilots are a special breed of people and very very brave. I worked on F8s A4s and F4s very interesting work. In school they told us to never use lock wire pliers when I got to my squadron one of the first things the chief gave me was a pair of lock wire pliers. I really enjoyed this film and these men are true American Heroes.
I went through ADJ "A" school in 1968 and heard the same story about those pliers, " You'll never see these in the fleet" , but when I got to the ship, there was a pair in every toolbox. Too funny!
George, we met at the Chino Planes of Fames the day you showed us the film. An eternal thanks for preserving the missions of these men, and allowing us to hear their stories. And so many in one film- 11!
Brilliant ! My heroes !! These are the men that Really made Navy Aviation ! I served as a Plane Captain VA-52,, A-6E Intruders. 1984-1988 on the Carl Vinson. Honored to have served beside 2 of the squadron’s in this video, that were still active. Then VF-11 was VF-111 but still “The Sundowners “. We also had VF-51 aboard with us. Both flying F-14’s. I can’t say enough here though about this movie !! These men , made me swell up with pride, that I followed in some of their footsteps. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
What a treasure!!! I only saw this because someone posted it on facebook and then to see that it has been out there for some time is surprising. It needs more attention than that. Every sailor...past, present and future...should view this. Thank you Mr. Retelas for creating this for us to enjoy.
My late father was a Royal Navy aircraft engineer on the HMS Warrior in the late 40''s and early 50's, two tours of the Far East, he never saw the action that these exceptionally brave gentlemen did, bu the camaraderie, friendship, trials and tribulations he had was treasured for years and years. This marvelous and heartfelt tribute to these gentlemen and their stories are riveting, their humor, fears, sheer bravery and grief are palpable through this film. Thank you for presenting this, and thank you beyond words to all the brave servicemen who chose to make a sacrifice, many times a ultimate sacrifice, for our future lives, we are not worthy
Man, I'm about halfway through this with a lump in my throat and mist in my eyes. Maybe the best WWII documentary I have seen, wasn't even expecting that.
About 10 years back, I was behind a WW2 vet in the line at Home Depot. I struck up a little conversation and turns out he had been a Pacific dive bomber. We went through the line and said good bye and it wasn't soon after when I was mad at myself for not inviting him over to my house. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I thought I'd missed it. Thanks for the documentary and letting me hear these stories - greatly appreciated.
I'm going to share this in a viewing with a group of veterans in my little neighborhood in TX. We are all branches and have warriors from Vietnam, Cold War, Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, and even an active duty or two. Thank you for sharing this. We love these men and are forever thankful.
I had the honor of serving onboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) in the late 80's. One of our assigned squadrons was VF-111 "The Sundowners"! This film was a real treat to hear and see the men who were there where the legend began!
My Papou was a Merchant Marine during WWI. He passed away a long time ago. My father, rest his soul was Navy but at the end of WWII. I was Navy, 4 years. PO3 '73>'77 🇺🇸✌
Awesome documentary Tears are trying to be held back. Thank you all for your service. My parents were veterans Father- Navy. Two tin cans Mother- Army Me--tried in 78-disqualified. Air Force and Navy. My best friends Dad Captain in the Navy. Buried in Arlington.
A fantastic documentary, My father and his 4 brothers all served in combat in WWII. Their all gone now. I wish I had been smart enough to ask them for their stories. Thank you.
I feel the same way. Not so much my parents who were to young but my grandparents. My dads parents were both from Germany and my moms mother worked in a factory and my granddad helped design some of the first rockets.
Most of the WWII veterans did not want to talk about their experiences. Some would tell you a few stories. I really enjoyed listening to their historical events.
@@sartainja My grandfather was an officer on Schroeder DD501 42-44 and Perkins DD877 on VJ in Tokyo Bay. I didn't know any of this prior to him passing in 94'. My uncles don't know any of his naval history and neither does my mother. I found this out later on doing research online. Can only imagine the horrors he witnessed. His father was a Maj. in the Army at Meuse-Argonne WW1. His brother was a navigator in a B17 over the Rhineland. All 3 survived. I see why they were all so tight lipped. Watching these old warriors talk though brings comfort because it reminds me a lot of my grandfather. Their heroism can never be repaid. Can't even fathom the bravery.
Thank you for this beautiful, well-deserved tribute to these brave ( young forever) men. They represent a generation of men and women we all owe a great deal to. We should never forget them.
Thank you George for doing this wonderful film and sharing it on TH-cam otherwise many of us would have never known about it nor have seen it. Like many who have been fortunate enough to see this on TH-cam, my Dad was a Navy man, my brother (now deceased - agent orange caused) was/is a US Marine, I (Artillery Officer '67-'73) and my Son were Army and my Grandson is in his senior year at the US Military Academy. Watching these amazing aviators and crewmen sharing their stories is heart warming, sobering yet very much enjoyable. These men are indeed of America's GREATEST GENERATION
Thank you thank you thank you. Absolutely amazing and wonderful documentary about singular American Heroes to whom we owe a greater debt than any of us could ever imagine. What a blessing your film is. A true Historical Document of the most valuable kind. Just terrific. Every single American alive should see and appreciate this film and listen to the testimony and veracity of these men as they bear witness (with profound and genuine modesty by the way) to their incredible service. Testimony that bears witness to the tens of thousands of their comrades who did the same; many making the ultimate sacrifice for Freedom and the Life Of Our Republic. I feel so blessed to have accidentally happened across your fine film. I will trumpet it and share it and promote it in every way I can. A rare and wonderful experience. Thank you again. And God bless and thank you to these brave men and their families for so graciously sharing their stories and experiences. Bravo.
I’m so glad you enjoyed the film. It was an honor to showcase these remarkable heroes. Humble as they were, they would be pleased to know they had such an impact on having you hear their stories. Thank you for taking the time to post your thoughts, it truly means a lot to hear them, and for your enthusiasm to share the film-- I hope more will discover it!
Excellent! I'm just sorry the America they fought for, and so many died for, has been rotted away by politicians and academics with no appreciation for their sacrifices. That thought brings me to tears as much as their stories.
G'day George, I'm ex-RAAF (a peacetime member). For many years I've been doing research into the Australian Air Force and I've had the privilege of meeting and talking to pilots and aircrew members from WW2. Sadly, there are, now, too few of them around to meet personally. Although Australia had no large aircraft carriers during WW2, it's amazing how similar the stories of our veteran pilots, who flew from jungle airstrips dotted throughout the South Pacific, are with the stories of your outstanding 'Eleven' heroes. The main topics of all veteran aviators seem to be the same: getting the sorties done; getting a decent place to sleep; finding good food and, the big one, getting a good drink! Unlike the USN, members of the RAAF were allowed to drink while off duty but the problem was finding supplies of beer, or anything else they could get their hands on. Humour too, was a big part of our veterans' war, just like yours. It was also all about friendships (in Australia it's called 'mateship'). Mates found in training and in battle were friends for life; sadly, for many their lives and friendships were way too brief. I'll never forget being in the presence of 'old' men who had braved the worst the Nazis and the Japanese could throw at them, tear-up or weep at the memory of a good mate who was lost nearly 75 years before. For most, their long-term memories were vivid and so real to them. A talk I had, many years ago, with a former soldier who lived in my hometown, began my interest in WW2 veterans. I’ll call him Jack. Jack was short. He never made the minimum height requirements to join up, but back then rules were often bent. Jack was in hospital when his, 2nd/40th, Battalion was sent to the Pacific. A huge SNAFU occurred they were on one ship; all their heavy weapons and supplies were on another. To cut a long story short, nearly all of the 2nd/40th were captured and treated horribly. Jack was to join them when he was discharged from hospital. That never happened. He later made it to the Pacific in another Battalion and soon gained a ruthless reputation, and a couple of promotions, as an aggressive fighter. After a long talk Jack, finally, admitted to me that he had seen the drafts of official (then secret) reports written about members of his battalion who were brutally murdered and tortured by members of the IJF. He told me his Bren gun was nearly bigger than him, but Jack sure knew how to handle it. He said he only had one regret, that was not killing enough of the enemy. These moments were rare because most preferred to dwell on the 'good days'. Like the time one character tried to see how many bottles of beer would fit in the ammo bins of his aircraft! Or they'd wink and smile at me when recalling a posting to a place big enough to have a hospital with 'real nurses'. Like you, I've been trying to make a documentary about these special aviators and soldiers, from Australia and other Allied countries for a long time. This year on March 31st, the RAAF turns 100; only the second oldest stand-alone air force in the world, after Britain's RAF. Your excellent documentary film is a true inspiration to me because it basically mirrors the lives of all Allied soldiers, sailors and airmen who survived and those who made the ultimate sacrifice to rid the world of cruel, inhuman dictators. You would have noticed, as I have done, that not one of the veterans you filmed, like all the veterans I've spoken to, never ever refer to themselves as the heroes. It's always their lost mates, their friends or their lost skippers etc. who they call "hero". Thank you, George, what a great film. I'm certain you thanked each of your 'Eleven' for their service and I'm sure each one was genuinely touched by your (and our) appreciation of their extra special generation. Respect and RIP to all of them and their lost 'mates'. Cheers, BH
I am an amateur World War Historian and I have watched thousands of documentaries about the war. This is the best one I have watched by far, and I was truly moved by the stories of these brave men. The interviewer allowed these men to tell their stories without interruption or input. Outstanding job! God Bless these American Heroes!
George....thanks. These men are a national treasure rapidly disappearing, and their stories (and personalities) deserve permanent preservation. I have had the good fortune to meet numerous aviators from the ETA and have deeply appreciated them all. Gentlemen warriors of another era. I hope this wonderfully done film gets millions of views. More than worth it. Godspeed!
A beautiful, poignant and thoughtful movie. Stories that are important to tell - the greatest generation. Thank you for making and uploading this film, very much appreciated. Thank you to these great men who served.
My father joined the Navy at 17yrs. old ended up driving Marines in Higgins to the beaches of the Pacific. Off Guam, his boat was hit killing his 2 crew members and wounding him. Another boat picked him out of the water, took him back to their transport where resumed taking Marines to the beach. After the war he joined the Air Force and went to Korea and Vietnam. He pinned my 2Lt bars on me and handed me one of his 3 PHs and told me the family has enough PHs, don't bring any new ones home. I retired after 22yrs. in the AF and still have his (my) PH. Greatest Generation indeed.
God bless these eleven men and all those they served with. My father was a WWII Seabee who did all the surveying work for the atomic bomb pits and loading ramps on Tinian. Thank you for this video. These men and their stories deserve remembering.
As the son of a Marine Korean War F4U-5N fighter pilot I enjoyed this immensely. I used to love as a kid sitting around my Dad and his friends when the old Squadron mates would come to visit and listening to all their stories and exploits. So sad most are all gone. Really nice job putting this together!
Excellent documentary and such brave men. I am 72 and since a very young age have always admired the generations who fought in two world conflicts, but especially those who flew over the sea to fight. I am British and have met one Royal Naval Air Service pilot from WW1 who flew the Sopwith Pup and two pilots of the Fleet Air Arm one of whom flew the biplane Swordfish against Bismarck and the other a Corsair in the Far East. Were these generations unique? British Empire or American university graduates, farm boys or steel workers, window cleaners or hard working labourers or immigrants becoming aircrew. God bless them and those who gave everything, I know I do.
My dad was a tailseat gunner in squadron VS 8 he got air medals at midway, Santa cruz and Phillipine sea and served on three different carriers..love this documentary very much thank you!
My father was in the merchant marines during WWll. I was a radioman on a wwll destroyer with 2 tours in Vietnam. Can't imagine what these young men went through. Thank you for your service. You will always be remembered. I salute you!!!
I'm so glad this came up in my youtube recommendations. What a beautiful documentary/tribute to these amazing men. Your grandfather is definitely proud of you. I'm not afraid to admit this film made me tear up a few times. Well done.
Great documentary, George. Wish more people had the idea to interview the greatest generation before they are all gone. Your grandfather would be proud.
I'm 75, watching and listening to these men, was like a breath of fresh air. Funny and sobering to put your feet in their shoes. My dad was a tank driver in WWll. Thank God we had men like you and thank you for your service. I'm a Air Force vet and forever proud to have worn the uniform with men of honor.
Bless you for putting these men on tape for future generations to appreciate. They were indeed the "Greatest Generation". When that gentleman puffed his chest a bit and proudly said he was from Texas, I got a bit of a lump in my throat.
What a wonderful film. My dad was in VF-40 on CVE-27, USS Suwannee. He was in combat from Feb 45 until the end. He died at only 56 and I had not taken time to get his story. Always thought there would be more time. Thank you for this...
It was reading about men like this that made me, a 17 year old greek kid coming out of HS in 1979 to walked straight into USAF recruiters office (with the blessing of my dad)! I fell in love with the F4U Corsair from the Baba Black Ship stories, and later I had the honor to work on the restoration of the Shoo Shoo Baby B17, I was assigned to rebuild the auto pilot, now the B17 is at the W. Paterson Museum!
My grandfather served with the Army Air Force. I believe his his title was something like Tech Sergeant, I can't remember. I used to look at his black-and-white photos all the time the plane (B24 Liberator) was his ass he saw it. He just loaned it to the pilot and it's Crew. At the end of the war his pilot gave his wings and his silver watch to my grandfather and thanked him and his team for keeping his crew alive. Very impressed with your video sir absolutely incredible.
These oral history are priceless! My late father was an Avenger pilot who never talked about the war. I was eleven before I even knew he was a pilot. Listening to these great guya is like finding a bunch of favorite uncles!
Wow what a fabulous documentary. I'm a WW2 living historian have been for 27 years doing Army Air Forces. Meeting veterans was always the highlight. But guys from VF11, VS-11,and VT11 what a treat! What great stories and I like how they remind us that they were just teens back then. Again wonderfully done.
I was born in 1962, but there’s always been something mystical, something special about those brave young men that not only are an inspiration but they make you choke up, well up with pride for them.
What a great tribute and story !! God bless ea and every vet, thank you for fighting for me and the rest of our Nation ! It takes great courage to serve and to know someday you maybe asked to give your life for your nation. If the US goes the last of freedom will go with it, for the entire world. May our service men and women never ever die in vain NOT one !
Thank you George. I wish I would have done this myself. I was raised by my grandfather. He was an SBD tailgunner on Enterprise CV6 from 43-45. He died in 2004 when I as 20 years old. I would give anything to document his and his buddies stories. His wife, my grandmother just passed away at 94 years years old just the other day.
Thank you George. My Dad served aboard the USS Long Island, CVE-1. I listened to all his stories. He served from April 1942 to January 1946. He saw every island in the Pacific. The Long Island was the first carrier to Guadalcanal that was able to launch two squadrons of Marine fighters to Henderson Field. Part of the carriers duty was to qualify pilots for carrier landings as well as ferrying aircraft to land bases all through the Pacific.
Rick, this is great! My grandpa and your dad were shipmates then. Here's the first page from his journal when he boarded the USS Long Island in 1942: torpedosquadron11.blogspot.com/2012/05/october-23rd-1942.html?m=1
@@GeorgeRetelas Good to hear from you George. Reading journal. Apparently your Grandpa was aboard the Long Island for his trip to Pearl Harbor. Not sure where the LI went after that but could have been sent to the Fiji's transporting aircraft. Before or after you Grandpa left on the Altamaha. Apparently the LI caught up later. My Dad was a quartermaster which in the NAVY meant stationed on the bridge. He could have been at the helm on the way to PH. You are right this is great!
As a side note in Pacific war aircraft history, my Father in law was a Marine assigned to VMB-613 stationed on Kwajalein in 44 and 45. He was an armorer on the PBJ (B-25) with the 75mm cannon in the nose. The web site for VMB-613 is an interesting read.
Man this is fantastic. Thank you for sharing the stories, images, and interviews. Just awesome. Great tribute to our Navy boys in WW2. The list is long at end of guys KIA. MIA, or killed in Trianing. Sobering.
Just want to say Thank You to all of the men & women during this time! Because of them it makes me so proud to be able to stand tall and say yes I'm An American!
Words cannot say enough what the people in this documentary went through. Reading the comments , covers all that is needed to be said. Definitely the best Documentary, well done George.
It was so great to meet you and Tim today. Thanks for making this film, and thanks for putting together a memorial museum to the men of Air Group 11 on the USS Hornet, their flight carrier - now berthed in Alameda, CA. My dad, Ernest Firpo, was part of the bomber squad and he would be so proud to know that his flight book will be part of the exhibit. You and Tim gave my sister and me a great gift today! Thank you.
In1997-98 I spotted this carrier docked in Alameda as a tourist attraction. No one was around the day I was there so I went up and looked at the deck. It was made of wood like planks and seemed so small. Stared at it for a while and thinking of the huge carriers of today with over 5,000 crew. But our fathers generation were the hero's of WWII. It's great to see your connection, your own father had with Hornet. . We are fortunate to be born in the U.S.A !
My dad served on the Hornet as a dentist but was very quiet in his descriptions of this trying time. Thanks for all your efforts creating this tribute to the men of the Pacific.👏🏻
These guys,... These wonderful glorious grand men. How I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall listening to all of their stories . Where will we ever see people like this again.... A really well done oral history of our Greatest Generation. Thank you Mister Retelas.
We all have unforgettable stories, whether you are a pilot or crew. I'm 74, my mind always goes back to the times you don't want to forget - the greatest things in the world. To become part of that history that these men talk about. First flight, first solo, things happen where only you can remember. These guys are my models, I grew up following their examples. I have met many of them in my life. I dreamed to be like them and I did.
Just excellent. I was a Marine aviator on the Constellation in ‘99. The stories are different but the same. So glad you talked to everyone, not just the pilots. Our lives were completely in those young, confident, competent enlisted hands every day.
THIS SHOULD BE ON A STREAMING SERVICE LIKE NETFLIX, AMAZON, HULU OR OTHERS....Although I'm thankful I stumbled across this on TH-cam...knowing all of these men have likely taken their next journey by this time...I again wish to say thank you for sharing...and to those men and their families...GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
I met George Gay prior to leaving for Desert Storm. He was an incredible person to talk to and in recalling his attack run in the battle for Midway Island he had all of us young Marines wide eyed and on the edge of our seats. Rest Easy Hero and Semper Fi
These stories is what they should teach in school!! These men were there when it mattered most and yet they themselves don't see them as heros... Truly heros!!!
I joined the US Navy in 1980 after I turned 17. My parents signed for me to join. I told the recruiter I wanted to work with electronics, wanted to fly and not go aboard ship. My father was active duty Navy at the time so I knew what the ship meant. I batted a 1000! Aviation AntiSubmarine Warfare Technician and ended up flight crew on the P-3B. Got over 3000 hours flying on all models of the P-3. Did 10 years and got out and became a flight test engineer for the Navy. Looking at retirement very soon. Damn I had a great time!
George, This was truly a wonderful thing you did here. Truly. Thank you so much for doing and sharing this with us. I come from a long line of Navy Men myself: My Grandfather was a Gunners Mate on a battleship during WW1. My Dad was a Machinists Mate on USS Bennington CV (later CVA & CVS) 20. My brother was a Machinists Mate on USS Ocallahan, USS Anchorage and USS Abraham Lincoln. I was a Boatswains Mate (later a Machinery Repairman) on USS Juneau, USS Missouri, USS Wisconsin and USS New Jersey. These Men, like your Grandfather, were, are and will always be a true National Treasure. God bless them. Every single one of them.
I've only gotten 44 seconds into this movie and stopped to write a comment. The interviews of these young men, are a picture of past humans that we will never see again ( at least in my lifetime) what I'm talking about is this generation of people we will never see the likes of again. Our society has changed dramatically and I feel we pail in comparison to this era.
Well said!
Well put !!
These are the heroes our children need to be taught about in school
War is a terrible thing, leave the children alone they deserve a childhood, not weapons training.
@@plasticman3952 No, not taught weapons training, but of their sacrifice for something far larger than a selfie and "me", of their youthful joy and love for their friends, about their strength to put that horror behind them to have families and work to have a life. Far better for the Children to hear of that in school instead of the nonsense being taught now.
no, war is a abomination in the eyes of Yah.
@@waskozoids please show scripture to back up that claim
These gentlemen gave up their Youth for an experience that most of us will never know their comradeship to one another kept them alive they are the lucky ones who can tell their stories..You can only but imagine the stories of the men and women who gave their lives for our peace...🌹🙏🌹. Thank you isn't enough...
Thank God the "Great Generation" was there when most needed. Fought a two front war to the death, against two evil military juggernauts. Finished the job, came home and quietly raised families and went to work. What a great tribute this was to a few of those "ordinary" men.
My Dad was a Seabee in the Pacific during WW2. He went in with Marines to constrict airfields on many islands. He never spoke of it. We learned of it through his dreams...and nightmares. RIP 6/98. Miss you but glad you didn't live to see America in 2023.
I often think the same for my father. They would be greatly hurt by the direction this country has evolved.
These men must be close to 100 years old.Thank you for your service.
That one flyer said he was born in March of 1918..
This show brought tears to my eyes. Not ashamed. My Dad servered on the South Dakota during the war. Watching old vids like this. Many years after he passed away, us kids learned why at times we would be woken up by his screams and yelling. Night mares of war. A few years ago. My wife woke me up one morning and said, lets go to Soux Falls and see the USS South Dakota Memorial. Very emotional when we pulled into that parking lot. They were just kids. So brave. Paul E Garber. Would have been 100 years old January 21, 2024. RIP to my Dad and all that have passed. God Bless those Vets.
Hi! My late father CDR James Woodrow Wyrick, USN, was a "quick graduate" of Annapolis Naval Academy, days after Pearl Harbor. He was quickly assigned to CV-6 USS Enterprise,
as an ensign and he commanded the forward 5" anti-aircraft, port-side, gun position! He had a "ring-side seat" for all the incredible events, during 1942. He watched the Doolittle
bombers taking off from the USS Hornet. He watched the Big E's ill-fated torpedo squadron taking off, and the successful SBD's too, for the Battle of Midway. He was honored with
the USN Navy Cross, second only to the Medal Of Honor, for saving the Big E from secondary explosions, during the Battle of the Eastern Solomons, when a Japanese Val diver bomber
hit the flight deck, next to dad's position. The bomb exploded, and ignited the ammo magazine. Dad quickly organized a "bucket-brigade" of crew survivors, who grabbed burning
ammo and tossed it overboard. After the Big E was deployed back to the shipyards in Washington State for repair and upgrade, Dad was reassigned to Annapolis, where he met, and
advised a young H. Ross Perot, and he told him "Keep doing what you are doing, and you'll be okay(!)" If you google "Ensign James Woodrow Wyrick" you can read of his actions.
God Bless that great generation! Please visit" www.PrometheanAction.com for the wise ideas of my philosopher friends, who are fighting the same fight, that the "Greatest Generation"
sacrificed for! - Jimbo Wyrick jamesdwyrick10@gmail.com
The moment I sat down and started watching this brilliant movie I was entranced. My father was a dive bomber pilot with Air Group 11, and here I was listening to his fellow squadron mates. The way that Retelas interviewed these extraordinary men was excellent…he just let them talk, and wove the rest of the story around their recollections. And it wasn’t just a recitation of the bombing missions and dogfights, it revealed the pilots’ feelings, the environment they lived in, the banter, the sideshows that served to bind these men together. The movie brought to life the stories my dad would rarely talk about, and filled in so many gaps. One doesn’t have to be related to these brave men to be spellbound from start to finish. Highly entertaining and well-produced.
hyp·no·tize capture the whole attention of (someone)
Well said Steussy. It’s an extremely moving documentary, we owe a lot to these men.
It is amazing to me that he gets them to tell so much. My dad was in the 8th in a B-24 flying out of England. He would tell many stories of his service experience but _never_ said one word about any of the actual missions he flew. I learned after he passed that his squadron had 25% losses.
I’d had many hours of conversation with my father who passed away in 2016 at age 99. He was sharp as a tack until the end. He was a naval aviator, winged in December 1941, just before Pearl Harbor. He flew USN for 20+ years. This included two wwii tours, one flying SOCs from the New Orleans and then flying Venturas. He had many stories, his memories were still fresh. Great film, helps me put dads experiences in context.
💜🕊️💜🕊️💜🕊️💜
Write it all down!!! It matters
Please accept a respectful tip of the Stetson from an old cavalryman on your Da's service.
My home State of Hawai'i. Territory of Hawai'i at the time. Blessings
Deepest respect to these American heroes. A grateful Canadian.
Dang, what these men went through and survived. Truly the Greatest Generation. What is so touching is how happy they are to be appreciated and have their stories told for future generations. Makes tears come to my eyes.
Amen. HUGE RESPECT
These elderly gentlemen were so young when they put their lives on the line. The flight deck of an aircraft carrier is one of the most dangerous places on earth- not to mention flying into combat. Hearing their first-person accounts is better than all the books I have read on the Pacific War.
I'll be 51 in February of 2021and I am Humbled every time I get to watch these hero's, my grandfather served in the Army in North Africa and the European theater, he went ashore D+ 3 at Normandy and fought in the hedge rows, then in Market Garden and was surrounded in Bastogne. He was 23, I can't imagine! My Grandfather has been dead since 1975, what I wouldn't give to spend a few minutes with him! Thank you for sharing
HOLY HANNAH! What a MAN he was. Thank you for your memories and God Bless You.
Why do I feel so fullfilled listening to these incredibly brave people? Thank you. I love you Dad.
I could never get tired of listening to them talk about aviation, the military, and life in general. I'm glad someone took the time to make this documentary
I honestly don't know how I'll carry on when they're gone. I love those guys, you built a world for us , and I can't thank you enough.
Brilliant tribute Brian. Thanks.
You have done a great service to our country by honoring these gentlemen with this documentary. Excellent!
It’s been a while since this film was released and I’m sure I’m not alone in feeling a sense of gratitude not only to these men, the subjects of the documentary- most, if not all of whom have now shoved off to better skies- but to the filmmakers for adding these flyers to our collective memory.
So lucky the producer was able to interview these men before they flew west.
Got that right.
Amen!
Couldn't have said it better.
An outstanding achievment, it should be in your National Library of Congress.
My dad, John Douglas Owens, was a radioman/gunner on VB-11 on the USS Hornet Fromm 1944-1945. His pilot was Ltjg George Russell. They flew two Helldivers together: numbers 112 and 114. My dad was in that famous photo of plane 114 circling over the Hornet that day.
Thank you George and all of the wonder people that brought us these memories, God Bless. Garry A Reed former USN Belknap DLG-26, ETR2, age 80 🇺🇸🦅🇺🇸🦅
Your comment literally gave me goosebumps - that's like THE quintessential photo of The Beast. I've seen it for more than 40 years... and today, I learned who those men were. THANK YOU for this - and my thanks to your dad for doing his part to help win the war.
Wish I could put photographs here so you can see, but can't.
That was so amazing to get all those stories from the Heros that lived thru it. Thank you.
Wow! Thank you for his service! God Bless!
As a more modern veteran, I found this so amazing. God bless them. Truly the greatest generation. Thank you to all veterans, you are part of the willing .4%. Be proud, remain humble, do what’s right. America looks up to you.
Wow ! These guys truly were the "Greatest Generation " !
Indeed!!!!
Wow! Thank-you so much for this. As an ex-pilot, I could relate to all of this. Half my family was killed during the Japanese occupation of Malaya and Singapore. My dad served in the Royal Air Force, These men were heroes. These men inspire me and their stories brought me to tears. Thank you, friend. Wish I could have shaken each of their hands God Bless You.
I had meant to add that this is one of the very best documentaries.
These short stories from the men brings the whole experience to life and help one to realize these were a neighbor or someone’s father, brother, uncle…. they all did their part- flying and dying in the dark days of “42. Way too few people care to listen and understand how they transformed disaster into eventual victory. They are and were much better men than myself. Thank you Dad.
I was a Naval jet mechanic during The Viet Nam War and served a while as plane captain and I can tell you that Navy pilots are a special breed of people and very very brave. I worked on F8s A4s and F4s very interesting work. In school they told us to never use lock wire pliers when I got to my squadron one of the first things the chief gave me was a pair of lock wire pliers. I really enjoyed this film and these men are true American Heroes.
AND SO ARE YOU SIR,YOU ARE
A GREAT AMERICAN, THANK YOU
FOR YOUR SERVICE....
I went through ADJ "A" school in 1968 and heard the same story about those pliers, " You'll never see these in the fleet" , but when I got to the ship, there was a pair in every toolbox. Too funny!
What a magnificent generation of Men great documentary George thank you.
George, we met at the Chino Planes of Fames the day you showed us the film. An eternal thanks for preserving the missions of these men, and allowing us to hear their stories. And so many in one film- 11!
Planes of Fame! One of the best days of my life spent there talking with B-17 crew vets in early 1999. Bless 'em ALL>
The best documentary I've enjoyed in a long while.
Brilliant ! My heroes !!
These are the men that Really made Navy Aviation ! I served as a Plane Captain VA-52,, A-6E Intruders. 1984-1988 on the Carl Vinson. Honored to have served beside 2 of the squadron’s in this video, that were still active. Then VF-11 was VF-111 but still “The Sundowners “. We also had VF-51 aboard with us. Both flying F-14’s.
I can’t say enough here though about this movie !! These men , made me swell up with pride, that I followed in some of their footsteps.
🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
What a treasure!!! I only saw this because someone posted it on facebook and then to see that it has been out there for some time is surprising. It needs more attention than that. Every sailor...past, present and future...should view this. Thank you Mr. Retelas for creating this for us to enjoy.
My late father was a Royal Navy aircraft engineer on the HMS Warrior in the late 40''s and early 50's, two tours of the Far East, he never saw the action that these exceptionally brave gentlemen did, bu the camaraderie, friendship, trials and tribulations he had was treasured for years and years. This marvelous and heartfelt tribute to these gentlemen and their stories are riveting, their humor, fears, sheer bravery and grief are palpable through this film.
Thank you for presenting this, and thank you beyond words to all the brave servicemen who chose to make a sacrifice, many times a ultimate sacrifice, for our future lives, we are not worthy
Great guy, just met him on the USS Hornet. 10/10 movie would watch again
Man, I'm about halfway through this with a lump in my throat and mist in my eyes. Maybe the best WWII documentary I have seen, wasn't even expecting that.
About 10 years back, I was behind a WW2 vet in the line at Home Depot. I struck up a little conversation and turns out he had been a Pacific dive bomber. We went through the line and said good bye and it wasn't soon after when I was mad at myself for not inviting him over to my house. It was a once in a lifetime opportunity and I thought I'd missed it. Thanks for the documentary and letting me hear these stories - greatly appreciated.
I'm going to share this in a viewing with a group of veterans in my little neighborhood in TX. We are all branches and have warriors from Vietnam, Cold War, Gulf, Iraq, Afghanistan, and even an active duty or two. Thank you for sharing this. We love these men and are forever thankful.
100 thumbs up! Thank you all so much for capturing these mens stories. Truely the greatest generation.
I had the honor of serving onboard USS Carl Vinson (CVN-70) in the late 80's. One of our assigned squadrons was VF-111 "The Sundowners"! This film was a real treat to hear and see the men who were there where the legend began!
I was thinking the same thing, I was serving in Carl Vinson CVN-70 same time 1988-1990 (2 WESTPACS & PACEX-89)
84-88 fir me. Same what your said ! I was A-6 intruders Plane Captain. This best video ever. Better than Top Gun for me
Richard, I was with you Brother. I was in the Sundowners sister Squadron VF-51 Screaming Eagles. I was the supervisor of the Life Suppirt Shop.
@@45gunner I was there for PacEx89 with VF-51.
@@DougSamm hey Doug, I was in VF-51 PR Shop
My Papou was a Merchant Marine during WWI. He passed away a long time ago. My father, rest his soul was Navy but at the end of WWII. I was Navy, 4 years. PO3 '73>'77 🇺🇸✌
Awesome documentary
Tears are trying to be held back.
Thank you all for your service.
My parents were veterans
Father- Navy. Two tin cans
Mother- Army
Me--tried in 78-disqualified.
Air Force and Navy.
My best friends Dad
Captain in the Navy.
Buried in Arlington.
A fantastic documentary, My father and his 4 brothers all served in combat in WWII. Their all gone now. I wish I had been smart enough to ask them for their stories. Thank you.
I feel the same way. Not so much my parents who were to young but my grandparents. My dads parents were both from Germany and my moms mother worked in a factory and my granddad helped design some of the first rockets.
Most of the WWII veterans did not want to talk about their experiences. Some would tell you a few stories. I really enjoyed listening to their historical events.
@@sartainja My grandfather was an officer on Schroeder DD501 42-44 and Perkins DD877 on VJ in Tokyo Bay. I didn't know any of this prior to him passing in 94'. My uncles don't know any of his naval history and neither does my mother. I found this out later on doing research online. Can only imagine the horrors he witnessed. His father was a Maj. in the Army at Meuse-Argonne WW1. His brother was a navigator in a B17 over the Rhineland. All 3 survived. I see why they were all so tight lipped. Watching these old warriors talk though brings comfort because it reminds me a lot of my grandfather. Their heroism can never be repaid. Can't even fathom the bravery.
Me, born 1944. This was part of my history. Well done.☮
Thank you for this beautiful, well-deserved tribute to these brave ( young forever) men. They represent a generation of men and women we all owe a great deal to. We should never forget them.
Thank you George for doing this wonderful film and sharing it on TH-cam otherwise many of us would have never known about it nor have seen it. Like many who have been fortunate enough to see this on TH-cam, my Dad was a Navy man, my brother (now deceased - agent orange caused) was/is a US Marine, I (Artillery Officer '67-'73) and my Son were Army and my Grandson is in his senior year at the US Military Academy. Watching these amazing aviators and crewmen sharing their stories is heart warming, sobering yet very much enjoyable. These men are indeed of America's GREATEST GENERATION
YES INDEED SIR, I SALUTE THEM,
ONE AND ALL..
Ñ
Thank you thank you thank you. Absolutely amazing and wonderful documentary about singular American Heroes to whom we owe a greater debt than any of us could ever imagine. What a blessing your film is. A true Historical Document of the most valuable kind. Just terrific. Every single American alive should see and appreciate this film and listen to the testimony and veracity of these men as they bear witness (with profound and genuine modesty by the way) to their incredible service. Testimony that bears witness to the tens of thousands of their comrades who did the same; many making the ultimate sacrifice for Freedom and the Life Of Our Republic. I feel so blessed to have accidentally happened across your fine film. I will trumpet it and share it and promote it in every way I can. A rare and wonderful experience. Thank you again. And God bless and thank you to these brave men and their families for so graciously sharing their stories and experiences. Bravo.
Agreed! George did a great job here!
I’m so glad you enjoyed the film. It was an honor to showcase these remarkable heroes. Humble as they were, they would be pleased to know they had such an impact on having you hear their stories. Thank you for taking the time to post your thoughts, it truly means a lot to hear them, and for your enthusiasm to share the film-- I hope more will discover it!
Excellent! I'm just sorry the America they fought for, and so many died for, has been rotted away by politicians and academics with no appreciation for their sacrifices. That thought brings me to tears as much as their stories.
G'day George, I'm ex-RAAF (a peacetime member). For many years I've been doing research into the Australian Air Force and I've had the privilege of meeting and talking to pilots and aircrew members from WW2. Sadly, there are, now, too few of them around to meet personally. Although Australia had no large aircraft carriers during WW2, it's amazing how similar the stories of our veteran pilots, who flew from jungle airstrips dotted throughout the South Pacific, are with the stories of your outstanding 'Eleven' heroes. The main topics of all veteran aviators seem to be the same: getting the sorties done; getting a decent place to sleep; finding good food and, the big one, getting a good drink!
Unlike the USN, members of the RAAF were allowed to drink while off duty but the problem was finding supplies of beer, or anything else they could get their hands on. Humour too, was a big part of our veterans' war, just like yours. It was also all about friendships (in Australia it's called 'mateship'). Mates found in training and in battle were friends for life; sadly, for many their lives and friendships were way too brief. I'll never forget being in the presence of 'old' men who had braved the worst the Nazis and the Japanese could throw at them, tear-up or weep at the memory of a good mate who was lost nearly 75 years before. For most, their long-term memories were vivid and so real to them.
A talk I had, many years ago, with a former soldier who lived in my hometown, began my interest in WW2 veterans. I’ll call him Jack. Jack was short. He never made the minimum height requirements to join up, but back then rules were often bent. Jack was in hospital when his, 2nd/40th, Battalion was sent to the Pacific. A huge SNAFU occurred they were on one ship; all their heavy weapons and supplies were on another. To cut a long story short, nearly all of the 2nd/40th were captured and treated horribly.
Jack was to join them when he was discharged from hospital. That never happened. He later made it to the Pacific in another Battalion and soon gained a ruthless reputation, and a couple of promotions, as an aggressive fighter. After a long talk Jack, finally, admitted to me that he had seen the drafts of official (then secret) reports written about members of his battalion who were brutally murdered and tortured by members of the IJF.
He told me his Bren gun was nearly bigger than him, but Jack sure knew how to handle it. He said he only had one regret, that was not killing enough of the enemy.
These moments were rare because most preferred to dwell on the 'good days'.
Like the time one character tried to see how many bottles of beer would fit in the ammo bins of his aircraft! Or they'd wink and smile at me when recalling a posting to a place big enough to have a hospital with 'real nurses'.
Like you, I've been trying to make a documentary about these special aviators and soldiers, from Australia and other Allied countries for a long time.
This year on March 31st, the RAAF turns 100; only the second oldest stand-alone air force in the world, after Britain's RAF.
Your excellent documentary film is a true inspiration to me because it basically mirrors the lives of all Allied soldiers, sailors and airmen who survived and those who made the ultimate sacrifice to rid the world of cruel, inhuman dictators.
You would have noticed, as I have done, that not one of the veterans you filmed, like all the veterans I've spoken to, never ever refer to themselves as the heroes. It's always their lost mates, their friends or their lost skippers etc. who they call "hero".
Thank you, George, what a great film. I'm certain you thanked each of your 'Eleven' for their service and I'm sure each one was genuinely touched by your (and our) appreciation of their extra special generation. Respect and RIP to all of them and their lost 'mates'. Cheers, BH
Well said mate🇦🇺
I am an amateur World War Historian and I have watched thousands of documentaries about the war. This is the best one I have watched by far, and I was truly moved by the stories of these brave men. The interviewer allowed these men to tell their stories without interruption or input. Outstanding job! God Bless these American Heroes!
George....thanks. These men are a national treasure rapidly disappearing, and their stories (and personalities) deserve permanent preservation. I have had the good fortune to meet numerous aviators from the ETA and have deeply appreciated them all. Gentlemen warriors of another era. I hope this wonderfully done film gets millions of views. More than worth it. Godspeed!
The humility of these men is amazing
A beautiful, poignant and thoughtful movie. Stories that are important to tell - the greatest generation. Thank you for making and uploading this film, very much appreciated. Thank you to these great men who served.
Mesmerizing the story of the man and the dog brought a tear to my eye.
My father joined the Navy at 17yrs. old ended up driving Marines in Higgins to the beaches of the Pacific. Off Guam, his boat was hit killing his 2 crew members and wounding him. Another boat picked him out of the water, took him back to their transport where resumed taking Marines to the beach. After the war he joined the Air Force and went to Korea and Vietnam. He pinned my 2Lt bars on me and handed me one of his 3 PHs and told me the family has enough PHs, don't bring any new ones home. I retired after 22yrs. in the AF and still have his (my) PH. Greatest Generation indeed.
wOw! TY !!!!
Best Generation by far ,
Sorry. Can you tell me what a Ph is?
@@juanandresgonzalez9616Purple Heart - medal given for wounds sustained in combat. He was telling him to come back in one piece.
@@taurosaurus thank you!
Best WW2 documentary I have ever watched...and I have watched a bunch of them.
God bless these eleven men and all those they served with. My father was a WWII Seabee who did all the surveying work for the atomic bomb pits and loading ramps on Tinian. Thank you for this video. These men and their stories deserve remembering.
As the son of a Marine Korean War F4U-5N fighter pilot I enjoyed this immensely. I used to love as a kid sitting around my Dad and his friends when the old Squadron mates would come to visit and listening to all their stories and exploits. So sad most are all gone. Really nice job putting this together!
Top notch documentary. Thank you for recording their stories before it's too late.
Excellent documentary and such brave men. I am 72 and since a very young age have always admired the generations who fought in two world conflicts, but especially those who flew over the sea to fight. I am British and have met one Royal Naval Air Service pilot from WW1 who flew the Sopwith Pup and two pilots of the Fleet Air Arm one of whom flew the biplane Swordfish against Bismarck and the other a Corsair in the Far East. Were these generations unique? British Empire or American university graduates, farm boys or steel workers, window cleaners or hard working labourers or immigrants becoming aircrew. God bless them and those who gave everything, I know I do.
Very endearing and personal stories. Thank you for sharing.
My dad was a tailseat gunner in squadron VS 8 he got air medals at midway, Santa cruz and Phillipine sea and served on three different carriers..love this documentary very much thank you!
James, that is awesome! Could you email us at AirGroupEleven@gmail.com
Would love to share photos if you have any of VS 8 for the Hornet Museum.
My father was in the merchant marines during WWll. I was a radioman on a wwll destroyer with 2 tours in Vietnam. Can't imagine what these young men went through. Thank you for your service. You will always be remembered. I salute you!!!
I have twenty years of Naval Aviation under my wings and my smile bones are aching from listening to these stories.
Semper Fidelis
Semper Paratus
I'm so glad this came up in my youtube recommendations. What a beautiful documentary/tribute to these amazing men. Your grandfather is definitely proud of you. I'm not afraid to admit this film made me tear up a few times. Well done.
Me too. Welled up a few times.
My grandfather Glenn "bud" Jones was a brown shirt working arrester cables on cv12. I never met him but this doc brings me that much closer. Thank you
Great documentary, George. Wish more people had the idea to interview the greatest generation before they are all gone. Your grandfather would be proud.
Awesome doco
I'm 75, watching and listening to these men, was like a breath of fresh air. Funny and sobering to put your feet in their shoes. My dad was a tank driver in WWll. Thank God we had men like you and thank you for your service. I'm a Air Force vet and forever proud to have worn the uniform with men of honor.
Well done. This should be required viewing for anyone interested in naval aviation.
Bless you for putting these men on tape for future generations to appreciate. They were indeed the "Greatest Generation". When that gentleman puffed his chest a bit and proudly said he was from Texas, I got a bit of a lump in my throat.
What a wonderful film. My dad was in VF-40 on CVE-27, USS Suwannee. He was in combat from Feb 45 until the end. He died at only 56 and I had not taken time to get his story. Always thought there would be more time. Thank you for this...
Outstanding!! This is a generation that will be missed.
It was reading about men like this that made me, a 17 year old greek kid coming out of HS in 1979 to walked straight into USAF recruiters office (with the blessing of my dad)! I fell in love with the F4U Corsair from the Baba Black Ship stories, and later I had the honor to work on the restoration of the Shoo Shoo Baby B17, I was assigned to rebuild the auto pilot, now the B17 is at the W. Paterson Museum!
My grandfather served with the Army Air Force. I believe his his title was something like Tech Sergeant, I can't remember. I used to look at his black-and-white photos all the time the plane (B24 Liberator) was his ass he saw it. He just loaned it to the pilot and it's Crew. At the end of the war his pilot gave his wings and his silver watch to my grandfather and thanked him and his team for keeping his crew alive. Very impressed with your video sir absolutely incredible.
These oral history are priceless! My late father was an Avenger pilot who never talked about the war. I was eleven before I even knew he was a pilot. Listening to these great guya is like finding a bunch of favorite uncles!
All GREAT MEN..... thank you very much.......
Wow what a fabulous documentary. I'm a WW2 living historian have been for 27 years doing Army Air Forces. Meeting veterans was always the highlight. But guys from VF11, VS-11,and VT11 what a treat! What great stories and I like how they remind us that they were just teens back then. Again wonderfully done.
I was born in 1962, but there’s always been something mystical, something special about those brave young men that not only are an inspiration but they make you choke up, well up with pride for them.
What a great tribute and story !! God bless ea and every vet, thank you for fighting for me and the rest of our Nation ! It takes great courage to serve and to know someday you maybe asked to give your life for your nation. If the US goes the last of freedom will go with it, for the entire world. May our service men and women never ever die in vain NOT one !
OUTSTANDING!!! This video is a real treasure. A reminder of what REAL heroes are.
Thank you George. I wish I would have done this myself. I was raised by my grandfather. He was an SBD tailgunner on Enterprise CV6 from 43-45. He died in 2004 when I as 20 years old. I would give anything to document his and his buddies stories. His wife, my grandmother just passed away at 94 years years old just the other day.
I am a retired US Navy Veteran, and this is one of, if not the best, Documentaries I have had the pleasure of watching. Thank you for sharing this!!!
Thank you George. My Dad served aboard the USS Long Island, CVE-1. I listened to all his stories. He served from April 1942 to January 1946. He saw every island in the Pacific. The Long Island was the first carrier to Guadalcanal that was able to launch two squadrons of Marine fighters to Henderson Field. Part of the carriers duty was to qualify pilots for carrier landings as well as ferrying aircraft to land bases all through the Pacific.
Rick, this is great! My grandpa and your dad were shipmates then. Here's the first page from his journal when he boarded the USS Long Island in 1942: torpedosquadron11.blogspot.com/2012/05/october-23rd-1942.html?m=1
@@GeorgeRetelas Good to hear from you George. Reading journal. Apparently your Grandpa was aboard the Long Island for his trip to Pearl Harbor. Not sure where the LI went after that but could have been sent to the Fiji's transporting aircraft. Before or after you Grandpa left on the Altamaha. Apparently the LI caught up later. My Dad was a quartermaster which in the NAVY meant stationed on the bridge. He could have been at the helm on the way to PH. You are right this is great!
As a side note in Pacific war aircraft history, my Father in law was a Marine assigned to VMB-613 stationed on Kwajalein in 44 and 45. He was an armorer on the PBJ (B-25) with the 75mm cannon in the nose. The web site for VMB-613 is an interesting read.
This is one of the best documentaries I have ever seen. Thank you.
Well now Rattleass that was time worth spent. Thank you so much for sharing your grandfathers story. Wow!
Rr4fr
R4944e
4rrrd4i
Man this is fantastic. Thank you for sharing the stories, images, and interviews. Just awesome. Great tribute to our Navy boys in WW2. The list is long at end of guys KIA. MIA, or killed in Trianing. Sobering.
Just want to say Thank You to all of the men & women during this time! Because of them it makes me so proud to be able to stand tall and say yes I'm An American!
WELL DONE, Your Granddad would be SO Proud of what you did here, OUTSTANDING Job!
Words cannot say enough what the people in this documentary went through. Reading the comments , covers all that is needed to be said.
Definitely the best Documentary, well done George.
It was so great to meet you and Tim today. Thanks for making this film, and thanks for putting together a memorial museum to the men of Air Group 11 on the USS Hornet, their flight carrier - now berthed in Alameda, CA. My dad, Ernest Firpo, was part of the bomber squad and he would be so proud to know that his flight book will be part of the exhibit. You and Tim gave my sister and me a great gift today! Thank you.
In1997-98 I spotted this carrier docked in Alameda as a tourist attraction. No one was around the day I was there so I went up and looked at the deck. It was made of wood like planks and seemed so small. Stared at it for a while and thinking of the huge carriers of today with over 5,000 crew. But our fathers generation were the hero's of WWII. It's great to see your connection, your own father had with Hornet. . We are fortunate to be born in the U.S.A !
My dad served on the Hornet as a dentist but was very quiet in his descriptions of this trying time. Thanks for all your efforts creating this tribute to the men of the Pacific.👏🏻
These guys,...
These wonderful glorious grand men.
How I would have loved to have been a fly on the wall listening to all of their stories .
Where will we ever see people like this again....
A really well done oral history of our Greatest Generation.
Thank you Mister Retelas.
We all have unforgettable stories, whether you are a pilot or crew. I'm 74, my mind always goes back to the times you don't want to forget - the greatest things in the world. To become part of that history that these men talk about. First flight, first solo, things happen where only you can remember. These guys are my models, I grew up following their examples. I have met many of them in my life. I dreamed to be like them and I did.
I was an AW in VP9, the Golden Eagles.
Me too.
I flew Neptunes and Privateers
The internet and social media has its Pros and Cons for our species. Documenting these fellas is definitely one of the Pros. Nice job.
Just excellent. I was a Marine aviator on the Constellation in ‘99. The stories are different but the same. So glad you talked to everyone, not just the pilots. Our lives were completely in those young, confident, competent enlisted hands every day.
THIS SHOULD BE ON A STREAMING SERVICE LIKE NETFLIX, AMAZON, HULU OR OTHERS....Although I'm thankful I stumbled across this on TH-cam...knowing all of these men have likely taken their next journey by this time...I again wish to say thank you for sharing...and to those men and their families...GOD BLESS YOU ALL.
I met George Gay prior to leaving for Desert Storm. He was an incredible person to talk to and in recalling his attack run in the battle for Midway Island he had all of us young Marines wide eyed and on the edge of our seats. Rest Easy Hero and Semper Fi
These stories is what they should teach in school!! These men were there when it mattered most and yet they themselves don't see them as heros... Truly heros!!!
I joined the US Navy in 1980 after I turned 17. My parents signed for me to join. I told the recruiter I wanted to work with electronics, wanted to fly and not go aboard ship. My father was active duty Navy at the time so I knew what the ship meant. I batted a 1000! Aviation AntiSubmarine Warfare Technician and ended up flight crew on the P-3B. Got over 3000 hours flying on all models of the P-3. Did 10 years and got out and became a flight test engineer for the Navy. Looking at retirement very soon. Damn I had a great time!
Thank you George.
This was a wonderful celebration and remembrance.
George,
This was truly a wonderful thing you did here. Truly. Thank you so much for doing and sharing this with us.
I come from a long line of Navy Men myself: My Grandfather was a Gunners Mate on a battleship during WW1. My Dad was a Machinists Mate on USS Bennington CV (later CVA & CVS) 20. My brother was a Machinists Mate on USS Ocallahan, USS Anchorage and USS Abraham Lincoln. I was a Boatswains Mate (later a Machinery Repairman) on USS Juneau, USS Missouri, USS Wisconsin and USS New Jersey.
These Men, like your Grandfather, were, are and will always be a true National Treasure. God bless them. Every single one of them.
an MR - excellent. I was Gunnery officer on USS Hayler (DD 997) - our MR2 was worth his weight in gold!
Thank you for sharing this wonderful documentary, these naval aviators certainly earned being called the greatest generation.