101st Airborne Paratrooper Describes D-DAY and MARKET GARDEN Combat Jumps | Guy Whidden

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ม.ค. 2025

ความคิดเห็น • 1.1K

  • @americanveteranscenter
    @americanveteranscenter  2 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    Please subscribe to our channel so you don't miss future interviews with American heroes.

    • @majcorbin
      @majcorbin ปีที่แล้ว +3

      *RUSH LIMBAUGH said it best on 6 april 2002 3rd hour * Our society is swimming in a sea of information, yet DROWNING in IGNORANCE
      KILROY CORBIN WAS HERE

    • @rockysusshine5866
      @rockysusshine5866 ปีที่แล้ว

      Boreen

    • @Jimothy-723
      @Jimothy-723 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      stop interupting them.

    • @LloydMcgarity
      @LloydMcgarity 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Please verify call don Shipley

  • @jessicablank6470
    @jessicablank6470 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +107

    I really wish the interviewer would let this man talk uninterrupted and for as long as he wants!

  • @Poindexter03
    @Poindexter03 2 ปีที่แล้ว +126

    Gone on 20 September 2022. Rest In Peace sir. Without a doubt one amazing representative of the Greatest Generation.

    • @bebereyes5514
      @bebereyes5514 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      I watched this a year and a day after this legend passed. Glad he lived a full life.

    • @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh
      @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      How many men are still alive from WWII? I'm sure there can't be that many left of these heroic men.

    • @dylanfry7978
      @dylanfry7978 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      ⁠@@MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8ohNot many I would think. There is actually none left alive now from the 101st Unit. Which is the Company portrayed in the show “Band of Brothers”.
      I would think there’s still a few left from other Company’s, wether they fought in Europe or The Pacific. But that generation as a whole is definitely dwindling fast.
      Off topic but my Grandfather is 95 years old. He did not fight in WW2 as I believe he was too young at the time. But nonetheless he is still one of, if not the best person I know.

    • @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh
      @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      @dylanfry7978 I noticed you referred to your grandfather in the presence tense. What a blessing it must be to have such an honorable person in your life at this age. Listening to the stories and events he lived through that made him the Man he is today must be amazing. He has lived this long because he has been blessed, and this translates that you are also blessed. Imagine this: Everyone we know and those we see here will be dead 100 years from now unless a baby is born today that lives to be 100. Your grandfather has lived to see unimaginable progress in technology, attitudes toward religion, and sexuality, and the moral decay in society and more than likely a second Stock Market crash and financial collapse of America. I'm 65 and so much has happened and it happened so fast. My biggest worry is for my country. So many men fought to protect our freedom and gave their lives just to have it destroyed. Is it too late and damaged beyond repair? I think so because what's happening now was planned and by design. It bothers me because so many lives were lost unnecessarily.

    • @menorabbit
      @menorabbit 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Listening again because a short of him telling the cigarette story came up.
      Rest in peace to this man.

  • @jasonbritt2497
    @jasonbritt2497 3 ปีที่แล้ว +105

    One of the greatest moments of my life was walking into HQ 3-505th PIR 82nd Airborne to report to duty and be assigned to my company, seeing the huge photo on the wall of the battalion just before they boarded the plane night before D-day and seeing my grandfather in the picture

    • @rhett4060
      @rhett4060 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Truth stranger than fiction....

    • @RayvenTheNight
      @RayvenTheNight 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      That's amazing man. He must have been a great man. We thank you and your family for all you've done.

    • @perrottarober
      @perrottarober 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      That's awesome!

  • @samuelmatias7453
    @samuelmatias7453 5 ปีที่แล้ว +463

    I met this soldier at the 75th Anneversry of D-day, what an honor.

    • @davidtoledo9716
      @davidtoledo9716 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Where?

    • @samuelmatias7453
      @samuelmatias7453 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      @@davidtoledo9716 In June 2019 at st Mere-Eglise , France what an honor the town were the airborne landed. D Day celebration

    • @blitznone1142
      @blitznone1142 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      I met one of the survivors of the USS Indianapolis. The ship that delivered the A-bomb and was sunk by a Japanese sub. I’m a Navy Vet, so that was pretty cool.

    • @bigwoody4704
      @bigwoody4704 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@blitznone1142 damn fighting soldiers is one thing,fighting sharks(with your fists),hypothermia and thirst would even be more daunting.Poor guys the mission was under wraps so they weren't listed as missing

    • @mccuenoirfilms
      @mccuenoirfilms 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Guy is one of the kindest veterans I’ve known! I was there with one of the veteran groups as a photographer. He wasn’t in our group, but it’s a small community and we all end up doing things together during the commemorations :)

  • @shampyswoodworking525
    @shampyswoodworking525 5 ปีที่แล้ว +464

    My only disappointment with this video is this gentleman had so much more to tell, and I want to hear every syllable of every story. I didn't want it to end.
    I am forever grateful to you and all you have done for us. I will never forget what you've done, and I will never forget your fallen brothers.
    Thank you for your service and sacrifice.
    Thank you for sharing your time with us.
    Our youngest generation needs to hear and pay attention to this.

    • @MrMooseSlayer
      @MrMooseSlayer 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Jdjdj smith
      Thank you!
      I’ll definitely look for it!

    • @Brunzy1970
      @Brunzy1970 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Our young ones need more than to just hear it, somehow they need to live some small piece of it for themselves.

    • @waynefoesch4001
      @waynefoesch4001 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      To bad they hurried that man should have had more time to talk there are way to few left at all and so many people who need to hear of all of their sacrifice they made for so many people who have forgotten them i will always thankful for all who have served thank you for your service

    • @hingoa7120
      @hingoa7120 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      I agree, they went from his first jump at jump school to Normandy.
      I wanted to hear about every stop along the way. Jump school was 1942, Normandy was...

    • @aerlial360
      @aerlial360 2 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Yeah, what's with the time limits? They say that a lot in these videos. What is so pressing?

  • @lancehurley9743
    @lancehurley9743 5 ปีที่แล้ว +797

    NEVER..judge that old man walking down the street,because he was probably more badass than you’ll ever be....

    • @spookgriffith2892
      @spookgriffith2892 4 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      And might be yet

    • @thetruthispotenza3602
      @thetruthispotenza3602 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      Thats what ive always thought. I grew up with a WW2 veteran my great grandfather. Tough but great guys. One of a kind

    • @NimerionTech
      @NimerionTech 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      "never be" you mean.

    • @jimspelman8538
      @jimspelman8538 4 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      I had a former pastor named Ed Jackson. Ed was a WWII Marine who went to Iwo Jima. He later became an Ohio Highway Patrolman and then a church planter in Alaska. When I met him he was in his 70s. He died 3 years ago at about 94. Even at 92 his handshake seemed like it could break bones in your hand. I once saw him confront a guy who tried to storm the pulpit while the senior pastor was preaching. Let's just say that Ed "escorted" that young guy out of the church building. Ed said something to the guy like, "Jesus loves you but don't come back here to cause trouble. And, yes, that is a threat!" I consider these guys to be the ultimate heroes!

    • @devind2915
      @devind2915 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Jim Spelman
      What part of Alaska? Just curious cuz I've lived up here most of my life. I live right outside anchorage right now but have lived in anchorage, palmer/wasilla ect.

  • @konaok1
    @konaok1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +603

    My Father was in 101st and started in Africa, then Sicily, Normandy, and Bastogne. Afterward, he liberated the concentration camps. Five Bronze stars and I was unable to get his records because of the Kansas fire. He never talked about what he went through. He will always be my hero.

    • @ddtrahan
      @ddtrahan 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      Reverence to your father.

    • @Error_404-F.cks_Not_Found
      @Error_404-F.cks_Not_Found 3 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      Much respect for your father. We will never fully comprehend the things those men saw and went through.

    • @andrewkawaoka6651
      @andrewkawaoka6651 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      They had to burn the fire to destroy old records of Viet nam, the war before it became official, whatever the CIA was called back than, its hard for Vietnam vets to collect pensions because theirs no records of him fighting a secret war

    • @vincentras1991
      @vincentras1991 3 ปีที่แล้ว +68

      Then he must have been in the 82nd first, because the 101st didn’t come into action until D-day.

    • @spiderreed350
      @spiderreed350 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Lpl

  • @chrisnnh
    @chrisnnh 5 ปีที่แล้ว +450

    I love this guy. "Go ahead, ask me anything but I'll tell the story my way."

    • @m.n.shumate448
      @m.n.shumate448 5 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      I know...I got a kick outta this great man...he made it much more interesting & he earned that right! Thank you sir!

    • @metalfuk69
      @metalfuk69 5 ปีที่แล้ว +23

      These were tough U.S. American men that laid it all on the line. Today's young men just disappoint and look weak. Am I wrong??

    • @michaelinhouston9086
      @michaelinhouston9086 5 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      @@metalfuk69 I have good news - you are wrong.

    • @elfatzeqiri7202
      @elfatzeqiri7202 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@metalfuk69 I have good news - you are right.

    • @moss8448
      @moss8448 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      you asked...now shut up and listen....whatta guy.

  • @drew65sep
    @drew65sep 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +15

    RIP brave sir. And, thank you for helping my family to live the life of freedom we've enjoyed.

  • @richardcross3599
    @richardcross3599 5 ปีที่แล้ว +199

    Rich Cross--I have known Guy Whidden since the 1970's when doing conventions that he and his lovely wife put on.They both were some of finest people I have ever known. Being a Vietnam era veteran myself, we had many good times together. I tried over years to have Guy join me in me home, so we could visit the D-Day memorial in Bedford, VA, but on many of the special occasions Guy would go back to Normandy. I believe it was on the fifty anniversary of D-Day he parachuted again in Normandy.
    Guy was apart of a generation that can not be equaled, most are very humble with a zest for life. The last I heard from a friend
    who talked with Guy's son, Guy has been placed in a nursing home. Rest well, I think of you often.

    • @breAnnasmama
      @breAnnasmama 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Richard Cross God bless u and thank u for your service 🙏🏽💗 what beautiful words. Ty for sharing.

    • @shinski8114
      @shinski8114 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      he lived a full and happy life and so did you

    • @piyarkhan6164
      @piyarkhan6164 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Thank you for sharing that.

    • @jayc9179
      @jayc9179 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      ❤🇺🇸🙏😇

    • @SerenityMae11
      @SerenityMae11 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Is Guy doing okay these days? Any updates?

  • @markpaul8178
    @markpaul8178 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Once you are airborne ,you will always be airborne.This great man is still so cocky ,just like he was back in 44.Thank you MR.Macfarlane for this great video.

  • @xCoolBreezex
    @xCoolBreezex 5 ปีที่แล้ว +92

    I could listen to this man speak for as long as he’d be willing

    • @justinm1319
      @justinm1319 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Agreed... a true legend amongst us.

    • @camerong5513
      @camerong5513 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Doug Richardson haha. Thanks for the tip

    • @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh
      @MichaelAnthonyHuerta-mf8oh 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Very true, what incredible stories they have. I don't think the young men today have the same standards that these men had.

  • @silverload3622
    @silverload3622 5 ปีที่แล้ว +268

    I would have thrown that clock out the window and loaded more film in the camera and let him talk in until he couldn’t

    • @breAnnasmama
      @breAnnasmama 5 ปีที่แล้ว +24

      The Silver Load thank u! Me too lol. I felt like that dude was so rude doing the interview .. maybe it just seems that way but omg. That mans words are priceless .. even if the man wanted to later edit things out , at the very least , let him talk. He’s spent however many years in his life being a provider , protector snd hero. The least dude could’ve done was stfu long enough and appreciate what he shared.

    • @kevdadd1976
      @kevdadd1976 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      No doubt

    • @Grovezy
      @Grovezy 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Buy his book

    • @drew7155
      @drew7155 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@Grovezy or let him talk. Maybe he says stuff in his interview that's not in the book, and vice-versa

    • @Therileyrileyriley
      @Therileyrileyriley 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I think they do it out of respect for the person - theyre older so I think they regiment each interview with moments for insisted breaks

  • @bchboy1206
    @bchboy1206 5 ปีที่แล้ว +108

    I was lucky enough to have this hero ride in my Jeep in a parade! Thank You

    • @ericcook1201
      @ericcook1201 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Is he still living?

    • @bchboy1206
      @bchboy1206 5 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@ericcook1201 He sure is! He attended Toccoa Military Weekend last year and I do believe he was in Normandy for the 75th!

    • @Wade-u1i
      @Wade-u1i 5 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@bchboy1206 That's awesome to hear

    • @metalfuk69
      @metalfuk69 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      God bless this man. He's a true hero.

    • @mccuenoirfilms
      @mccuenoirfilms 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bchboy1206 You’re correct! I was on stage with the veterans on June 6th for the commemoration and spoke with Guy and took a photo of him smiling at me :)

  • @PwNtR
    @PwNtR 6 ปีที่แล้ว +211

    Thank you Sir for helping to ensure i grew up in freedom... Britain thanks you!

    • @701CPD
      @701CPD 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      And now he's a 1/6th scale action figure!

    • @Oomuu
      @Oomuu 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@701CPD ?

    • @701CPD
      @701CPD 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@Oomuu Google Guy W

    • @atylerpearce
      @atylerpearce 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@Oomuu www.timewalkertoys.com/Guy-Whidden-II-101st-Airborne-Division-World-War-p/sds-110.htm

    • @MakeSomeNoisePlaylists
      @MakeSomeNoisePlaylists 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      Acid House gave you freedom. √√√

  • @TheGreatest1974
    @TheGreatest1974 3 ปีที่แล้ว +52

    I can listen to these guys all day. In fact tomorrow that’s exactly what I’m going to do. My dad was with the Royal Artillery in D Day and battle for Caen battle of normandy, Nijmegen bridge, northern shoulder of the bulge, down through Germany, liberated Belsen, and guarded the Elbe river to make sure the Russians didn’t cross. I miss my dads stories. I never tired of them my whole life. We lost him New Year’s Day 2013. Great man, best Friend, and father. Sadly missed. 🇬🇧🇺🇸

    • @TheGreatest1974
      @TheGreatest1974 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @@joewhite4080 101st airborne! Wow what a prestigious unit! The British didn’t see that much action at the Bulge northern shoulder but they did fight and lost men up there. But it was an American battle. You guys were amazing in ww2, we would all be under the jackboot now if not for the Americans. We know it and we don’t forget. I love America myself. And my late dad had nothing but good things to say about American soldiers. Best regards👍🇬🇧🇺🇸

    • @erik5374
      @erik5374 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@joewhite4080 all my grandparents lived in and near Veghel at the time. They were liberated during Market Garden.

  • @kylestradley8037
    @kylestradley8037 3 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    I met Guy on the anniversary of d-day this year. And he is such an amazing person. What an honor to have met and talked to this man

  • @Kauzi108
    @Kauzi108 8 หลายเดือนก่อน +7

    With a healing tibia and depressed, these heroic stories give me hope and perspective in getting through tough times.
    Thank you ancestors for your commitment to fighting for life, bravely and heroically ❤

  • @treecloser
    @treecloser 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    Viewer from The Netherlands. Humbled and honered to see and listen to the stories of bravery above and beyond the call of duty. Thank you for making this TH-cam channel

  • @coastdweller
    @coastdweller 5 ปีที่แล้ว +110

    If I couldnt see him, I never would think he was 80+years old judging by his voice.

    • @Hello.Bye.123
      @Hello.Bye.123 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Also his demeanor and facial expressions seem quite youthful as well. Looks like he's in good health. I'm really happy for him.

    • @TheArrowkarts
      @TheArrowkarts 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Might be because he didn't smoke

    • @bigwoody4704
      @bigwoody4704 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@TheArrowkarts Wild Bill Guarnere smoked till he died at 91.Whether they smoked or drank or did neither - they're all Incredible

    • @JRobbySh
      @JRobbySh 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      The more he talks the younger his voice sounds.

    • @josephdiglio909
      @josephdiglio909 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      He would have to be in his '90s.

  • @davidkeeler2020
    @davidkeeler2020 4 ปีที่แล้ว +31

    A great man, I couldn't cry either until my wife died. Vietnam veteran

  • @SuperOldBS
    @SuperOldBS 3 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    "If they really get into my face, and getting pushy, I forget I am old" he's a true warrior 😁

  • @edmccaffrey1
    @edmccaffrey1 5 ปีที่แล้ว +112

    My father Big John McCaffrey was 101 st Airborne 506th Able Company. Normandy, Market Garder, then east to Poland, then south and liberated the Dachau death camp, then onto Berlin. An American hero to me, gone now, and I miss him. 101st Airborne Division, the most decorated Division in the entire US Army, #screaming eagles.

    • @HugeSweetTea
      @HugeSweetTea 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thank you for sharing your comment sir!

    • @TheTn3131
      @TheTn3131 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      the 506th didnt go to poland or berlin during the war. Also Dachau is at the complete other end of the country...

    • @martindizoniii2230
      @martindizoniii2230 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      "If you get in my face, I Forget I'm old."

    • @eugenerob8492
      @eugenerob8492 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      He may be gone but certainly not forgotten

    • @ddtrahan
      @ddtrahan 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Reverence to your father - a generation I think of every day.

  • @dmarshy
    @dmarshy 5 ปีที่แล้ว +84

    "I don't know why, but I was always by myself." The way he described some of his combat actions you'd think he was in charge of his own company of 1! I would have been terrified. Honourable soldier right here!

  • @pamdavis1253
    @pamdavis1253 6 ปีที่แล้ว +220

    My uncle was a paratrooper with the 101 Airborne Division, Screaming Eagles during Market Garden, killed in action taking the bridge in Holland Harold received the Purple Heart. .Buried in Margraten.

    • @ronniebishop2496
      @ronniebishop2496 6 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      My uncle was a paratrooper in the Pacific.

    • @jameslouis8609
      @jameslouis8609 6 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Pam Davis , he was a hero of the highest order.

    • @willm678
      @willm678 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Pam Davis Your uncle was an American hero, I’ll pray for his easy rest and thank him for serving

    • @pamdavis1253
      @pamdavis1253 5 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      William Menendez I wish I could have met him. Harold Spraguer I do love him dearly. He is my hero. My dad is also a VET..

    • @willm678
      @willm678 5 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      Pam Davis My grandfather was a paratrooper in ww2, he served on the front line in combat during the Korean War where he received Purple Heart, bronze star and battlefield commission. He then served in the Signal Corps during Vietnam for 10 years. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel with 28 years of service. We were always super close and I have many memories with him and not a single one is bad. He died February 17, 2017 at age 91 in his sleep of natural causes. I think about him every day and even cry thinking about him sometimes. God I wish I could just sit down and talk with him one last time. But I know one day we’ll meet again.

  • @Purpmaster
    @Purpmaster 5 ปีที่แล้ว +39

    The part about the German soldier slipping into the tent half and smoking a cigarette with them is awesome lol

    • @Purpmaster
      @Purpmaster 5 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Rainwinganimations yeah for sure, pretty big risk to take all for an American Lucky Strike though lol

  • @itchifeet5456
    @itchifeet5456 4 ปีที่แล้ว +41

    The best interview with an allied second world world war vet I have yet to hear, made me laugh and yet feel truly proud.. Thank you so much, make me want to live even more!

  • @stevenstrother7129
    @stevenstrother7129 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

    Thank you for your service.

  • @TheMonkdad
    @TheMonkdad 3 ปีที่แล้ว +16

    This man has quite the ability to tell a story. I’m glad this is recorded for posterity.

  • @jakeneuman8122
    @jakeneuman8122 4 ปีที่แล้ว +25

    I can’t believe how sharp he is. I mean he has to be over 90 years old and yet he’s sharp as tack.

    • @robertstrong6317
      @robertstrong6317 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Tack is not sharp 😂😂

  • @XHollisWood
    @XHollisWood 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    Thank you for your service, sacrifice and courage for our country 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸❤️

  • @MrBagpipes
    @MrBagpipes 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    It's such a pleasant surprise to come across an interview with an American who is articulate and grounded.

  • @Mr4thahaters
    @Mr4thahaters 7 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

    One of the most fascinating stories I’ve ever heard. For whatever reason he felt rushed to finish and I wish that wasn’t so. I could listen to this for hours. I want the long version. These stories are so important to hear and pass on from generation to generation.

  • @caleblayne6329
    @caleblayne6329 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    The way he described the officer surrendering was very heartwarming, “yeah he’s my buddy now”.

  • @danielreichert2025
    @danielreichert2025 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    I was in a program with my friend who was in the 82’ns and I had to remind him of the airborne group that he had been part of and that alone gave him not only bragging rights but also the self respect he had lost. Not enough credit goes to the 82’nd but as we can see from this man’s account that they were all in the same meat grinder together.

    • @rhett4060
      @rhett4060 22 วันที่ผ่านมา

      The building s the records were in stored....that was a BLACK BAG JOB
      .....THE GOVERNMENT DID NOT WANT TO PAY UP.😊

  • @steveg7115
    @steveg7115 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    This guy talks just so matter of fact. What a badass . My parents were both born in 1942 and neither of them are in good shape. These stories need to be told

  • @NotSoLuckyDucky
    @NotSoLuckyDucky 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

    For someone who fought in that era, he sure has a high hope for humanity, and for humor as well

  • @TheGeezzer
    @TheGeezzer 4 ปีที่แล้ว +14

    All these vets are now nearing/at/over 100 years of age, and they are now getting to be very very thin on the ground. Respect!

  • @chicorodriguez3964
    @chicorodriguez3964 5 ปีที่แล้ว +45

    Story's like this should make you think of how good you have it I know it does for me much respect sir thank you for your service

    • @turtle19dad
      @turtle19dad 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      But everyone now says they are "oppressed". If they only knew the "oppression" these heroes fought. They are truly the #GreatestGeneration Thank you for allowing me to serve too.

    • @seanodwyer4322
      @seanodwyer4322 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Rod- sure he not a sado maschoist. - know a Rodrig here in new zealand and she is stunning and fanatic vegan , ahh met her in church and jist thinkin off her keeps me fanatic - vegan and holy Bible God- botherer.

  • @mynameismin3
    @mynameismin3 6 ปีที่แล้ว +61

    Thank you to Guy Whidden for sharing his memories of such an important world changing event and period. It's so important to get these stories from the veterans (those who are able to talk about such a difficult subject at least) before they are no longer with us. My grandfather was a WW2 vet, but he would never talk about the war, except in very rare cases, and only in front of very few people. Most of his story is now lost except for the very few stories he shared with my father on the very rare occasions he would open up. But I think for him the war was such a traumatising event it was something he just wanted to forget. So it's really important that when a vet is willing and able to share their story that we record it and share. Thanks again Guy Whidden, not just for sharing your story but also for your service and sacrifices.

  • @theunholysoul
    @theunholysoul 6 ปีที่แล้ว +52

    I love Guy's smile. What a GEM of a man!!

  • @jeremywood1342
    @jeremywood1342 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I just can’t stop listening to him speak! His story telling is so genuine and whole hearted it’s like listening to your grandfather!

  • @larryfraser3788
    @larryfraser3788 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Thank you to the Veteran heroes!!! Thank you also to the American Veteran Center for interviewing these heroes. We cannot forget what price was paid.

  • @ghtbb
    @ghtbb 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    What a beautiful human being, thank you for your service! It also sheds light on alot of germans during that point, many were tired of fighting and wanted to go back to their families

  • @minorcek
    @minorcek 5 ปีที่แล้ว +37

    My grandfather was also a topographical engineer or "map maker" in ww2! He had my mom after the war in 49 and she went on to serve for 34 years. These generation of folks have some really great values to pass down. I'm so dang proud of my families history and thats because, ironically, my family migrated to the US *from Germany* after ww1, creating a family of very patriotic Americans, who went on to serve on the just side of history.
    I appreciated Guys story very much and hes such a character, as well..I will always cherish the opportunity to hear these.

    • @vivians9392
      @vivians9392 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      This soldier had God's protection all over him during his time in service! Amazing experiences...

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Family's^^ Xoxo

  • @joshwise9894
    @joshwise9894 5 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Can’t even imagine what he’s been through. Thanks for your service!

  • @recondo6876
    @recondo6876 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Much respect for this Gentleman. Reminds me of my Grandfather who raised me. He fought in Pacific 6th Marines. I miss him. This story from this Gentleman is amazing. I want more. My Grandpa never talked about it. I only found out about his medals, etc.. after he passed. So many didn't make it back, they were, I guess, the ultimate hero's. Wow they sure didn't let this man talk long. I want a 4 hour talk. Sir, Mr. Whitten, I salute you.

  • @ScottDLR
    @ScottDLR 5 ปีที่แล้ว +49

    He couldn't give an example of anything he was prideful about.
    That's character.

    • @Kylemathews1
      @Kylemathews1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      He asked what are you most proud of...that isn't the same as prideful.

  • @bhg123ful
    @bhg123ful 3 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    Gotta say this guy looks and sounds pretty good for being in his 90s.

  • @DavidSmith-db1mk
    @DavidSmith-db1mk 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    I am glad they saved his leg and He told his story !
    truly an American Hero

  • @FallNorth
    @FallNorth 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    What a fantastic man. There should be no time limit, I could listen to him for days.

  • @Gary-pp7cb
    @Gary-pp7cb 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    thank you , I liked listening to your stories. you seem like a good fellow

  • @WilliamandGabesWorld
    @WilliamandGabesWorld 2 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    I had 5 great uncles that fought in the war. 4 of them died. They were nazis. My grandfather came over after the war and joind the marines to gain citizenship. Pretty crazy

    • @lawrenceklein3524
      @lawrenceklein3524 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

      Much respect to you and your grandfather. Welcome to America!🇺🇲

    • @Dabear42
      @Dabear42 2 หลายเดือนก่อน

      stories like yours remind us the enemy of any war are human too, unlike the politicians that throw them in there.

  • @bella123439
    @bella123439 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    GUY WHIDDEN god bless you for your service you are a hero

  • @rogeliogonzalez5293
    @rogeliogonzalez5293 5 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    "I love people but even up to my age if they really get in my face, get too pushy, I forget that I'm old". Yes. Yes, sir. I can relate to that.

  • @allclassicmotors
    @allclassicmotors 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    God bless you Guy, you did a great job for our country, I only wish the interview would not have been rushed, he deserved to heard slowly & in entirety.

  • @avp5964
    @avp5964 6 ปีที่แล้ว +89

    I wish that Guy could meet up with the German officer that he captured, he owes him his life and it's a really poignant story of the humanity that is sometimes preserved in war.

    • @ShebrewQueen
      @ShebrewQueen 5 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      The German that captured him.

    • @lalaniathielen8917
      @lalaniathielen8917 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I share your sentiments... In regards to my maternal grandfather... I was too young to interview my french grandfather .. 3 battles, merchant marine... Japan...
      Why I am responding is because my grandfather says his convoy was hit everyone blown to pieces and when he came to.. death all around... And he says that a Japanese man shouldered my grandfather.. arm and arm to safety.. saved my grandpa life...
      I wish I remember the name Im not sure that my grandfather ever told me...
      It sheds light on war
      For the record...
      Iam french German English Irish Pennsylvania dutch Cherokee Iroquois Blackfoot and Sioux...
      Im a product of war.

  • @jaybales3160
    @jaybales3160 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Thank you very much for sharing your combat and training experiences. I will follow up and seek out your book. My father was also a WWII veteran with the 36st. Division, 142 Infantry. Because of you and men like you our county is free today. Slow hand salute to those who did not return. I salute you and those who did.

  • @daf62757
    @daf62757 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

    Looked into getting that book and it was almost $150 on Amazon for a paperback. I love history of WWII but that is a little out of my price range. Great interview and a salute to this heroic veteran and all his comrades who died during the war and after. We owe everything to their valor.

  • @gsmith207
    @gsmith207 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Wow. Thank you for this. He’s a real hero. My life is just awesome because of Mr. Whidden... I cry too sometimes. This man is badass

  • @donavantew8278
    @donavantew8278 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This was amazing, this is the story of all of us, this should be shown every day, God bless our veterans 🙏

  • @harryalexander9106
    @harryalexander9106 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Guy Whidden, passed away in Frederick Maryland, Sept 21, 2022. Rest in Peace and Thank You Sir.

  • @Mrafael52
    @Mrafael52 5 ปีที่แล้ว +24

    True warrior, i want to be a paratrooper as well, just like him. Respect from Brasil.

  • @larryginder6327
    @larryginder6327 5 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    Guy verified a number of things my Dad told me over the years. My Dad was S3 of the 502nd and that regiment was in lead aircraft of D Day - That's All Brother. My Dad was seriously wounded by a sniper at Market Garden. The airborne held the causeway but the Brits in tanks didn't move fast enough. A lot of soldiers got hit. Thanks so much for this video and Guy.

  • @dusso4231
    @dusso4231 5 ปีที่แล้ว +13

    I could listen to these brave men talk for hours. In fact i think i will.

    • @kystars
      @kystars 5 ปีที่แล้ว

      look for Don Evans.. he really told a good story.

    • @klausvonschmit4722
      @klausvonschmit4722 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      No doubt it, the Don Evans interview is one of the best!!!

  • @alexadevasto6026
    @alexadevasto6026 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    Love what you guys are doing......thank u for your sacrifice and thank you for these interviews

  • @Sundog0811
    @Sundog0811 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    Absolutely incredible. Dude just kinda floats around and everyone surrendered when they see him.

    • @vivians9392
      @vivians9392 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What an amazing legacy this man has.

  • @greg7120
    @greg7120 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This guy is AMAZING. Im speechless. I’m deeply humbled listening to the way he can tell these horrific stories with a casual tone. I’m shaking my head with disbelief at the level of strength this man has. Incredible.

  • @EventHorizonADP
    @EventHorizonADP ปีที่แล้ว +18

    It is such an injustice and seems disrespectful to interrupt this man. Let him talk. When you have one of these men in front of you, you work off of their time timetable. You can articulate your segments in post, and you have no reason to interrupt or limit him to three segments.
    I loved hearing this small part of his story.

    • @michaelpetersen6579
      @michaelpetersen6579 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Then you start doing interviews with combat vets your way and make a channel and post the interviews. Guy could have talked for 3 days about his experiences and still not got all of it out. At least half of the population have attention spans of a gnat so you have to maintain a certain pace. I'm sure some of this interview was edited and maybe he had to do those breaks because there was sponsors at that time. Also I'm sure it was discussed before the interview saying I apologize but I'm gonna have to say we will take a break at this time because of certain reasons and I'm positive that Guy agreed. I'm also assuming that a fee was paid to Guy for this interview and maybe taking a break was how he was able to get the fee. It's not cool to Monday Quarterback the interviewer otherwise we would not have all these great interviews on this channel

  • @FINNIUSORION
    @FINNIUSORION 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Im so grateful for our technology allowing us to record all this history, I used to hound my father for his stories he heard from the Civil War vets when he was a kid. All those first hand accounts lost forever.

  • @janneaukusters2596
    @janneaukusters2596 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

    I bought guy's book autographed ! It's really special for me to have a autographed book from our liberators here in Holland. He really is a great men and a real hero !

  • @elephantjr22
    @elephantjr22 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This guy and all the 101 and all the vets that fought I owe everything and wanna thank you to all the men that died and tthe ones that made it home you guys are the reason we enjoy our freedoms today Thank You Sir

  • @574ak49
    @574ak49 5 ปีที่แล้ว +23

    What a great guy. I was fortunate enough to have had WW II vets as teachers when I was in high school. They all seemed to have a grip on what was important.
    This guy is one that I would have loved to have had as a history teacher. And what 13 losers gave this a thumbs down.

    • @drperkins6668
      @drperkins6668 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My high school civics teacher was a veteran of Guadalcanal. He was also a great teacher. He maybe stood 5'2" and I would never have guessed he was such a bad as* until he shared a few stories.

  • @Viperofficial99
    @Viperofficial99 หลายเดือนก่อน +1

    My great grandfather was a Canadian officer when he was in a hotel with other officers it was bombed by the Germans he was the only one to survive. Respect to all soldiers in ww2 ❤🫡

  • @BANNANAGUNify
    @BANNANAGUNify 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    Such a great interview. This page puts out such magnificent and impactful content it’s a shame they can’t find an interviewer who can read the guests reactions and delve deeper into their stories and not interrupt them in the middle to ask superficial closed ended questions.

  • @lordmonty9421
    @lordmonty9421 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    Great remembrances. I just Googled him and sadly, he passed recently in September, 2022, aged 99.

  • @gabemccall3523
    @gabemccall3523 5 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    God bless you sir. My Grandfather was in the 17th airborne div. he also spent time in the 82nd and 101st. Its truly amazing what you men did. I’m really don’t know how you great men did it. My Grandfather told me when I would ask him that “we had a job to do, you had to focus on doing your job

  • @otiscampbell2194
    @otiscampbell2194 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    A million thank yous are not enough ! ! All are heros that kept the world safe ! ! 👍🇺🇸💪👍💪👍🇺🇸🇺🇸💪👍! !

  • @getredytagetredy
    @getredytagetredy 5 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    Love your story but especially your humor and the way you tell it....unique man you are....

  • @t0ny1189
    @t0ny1189 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

    I've read and listened to many diaries and stories from WW2 veterans from Axis and Allied soldiers and this is by far my favorite...the details he shares from everything on and off the battlefield is incredible...it's amazing how much action this man saw and how often he was involved in close combat with the enemy and survived...It would honestly make a hell of a movie but I don't think that a film would do the story justice...

  • @martin096
    @martin096 5 ปีที่แล้ว +10

    38:38 iconic clip. I will remember his smile for a long time.

  • @thuggkane1661
    @thuggkane1661 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Thank you for your service, sir. Much respect

  • @tmac6904
    @tmac6904 4 ปีที่แล้ว +65

    I love these men, im 23 years old and my generation has all but forgotten what these men went through for US. Its a shame that there are some in our nation that desecrate the flag and bad mouths the armed forces. Men like this were so brave and I WILL be donating as soon as i can this week.

    • @Ok-551
      @Ok-551 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Keep learning and keep carrying their memories. I got to hear it from the horses mouth, my grandfather, and Until the day I die I will not forget what it taught me.

    • @edwardtasi2905
      @edwardtasi2905 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      You are a fine young man.I wish all kids had 1/100 of your respect and morals of the older generation in their final yrs

    • @DalionHeartTTV
      @DalionHeartTTV 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      A flag is a worthless piece of cloth. It means nothing. It has always meant nothing. What matters are the people that flag waves for, and this generation is more than capable of fighting just as hard now as this man's did then. Every rose tinted snot-nosed dipshit likes to run off the mouth about how the older generation were natural born badasses and how the current generation is a bunch of soy boy crybabies. 95% of the soldiers who went into WW2 were soy boy crybabies, until necessity brought the warrior out of them. Now if you're crying about no one wanting to enlist now, get over it. The Middle East does not and has never threatened our freedom and security, and smart young men and women don't want to die fighting for some oligarch's claim to someone else's oil fields. That's something for the dumbasses, hooked by the army's propaganda to do. Want to test America, let Putler march his Vodka drinking bitch boy ass army onto America soil, and you'll watch a generation of "soy boy crybabies" knock his ass right back to the Soviet era.
      You cannot demand nationalism. That's what fascism is for. You can just respect the fact that today's generation lives with the freedom those men fought for, and that means every freedom. The freedom to fight for the marginalized and the victimized. The freedom to see a piece of cloth and reject it until it fully represents the values this country has always claimed to upholds, yet has never really gone the distance to actually uphold. Americans will always be Americans. If you don't like the great melting pot, there are plenty of countries witch forced nationalism you can join. Go pick one.
      Until then, the best way to respect this soldier's sacrifice, is to quit bitching about people utilizing their freedoms as they see fit and find something you enjoy. Unless of course, what you enjoy is bitching about young generations like a sad little boomer. Then by all means, live your sad and pathetic life the best way you know how.
      You do you, boo boo.

    • @YourPalKindred
      @YourPalKindred 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The Old Forces I respect. They fought an enemy of greater technological might and equal military strength in both tactics and numbers. Modern ones I have no respect for. They fight farmers who have never seen combat their entire lives, have no formal training and have weapons that are half a decade out of date. Those who served in WW1 and WW2 deserve our respect, not the farmer-fighting, drone strike troops of today.

    • @hahahahaha7237
      @hahahahaha7237 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@YourPalKindred What an ignorant thing to say.

  • @nassermj7671
    @nassermj7671 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Spending just 1 hour with one of them, I could
    learn so much about life. Misty eyed thought. RIP

  • @jpal5221
    @jpal5221 6 ปีที่แล้ว +8

    Wow, wonderful interview and great story of military service.

  • @Spartan265
    @Spartan265 5 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    This channel and all the ones like it are important. These stories are ones that should be preserved so that we might learn from them and also appreciate what we have because of what they went through.

  • @uratrick
    @uratrick 6 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    A wonderful example of an American soldier. And an absolutely gracious and wonderful man.

  • @kdot8340
    @kdot8340 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    These men have incredible memory and cognitive skills after all these years..i can't even remember what i are for lunch the previous day.. God bless them.

  • @jeromekeys7545
    @jeromekeys7545 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

    This man is absolutely the epitome of what a man should be. I can't wait to buy the book.

  • @chalorodriguez3317
    @chalorodriguez3317 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    These guys were badass ..
    Hey man. Thanks for your story. I appreciate it..
    Movies are movies. But stories real live stories of guys who made it home.
    Thank you for opening up to me and everyone.
    We love you !!

  • @jk7448
    @jk7448 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    What a hero! Amazing story, thank you!

  • @christianfrye4063
    @christianfrye4063 3 ปีที่แล้ว

    This guy is a pure warrior, what a tough tough tough tough tough tough man !!! , he is a hero and a true manly man , this is by far my favorite interview!!!!!!!

  • @AstroGremlinAmerican
    @AstroGremlinAmerican 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

    These interviews need to be sold to the documentary makers. They are so good.

  • @simonvirus6417
    @simonvirus6417 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    Great interview, what a humble hero. ...... from Australia

    • @andymiller6661
      @andymiller6661 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      No one cares where you're from.

  • @itzajdmting
    @itzajdmting 5 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a guy! Tremendous stories. I look forward to getting his book. I'm kind of speechless after listening to such intense real-life experience. It puts a lot of what we go through today into perspective. Thank you for your bravery, sir. And a big thank you to all who risked their lives and even gave the ultimate sacrifice so I could live in freedom.

    • @christianfrye4063
      @christianfrye4063 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Which book did he write i would love by to buy it also, this guy is a true warrior and such a tough manly man

    • @itzajdmting
      @itzajdmting 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@christianfrye4063 Hi, I believe his book is titled "Between the Lines and Beyond: Letters of a 101st Airborne Paratrooper" by Guy Whidden

  • @uncuttcoffeeofficial
    @uncuttcoffeeofficial 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

    I could listen to these War world 1 and War II veterans tell stories all day long. I doubt there's any War world 1 veterans alive anymore just due to time and may they rest easy but you know what I mean

  • @meghans2001able
    @meghans2001able 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

    What a amazing man! My Grandpa George was a pilot for The 101st Airborne. Never forget!

  • @steamer482
    @steamer482 ปีที่แล้ว

    Thank you for your service and RIP good Sir!!! Sorry to hear of your passing just last year...

  • @johnnyssik
    @johnnyssik 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

    Legend. He even has a action figure of him self. Pretty darn cool!