D-DAY HERO Recalls Lowering the Ramp in FIRST WAVE at Omaha Beach | Frank DeVita

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  • เผยแพร่เมื่อ 22 ธ.ค. 2024

ความคิดเห็น • 11K

  • @americanveteranscenter
    @americanveteranscenter  ปีที่แล้ว +227

    Please consider becoming an AVC Patreon member to receive exclusive content and perks. This funding goes directly into helping us capture more incredible stories with our nation's veterans: patreon.com/americanveteranscenter

    • @joeb1den114
      @joeb1den114 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I may be the president, but this guy doesn’t seem like the kind of guy to beat IRS and gun charges as a crackhead, only to get away with a few misdemeanors. Only a REAL American could beat all that.

    • @shaynewheeler9249
      @shaynewheeler9249 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      😢😢😢😢😢😢

    • @piledaddytv
      @piledaddytv 7 หลายเดือนก่อน

      🫡🫡🫡

    • @deniseackermann7116
      @deniseackermann7116 5 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Qq

  • @NapBoney
    @NapBoney 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5104

    Frank passed away last month. We will never forget your service. Rest In Peace

    • @roachies4242
      @roachies4242 2 ปีที่แล้ว +71

      🇺🇸 🕊️

    • @listefanden860
      @listefanden860 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      🙏

    • @jonahsmusicpage
      @jonahsmusicpage 2 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      Rest in Peace Frank *Salute*

    • @leonardstover9542
      @leonardstover9542 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      Sorry to hear that … my 2 grandpas also served in ww2 both dies last 2 months ago

    • @dewwwd3431
      @dewwwd3431 2 ปีที่แล้ว +38

      He can finally rest

  • @solo23508
    @solo23508 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +761

    This guy passed away in 2022 at age 96. RIP Frank DeVita (1925-2022), thank you for your service 🫡

  • @AlishaHerbiederbie
    @AlishaHerbiederbie 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +403

    "He was just a boy," hurt me in a way I can't express. They were just boys, but Frank, so were you. Thank you for all you gave, may you rest in peace.

    • @AnimateWithBlender
      @AnimateWithBlender 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

      My interpretation is that whilst they were similar ages at the time, Frank as an older man came to understand that they were all just boys. Frank himself would have been just 18 or 19 years old on D-Day (depending on exact birthday). Bless these soldiers.

    • @JNieckarz
      @JNieckarz 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +5

      I did I lose it when he said that. I cried like a baby.

    • @husky_biscuits9924
      @husky_biscuits9924 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

      That hit me, too..
      They were just boys...
      God bless you soldiers and thank you for freedom.

    • @kenyattathompson6685
      @kenyattathompson6685 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Nope
      America has made soft men cause they didn’t grow up when they were boys
      Days when men were men

  • @pinchpeak5203
    @pinchpeak5203 ปีที่แล้ว +1451

    There's only 167,000 WW2 veterans still alive as of 2022. Cherish all of these priceless moments and stories.

    • @slayer-xt4md
      @slayer-xt4md ปีที่แล้ว +34

      I just want a Time Machine so I can fight aside them 😢

    • @ReklusiveMindz
      @ReklusiveMindz ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Priceless human beings!! The bravest of the brave

    • @x0j
      @x0j ปีที่แล้ว +21

      however more holocaust survivors are born each day

    • @Qryptonic
      @Qryptonic ปีที่แล้ว +19

      No you don’t lol

    • @novasludge3484
      @novasludge3484 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      .... everything ends, like, it's just another conflict that we NOW have the ability to spread stories about them with the internet, every soldier from every conflict is another "Frank" with their side of the tale...

  • @shaunjones3119
    @shaunjones3119 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4824

    “If I don’t go, they’ll send a replacement, and if they get killed, how can I live with myself?”
    That hit my heart. Teared up immediately... mad respect for Frank.

    • @prodigiousrebel5886
      @prodigiousrebel5886 3 ปีที่แล้ว +204

      He’s a product of a generation of people that truly, genuinely and without any extra coercion simply cared for their fellow countrymen. Respectable no matter what. That kind of high quality man is hard to find today.

    • @corrywhatever3516
      @corrywhatever3516 3 ปีที่แล้ว +61

      This is what makes him a hero, even if he doesn't claim it. What a powerful story!

    • @alexbromley9384
      @alexbromley9384 3 ปีที่แล้ว +92

      He went back 14 more times... men aren’t made like this anymore

    • @TheChaumaster
      @TheChaumaster 3 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      @Kjell Johnsson That wasn't a very good comparison.

    • @lukasprien4338
      @lukasprien4338 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Very very true

  • @thekeepers15
    @thekeepers15 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3537

    God he looks GOOD to be 90 and very articulate .

    • @NS1.
      @NS1. 4 ปีที่แล้ว +160

      I think he's 95 here. The interviewer says at one point "76 years later, what do you think, etc" So D Day was June 6, 1944. That would make this video from this year. 1944 + 76 = 2020. Another video on YT said he was 19 at the time of D Day, making him born around 1925. So yea, thats how I did the math, lol.

    • @TheMattc999
      @TheMattc999 4 ปีที่แล้ว +101

      I'll be happy if I'm still alive at 90, and ecstatic if I look half as good as this guy does at 90.

    • @thekeepers15
      @thekeepers15 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

      TheMattc999
      No joke man , I’d be happy with 75 haha

    • @BadManN_TheBushes
      @BadManN_TheBushes 4 ปีที่แล้ว +55

      He looks in his early 60's. Man he lives with some major ghosts 😮

    • @stewiegriffin2143
      @stewiegriffin2143 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      That's exactly my thought I started doing the math like wow !!!

  • @maxiver808
    @maxiver808 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8890

    Jesus...he was on Omaha AND Okinawa....two of the worst battlegrounds in WWII. This guy is amazing.

    • @DG-mv6zw
      @DG-mv6zw 4 ปีที่แล้ว +235

      Not if you were British Forces. We fought through the whole of WW2. The Americans came a lot later in tbe game, unfortunately.

    • @frenchfryman6
      @frenchfryman6 4 ปีที่แล้ว +95

      D G It’s because GB were running out of money and weapons, it was sad that that was the case but it was.

    • @ZurkeyTurkey
      @ZurkeyTurkey 4 ปีที่แล้ว +399

      @@DG-mv6zw Yea but the brits were never as involved in some of the worst battles in europe and the pacific. The US had 50,000 more casualties and entered the war 2 years after the brits, so if you do the math on the deaths per year and the US joined when britain did they would have around 500,000 deaths where as britain only had 383,000

    • @patmody
      @patmody 4 ปีที่แล้ว +420

      @@ZurkeyTurkey also think about how the US was fighting in two completely different theaters of war at the same exact time, and still managed to turn the tide of both of them.

    • @anthonylowney1395
      @anthonylowney1395 4 ปีที่แล้ว +55

      @@frenchfryman6 this is simply not true. Everyone was tired and the americans joining helped with the final push, but germany was already defeated.

  • @jake90052
    @jake90052 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +209

    He went back 14 more times because he was afraid someone else would die instead of him. That is a true Hero.

    • @neptunechariots2299
      @neptunechariots2299 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +12

      Yeah.. good man. He saw how horrible it was and he took it on himself to spare one life and do it himself.

    • @ahi1526
      @ahi1526 3 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      He went from high school having that kind of desire to fight for his country. Wow!

  • @jonnygotaboomboom2906
    @jonnygotaboomboom2906 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4275

    FYI... Frank is and will always be a dear close friend of our family.. Sadly I'm here to let everyone know that he has passed, gone to be with his wife Dottie who has been patiently waiting 10 yrs now, this past Saturday the 12th of March, 2022,quietly at home.. He was 96 yrs young.. May God watch over, comfort, and strengthen his family and friends at this time.. Another hero gone but never forgotten..
    We'll take it from here sailor, fair winds and following seas, Salute..
    God Bless and Thank you for your service.. Give Dottie and Kenny our love and a big hug from all of us, we miss you all dearly.. 🙏🏻❤️🇺🇲.. Until we meet again..

    • @schemey7782
      @schemey7782 2 ปีที่แล้ว +54

      RIP

    • @n2deepjds
      @n2deepjds 2 ปีที่แล้ว +67

      RIP Gunner! We have the watch!

    • @Musicwmatty
      @Musicwmatty 2 ปีที่แล้ว +41

      God bless Frank and all those heroes that fought and died for this country❤🤍💙

    • @truthsearcher596
      @truthsearcher596 2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Hero.

    • @MrMiniTakitos
      @MrMiniTakitos 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      A generation of warriors

  • @gregorysolo3992
    @gregorysolo3992 2 ปีที่แล้ว +840

    "I'm not a hero. I'm a survivor."
    This line really depicts how bad the war was

    • @gregorysolo3992
      @gregorysolo3992 2 ปีที่แล้ว +44

      and also; "It's the big people that make war, not the common people. They're the ones who get hurt."

    • @Astro_Guy_1
      @Astro_Guy_1 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      That applies to any war, I find it sad how jingoistic the world is becoming again. Especially as a man in prime military age. I do not want to end up like my Grandfather and Great Grandfather.

    • @king_milkfart
      @king_milkfart 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I absolutely lost it as soon as he said that

    • @TheGreenKnight500
      @TheGreenKnight500 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      We have a very clean sterile view of WWII in the US. We don't think about how brutal it really was because. In retrospect, we won decisively and it all looks like a nice easy victory. We forget that not only was the war on the ground brutal, but the people living at that time had no idea what the future would bring. They didn't know who would win or how long it could last. They lived through a terrifying time.

    • @repentandbelieveinJesusChrist3
      @repentandbelieveinJesusChrist3 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Repent to Jesus Christ
      “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
      ‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬
      J

  • @lziv7583
    @lziv7583 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3322

    As an 18 year old I’m really starting to appreciate these stories because I’m so lucky they aren’t my stories.

    • @howiebeats9588
      @howiebeats9588 3 ปีที่แล้ว +132

      Great way to look at it brother. I feel blessed as well and I'm 27, and thankful for men like frank.

    • @Colhogan06
      @Colhogan06 3 ปีที่แล้ว +104

      Take a moment and try to imagine yourself in that boat when the gate went down. I did that and I started to feel sick as well. I watched actual real footage on a youtube video of them unloading off the Higgens boats on D-Day, and that was enough so when I tried to imagine being in that boat, I knew what to imagine in my mind. I started to feel sick as well, and I was just imagining it. I spent most of my young life in the military but it still made me feel sick.
      My Uncle was on the last Carrier that was sunk during WWII. The USS Bismark Sea. There is a pic online of when it exploded. They were hit by 2 kamikaze planes. After the first hit, they thought they were going to be OK. Then when the 2nd hit it got real bad and there was a huge explosion. The Captain had to give the abandon ship order. My Uncle and his buddy jumped. He tried to get his friend to swim to the middle of a fire ring. His logic being they might not strafe in that area thinking no one would be there. He went, his buddy didn't follow and apparently didn't make it. My Uncle was pulled out 8+ hours later. Covered in oil from the ship. We have a picture of when they pulled him out. He never would talk about it. I only found out about it 10 years ago because my father told me. My Uncle passed in 1996. He was definitely one of my inspirations for joining the military. I joined 3 years after Vietnam ended. I was 18 yrs old at the time and everyone thought I was crazy. I came from a family of 4 Uncles and a Father who were in the military. It seemed like the right thing to do at that time. I have no regrets.

    • @glitch200
      @glitch200 3 ปีที่แล้ว +53

      They might be soon.
      We have an administration loyal to china so who knows how long until they invade.

    • @jeffheywood6101
      @jeffheywood6101 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Tell your friends, then tell them again

    • @ezequielgarcia8565
      @ezequielgarcia8565 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      The lgtb community took over

  • @defconklaxon
    @defconklaxon ปีที่แล้ว +522

    There are almost ten thousand comments here, so I'm sure my comment will be buried. But goddamn, what an amazing man, and sailor. I broke down multiple times watching this video. RIP Frank DeVita. You are an incredible influence.

    • @mcrdl76
      @mcrdl76 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      I would ask that you would not swear like that and use the Lord's name in vain, you may need him some day. I am a veteran of the US Air Force .

    • @defconklaxon
      @defconklaxon ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@mcrdl76 god has never existed and is a human construct. I have literally zero respect for a deity that claims to be all knowing and all powerful but has allowed the most horrific tragedies to happen since he was invented. God sucks and literally is the worst. But thanks for your service.

    • @sco467
      @sco467 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Your comment will not be buried, it will be read for years...
      Humans NEED to watch this kind of video...
      I'm just here on a random Thursday night browsing TH-cam and it got me,
      RIP Frank... Hero, and gentleman

    • @mizzury54
      @mizzury54 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      I lost it when he told of the guy who was killed next to him.

    • @defconklaxon
      @defconklaxon ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@mizzury54 Yeah, the humanity of one guy surviving versus the guy right next to you dying is so incredible. I literally can't fathom how I'd deal with a situation like that.

  • @heed9726
    @heed9726 3 ปีที่แล้ว +6612

    These WWII stories need to be shown in schools. We have little to no appreciation for human life or the sacrifices and mistakes of past generations.

    • @josephdial387
      @josephdial387 3 ปีที่แล้ว +257

      What’s important is to hear these stories while the veterans are still alive to tell them. One day there will be no more ww2 or Vietnam vets.

    • @spooky6936
      @spooky6936 3 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      Ditto

    • @mackk123
      @mackk123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +75

      too busy focusing on 6 million deaths and demonizing our grandfathers for that one... who owns the media?

    • @mackk123
      @mackk123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +48

      @@josephdial387 as soon as the vets die, the baddies enact their plans. soldiers from wwii would have sided with the Germans if they'd caught glimpse of 2021

    • @badgamers5065
      @badgamers5065 3 ปีที่แล้ว +182

      @@mackk123 you should be ashamed of that last comment.... You should know better than to use veterans as a political pawn... No, they wouldn't have... You misunderstand what the war was about... Please just be less insulting when trying to make a point in the future.

  • @josedelrosario6538
    @josedelrosario6538 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1357

    What a beast this man is. 1st wave to Omaha Beach, went back for 14 more, then southern France, to Philippines and then Okinawa. I have no words for this man. Just pure admiration.

    • @AmazeAngeloGames
      @AmazeAngeloGames 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      😭

    • @dusk6159
      @dusk6159 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Absolute machine of greatness and work for the next generation

    • @anthonypassarelli5534
      @anthonypassarelli5534 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I don't mean to undermine him, but I don't get how he participates in 15 waves, like did he raid the beach 15 times? I don't get it, I mean once you're on the beach don't you stay there?

    • @anthonypassarelli5534
      @anthonypassarelli5534 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@SimonB. the other troops didn't need "bringing" I do t understand why they would need him to go back and bring them, that doesn't make sense. He could just stay on the beach, and they could all just flood the beach with troops.

    • @anthonypassarelli5534
      @anthonypassarelli5534 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@SimonB. oh I thought each wave had their own landing craft

  • @johneefizterbottom
    @johneefizterbottom 3 ปีที่แล้ว +802

    This is why Memorial Day is more than just a cookout.. all my respects for these brave men & women

    • @alphaturtle3806
      @alphaturtle3806 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      But the cook out is a big part tho

    • @grantmoney3990
      @grantmoney3990 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@alphaturtle3806 😂😂

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Absolutely & Amen!! Thank You!! Xoxo

    • @ouiroc
      @ouiroc 3 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      The greatest generation was raised from children in lead painted cribs and no childhood vaccinations

    • @nightshadehelis9821
      @nightshadehelis9821 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Extremely well said. To be fair, I fought in Iraq and Afghanistan (I'm not comparing my service to these brave men btw) and for memorial day, all I want is Americans to have a happy day with their families. No matter what, I will personally recognize the lives sacrificed that made this way of life possible. That's all that matters to me. Memorial day always makes me sad. It's hard to live a normal and care free life once you've seen coffins with American flags draped over them. I'm not religious, but God bless our servicemen, and my brothers, who sacrificed everything for our country. If you want to honor us, invite your entire family over, hug your kids, drink a beer with some friends, and cook some god damn amazing wieners.

  • @markythegreat
    @markythegreat ปีที่แล้ว +437

    The “fourteen more times” line just made my heart drop. From the infantryman’s perspective (which is what is most commonly portrayed) it was one awful push onto the beach; I had no idea the landing boats were re-used for wave after wave. Incredible.

    • @codyharney2997
      @codyharney2997 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Fuckin wild dude

    • @max-mtg
      @max-mtg ปีที่แล้ว +32

      The amount of shame I feel listening comparing his life to mine I’m grateful for. Shame on me for ever feeling sorry for myself

    • @uPSIDEdOWN577
      @uPSIDEdOWN577 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      First wave you had maybe less than half of the deployed to make it to land.

    • @steviechampagne
      @steviechampagne 10 หลายเดือนก่อน +3

      Could you imagine being the first waves… as soon as that ramp opens, hundreds of bullets are flying in and just slaughtering everyone inside.
      it’s truly one of the most horrifying scenes humanity has ever created

    • @mrorlov2706
      @mrorlov2706 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

      Imagine going into the boat which came back filled with blood and all

  • @gerokron3412
    @gerokron3412 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1471

    "I relive it every day in my life"
    Let that sink in.

    • @mikeforte7585
      @mikeforte7585 4 ปีที่แล้ว +77

      @Peekle we never should have been in Vietnam...I had 3 friends killed there....I just missed getting drafted...the whole war was a waste of lives on both sides...sad!!!

    • @chelo4197
      @chelo4197 4 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      @@mikeforte7585 yeah, it wasn't our fight to fight

    • @williamdrybread8925
      @williamdrybread8925 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @Peekle pickle, the other side in the nam. Committed far more atrocities.

    • @williamdrybread8925
      @williamdrybread8925 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @Peekle the pink's committed many "mi-lai's"

    • @crackthefoundation_
      @crackthefoundation_ 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @Bill Those kids are still Americans. Many of them surely lost family in WW2. I did. Don't believe everything you read on the f****** internet. They want to divide us.

  • @Kingbib
    @Kingbib 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2871

    This man right here is the reason why we celebrate memorial day and Veterans Day God bless❤️

    • @Freedomlawnservice87
      @Freedomlawnservice87 4 ปีที่แล้ว +61

      And why we stand for flag!!

    • @WillPittams
      @WillPittams 4 ปีที่แล้ว +33

      @@Freedomlawnservice87 kneeling is just as respectful, in fact it was a soldier who recommended it. Dont add your politics into this man’s story

    • @The_Chess_GM
      @The_Chess_GM 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      @@WillPittamshaha stupid biden support

    • @The_Chess_GM
      @The_Chess_GM 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @Roberta Rodriguez yes true they are so stupid

    • @OtaBengaBokongo
      @OtaBengaBokongo 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Only Israel should celebrate them! Others celebrating is total stupidity! ♥️

  • @haatimaori2477
    @haatimaori2477 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1320

    “The big people make wars, not the common people, they are the ones that get hurt”
    Straight Truth, still true to this day.

    • @mannytaylor6923
      @mannytaylor6923 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      2022 VISION 👍👍👍...BIG FACTS... 🤔

    • @mq9893
      @mq9893 2 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      "Politicians hide themselves away...
      They only started the war..
      Why should they go out to fight?
      They leave that up to the poor.."
      Ozzy

    • @mikehunt4797
      @mikehunt4797 2 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      War is old men talking and young men dying.

    • @kodykindhart5644
      @kodykindhart5644 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Realest comment section on yt

    • @whiterex3409
      @whiterex3409 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      The big people or the little hat people? Definitely the latter.

  • @redmustangredmustang
    @redmustangredmustang 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    I am just glad they got all these interview before these heroes passed away.

  • @CrispFTW
    @CrispFTW 4 ปีที่แล้ว +511

    Frank DeVita, thank you for sharing your story, Thank you.

    • @anobesewalnut8yearsago994
      @anobesewalnut8yearsago994 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      James Henderson what

    • @vanillasky4221
      @vanillasky4221 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @James Henderson they were already community

    • @vanillasky4221
      @vanillasky4221 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @James Henderson ok so let's say Germany did destroy the USSR and china, then what? Trade one demon for another? The nazi party was a communist policy in terms of economic, they just used racial warfare instead of the marxist class warfare.

    • @vanillasky4221
      @vanillasky4221 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @James Henderson it would have lead to it, if the germans hated communism so much then that's what would have happened

    • @justinusberger3933
      @justinusberger3933 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @James Henderson Isn't it sad how most people are completely oblivious to how we have been paying the price for allying with Marxism since WW2? Blinded by the delusions of "my granddaddy was a hero who saved the world" total nonsense.

  • @CalTxDude
    @CalTxDude 3 ปีที่แล้ว +607

    This gentleman has me sobbing.
    Over 75 years later and it still moves him the way it does... Every story I hear reminds me why they are The Greatest Generation

    • @lilzak1121
      @lilzak1121 3 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Truly are the greatest generation...Generation of Gigantic Balls

    • @clc-gl4jn
      @clc-gl4jn 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Yup. You can see in his eyes the true sorrow and even trauma from it all as he relives it...
      God bless him

    • @KoolHandJuke
      @KoolHandJuke 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @4th Chairman That's right. He should delete his comment, immediately.

    • @555dking
      @555dking 3 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      @@thezerastora there is stories. Because he is American doesn’t mean he isn’t a hero

    • @peeayetee2945
      @peeayetee2945 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      No they fought for the communists instead of against, and raised the most self indulgent generation (boomers).

  • @Moustique2000
    @Moustique2000 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2450

    I’m 28 and live in France, and it’s just breathtaking to be reminded that the reason why my country and most of Europe is free today, is those men that gave their life during D Day and the rest of the liberation campaign.
    We haven’t had a major conflict in 75 years and should all appreciate how lucky we are not having to step in those men’s shoes.

    • @jamesbinns8528
      @jamesbinns8528 3 ปีที่แล้ว +113

      After that war, really smart and forward looking people put together NATO and SEATO to keep the peace, and to bring the former Axis powers back into civilization. In America, I don't think our current batch of politicians are up to the task of maintaining what was so had won.

    • @elephants1964
      @elephants1964 3 ปีที่แล้ว +64

      My grandfather was one of the soldiers in the 29th division that he speaks of. I’m doing research on my grandfather & I’m honored to be his granddaughter. Growing up I didn’t realize what he had gone through. I wish I would’ve been more aware of it. He married my grandmother who was an English war bride. My uncle & my dad were both born in England. I cried listening to Frank as he went through the details of what he witnessed. My father is a Vietnam Veteran. I thank a soldier whenever I see one 🇺🇸

    • @huhumart
      @huhumart 3 ปีที่แล้ว +96

      @Grape Juice and also thank them for your mom's ability to drink while pregnant

    • @elephants1964
      @elephants1964 3 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      @@huhumart I agree! What the hell is he talking about & who the hell is he!?

    • @aileronsintowind6835
      @aileronsintowind6835 3 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      @Grape Juice hey troll I think you got your dates confused this guy isn’t talking about the 2000 generation. So c’mon back under your bridge and stop trying to hump the blender

  • @antoniovieira8497
    @antoniovieira8497 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +17

    I'm not even American, but there's something about this gentleman that brings me an unmeasurable sense of pride. Thank you, sir. Your generation saved the world. Maximum respect!

    • @sonyavincent7450
      @sonyavincent7450 7 วันที่ผ่านมา

      He is epic. He really has the x factor.

  • @bayukrisna9412
    @bayukrisna9412 4 ปีที่แล้ว +729

    "I'm not a hero, i'm a survivor"
    Man, that's deep.

    • @elaine1034
      @elaine1034 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      +Bayu Krisna Heroes are made out of selflessness and that is what he was.

    • @gsimon123
      @gsimon123 3 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      All heroes say that. This guy was already heroic before this moment but he officially stopped being a survivor when he got back on the boat so a replacement didn't have to do it. That's raw courage and the definition of heroism. Willingly putting yourself in harm's way so others don't need to...

    • @mark0077777
      @mark0077777 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Hes for sure a hero, what a great recollection. Wow. But so is everyone in war, everyone thinks their cause is the right one unfortunately. Here's to world peace.

    • @woodrowwwilson9540
      @woodrowwwilson9540 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      He is most definitely a hero

    • @laurogarza4953
      @laurogarza4953 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Remember, though he said he was scared, recognized that if he did not go (into the meat grinder) one of his mates would have to go in his place. So, he went back, again and again, to spare his mates from his fate. That's heroic!!

  • @donseavey3704
    @donseavey3704 2 ปีที่แล้ว +100

    Passed away at 96, I swear these old school vets have some serious longevity

    • @jordanbateman2706
      @jordanbateman2706 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      It’s wild, you’d think the stress would have an affect but they’ve been through so much and power through, tough as nails. I know a vet that had a heart transplant and prob has more energy than me

    • @Tr-fj4hr
      @Tr-fj4hr ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Every year more and more ww2 vets leave us. These men are gems, it’s gonna be sad when the last remaining pass on.

    • @Buce-ku9vx
      @Buce-ku9vx ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Some do, most don't.

    • @BIG_PASTA
      @BIG_PASTA ปีที่แล้ว +4

      They sure do! My grandpa who was in the air force during ww2 passed away at 99 (a few months shy of 100) due to friggin Covid in his nursing home.

    • @thomasvanderplas1652
      @thomasvanderplas1652 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      They do indeed. I like to think God grants them long life so they can tell as many people their stories.

  • @bellasandford5153
    @bellasandford5153 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1188

    I read as many comments as I could and my heart is so full. Frank is my great grandfather and was truly the greatest man i’ve ever met. so beyond grateful to have him in my life for 20 years. he will be dearly missed by so many. our family will never stop spreading his story 💕 our hero

    • @Mark-pp7jy
      @Mark-pp7jy 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      ✌️and ♥️ to you Bella.

    • @lawrencegoldworm960
      @lawrencegoldworm960 2 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      I am so heartened to know he was loved, respected, and appreciated by those around him. Thank you for sharing his story.

    • @Co0oLCat
      @Co0oLCat 2 ปีที่แล้ว +20

      What a great man. Feel honoured that I got to listen to him. His actions make him immortal. His mental fortitude, love and pain that he felt. I am grateful heros like Frank existed.His memory will live on.

    • @michaelfornaro1126
      @michaelfornaro1126 2 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      I wish I could have met him.

    • @MrHuff05
      @MrHuff05 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Your Great Grandfather is a great man. I know he's in a better place and can now rest easy. You're living proof of one of the many blessings he's given this world. I'm so thankful for his testimony and I'm sure you loved him with all your heart and soul.

  • @MelLissax
    @MelLissax ปีที่แล้ว +126

    hearing him speak about being with that boy who died while he said the prayer made me sob. I cannot even begin to imagine the horrific mental images this left him with. honored to be able to hear his story.

  • @comradecommissar3435
    @comradecommissar3435 4 ปีที่แล้ว +382

    The story of the red headed kid broke my heart. The pain in this mans voice

    • @stuartbrown1426
      @stuartbrown1426 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Must of been horrendous just cant imagine what that poor bloke has been through defo a hero in my eyes although he said he isnt bless him .

    • @deebee9917
      @deebee9917 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      i got a lump in my throat, can’t imagine

    • @AChunkyDog
      @AChunkyDog 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Being a redhead makes the story that much closer.

    • @orri6024
      @orri6024 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      thank you

    • @pappybirkenstock5663
      @pappybirkenstock5663 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I know, you can tell he felt so bad about it.

  • @baldy943
    @baldy943 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3071

    *My great grandfather was on the first wave, same beach as this guy, he was shot twice, but still made it out, received 2 Purple Hearts*
    *He died in 2008*

    • @bransonreed9050
      @bransonreed9050 4 ปีที่แล้ว +98

      Rest in piece to your grandfather, hopefully he knew that everyone was so thankful for him.

    • @miguelvasquez7523
      @miguelvasquez7523 4 ปีที่แล้ว +42

      I thank your great grandfather for his service .

    • @paultay6167
      @paultay6167 4 ปีที่แล้ว +35

      Explains why you’re here today.

    • @frankdatank2304
      @frankdatank2304 4 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      My great grandfather was also in ww2 in Italy, morter shrapnel almost took his arm off also got a purple heart.

    • @u.s.s.yorktownhmsroyaloak5059
      @u.s.s.yorktownhmsroyaloak5059 4 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      I feel old. My grandparents were too young for World War I and too old for World War II. I never knew my great grandparents. They died around 1910.

  • @Pan472
    @Pan472 2 ปีที่แล้ว +431

    The story of the redheaded man who died in his arms and the sheer sadness and sobbing with which he expressed it, showed that after this point Mr DeVita didn't want to do this anymore... But he kept on regardless and went back 14 more times, despite bringing back 300 men of his age back as dead. He wasn't just a survivor, as he said he was, but a true, courageous hero.
    We will always remember him.
    Rest in peace.

  • @bearybearbear7514
    @bearybearbear7514 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +16

    This brings so much life to WW2. It’s not just history, it’s real people.

  • @radiationraven
    @radiationraven 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1717

    The fact that he admits to being scared out of his mind, but doing his job anyway, is to me, the definition of courage. And his humility radiates. He earned the right to be a hero, but humbly rejects the mantle and gives it to the ones who gave all, and never came home.

    • @dannywade9138
      @dannywade9138 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      Beautifully said.

    • @kodykindhart5644
      @kodykindhart5644 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      He didn’t got to kill
      He went to save
      Nazis would have taken Europe most likely

    • @1truthbegettingtold275
      @1truthbegettingtold275 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      You saw it in a meme or something, same place I saw the quote like 10 years ago I never forget..

    • @RandomPlayer717
      @RandomPlayer717 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@1truthbegettingtold275 lol did you just catch someone stealing meme quotes??🤣

    • @boulderman1357
      @boulderman1357 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@kodykindhart5644 no sadly everyone thinks this they would've never had the fuckin soviet union was to much for them

  • @plasticfoodsog2955
    @plasticfoodsog2955 4 ปีที่แล้ว +512

    “ The guy 2 feet away from me, machine gun blew his helmet and a part of his brain, He was crying help me help me, he was just a little boy, i couldn’t do anything to help him”. Imagine reliving that every single day. Dreaming about that every single night. My heart sank just by listening to the story and this man sitting here lived that. I am crying ngl.
    RESPECT.

    • @nononono3421
      @nononono3421 3 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      And then after all he went through in that first wave, he went back 14 times!

    • @Ronnie-Jones
      @Ronnie-Jones 3 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      most forbidden documentary. Europa The Last Battle at archive . org

    • @isrv
      @isrv 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      My eyes shed one single tear as I was hearing that😢

    • @kali6651
      @kali6651 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @EEuphoria What are you talking about?

    • @jmanpart3
      @jmanpart3 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      As father, that part was hard to hear and to see his emotion. This guy deserves the most respect.

  • @MrMome1612
    @MrMome1612 2 ปีที่แล้ว +576

    Poor guy. He has been traumatized his entire life, but kept on living, never gave up. Thats why he is a hero. Respect!

    • @Truthseeker9393
      @Truthseeker9393 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Poor guy?!? Not the best way to describe a hero

    • @steamyyevon9429
      @steamyyevon9429 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@Truthseeker9393 he was a hero but we can’t act like a majority of those men’s that fought back then were mentally physically and emotionally broken by that war

    • @mialia15104
      @mialia15104 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@Truthseeker9393 He said himself he doesn't consider himself a hero, but a survivor.

    • @TheMrMikeo
      @TheMrMikeo ปีที่แล้ว

      So true

    • @davidblack3418
      @davidblack3418 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      He did what he had to do, without thinking about it…he just did it. You can’t think about it during that moment. That is what makes him a hero. Then he had to live with the memories of that unspeakable horror, for the rest of his life…that is what also makes him a hero…or in his words…a survivor.

  • @streetstrikersweat9318
    @streetstrikersweat9318 ปีที่แล้ว +287

    I work at Walmart and met a vet while on the job he was buying pain meds and told me he has bad ptsd from the war and they help him sleep , at one point he begins talking about some of the most horrific experiences he had , he was beginning to tear up so I said , I’m sure you had a lot of down time in between things , what were some of the things you and your brother did to pass the time .. he responded with how they would play cards using cigarettes as currency , he explained his hand and how he took a big pot from his friends .. the whole time he was talking you could see the mannerisms of his old self coming out . Anyways if you see this -
    Jose you were in a Walmart in Indiana in 2022 buying meds I’m 6ft skinny Latino with a man bun , I’ll never forget you and i hope to one day play a hand of poker if not with you on earth they I hope in another life . Take care brother ❤

    • @jflinn7401
      @jflinn7401 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      Good on you, bro. You probably did a lot of good just by being there for him and listening to what he had to say.

    • @steviechampagne
      @steviechampagne 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      @@jflinn7401Absolutely. That is the least that we can do for these heroes😢
      every person is struggling through tragedy like everyone else, we must be kind to each other as deeply as we can

    • @chupacabra304
      @chupacabra304 10 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Gracias por tomar su tiempo por cuidar ese veterano 💪🏽 thats way cool man, and hope you’re alright Jose 🙏🏽

    • @greywolf065
      @greywolf065 6 หลายเดือนก่อน

      Suffer from ptsd it's something people really don't seem to understand.

  • @TheDCGuitar13
    @TheDCGuitar13 3 ปีที่แล้ว +464

    It’s amazing how sharp he is at his age. He looks like he still
    Works out. You can tell he has his bouts with survivors guilt but I’m glad he honored his fallen brothers by living a long life.

    • @wordsareteething397
      @wordsareteething397 3 ปีที่แล้ว +30

      I work at the VA in Loma Linda CA. Most WW2 vets still look and function very well it always makes me smile. Our last true generation of American pride, and they carry it on to this day.

    • @copperfish543
      @copperfish543 3 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      But the poor guy probably has sleeping disorders stemming from the fact, that he can't forget what happened.

    • @TheDCGuitar13
      @TheDCGuitar13 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@copperfish543 you can tell by when his voice changed when he talked about being scared to die.

    • @breakingames7772
      @breakingames7772 3 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      Wonder if any of the purple and green haired liberal LGBTQ alphabet people of today would fight their freedom

    • @isawicame5126
      @isawicame5126 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      What did you expect lol

  • @Leva.Xterminator
    @Leva.Xterminator 3 ปีที่แล้ว +238

    You can still hear the youth in his voice. God bless this man.

    • @juliodelgadillo8510
      @juliodelgadillo8510 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Yes ☹ when he said "so I asked my mom" I can literally picture a very young brave man speaking 💯🥺🙏

  • @chriswilton9976
    @chriswilton9976 4 ปีที่แล้ว +630

    "I'm not a hero: I'm a survivor."

    • @rjlchristie
      @rjlchristie 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Donald Trump prefers to call him a sucker and a loser.

    • @georgyzhukov6409
      @georgyzhukov6409 4 ปีที่แล้ว +28

      @@rjlchristie stop listening to your fake news lies, he never said that. and get politics out of this

    • @rjlchristie
      @rjlchristie 4 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      @@georgyzhukov6409 1) "Fake news" is more frequently the reality, particularly in the case of the Donald J Trump, easily the most dishonest and cowardly president in US history. 2) Who makes you chief censor?

    • @wasntborn9969
      @wasntborn9969 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      @@rjlchristie moron

    • @rjlchristie
      @rjlchristie 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@wasntborn9969 Gee an insult, very original, well done.

  • @white6delta
    @white6delta ปีที่แล้ว +362

    As an Iraq war vet and an Infantryman, men like Mr Devita are the utmost of heroes to me. What these men endured on that day is incomprehensible. I look forward to the day I reach Heaven so I can shake his hand.

    • @marciamatteini7604
      @marciamatteini7604 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      God bless you sir✝️☮️

    • @IFBBJacked
      @IFBBJacked ปีที่แล้ว +4

      Same.

    • @buckin8969
      @buckin8969 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      God Bless you sir

    • @PETEYBOY954
      @PETEYBOY954 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      God bless you sir.

    • @uptopswag8446
      @uptopswag8446 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      11 bang bang! What's up brotha fellow 11b 1 tour in Afghanistan 2006, and graduated sandhill 2005! I Feel the same about Men like Devita they are true Alphas!
      Stay safe and stay free brotha!

  • @Philip_Lim
    @Philip_Lim 2 ปีที่แล้ว +364

    Imagine fighting in Omaha and Okinawa and living to tell the tale, what an absolute legend.

    • @EnduroNerd
      @EnduroNerd ปีที่แล้ว +11

      After listening to him (only got about 12min in and couldn't continue, it's just too hectic), I don't know what is worse, living through it or dying in it.

    • @JamBadguy
      @JamBadguy ปีที่แล้ว +18

      Lets not glorify it, those who died aren't irrelevant for not survivng. It was all luck, depressing luck.

    • @manmeetworld
      @manmeetworld ปีที่แล้ว

      Yani, Are you the yani from another comment string I've going on another video where we debate if you're alive or not?

    • @manmeetworld
      @manmeetworld ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @KetoFatty your handle lmao

    • @ChadSimpson-ft7yz
      @ChadSimpson-ft7yz ปีที่แล้ว +1

      ​@@JamBadguyIt's not glorifying it either way.

  • @ChibDibs
    @ChibDibs 2 ปีที่แล้ว +370

    "It's the big people who make wars. Not the common people, they're the ones that get hurt." Honestly, that's the realest thing anyone could ever say. Rest in Peace Frank DeVita. No one deserves to go through that.

    • @XFizzlepop-Berrytwist
      @XFizzlepop-Berrytwist 2 ปีที่แล้ว +16

      Yep, conscription was big back then, you had a lot of people sending men to their deaths… over practically no reason. Vietnam especially, the war with NK shouldnt have happened.
      We have incompetent leaders, yet people never seem to fight back against politicians, and follow their orders, from police, to common people, and I do not understand why.

    • @BvngeeGvm
      @BvngeeGvm ปีที่แล้ว +2

      The way he’s saying it is that’s just what it is not that the higher ups are evil or bad

    • @tomascanevaro4292
      @tomascanevaro4292 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@BvngeeGvm stop sucking off the elites

  • @billd.iniowa2263
    @billd.iniowa2263 4 ปีที่แล้ว +234

    This is the most detailed, gut wrenching interview I have heard in the 25 or so years I've been watching WWII docs. To maintain his composure while relating all of his most minute recollections... What a sailor. Frank, I know you don't think of yourself as a hero. None of you guys ever do. But you are a hero to me. Thank you so much for your time, candor, and service.

    • @cwoza5
      @cwoza5 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      I agree. Story StoryCorps has some good ones too. Like "Germans in the Woods."

    • @billd.iniowa2263
      @billd.iniowa2263 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@cwoza5 Thanx, I'll check it out!

    • @jamie25288
      @jamie25288 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      th-cam.com/video/jetsBwWXCA8/w-d-xo.html

  • @MonsterDeplorable
    @MonsterDeplorable ปีที่แล้ว +18

    I come back to Frank’s story about every 6-7 months. To once again, hear his accounts and I thank God for our veterans, and their sacrifices.

  • @derp3305
    @derp3305 4 ปีที่แล้ว +689

    *"It's the big people who makes the wars, not the common people, they're the ones that get hurt."* -Frank Devita

    • @swkenny
      @swkenny 4 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      Isn't that the truth! Damn straight.
      Those words were the best way to finish this incredible interview.

    • @junlerou6600
      @junlerou6600 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      That sentence will stick with me forever. It hits hard coming from a guy like him.

    • @bryanfarts822
      @bryanfarts822 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      Or as Lindbergh said. The British,the Jews and the Roosevelt administration. Those were the group of people agitating for American to get involved in a European war.

    • @chriscortez3334
      @chriscortez3334 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      "when the rich wage war it's the poor who die"--Jean-Paul Sartre is another good one of similar spirit

    • @michaelcollins237
      @michaelcollins237 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@bryanfarts822 Thank you I tell people this all the time

  • @Bigmummy13
    @Bigmummy13 4 ปีที่แล้ว +875

    I’m an Army vet, 3 tours to Iraq. After all I’ve seen, my hat is still off to all WW2 and Vietnam vets. Their experience makes mine look like a cake walk. I couldn’t imagine fighting war like this...

    • @mrvn000
      @mrvn000 4 ปีที่แล้ว +68

      Imagine a russian veteran.

    • @billgonzales2339
      @billgonzales2339 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      thanks Boss you to are am American hero just like my WW11 Dad and my VietNam brother both Army.

    • @williamacheson3569
      @williamacheson3569 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Just by looking at your TH-cam channel you did not serve in Iraq lol

    • @williamacheson3569
      @williamacheson3569 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      @Woobie If my statement is confusing to you. Perhaps you are an idiot. I simply observed his statement and viewed his channel. A man who serves in any army represents his country with dire dignity and utmost responsibility. I find his channel to not match his profession

    • @billgonzales2339
      @billgonzales2339 4 ปีที่แล้ว +26

      @@williamacheson3569 who the F are you to question this man?

  • @willhausauer7703
    @willhausauer7703 4 ปีที่แล้ว +735

    It’s Unbelievable to imagine the pain these men walked around with for the last 77 years. And this just shows here why you shouldn’t discredit any branch of the service.

    • @janfranklin5269
      @janfranklin5269 4 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Cripples on both sides. Nothing to be proud of.

    • @nomadicle6867
      @nomadicle6867 4 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Never discredit any branch of service, but you could make fun of them for old times sake

    • @janfranklin5269
      @janfranklin5269 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@nomadicle6867 They were serial killers. What is so great about that?

    • @vivians9392
      @vivians9392 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      Why would anyone discredit our military, especially in time of war?

    • @willhausauer7703
      @willhausauer7703 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Vivian S I think it’s pretty common for young dudes to poke fun at Air Force, navy, and especially coast guard as if they don’t endure any hardships.

  • @tylerbutterfras3421
    @tylerbutterfras3421 ปีที่แล้ว +22

    What a strong man, imagine carrying this pain for nearly 80 years, may his soul rest in peace🙏🏼

  • @JS52ATS
    @JS52ATS 4 ปีที่แล้ว +402

    “It’s the big people that make wars, not the common people. They’re the ones that get hurt.”
    Incredible.

    • @fabbat1713
      @fabbat1713 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      That’s right, I think it’s great we have started a war in the last 4 years.

    • @revolucion5398
      @revolucion5398 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Chris Farley not entirely the ""brazilians"", but they do play a significant part.

  • @JacobChardBRA
    @JacobChardBRA 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1580

    ngl i cried a little bit

    • @superboy-vd6ye
      @superboy-vd6ye 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Same

    • @iainqblank
      @iainqblank 4 ปีที่แล้ว +29

      I had a lump in my throat when he was telling the story of going back to see his mother

    • @Deathbringerrrrrrrrr
      @Deathbringerrrrrrrrr 4 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Same dude you're not alone.

    • @fabin233theboss
      @fabin233theboss 4 ปีที่แล้ว +17

      currently balling watching the people who fought for this country to be what it is today. true heros

    • @PaPaPOVEY
      @PaPaPOVEY 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Damn right, anyman who doesn't has no soul

  • @NemoShame
    @NemoShame 4 ปีที่แล้ว +625

    Man sometimes it's hard to believe these people actually did this, and people witnessed and fought and died on d-day. It's crazy.

    • @shadowling77777
      @shadowling77777 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Yup

    • @pnpdynamic9720
      @pnpdynamic9720 4 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Its life man. You realize if you are younger right now probably in your lifetime we will be in another conflict just like this. It's sad but history repeats itself. We are not learning from our mistakes very well.

    • @evanabbott2737
      @evanabbott2737 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      As I get older, the more I realize this.🙏❤️

    • @sticky4444
      @sticky4444 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      And just the fact that it was literally kids. 18 year olds dude. I can’t even imagine it

    • @janmetdekorteachternaam3673
      @janmetdekorteachternaam3673 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@pnpdynamic9720 Fortunately we are in the longest period of uninterrupted peace in the west. Ever. I really hope you are proven wrong, but only the future will tell. My father was born just after the war and his generation has known no conflicts (Im from the Netherlands) and he is 75 now. 75 years of uninterrupted peace, lets hope it stays like that for another 75 years.

  • @brizzybones7377
    @brizzybones7377 ปีที่แล้ว +83

    When he said he went back 14 times I got chills down my spine. Wow what an absolute hero of a man

  • @CasperLD
    @CasperLD 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1881

    People idolize actors, athletes, musicians. This man is what a real hero looks like.

    • @CasperLD
      @CasperLD 2 ปีที่แล้ว +25

      @@KraveSanity so you're saying this great man is not a hero? Is that really what you are saying here?

    • @BattleBladeWarrior
      @BattleBladeWarrior 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      ​@@KraveSanity If it were pointless, it wouldn't have been fought. The point on the german side was to take over as much territory as they could so they had control of europe. The point of the allies was to stop the german war machine.
      If you mean, it doesn't matter which side wins, we just keep fighting forever anyway, then I can sort of see where you're coming from, cuz our history is painted with constant wars going back and forth. And even if you win one, you might lost the next, etc.
      Otherwise, no dude. There was a point.

    • @michelrood2966
      @michelrood2966 2 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      @John Fonseca Fighting a politicians war is not saving any country you dingle.

    • @putin2918
      @putin2918 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@KraveSanity war is pointless yes, but when your duty calls you go, no matter what. It's either that or get your family slaughtered and your lady's raped by the enemy. So yeah war is bad but the warriors are our hero's who did what they had to do so one day you could come here and type BS.

    • @MayheMGilgamesh
      @MayheMGilgamesh 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@michelrood2966 So, are you saying you'd rather have had Hitler conquer Europe and beyond unapposed? Didn't know people were still Nazi sympathizers, huh. Sure Politicians might have been the one to declare the wars, but it doesnt take away the sacrifice and effort of those fighting. Everyone had their own reasons for enlisting, but it doesn't deminish the fact they fought so others wouldn't have to, and so a tyrant could be stopped.

  • @tango8011
    @tango8011 3 ปีที่แล้ว +515

    They really ought to show these videos in school. They are raw, first hand accounts of pivotal moments in history. This isn't something you get in textbooks. Thank you all for your service and to the fallen soldiers for their sacrifice.

    • @JSTX9216
      @JSTX9216 3 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      They really should. The sad reality is a lot of the kids probably don’t know what D-Day was and some would tune this out and go onto social media fishing for likes and thumbs up.

    • @Orangejuice864
      @Orangejuice864 3 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      If they showed the horror stories of what war is really like the recruiters wouldn’t have fresh meat at the end of the year.

    • @PanzerkampfwagenausfTschechosl
      @PanzerkampfwagenausfTschechosl 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      @@Orangejuice864 good. Than only those who could handle war, or at least what they saw, would join.

    • @pointseeker
      @pointseeker 2 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      My history teacher showed us videos like this, he was a bamf

    • @centerice
      @centerice 2 ปีที่แล้ว +18

      When I was in elementary school, this material WAS in the textbooks, on TV, in newspapers, books, on radio, and just about everywhere one looked. Patriotism was rampant, and uniform, throughout the country; So was respect and appreciation for the sacrifice of our founding fathers, Washington, Lafayette, and the common men, women, and even children of the colonies who shed their blood to win Independence and to establish for us a nation under God, possessing the greatest freedom and democracy ever bestowed upon a people.
      TRAGICALLY, in just a few short decades, we've allowed an unpatriotic, America-hating element to rise up, take over, and remove all patriotic inspiration. SHAME ON US for allowing this tiny, radically fringe element, to exercise control over the rest of us, a GIANT MAJORITY who outnumber them 1000 to 1.
      If we lose our beloved Republic, and by that, I mean lose our democracy though a future of corrupt elections thus falling permanently under the thumb of despotic rulers...then alas, the rise and fall of America, the "great miracle of democracy," will go down in history as a shameful, disgraceful, cautionary tale of the dire price to be paid for patriotic laziness, political slothfulness, and civic apathy in maintaining a Republic.
      Above all, the lesson will be painfully evident of the hellish result of forsaking the very God under which this nation was originally created, and who showered incalculable blessings upon it, of "milk and honey" in quality and excess not seen since the Israelites crossed the River Jordan into the Promised land.

  • @TLww4soup
    @TLww4soup 3 ปีที่แล้ว +900

    As I look around, I'm not sure America deserves this man.

  • @jamie5397
    @jamie5397 ปีที่แล้ว +95

    Imagine the burden of carrying that around with you your entire life. There is not enough gratitude to express for the sacrifices these men made

    • @rustytrombone9101
      @rustytrombone9101 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      And what isn't recognised enough these days is that the sacrifices made by these incredible Americans were for the freedoms of other countries...love and respect from the uk

  • @whyswon
    @whyswon 3 ปีที่แล้ว +253

    76 years later and the emotion from the trauma is still as raw as the day he experienced it. God bless this entire generation.

  • @Yeah12831
    @Yeah12831 4 ปีที่แล้ว +202

    These stories are priceless. I'm glad this man and his memories are immortalized in this video.

    • @Yeah12831
      @Yeah12831 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @Gary Daniel hahaha

  • @zacharyjones7948
    @zacharyjones7948 2 ปีที่แล้ว +276

    This man is incredibly sharp with an amazing memory. No hesitation in his speech, very concise and direct.

    • @trevor_corey8037
      @trevor_corey8037 2 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Very true. But, when something this monumental and horrifying happens in front of you, your brain won’t let you forget. Search your soul, you’ll find the moments of trauma are much clearer memories.

    • @Xavanux
      @Xavanux 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      You will never forget an experience like this. It rewires your brain to never ever forget, a side effect of us having many millions of years of evolution and survival: due to memories.

    • @MrYeet-ip4qj
      @MrYeet-ip4qj 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Praise God. Glory be to God. Amen.

    • @juanhunglow2220
      @juanhunglow2220 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Clearer in thought and mind than his current President…

    • @jamineamina5429
      @jamineamina5429 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Yeah crazy considering he was about 20 years old in the early 40s.... almost seems like bullshit huh?

  • @learning_with_irving4266
    @learning_with_irving4266 ปีที่แล้ว +35

    I just wanted to hug him when he started getting emotional 😔 Living hero deserves more recognition

  • @indridcold8433
    @indridcold8433 3 ปีที่แล้ว +551

    It was 77 years today. How can anybody ever repay any of the men that invaded Omaha Beach, of Normandy France? Thank you so much.

    • @chrisgould101
      @chrisgould101 3 ปีที่แล้ว +15

      Firstly fight the ideological psychological war plaguing us today . We'll see who's who

    • @puddynuts
      @puddynuts 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      My grandfather landed at Omaha. Chokes me up hearing this and wondering what his experience was like. This is why these people were the absolute greatest generation. He was afraid to die and went back 14 times just so that he wasn’t leaving his countrymen hanging. Unreal.

    • @chrisgould101
      @chrisgould101 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      @@puddynuts men like that need to come back in a hurry

    • @matro951
      @matro951 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      We cant

    • @redacted6855
      @redacted6855 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Only way we can repay these brave men is to be an American who is worth sacrificing so much for 🙏🏼

  • @rcfred_689
    @rcfred_689 2 ปีที่แล้ว +144

    I read that this man just passed in March 2022, two months ago. What a hero and honorable man - RIP - to this man.

    • @maxlewin7807
      @maxlewin7807 2 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Wow! That's amazing.

  • @yogabbacrabba1457
    @yogabbacrabba1457 4 ปีที่แล้ว +407

    "And I went back...14 more times." That's an honorable man right there.

  • @PalmBeachGaming561
    @PalmBeachGaming561 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    This man gave me chills and made me tear up. Thank you for all you did for your country. God bless and rip

  • @iamtheyeti6663
    @iamtheyeti6663 2 ปีที่แล้ว +455

    When he said "He was just a little boy" I cried like a child, can't imagine the suffering this war caused, just props to the men and their bravery

    • @logankyllonen1657
      @logankyllonen1657 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I started crying too....

    • @omegaweapon116
      @omegaweapon116 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      I can't imagine how many teenagers were out there fighting. The young fight the wars

    • @Finn-pi5vo
      @Finn-pi5vo 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Same, this man himself was a little boy out there seeing these horrors, true hero

    • @houstonswisha143
      @houstonswisha143 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Y’all wouldn’t have made it 😂😂

    • @urcookin
      @urcookin 2 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      @@houstonswisha143 WWI they were all kids ill prepared just like today. Many believed it was just some joke overseas, until they got there. Would be the same story now. Truly would be history repeating itself.

  • @LT_Tre
    @LT_Tre 2 ปีที่แล้ว +282

    You can see the pain is this man's eyes. As a 25yo I couldn't imagine being dropped in that situation. Our veterans have all my respect.

    • @urcookin
      @urcookin 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Saving Private Ryan when they had the private showing for the guys that were there and then saying that’s the closest to how it was. Many left the theater just remembering it.

    • @crazydave6787
      @crazydave6787 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I would've just simultaneously cried, crapped myself, vomited, peed my pants, and spontaneously combusted.

    • @thelastbreed91
      @thelastbreed91 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Nah they’re are clown puppets 🤡
      Gullible naive morons fighting a pointless war for profit.

    • @l337pwnage
      @l337pwnage 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I thought about that when I turned 18, but at 18, I didn't fully realize it basically couldn't happen to me due to the politics of the time, but, I didn't know that.

    • @DeadGivaway
      @DeadGivaway 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      not a single 25yo was ready for that, you just do it and die

  • @peadookie
    @peadookie 2 ปีที่แล้ว +408

    As someone who didn't serve, I really appreciate this interview. We're closing in on the last of the WW2 vets and to hear that this man's story has been recorded gives me hope that we may never forget how horrible WW2 was. Quite a story.

    • @dcarts5616
      @dcarts5616 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      No. We’re about to experience worse. This is scary.

    • @MrRpres0088
      @MrRpres0088 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      @@dcarts5616 calm down. Sad to live in such fear.

    • @dcarts5616
      @dcarts5616 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@MrRpres0088 no fear sir. Just not happy about where the USA is headed. #NEVERTRUMP

    • @cjj2624
      @cjj2624 2 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      I hope every vet gets an opportunity to tell their story if they wish to share,they won’t be around for long and story’s like this are better than any history lesson imo no matter who you are or what age when a veteran starts talking you automatically shut up and listen upmost respect for every single one of them hero’s

    • @peadookie
      @peadookie 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@cjj2624 100% agree on every point.

  • @giusepperesponte8077
    @giusepperesponte8077 ปีที่แล้ว +139

    My grandfather was a sailor stationed at Pearl Harbor during the attack and stayed in until after the war was through (1937-1945.) He was one of the survivors. Many of his friends and even his cousin weren’t so lucky. My grandfather had photos with FDR shaking his hand. Sadly, this is about all I know. My grandfather died in 2012 when I was 15 and he had Alzheimer’s for years prior to his death so I never had a chance to ask him everything I should have, I was too young. By the time I was 12 he had lost most of those memories. To me, the most tragic thing that has happened in my life was my grandfather not living long enough for me to ask him everything I should have. He grew up poor as dirt on a Texas farm in the Great Depression. He served in the biggest war in history and saw every moment of that war from the absolute first second to the last. He was there when Pearl Harbor was attacked, he was there when Hirohito was ousted from power. He had an amazing, unbelievable life and I just wish I could have known him better. I knew him as my kind-hearted granddad and I’m happy for that but I wish I could’ve got to know him as a man as well. Sit down and have a drink, ask him everything I’ve wanted to. If I had one wish it would probably be that.
    Rest in peace to my grandfather, Chester Lee Harris. You were and will always remain my hero. The greatest man I’ve ever known.

    • @Kbsdeluxedetailing
      @Kbsdeluxedetailing ปีที่แล้ว +3

      Rest in peace to your grandfather bro 💯

    • @Buce-ku9vx
      @Buce-ku9vx ปีที่แล้ว

      So?

    • @bigmacc523
      @bigmacc523 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      He lives on through you..

    • @nychang75
      @nychang75 ปีที่แล้ว +3

      A beautiful tribute.

    • @X3AmySarah
      @X3AmySarah ปีที่แล้ว +3

      I feel the same about my grandfather too. He was a medic in the Korean War. I wish I had talked to him and asked questions. He got sick and passed when I was just becoming an adult. You feel a lot of regret. RIP to your grandpa too 🥺🙏🏼❤️

  • @SickerTrumpet
    @SickerTrumpet 3 ปีที่แล้ว +231

    The fact that…he’s alive to tell us these incredible stories, is nothing short of Incredible. God bless you sir! It’s because of people like you that my kids enjoy the life they do today.

    • @nikitakuznetsov8446
      @nikitakuznetsov8446 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      I wonder if he's still alive especially given the situation with Covid targeting old people.

  • @naui_diver9290
    @naui_diver9290 4 ปีที่แล้ว +102

    I read a book in the early 90's about a wwII hero and I looked him up and called him to say thank you..he was so humble and seemed shocked that someone called him to thank him...all these men were just amazing for lack of a better word.

    • @colinsmith484
      @colinsmith484 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      That’s pretty cool. And inspires me to do more - I try to always speak to the men when I see them wearing a hat. And if they have a moment I like to ask a question or two. Its led to a few really memorable conversations & moments. I try to teach these things to my kids

    • @caelachyt
      @caelachyt 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      They were, but then the only other choice was to let dictators enslave the world.

    • @naui_diver9290
      @naui_diver9290 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Proud Straight White Christian Conservative Man It was life that I bought in a grocery store check-out aisle

    • @howiebeats9588
      @howiebeats9588 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Amen amen. I wish everyday to have the courage and humbleness these soldiers have. They are men. They are soldiers. They are survivors.

    • @howiebeats9588
      @howiebeats9588 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@colinsmith484 that's so cool honestly I am gonna start doing this with my son. He would think it's so cool, and I have nothing but love for veterans. They fought for us. They love us all as if they would go to war again for us.

  • @mrright2808
    @mrright2808 4 ปีที่แล้ว +36

    77 years later and still cries 😢 what those men went through. Thank you.

    • @jackjohnson4148
      @jackjohnson4148 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      God bless them and have mercy on this generation

    • @aldriel8274
      @aldriel8274 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Went through the fundamental hell.

  • @jamesmoseman6426
    @jamesmoseman6426 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +6

    RIP Frank. You and your brothers are/were the greatest. Thank you for your service Sir.

  • @acslater017
    @acslater017 4 ปีที่แล้ว +280

    Damn I was under the impression that troops generally saw one theater or another. Crazy to think that someone saw Normandy, the south of France, the Philippines, and Okinawa.

    • @TheWildcard4542000
      @TheWildcard4542000 4 ปีที่แล้ว +45

      Yeah.. back then unless you were wounded really bad. You were in for the duration.

    • @funstuff2006
      @funstuff2006 4 ปีที่แล้ว +34

      Especially with the Coast Guard guys, they got sent everywhere that the Army or Marines needed to land.

    • @rockhensley6080
      @rockhensley6080 4 ปีที่แล้ว +19

      I know one of these men. He told me the Japanese were tougher that the Germans. What a stud.

    • @rockhensley6080
      @rockhensley6080 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      @A C H what the hell are you talking about. He fought the entire European theater then smoked out and killed all what was left of the Japanese. The guy was an all out badass. Worked all who stood before him. God bless America....

    • @davidbristow69
      @davidbristow69 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      Landing craft of various types were a scarce commodity so they were moved around as needed.

  • @caseydangar1193
    @caseydangar1193 4 ปีที่แล้ว +449

    I'm a marine vet, did 3 tours, 1 Iraq and 2 Afghanistan, but what this man went through i could never imagine. 2000 dead is a sight I can't even fathom.

    • @mrwood4557
      @mrwood4557 4 ปีที่แล้ว +39

      Imagine being a Roman legionnaire, hacking each other with swords 30k in a single battle. Or being in the Battle of the Somme.

    • @kuya_jae
      @kuya_jae 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Would you recommend being in the army or the marines?

    • @Imachowderhead
      @Imachowderhead 4 ปีที่แล้ว +13

      My ggg grandfather was at Cold Harbor and he saw 10k men lay on that battlefield crying for days. Some 6k fell within the first few minutes. He spoke of it one time, so im told.

    • @mcfrisko834
      @mcfrisko834 4 ปีที่แล้ว +5

      Thank you as well Casey!

    • @iTzLomacc
      @iTzLomacc 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@kuya_jae well what are your goals? I’m active army I’d be happy to help

  • @kpnomad7
    @kpnomad7 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    My dad was on LST-289 and described men just dropping as they tried to hit the beach, Dad has passed on but my respect for all the courage in service grows daily!

  • @wawfulpawt2763
    @wawfulpawt2763 3 ปีที่แล้ว +155

    "An' i reached down, an' i squeezed his hand.. i wanted 'im to know he wasn't alone."
    That got me bad

    • @SeaSerpentLevi
      @SeaSerpentLevi 3 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      "He was just a little boy"
      I couldnt take it :(

    • @TLww4soup
      @TLww4soup 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Oooof... same here.

    • @emildesilvia8452
      @emildesilvia8452 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      That bit hit me real hard

    • @CL3V3L4ND40
      @CL3V3L4ND40 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      The worse part is knowing that while hes telling these stories, its being played in his mind like some kind of bad movie you cant turn off. Thats whats gets me, some men carry humongous burdens that we dont know.

  • @JesterSeregdhel
    @JesterSeregdhel 3 ปีที่แล้ว +107

    From one veteran to another: thank you for your service and for paving the way for generations.

    • @TheSixStringGuy
      @TheSixStringGuy 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      And thank you for your service and sacrifice. ❤

    • @nobodyknows222
      @nobodyknows222 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      Thank you too sir!

  • @jerrypolverino6025
    @jerrypolverino6025 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1624

    My dad landed there. Eisenhower gave him a Bronze Star. RIP Dad.

    • @chrisneedham5803
      @chrisneedham5803 4 ปีที่แล้ว +98

      My Dad landed in the first wave with the British army on Gold Beach, and made it all the way to Hamburg at the end of the war. He was never wounded. 🇬🇧🍷🍺👍

    • @sliperysid
      @sliperysid 4 ปีที่แล้ว +61

      @James Henderson there's always one! And you're it... good on you and your virtue signalling for trying to politicise the sacrifices these "everyday" brave men made for us.

    • @kikoredog
      @kikoredog 4 ปีที่แล้ว +36

      @James Henderson James Henderson is a war criminal.

    • @logicallion2196
      @logicallion2196 4 ปีที่แล้ว +56

      My grandpa was in the Bulge. I remember as a kid being woken at night by the sounds of his nightmares. Thank god all we have to fight about is SJW morons burning their own communities. Imagine having REAL dangerous fascists to deal with like the heroes of WW2. Count your blessings, my friends, for we truly live in remarkable times.

    • @sliperysid
      @sliperysid 4 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      @James Henderson Great! Well done for pointing out the horror of warfare and win at any cost actions. Like we didn't know, it's sad you think WW2 was a game of cricket played by gentlemanly rules! Not the largest mechanised destruction of humanity in all of human history.... All is fair in love and war. And you're tarnishing the sacrifices of these heroes with your need for virtue seeking, attention.

  • @theoriginaldominickmccurdy7183
    @theoriginaldominickmccurdy7183 ปีที่แล้ว +50

    My great Grandpa was a part of
    D-Day. I am so proud of what he did for his country. Every veteran should be given the respect that they deserve.

  • @didimean
    @didimean 2 ปีที่แล้ว +573

    When he described how he took the hand of the kid who got shot right in front of him... that hit hard. You can tell he has lived with that memory for his entire life. Absolutely heartbreaking. Bless this man, and all the others who fought and died for us to be here today.

    • @dwarf3535
      @dwarf3535 2 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      Every time he sees a redhead.. Every time he sees a Youth.... He remembers...

    • @lambchopLSX87
      @lambchopLSX87 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      He has left this world and those horrible memories he kept with him. I hope he is truly resting in peace

    • @naplzt4k
      @naplzt4k 2 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      I cried when he cried telling that...I'm not emotional but fk that hit me hard in the feels

    • @zumwalt4155
      @zumwalt4155 2 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      They really wer the greatest generation

    • @repentandbelieveinJesusChrist3
      @repentandbelieveinJesusChrist3 2 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      Repent to Jesus Christ
      “The mind governed by the flesh is death, but the mind governed by the Spirit is life and peace.”
      ‭‭Romans‬ ‭8:6‬ ‭NIV‬‬
      J

  • @ronaldwarren5220
    @ronaldwarren5220 4 ปีที่แล้ว +311

    Holy s***! I saw combat in Vietnam but nothing like those guys did. It seems trivial to say but thank you for your service. My father repaired tanks for Patton's 3rd Army but got there too late for D day. Those men and women saved the world.

    • @chino6789
      @chino6789 4 ปีที่แล้ว +7

      They sure did save the world. Heroes, every one of them

    • @panasony23
      @panasony23 4 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      its a shame that they saved the world from the real nazis just to have nazis spring back up (antifa) and call us nazis for being Patriotic. I think human history has a pattern to repeat itself.

    • @yourhandlehere1
      @yourhandlehere1 4 ปีที่แล้ว +6

      My dad was a Tanker during Korea, but stationed in Germany. His job was putting newly arrived tanks through their paces before they were allowed in service. Factory tests them...then the Army tests them again. I think by then he would have been working on "Patton" tanks as they were introduced.
      He tossed a guy out of one one day. When you drive, the commander will kick you right or left shoulder, middle of the back etc. to tell you what to do. Dad's barreling down this hill at top speed and the commander keeps kicking him to go faster. "That's all she's got!" Kick kick kick....He's also sticking halfway out his hatch. Dad slammed it into reverse...(by accident of course). Tank did a nose stand, commander did a Superman.

    • @yourhandlehere1
      @yourhandlehere1 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @Robert Biondo Hey Navy, First...thanks. I have a question. My uncle who died a few years ago. I find different meanings for what his job might have been. His stone reads ATCS USN WWII KO VN.
      He never talked about it that I know of.

    • @dennishoughton2548
      @dennishoughton2548 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Ronald ..my father was supporting the US fleet at Leyte in the Philippines

  • @SilentKnight43
    @SilentKnight43 2 ปีที่แล้ว +440

    He made 15 trips in the Higgins boat to Omaha Beach carrying troops...after having 12-14 slaughtered on the first trip. He went back time and time again not wanting someone else to die in his place. I can't wrap my head around the level of courage and heroism this man possessed. My god!

    • @defaultytuser
      @defaultytuser 2 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      The Greatest Generation , friend!

    • @dunno6442
      @dunno6442 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      it's sad to think most young men today would cower at the idea of fighting for their country, god bless these soldiers.

    • @putin2918
      @putin2918 2 ปีที่แล้ว +14

      And today noone respects the legacy of those who sacrificed themselves for us.... How sad they will be when they see what the world has become on the very land they poured their blood. We are a disgrace.

    • @SilentKnight43
      @SilentKnight43 2 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      @@putin2918 I wouldn't say "no one respects" - but not enough take the time to honor these great men. As a veteran myself and and deep family heritage of service, I often attend ceremonies at our local cenotaph on Remembrance Day to pause and reflect on their sacrifices. I wish the crowds were bigger.

    • @mattsmith1440
      @mattsmith1440 2 ปีที่แล้ว +12

      @@dunno6442
      If all the young men refused to 'serve' by giving their lives in a senseless fashion to those lucky enough to be in power - who would never actually fight themselves - then there would be no wars in the first place.

  • @lekoraxx5406
    @lekoraxx5406 ปีที่แล้ว +18

    Wow, he explained it so well, I could picture the scenery and moments he described but it's not comparable with the reality he went through. Such tough, brave men.
    Rest in piece all.

  • @slapshot6ful
    @slapshot6ful 3 ปีที่แล้ว +100

    I'm glad you survived Mr. Devita. I can't imagine surviving the 1st minute let alone all you endured. Truly heroic.

    • @chrisgould101
      @chrisgould101 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I'd say if you mentally survive the first minute of incoming barrages youve overcome half already. I cant even imagine kids of today doing this. Theyve been softened so much to it.

    • @bradleysmith9431
      @bradleysmith9431 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Unfortunately now, coming out of the closet, is considered "heroic" it's sickening

  • @barrymayhew6700
    @barrymayhew6700 4 ปีที่แล้ว +92

    All this at eighteen years old...I was still drinking cider and going to to discos. Thank you so much to all the veterans from WWII, we owe you so much,

  • @throwabrick
    @throwabrick 4 ปีที่แล้ว +81

    "...so I went back, fourteen more times."
    I literally shook and cried when he said this. I don't know if I could have done it even twice. I am in awe.

    • @jasons1034
      @jasons1034 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I too had to pause and take in that he made 15 trips.

    • @tomzaner5255
      @tomzaner5255 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      Y. Amazing man

    • @Dragoneer
      @Dragoneer 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      I’m literally shaking and crying rn

    • @bryanrowder1831
      @bryanrowder1831 4 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      yes me too. What I learned from my own near death experience is that life is tough and it is easier to die. Total peace.

    • @janmetdekorteachternaam3673
      @janmetdekorteachternaam3673 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@bryanrowder1831 Really? I took away from my near seath experience (after an accident, nothing heroic) dying is total panic and I never want to experience that again. Unfortunately we all have to some day...

  • @Broomehall
    @Broomehall 4 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    Its because of guys like this throughout the war from all involved that we are able to read this ..... God bless you Frank and all those that didn't make it too ❤

  • @chocolatefrenzieya
    @chocolatefrenzieya 4 ปีที่แล้ว +164

    Uggghh...I'm sobbing. Poor man. I still can't even imagine the horror of those days. How do you steel yourself to drop that gate knowing the second you do, everyone is getting mowed down?

    • @MrOuija-rr8kq
      @MrOuija-rr8kq 4 ปีที่แล้ว +22

      Seriously. He didn’t want to do it but he had to. I’m sure he thinks of that moment everyday.

    • @billgonzales2339
      @billgonzales2339 4 ปีที่แล้ว +11

      WAR IS HELL

    • @ClearOutSamskaras
      @ClearOutSamskaras 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      It is so important to have someone else there who has their responsibilities too and reminds you of yours. His retelling of how the Coxswain became more adamant and loud that Mr. Devita drop the ramp was powerful; i could see the picture of it in my mind.

    • @shanghunter7697
      @shanghunter7697 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@billgonzales2339 Yet it IS always created because there is money to be made at war. This IS why i completely despise money and anything to do with it......j.m.o.

    • @billgonzales2339
      @billgonzales2339 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@shanghunter7697 Money is the root of all EVIL.

  • @matthewriser1091
    @matthewriser1091 3 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    My grandpa landed on Omaha . He wouldn’t tell me what happened . Just some stories once they made it inland . He was the best man I’ve ever known . He died in 2013 . He was 95. My hero

  • @MaZterExplodR
    @MaZterExplodR 4 ปีที่แล้ว +388

    The number of times, and how he says “I don’t/didn’t wanna die.” Is the most sincere and human statement. None of us want to die, and he showed true courage and bravery. I’m in the Marines and I always tell ppl, the enemy doesn’t care what color you are, we’re American first.

    • @coke378
      @coke378 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      AMEN.
      THANK YOU.

    • @mr.bonesbbq3288
      @mr.bonesbbq3288 3 ปีที่แล้ว +8

      Semper Fi, from an ol Air Det Seabee!
      Many Thanks fer yer Service, Brother!

    • @toocharged
      @toocharged 3 ปีที่แล้ว +10

      Your goverment doesn't care for you also they wanna give you that sense that they appreciate you and that we're all American but how about outside of military in the streets and schools they try to say no one is the same white black brown even in jail they teach to separate but oh no when it comes to hoodwinking people to join there military they say we're are all American don't give your life for old men in offices not brave enough to do the bidding you are not defending your country by going to other counties invading no one in invading America if they were then you can stand up and fight to protect one's you love but in a foreigners country who are you protecting? the old men in power political agenda is what your protecting

    • @tomabela7949
      @tomabela7949 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      people, branding people where they live is just as stupid as branding them as their colour of skin

    • @DaMathias
      @DaMathias 3 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@toocharged wtf are you on about? You’re clearly uneducated

  • @Dio-Edits-jjba
    @Dio-Edits-jjba 9 หลายเดือนก่อน +9

    If you Google the name of this brave man it shows you a picture of him and how young he really was when all of that happened right in front of his eyes. Such bravery and valor.

  • @noahoxley6
    @noahoxley6 3 ปีที่แล้ว +215

    My grandfather landed on D-Day and was at the battle of the bulge. Thankfully the war had finished as he was on his way to Japan. He was a wonderful man like this gentlemen. He passed away in 2014 at 93. Rip pops

    • @mrtakeiteasyguy6233
      @mrtakeiteasyguy6233 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      God bless you and your family

    • @00177600
      @00177600 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      My great Uncle landed on Omaha on Dday and also fought at the battle of Ardennes (bulge). They may have fought together. I'm glad your Grandfather lived a long life, as did my Uncle, he passed away in 2008. He told me a few stories about the war. My Aunt told me he never spoke to anyone about the war before. I'll never forget what he told me and what I would give to be able to sit and speak to him one last time.

  • @thepozimotogaming
    @thepozimotogaming 3 ปีที่แล้ว +609

    I believe this man may have actually been on the same Higgins as my grandfather Gary. This is the second time I’ve heard this story but first time from someone other than him. He talked about a guy he had to help get the ramp up with and how he was too young to even be there. I really do wonder if that was this man. My grandfather passed from Colon Cancer a few years ago.

    • @MidwestBoxin
      @MidwestBoxin 3 ปีที่แล้ว +51

      God Bless Your Grandfather! Hero!

    • @alexwarner2757
      @alexwarner2757 3 ปีที่แล้ว +37

      From the bottom of my heart. I APPRECIATE YOUR GRANDFATHER, AND your family for the service we should never take for granted. I am also a Vet, but It's because of the generations before, my time of vets have deep appreciation for real old school hardcore Veterans.

    • @jonm2416
      @jonm2416 3 ปีที่แล้ว +21

      Was your grandfather Army or Coast Gaurd? That may shed some light even though the man said he wasn't sure who helped him.

    • @jak3est
      @jak3est 2 ปีที่แล้ว +32

      Sadly it probably was the same story for all the boats during the first couple waves.... which is insane to think about think of all the boats that made it to shore have this same story. Every gate probably had 10 dead bodies laying on it in seconds. The boat crews had a incredibly hard job on the beach. How he could muster the courage to even go back to the beach a 2nd time is nuts he must've surely thought he'd die that day

    • @gerardogalindo8943
      @gerardogalindo8943 2 ปีที่แล้ว

      Much love and respect to your grandfather. May he rest in peace.

  • @npetersen57
    @npetersen57 3 ปีที่แล้ว +58

    The most respect to this man, can’t thank him enough for his life.

  • @egx161
    @egx161 6 หลายเดือนก่อน +2

    These videos, documenting our true hero’s is very important. These men made a sacrifice that most cannot even imagine. Thank you all, for your service.

  • @spuriouseffect
    @spuriouseffect 4 ปีที่แล้ว +98

    My great uncle James said that on his way to the beach, they couldn't figure out what all the logs were floating in the water. It turned out they were arms and legs. When the ramp was lowered, all my uncles friends were gunned down in front of him. He fought all the way through the rest of the war, and made back home somehow. For the rest of his life he never set foot outside the community where we live. He never talked about what he went through until my grandmother asked him to give me an interview for a school project. That was the first time in my life that I ever saw a man weep. Those men went through hell.

    • @shirleylake7738
      @shirleylake7738 4 ปีที่แล้ว +9

      My dad was in the Philippines 2yrs2mos.and2days Army Airborne 13th division. He earned 4 bronze stsrs,stars, medals and ribbons. The medal he was most proud of was the medal of good conduct.He was hopped around 8 islands. They were on one island that was 10 miles long. One night they were bombed over 100 times. He said the thing he didn't like about the beaches were they left you exposed. When he came home from the war a relative wanted him to relocate from Philadelphia to the Jersey shore. My dad wouldn't go he had enough of sand is what he said.

    • @Imachowderhead
      @Imachowderhead 4 ปีที่แล้ว +4

      My dentist was from Bedford VA. They had the highest casualty rate per capita on D day. . He went to college and his friends went to war. he lost all of them. Some that were deemed not fit for duty were so distraught, they committed suicide.

    • @evanabbott2737
      @evanabbott2737 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@Imachowderhead my grandpa told me about that.🙏

    • @cyanity76
      @cyanity76 4 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@shirleylake7738 My great grandfather fought in WW2, Philippine Army. I don't know what his division was but he was part of the Bataan death march. Cheers to my great grandfather and your dad, good sir.

    • @shirleylake7738
      @shirleylake7738 4 ปีที่แล้ว +2

      @@cyanity76 I salute your Grandfather a war hero.

  • @thematthewlong
    @thematthewlong 3 ปีที่แล้ว +55

    15 times!!!! What incredible courage and Valor this man demonstrated on one of the greatest battles in history.

    • @gkiss2030
      @gkiss2030 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      His performance can only be compared to that of Mr. Doss's.

    • @brianmeyers5524
      @brianmeyers5524 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      The greatest battle? You mean the saddest 😢. How can it be great when so many died?

    • @thematthewlong
      @thematthewlong 3 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@brianmeyers5524 because it secured the necessary foothold for the allied invasion into Europe -- it is without a doubt one of the greatest battles ever fought in history.

    • @brianmeyers5524
      @brianmeyers5524 3 ปีที่แล้ว

      @@thematthewlong "Mankind must put an to War, or War will put an end to mankind."
      John F Kennedy

  • @hook7872
    @hook7872 4 ปีที่แล้ว +27

    He was scared to death but made fifteen trips into the belly of the beast. I have never been more impacted by an interview. This man saw hell. The part that hit me was when he said that I am no hero, I’m just a survivor. Self sacrificing and humble. Incredible man

  • @marciamatteini7604
    @marciamatteini7604 ปีที่แล้ว +71

    My Dad was in WW11. He hardly talked about his experience. He spent 7 years of his life in the Army Air Force. Every Memorial Day he would put on his uniform, which still fit him like a glove, and we would go to the cemetery to visit the graves of his buddies that were in the war. I was so proud of him. He was a very handsome man still. Some people would come up to him and shake his hand and thank him for his service in the war. Now I do the same when I see someone with a hat or uniform. My Dad was a wonderful husband, father and friend to many. And I thank God he spared his life. He passed away at the age of 91. I miss him terribly but I also know he is in Heaven because he loved the Lord Jesus, and I will see him again. ✝️☮️

    • @Cristina_504
      @Cristina_504 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      Sounds like a great man , happy he lived and you had a great father!❤

    • @marciamatteini7604
      @marciamatteini7604 ปีที่แล้ว +1

      @@PRR-ny6eq you know what I meant. Glad you had a good laugh

    • @foilerea4170
      @foilerea4170 6 หลายเดือนก่อน