Josh Borduin i was in college wishing i was in the army, i was 17 when i got out of high school, my dad agreed to sign, he had been a military police in the army but my mom wouldn't, so i had to go to college instead. but after watching all these veteran documentaries im glad my mother kept me away from possibly going to war.
Anyone who has ever served or has any connection to the military understands that this man is legendary and deserves the utmost respect and courtesy. He is the definition of American and makes me feel proud of being American in times that fill me with disgust and embarrassment . As a soldier, I can only hope to serve to the degree this man has. And to think that people dislike this video and comment utter ridiculousness blows my mind. I wont stand for ignorance
Logan Aragon Less than 2% of the ratings are a thumbs down. It’s insignificant. Not sure if this proportion has changed in the two years since your comment. It’s not worth a second thought. I loved this story. It was made all the better by a fantastic story teller.
Logan Aragon , I served in the Army and was an Airborne Engineer, We troopers have a camaraderie that’s stronger than most believe. I have three friends that met Mr. Speranza and they just listened to him. All Veterans have a great story to tell, but the Greatest Generation is by far the most important one.
My brother-in-law was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge and received a "Purple Heart". He is alive today and is 90 years old. God Bless all who have served.
Reminds me of the stories my Italian father would tell us when we were children as we played with his 2 Purple Heart Medals, pretending that they were earrings, not knowing what he had lost to gain them. His metal mess kit & metal canteen with the original green canvas cover & black cap attached by a rusted chain joined us on camping trips. His men called him Sgt. "Gags" because "Gagliano" was too long. He was on the boxing team & was written about in the military newspaper for "K.O.-ing" his opponent in a 13 second round which INCLUDED the mandatory 10 second count! R.I.P. Daddy. To ALL our soldiers, living or long gone, I say a heartfelt THANK YOU for your bravery, service & sacrifices so that I am free to type anything I please without fear of being arrested, stoned to death, caned, tortured, murdered or martyred for my opinions. May God Bless You All.
In 2018, I was part of a Band of Brothers tour in Bastogne and the historian told us about Mr. Speranza's exploits. He also made a special effort to get us to a café called Le Nuts, where we were each able to get one of those ceramic "Airborne" helmet bowls as a souvenir. Though I regret not getting to try Airborne beer, I thank Mr. Speranza for his service to his country and for this wonderful story.
We really need to capture more of these stories from these heroes. I served during the first Gulf War. And I still remember some of the stories told by the older Master Chiefs. Heroes don't wear capes, they wear dogtags. Thank you to all you who have served.
I am honored to be from the same town. He has dedicated his life to educating and helping others. Even when he was in his 80s he substitute taught me in High School. Everyone loves him and is still active in the community.
The men of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Division were, and are, one of the bravest units ever. These men fought against German heavy Panzers while they were light equipt, no anti tank guns orsomething, maybe a few bazookas but that's it, sometimes not even ammo. I can't imagine how they held the line against those heavy German SS forces. Insane. And don't forget, the Waffen-SS were one of the best of the German army.
deathstar gaming my great uncle was in the 82nd . Fought in the bulge. Talked of taking out a tank with improvised explosives to stop the engine. Later He was pinned down in the snow for two days by a machine gun nest. Nearly lost his leg to frostbite. Begged the doctor not to cut it off. Kept it and recovered in England. These guys were tough son of bitches
That is is the job description of a first line paratrooper. You are supposed to fight panzers with whatever you can find. When you run out of ammunition and then stones to throw at them. Once those are gone, it's spitting time against tanks. Absolutely NAILS.
Vincent shared his story with me at the 2012 101st Airborne Division Association Reunion in Nashville. It was an honor. It was both of ours first reunion.
what a guy, what a life... an increadible link to history. these men are truly national treasures. thank you all... you truly saved a world. screaming eagles! (I was a 101 st pathfinder )
At 19 years old I wore that eagle patch, and was so proud to stand up and carry on that proud tradition that was set in place by heroes like this. My time was served in peace, Thank you brothers who are now in harms way, and God Bless America and the freedom's it gives us because of you warriors like you.
My Grandfather was in F company of the 501st. Sadly, he passed away before I got to meet him. I can't even begin to imagine what these boys went through.
I personally know Vince. I have been to Normandie 22 times and will be there this June. Vince was there last year and I hope to see him this June. I go so many times because of the living history of these men and women who were there, and the great love and respect the people give them. Also I have been to Belgium and to Holland. Incredible. If you are thinking about going, GO NOW. It will change you life and you will never regret it.
What an amazing story. I'm glad Mr. Speranza found out he became a legend, because it must have been very difficult to make a decision like visiting the place where you fought a war.
+Ginger You are correct. There are still many Nazi sympathizers in this world today and they will gladly give a "thumbs down" to a TH-cam video like this.
Airborne Beer, I was a straight leg in the US Army, but I have very High regards for this Heroic Veteran. Thannks for Posting. We enjoy freedom for what guys like him did.
I just had the honor of listening to this brave man talk at my daughter's veterans day program. This man and MANY like him are a true national treasure in which we're losing everyday.
I dont know how many times here in Italy i pray and say Thankx at all Young Americans people who Fought and die for set free My Country from Fascism...Thankx again HERO
Delightful narrative. So enjoyable. Vince painted pictures before my eyes....... There must be so many stories coming out of this region. I'm sure plenty of movie material as well.
A very amazing story to me, I actually got choked up while listening to this man tell his story. Simply amazing that he remembers all the details and tells it with such conviction. Bravo Mr. Speranza, I thank you for your bravery and for fighting for my country. Thank you, thank you!
The greatest generation! Guys like this is why my brother joined the Army's 101 st. Airborne in 1968! Then was sent to Viet Nam! Bless all those who served!!
Great story. Thats how war is. Terror and some pretty amazing times. All you have to do is survive. You're a great American, Sgt. Speranza, a genuine hero.
Dr. Miller, thank you for your service, sir. Thank you also for your comment about my father. I'm biased, of course, but I have the utmost respect for him. He is a gifted educator, historian and a wonderful father. I was honored to accompany him on his first "return" trip to Bastogne, 2009. I'm happy to see that many others have appreciation for his experiences as a war-time soldier, his ability to transcend all of the terrible things that happened, and his great (and honest) storytelling.
Great story. These stories must be preserved for future generations. My father served in WW II and the stories he told were the funny ones. I and my son wish to extend to the remaining vets of this war our deepest respect and gratitude.
Truly the 'GREATEST GENERATION'. My uncle was with the 82nd Airborne and jumped at Normandy. He survived 6 days before being wounded and taken prisoner. He was 18 years old. He came home to a very successful life, raised a family and never spoke of his experience. Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Prisoner of War, CBI and Airborne Wing medals among others. He passed away about 8 years ago.
Thank you, sir, for posting this video. I have heard my father's stories all my life and I am happy to see them posted on a forum where others can appreciate them, as well.
Thanks for sharing this story with me at the 101st Airborne Reunion in Nashville, TN in 2012. We were both first time members. I enjoyed singing "Blood Upon The Risers" with you Vincent.
The difference between the new and old Gen. Old gen ran to the fight while the younger gen ran away to mommy's basement. Hate to say it but its true, back then teens were lying about there age to fight for their country, fast forward to today. I can listen to Vince for hours! Thank you, kind sir, we love you and everything you have done!
What amazing interview. Vince is a hero, just all of those who held lines in face overwhelming odds and fought it out and held. GOD bless him, his family, those who never made it home, and those that did and were never the same again.
What a legend. Just met him last Monday during Market Garden commemoration in Son where some 6,500 paratroopers landed on September 17th 1944. We already heard about him when my son and I did a Bastogne tour this spring. Thanks Vince, it was so good to see you and hear you say. “I am 94 but still kick ass”👍🏻👍🏻
This guy fought a war at 19. When I was 19, I was still living in my parents house working a job for minimum wage.
Josh Borduin Different time, different circumstances.
We will never understand but we can honour these great men.
Damn
Josh Borduin i was in college wishing i was in the army, i was 17 when i got out of high school, my dad agreed to sign, he had been a military police in the army but my mom wouldn't, so i had to go to college instead. but after watching all these veteran documentaries im glad my mother kept me away from possibly going to war.
I did a combat jump into Rio Hato, Panama, for Operation Just (Be)Cause. I was 19.
3/75
He just passed away at 98 years young. A special hero from a special generation.
"Don't you know, you're famous in Europe?"
He is from my hometown and I have met him a few times! He told this story to my 8th grade social studies class! 😂❤️
Wow. That's how history should be taught.
Where is he from?
@@rebelgaming7718 Born in Manhattan but raised in Staten Island
@@bigmoniesponge He looks like he is in his 50s
@@rebelgaming7718NYC and he just recently passed away 98 years old on August 2
Anyone who has ever served or has any connection to the military understands that this man is legendary and deserves the utmost respect and courtesy. He is the definition of American and makes me feel proud of being American in times that fill me with disgust and embarrassment . As a soldier, I can only hope to serve to the degree this man has. And to think that people dislike this video and comment utter ridiculousness blows my mind. I wont stand for ignorance
Logan Aragon Less than 2% of the ratings are a thumbs down. It’s insignificant. Not sure if this proportion has changed in the two years since your comment. It’s not worth a second thought. I loved this story. It was made all the better by a fantastic story teller.
@@zplapplap
How Americans were many years ago
What a great story
Logan Aragon , I served in the Army and was an Airborne Engineer, We troopers have a camaraderie that’s stronger than most believe. I have three friends that met Mr. Speranza and they just listened to him. All Veterans have a great story to tell, but the Greatest Generation is by far the most important one.
Thank you for your service and respect Logan, AIM HIGH PATRIOT FORCE!!!
#AmeisterAmericaINC🇺🇸
@@wyattjohnson5898 10-4 on the floor Wyatt and thank you for your service and sacrifice respectfully!
How does a video like this have even 1 dislike? Disrespectful..
@Sam Nardo or just Nazis, or foreign fascists. Or people who are critical of the US military. Not everyone on the internet is American.
Because their ancestors were the ones caught in the fence.
My brother-in-law was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge and received a "Purple Heart". He is alive today and is 90 years old. God Bless all who have served.
ay bro if your still alive tell your brother i said thanks
George OBrien thank you for saying that it means alot.
Soldiers like him are 1 word, badass, thank you for your service
This man is a good storyteller
He was a history teacher after the war.
@@kguthrie8976 he IS history!
19 I was homeless and already been stabbed by a ex. Nothing compared to this Hero's life. Awesome video
Reminds me of the stories my Italian father would tell us when we were children as we played with his 2 Purple Heart Medals, pretending that they were earrings, not knowing what he had lost to gain them. His metal mess kit & metal canteen with the original green canvas cover & black cap attached by a rusted chain joined us on camping trips. His men called him Sgt. "Gags" because "Gagliano" was too long. He was on the boxing team & was written about in the military newspaper for "K.O.-ing" his opponent in a 13 second round which INCLUDED the mandatory 10 second count! R.I.P. Daddy.
To ALL our soldiers, living or long gone, I say a heartfelt THANK YOU for your bravery, service & sacrifices so that I am free to type anything I please without fear of being arrested, stoned to death, caned, tortured, murdered or martyred for my opinions. May God Bless You All.
In 2018, I was part of a Band of Brothers tour in Bastogne and the historian told us about Mr. Speranza's exploits. He also made a special effort to get us to a café called Le Nuts, where we were each able to get one of those ceramic "Airborne" helmet bowls as a souvenir. Though I regret not getting to try Airborne beer, I thank Mr. Speranza for his service to his country and for this wonderful story.
The definition of a US Paratrooper!
We really need to capture more of these stories from these heroes. I served during the first Gulf War. And I still remember some of the stories told by the older Master Chiefs. Heroes don't wear capes, they wear dogtags. Thank you to all you who have served.
I am honored to be from the same town. He has dedicated his life to educating and helping others. Even when he was in his 80s he substitute taught me in High School. Everyone loves him and is still active in the community.
The comments on this page are unbelievably disrespectful.. Please do not disrespect this veteran like this.
These people are the cancer of Reddit, and in general the entire internet. Just ignore them, they're trolls.
Joel Branham Imo it's more a joke regarding youtube comments in general. Noone's disrespecting the man but rather TH-cam's comment section.
KamikazethecatII I always report as Spam, but i doubt that does anthing
Sean Bachman I see. That makes a bit more sense!
***** Same!
The men of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Division were, and are, one of the bravest units ever. These men fought against German heavy Panzers while they were light equipt, no anti tank guns orsomething, maybe a few bazookas but that's it, sometimes not even ammo.
I can't imagine how they held the line against those heavy German SS forces. Insane. And don't forget, the Waffen-SS were one of the best of the German army.
well my great uncle who fought in there old me alot of stories before he past away ( the last of 3 brother who joined)
Mojo Risin 506th also was a RARE one
deathstar gaming my great uncle was in the 82nd . Fought in the bulge. Talked of taking out a tank with improvised explosives to stop the engine. Later He was pinned down in the snow for two days by a machine gun nest. Nearly lost his leg to frostbite. Begged the doctor not to cut it off. Kept it and recovered in England. These guys were tough son of bitches
That is is the job description of a first line paratrooper. You are supposed to fight panzers with whatever you can find. When you run out of ammunition and then stones to throw at them. Once those are gone, it's spitting time against tanks. Absolutely NAILS.
Luckily the 75th Ranger Regiment have taken over their mantle in today's war space
This man fought in WW2 at 19 and here I am trying to graduate, this man is great, respect to you and your entire team, thank you
Greatest generation of all time! From an OIF veteran I salute you.
That is a wonderful story. I am an old Airborne soldier from the Vietnam era and love listening to my senior troopers who I revere. God Bless him
Airborne!
Welcome home brother!
My grandfather served in Bastogne! Pattons 3rd Armored Division!
jmaune1419 my grandfather was a radio operator in the 3rd Army, landed D-DAY +3
my great granpa was 5th armored in WW2
Vincent is a great man and good friend to have. It was great to have him speak at the GSL.
Wow....Praise God for Him and His Generation.....I have lived as a Free Man Thanks to Him and many others of his bravery and age...tom
Thank You Mr. Vincent Speranza for Your Service to our Country. Great story:)
What a great story, thank you Mr. Vincent Speranza.
Vincent shared his story with me at the 2012 101st Airborne Division Association Reunion in Nashville. It was an honor. It was both of ours first reunion.
I joined at 18 and had an adventure never to forget. Learning Discipline, Respect and Love of Country.. experience of a lifetime.
Awesome story! So happy for modern technology to be able to capture these stories for future generations.
what a guy, what a life... an increadible link to history. these men are truly national treasures. thank you all... you truly saved a world. screaming eagles! (I was a 101 st pathfinder )
At 19 years old I wore that eagle patch, and was so proud to stand up and carry on that proud tradition that was set in place by heroes like this. My time was served in peace,
Thank you brothers who are now in harms way, and God Bless America and the freedom's it gives us because of you warriors like you.
The Greatest Generation..What a great story.
My Grandfather was in F company of the 501st. Sadly, he passed away before I got to meet him. I can't even begin to imagine what these boys went through.
Legend. I am a civilian jumper and I have major respect for this guy, really enjoyed the story.
It makes me proud to be an American and I once again can't thank our veterans enough for their service. God bless Mr. Speranza!
that guy is a character- I could listen to him all day...just fantastic thank you
A wonderful story
Airborne Beer, the Man of the Legend
Wow, fantastic story. And at an age of 19...
I personally know Vince. I have been to Normandie 22 times and will be there this June. Vince was there last year and I hope to see him this June. I go so many times because of the living history of these men and women who were there, and the great love and respect the people give them. Also I have been to Belgium and to Holland. Incredible. If you are thinking about going, GO NOW. It will change you life and you will never regret it.
What an amazing story. I'm glad Mr. Speranza found out he became a legend, because it must have been very difficult to make a decision like visiting the place where you fought a war.
Incredible! I have sooooooo much respect for our service women and men!!! Great story.
Thank you, Mr. Speranza, for your service and for holding the line with the Battling B's of Bastogne - Currahee.
Thank you Sir for your service. American hero.
why would you thumb down this. What could you possibly have against a WW2 Vet from the Allies.... Unless you're a Nazi... I don't get it.
+Ginger You are correct. There are still many Nazi sympathizers in this world today and they will gladly give a "thumbs down" to a TH-cam video like this.
This is more than EPIC! Words cannot describe how awesome this is!!
I live in the same town as this guy!!! I will find him!!
I got to meet him today, definitely an amazing dude!
One amazing & inspirational man! I am glad to have known him as he was a teacher at my HS back in the day.
Airborne Beer, I was a straight leg in the US Army, but I have very High regards for this Heroic Veteran. Thannks for Posting. We enjoy freedom for what guys like him did.
I just had the honor of listening to this brave man talk at my daughter's veterans day program. This man and MANY like him are a true national treasure in which we're losing everyday.
I dont know how many times here in Italy i pray and say Thankx at all Young Americans people who Fought and die for set free My Country from Fascism...Thankx again HERO
Great to have met Vince last summer (September 2019) in Son during a reenactment of the landing of 101 there. Thank you very much Vince!
GOD Bless all that serve. We all love you Vince.
May this man rest in peace 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Awesome story. Thanks. I was in Bastogne 3 times in 2004 visiting all the sites. Great beer!
that whole beer story is classic, he didn't even know he was a living legend, and thats rare to be legendary while still alive....
Delightful narrative. So enjoyable. Vince painted pictures before my eyes....... There must be so many stories coming out of this region. I'm sure plenty of movie material as well.
How does this not have more views?
A very amazing story to me, I actually got choked up while listening to this man tell his story. Simply amazing that he remembers all the details and tells it with such conviction. Bravo Mr. Speranza, I thank you for your bravery and for fighting for my country. Thank you, thank you!
God bless America land that I love and thank you sir for your service to our great nation
God bless Vincent Speranza!
What an awesome, relatively happy, war story!
Thank you, Sir, for your service! Thank you for telling these stories so that they don't become forgotten. Incredible!
God Bless ALL our Veterans. WW2 men (including my very own Dad), Were definatley a special group of men. RIP POP you are deeply missed.
GOD BLESS YOU Vince Speranza ~ THANK YOU!
God bless this man! He’s a national treasure.
The greatest generation! Guys like this is why my brother joined the Army's 101 st. Airborne in 1968! Then was sent to Viet Nam! Bless all those who served!!
Great story. Thats how war is. Terror and some pretty amazing times. All you have to do is survive. You're a great American, Sgt. Speranza, a genuine hero.
Another one of the Greatest Generation. God bless all of them!
What an amazing man, and wonderful recollection! I can see a Movie about this!!
^^X^^
Class act. No, not an act. A man with class. That is the kind of man that deserves a monument. He put his friends first.
Love this guy. Fantastic story teller & great singer
I Love Private Speranza, He's with his Buddies Now, In Heaven. "The Battling Bastards of Bastogne" God Bless You an Keep you Forever , Sir,
You served well. R.I.P legend
Dr. Miller, thank you for your service, sir. Thank you also for your comment about my father. I'm biased, of course, but I have the utmost respect for him. He is a gifted educator, historian and a wonderful father. I was honored to accompany him on his first "return" trip to Bastogne, 2009. I'm happy to see that many others have appreciation for his experiences as a war-time soldier, his ability to transcend all of the terrible things that happened, and his great (and honest) storytelling.
amazing story.
Great story. Goes to show you that truth is stranger than fiction. Thank you for your service Vince and God bless you.
Great story. These stories must be preserved for future generations. My father served in WW II and the stories he told were the funny ones. I and my son wish to extend to the remaining vets of this war our deepest respect and gratitude.
Booooooooyaaaaaaaaaaaaa legendary Thank you SIR. What a AWESOME story .Humbled to even be able to listen
Truly the 'GREATEST GENERATION'. My uncle was with the 82nd Airborne and jumped at Normandy. He survived 6 days before being wounded and taken prisoner. He was 18 years old. He came home to a very successful life, raised a family and never spoke of his experience. Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Prisoner of War, CBI and Airborne Wing medals among others. He passed away about 8 years ago.
Sounds like a good person
Thank you, sir, for posting this video. I have heard my father's stories all my life and I am happy to see them posted on a forum where others can appreciate them, as well.
Thank you for this video. Made me happy at the end of my day.
Such an amazing story! Thank you for sharing.
A wonderful story, thanks for posting it.
great story, glad I took the time to watch it.
thank you for your service
Thanks for sharing this story with me at the 101st Airborne Reunion in Nashville, TN in 2012. We were both first time members. I enjoyed singing "Blood Upon The Risers" with you Vincent.
its these kind of stories that you tell your kids years later that makes it all worth it...incredible...thanks for serving
What an American hero! And a worrier with compassion as should be! God bless you Sir and thank you for your service!!!
love it !! thank you for your service!!
wish i couldn't meet him in person !!
Thank you for posting! I can listen and learn a lot.
Vincent J. Speranza (March 23, 1925 - August 2, 2023) Rest In Peace
I could listen to him talk all day. What an amazing man and an awesome story teller
The difference between the new and old Gen. Old gen ran to the fight while the younger gen ran away to mommy's basement. Hate to say it but its true, back then teens were lying about there age to fight for their country, fast forward to today. I can listen to Vince for hours! Thank you, kind sir, we love you and everything you have done!
thank you Sir for your service, I'm so grateful
Thanks for your service awesome stories.
I love these stories they tell, god bless their souls. let them rest in peace.
Best generation hats off from Australia. 101st true gentlemen.
Wow! So touching. Made me want to cry. It's a beautiful story.
Great story! Thank you for sharing this online. Cheers!
OMG that was amazing to watch, what expression & emotion he made this man just cry right now :)
Thank you sir for your service, I love your story
WOW that's quite a story... I've actually heard about the beer God bless him all of them
Thank you for sharing the touching story
What amazing interview. Vince is a hero, just all of those who held lines in face overwhelming odds and fought it out and held. GOD bless him, his family, those who never made it home, and those that did and were never the same again.
What a legend. Just met him last Monday during Market Garden commemoration in Son where some 6,500 paratroopers landed on September 17th 1944. We already heard about him when my son and I did a Bastogne tour this spring. Thanks Vince, it was so good to see you and hear you say. “I am 94 but still kick ass”👍🏻👍🏻