This series does much to keep alive their memories. I hope some of the younger ones can appreciate what these men went through for us. I had the pleasure of knowing a number of WW2 vets, infantry, pilots, radar operator, Navy, and several who all I know is that they served. Dad was attached to headquarters of the Pacific Theater. Ever single one were men of character.
You're right. During the interviews, I was struck by how well the actors had portrayed the accents and mannerisms, which made them very familiar to me. The cast prepared for their roles with reverence.
@@stubryant9145I like that part about them all being men of character. I don't like to stereotype people but this generation coming up is soft, entitled and it makes me feel very insecure about our future here in america. When the call is put out, and it will be put out again, who's going to answer it? How are they going to answer it? How are they going to hold up to the stresses and strains of basic training let alone actual combat. The fact that the greatest Generation went through the depression is no coincidence. It gave these men spine for days that otherwise may have been lacking. And then to come back from that war and build the America that they built is absolutely amazing to me! Will never see another generation like that again. At least not in my lifetime is for damn sure and I'm 69 years young right now and was raised by two of the greatest Generation in both of my parents served during World War ii.
Bill was something special. When my dad (George Luz) passed away in 1998, he drove all the way, by himself, from Philly to Rhode Island for my dad's funeral.
@@rickyb6780 I was blessed to meet all the living guys from Band of Brothers at the premier in Paris, then at the Hollywood Bowl, the Emmy's and the reunion in Phoenix. My favorite was Johnny Martin. I'd always search him out at these events and sit by him and pump him for information on my Dad. I also like to sit by Babe, Don Malarkey and Buck Compton. I was in law enforcement in Los Angeles in the 70's when Buck was a judge in Superior Court. My Dad kept telling me to contact him, but I never did. Big regret.
I visited George Luz and his wife Delvina's grave at wreaths across America last year. I made sure they got a wreath. It was such an honor just being there.
As a Belgian... I can't thank those men enough! I teach my kids that the life and freedom they have was not for free! With the current situations in the world... we all hope it stays the way that incredible generation left it for us when they got home! Love from Belgium!
On this Anniversary of D-Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of these service men (and their families) gave that day and the rest of their lives. May God bless them all forever.
The part where he’s talking about his Dad’s prosthetic leg and “stump sock” was very relatable for me. My Dad lost both of his legs in Vietnam, and very much the same feeling. I didn’t know any different. He was my Dad and that’s how things were. He worked a normal job for almost 40 years until retirement.
The sons of the BOB men coming together to talk about their dad's is just the Christmas gift I never knew was coming. This one and the one with Luz' son is just wonderful!
Had the extreme pleasure of meeting Wild Bill at a Band of Brother lithograph signing at Gettysburg's PA. "Aces High Club" bed & breakfast. Wild Bill was and is the complete Man's man. He & the rest of the Band of Brothers were truly given all respect that day that they deserve as being perfect examples of this country's Greatest Generation. There was a question & answer session after the signing & some lady told Bill that she had found during her research that Bill was entitled to some medals that he had earned during WW 11. Bill asked her if during all her research if she'd found the other half of his leg, he brought the whole house down with his response. I counted myself so fortunate to have meant him & share a porch swing with him in Gettysburg for a few minutes. A true American hero in my book. Greatest Generation for sure.
I’m not a veteran, and my Dad was “4F”, which was his medical classification because of genetic hearing loss, and made him exempt from service during The Vietnam War. Later on in life, he became a respiratory therapist, and eventually did home care for the VA Hospital in Baltimore, specializing in home oxygen treatment (CPAP mask & machine) for vets with sleep apnea. That medical technology helped a lot of vets get a good nights sleep, which in most cases was a godsend for the difference it made in their lives. That said, my grandfather & his two brothers were all in WW2, and miraculously all made it back home safely. That drawing based on a photograph at the end of this clip made me tear up. Can’t imagine the impact it has on, like yourself, those who served & saw combat. Tip of the hat, for you, and all who make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Simply, thank you.🫡 🇺🇸
God bless all of that generation. My dad was one. Today we'd say he suffered from PTSD and suffer he did. Almost every night he could be heard shouting in his sleep. He didn't speak often of the war but when he told a story I'd often ask what happened to the people he described. The answer was almost always the same, "They died" At his funeral several "old" men who served with him where there. A friend told me she'd never seen old men stand at attention like they did when they lowered my dad into his grave.
God bless your father, and those he served with. God bless you, your children, and all their children. God bless Aamerica, and may we never forget what it means to be an American.
The WWII museum in New Orleans held a BoB “20th reunion” which was delayed two years by Covid. One of the panels was family and actors: George Jnr with Rick Gomez, who played George Snr; Robin Laing, who played Babe, with Babe’s daughter Trisha; John Frank Hughes (Wild Bill) with Gene, Doc Roe’s grandson Chris and actor Shane Taylor; and Ed Tipper’s daughter. It’s really, really good and very funny, and it’s on UA-cam.
🇺🇸 For me, real men like these are the true heroes of America. The everyday, extraordinary people - strong, yet humble, and tell it how it is. 🦅 'Wild' Bill, a frontiersman of sorts, lived between two worlds and walked through it. What a privilege it would have been to fight alongside him and the 101st 🍻 Greetings from England, UK 🇬🇧 Currahee! 💪🏼 Great interview, and thanks for sharing. May he rest in peace... 🙏🕯🪽
When I was a kid I would see Gaurnere at an event I went to with my dad and at the age of about 5 he would ask me how many girlfriends I had. He was an amazing man. Rest in peace.
Never forget. Never stop respecting. Most of us will NEVER comprehend what these young men (kids really) faced for US! Taken from this life, so soon, so cruely, before they had a chance to experience it. Gone as teenagers, never having really lived. I owe all my years, my experiences, my education, my happiness and the grief I was lucky enough to know, to these young men who died for me. I will NEVER HAVE ANYTHING but the greatest respect and admiration for these men who basically saved the World.
Really well said and such a heartfelt sentiment. I think it's safe to say that most of the people watching this feel the same as you. I certainly do. Both my parents served during the war, my dad was US Navy South Pacific. He joined at 17 to quote un quote see the world. My mom said that he saw far too much action for that 17-year-old body, Mind, and Spirit to endure and handle. She said he came home wrecked and it took years and years for his War to subside and pass in the rearview mirror. I can remember as a child hearing him shouting and crying in the middle of the night. I never knew what it was all about until my mom took me aside when I was about 13 or 14 and told me that my dad was still fighting his war. I'm so proud of both of my parents not a day goes by that I don't miss them. Rest in peace Mom and Dad, you did your jobs and you did them well!🙏🇺🇲⚓️💯💖😔
This was very interesting. Bill Guarnere seems like a larger than life man. The courage of him and the other guys is beyond comprehension. So inspirational, what they were able to accomplish. We can never forget them.
The fact that Guarnere had his leg literally blown off and still went to work every day is still amazing. I was a paratrooper for 9 years and I have nothing but the utmost respect for these guys Edit: The thing about full disability was crazy too. I was deployed in July 2010 with 5/73rd Cavalry (82nd Airborne) and went through Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn. It was in Enduring Freedom where I was hit with a grenade fragment in my left shoulder. There was little permanent damage, and I'm a righty so not being able to rotate my left arm all the way around wasn't too bad, but I had to fight for my Purple Heart. Fucking ridiculous. Eighty Deuce All The Way!
Had to fight the VA to get his rightful pension. Outrageous. But not as Outrageous as the Veterans that our nations wars chewed up have to fight for their just compensations. And now we've people demanding reparations for zip. Now that's outrageous.
@@Capitan_Doug_Keith Doug, very happy abd pleased to hear you are receiving the benefits and care you've earned. I wish you a healthy and anxiety free life.
According to my grandmother, two of my great-uncles were badly wounded in WW1 but - they absolutely refused any kind of pension as they saw it as 'charity'. Since both men had at least one good hand or arm left they just got on with working for a living as a tailor and swimming instructor respectively.
I’m not going to sit here and try to take anything away from these men as the losses that day was staggering but the infantry units that was among the first wave to land on Omaha beach took a high casualty rate. I believe 80% was killed among those first landings. It was insane. Crazy thing was I believe they was part of the first army and none of the guys had battle experience. It was quoted that General Eisenhower said he needed young guys without the experience because they was clueless as to how bad war was. As with all young men you think your Superman and could never be hurt and that’s what they needed. He stated that men with battle experience knew what it was like and would possibly not get the job done. Regardless they all took heavy losses but who took the most losses can probably be argumentative. I believe they took around 3,700 casualties on Omaha beach while the Airborn units took 2,500 casualties but my memory could be wrong. These was all great men. They was some of the toughest hero’s ever to live. My grandfather served with the 7th armored division but passed away when I was younger pulling into the driveway of the farmer next to us and have a heart attack. He was on his way to visit that day. My Dad served in Vietnam and lost his leg. Heck he still talks of having phantom pains and used to Even forget to put his leg on and fall which he has quit drinking so that stoped. lol.
As a little girl, I would watch war movies with my grandpa every Saturday. Today is Saturday- so I’m watching videos about grandpas - w/ tears in my eyes.
Always loved this series (I've still got it on DVD) So awesome to hear from these guys sons (Bills son sounds like he'd be just like him, a tough bloke) But a pair of bloody awesome legends, Bills son sounds just like him and I reckon he would've been a handful of fella back in the day just like his Dad. Thanks for the videos and making sure that these blokes are to be remembered to be the 'best generation' we've ever had in our world. Respect from an Afghanistan Vet (Aussie): 2004 to 2010 tours.
Our father, born also 1918, combat engineer T-Sgt, landed Normandy Omaha Beach day 2. My uncle, ended up making 5 landings in N Africa - Italy. Exceptional men of great character, Jewish men from West Philly (with the inescable accent as penetrating as any from South Philly). Greatest Generation hands down. Thank you for this prize winning interview. May their memories be for a Blessing!
These guys were the definition of the greatest generation! I'd never seen this video before I'm just super grateful that you uploaded it for all of us to see. After watching Band of Brothers countless times I really feel like I knew these men. I wish I did if for nothing else just to shake their hand and thank them. They don't make men like this anymore nor women either. These guys went through the Great Depression and knew poverty like none of us will ever know and came out the other side of World War II and built the lives that we all take for granted today. I'm 69 years young and I was raised by this generation both my parents being veterans of World War II. My dad was US Navy, South Pacific and my mom was in the Women's Air Corps and they called them WAC's. She was part of a unit that ferried Boieng B-17s from the plant here in Everett Washington down to California for deployment to the Pacific. She got the fire of the 50 caliber machine guns out over the Pacific and just absolutely loved her B-17s, to her dying breath she loved those planes! I'm super proud of both of my parents and they and they alone are responsible for who I am today and how I can hold my head and be proud to have been raised by such fine people. Rest in peace Mom and Dad, you did your jobs and you did them well!❤🙏🇺🇲⚓️💯💖😊
I met Bill and his grand daughter not to long before he passed. My son was so happy just to shake his hand and have a few words with Bill. At the time my young son knew more about Wild Bill than I did. Wish I was more into WW 2 history at that time.
Mark and gang, these videos about the men of Easy company are incredible. Just to hear the stories passed down to the families reminds me of the stories my father told me when he served in WWII with the 9th AAF.
Such a special gift to have these discussions for all time to remember. Patriotism was always a big deal in our family, to this day. My grandmother, who's still kicking at 102, was a Rosie who got on a train with my grand dad and went to Willow Run to build bombers. So the stories and lessons of living through the war had a lot more meaning to me especially because my grandparents were always my biggest heroes. Like them, BoB hit me in a way nothing else has. Thanks guys! Love these stories!
My Dad was there at Bastogne with the 101st Airborne. He did not talk about what he went through but I have managed through the years to put together a little bit of what he went through. This interview confirms to me why he was the way he was. For that I am greatful and more in awe of him than ever. I lost my Dad at age 49 and along with that the opportunity to have those talks in my later years.
Of all the interviews I've seen with BOB Vets or relatives this one may be the best, in 1962 my Grandpa Burgett told me this man is our relative, Donald R Burgett was with Able Company alongside Easy Co and was friends of many Easy Men, Pvt Burgett went on to write 5 books on his experiences in WW 2, From dropping into Normandy, to Market Garden and the Bulge, he finished the war atop Hitlers Eagles Nest as depicted in BOB, Trooper Burgett told me stories that weren't mentioned in his books, RIP Screaming Eagle
I read his book Currahee as a 10 year old-i was an advanced reader. I just recently acquired another copy & have reread it. Having read his book,BoB was a fantastic addition to the stories around D-Day. Growing up,I was surrounded by old soldiers & I asked them many questions. Mostly they went unanswered,or they would try to steer my fascination into a different focus. I had no idea what I was doing to them,but they were so kind & gracious,it's hard to believe they did what they did,such lovely men...I miss them all
I believe I met your grandfather near Brecourt Manor near the 60th Anniversary, I could be mistaken, but I did meet a 101st vet on that road near Le Grand Chemin and he explained the entire scene to me. I read all 5 of those books, some of the best first hand accounts I’ve ever read. Currahee
I gave my son the entire collection on his 20th birthday, a few weeks ago. I said to him, "You think 'all those old men' when you think of WWII veterans, but they were your age when they went through all that (what's in the books)." I hope he gets something out of them. He's already a very respectful person.
Yeah, that was funny. Never really classified it as a stinky cheese, but I get it. I just know I don't like it because it's like shaved soft plastic, and it ruins every sandwich it's placed upon...especially them fake Philly cheesesteaks. You gonna eat a real Philly, it's gotta be a cheese spread.
Hey Cuz, it does my heart good to hear that South Philly accent! God rest the souls of our fathers who fought in that war, Gene. My father and all of my uncles were in uniform in both theaters of operation and they are all gone now. Never was the impermanence of life so glaring.
@@jimmyb4728 Both my parents were from 12th and Dickenson Sts. I was born on Passyunk Ave. across from the Moyamensing Prison when it was still there. We made the distinction between gravy and sauce. Gravy was either meatball, salsiccia, or pork ribs in a tomato-base sauce whereas la salsa was always simply "alla marinara" with no meat. Garlic, olive oil, and basilico along with salt and black pepper. In Italy, the "gravy" is called "Ragù".
@@dr.tomgio6694 I remember my grandmother saying pork n veal make the gravy, she had a meatball and Italian sausage gravy, also a chicken and pork gravy that was out of this world, but the veal n pork was the best.
Wild Bill was a class act. See's candies? The epitome of excellent chocolates. I couldn't help crying through this. Such decent men who fought for all of us and I could never thank them for what they did. Those men are gone now and we are the poorer for it. I can thank the families of these soldiers though. Thank you for their service and their tenacity and the hardships they faced while fighting for our safety and freedom. Every American needs to watch the series Band of Brothers and this video. I am glad I did. God bless these men.
It is absolutely amazing the bravery these men and women displayed to save democracy and our way of life. Words can not express my heartfelt appreciation, and these stories and videos should be a must-see to ALL high school students. Freedom is not free!!!!!
@@Kitiwake foreign? Hitler sought to take control over the entire world, if US hadn’t gotten involved in 1941, then Europe would’ve been lost to the Nazis and the US would’ve gotten invaded eventually.
I wished I could go back in time to when these events and get Sink, Strayer, and Winters in the same room and get their thoughts on the subject of Sobel, his charges against Winters, and the NCOs doing what they did.
When my Grandpa had his heart attack he drove himself to the hospital and my Grandma didn't know until the next day. They just don't make them like that anymore, they truly were the Greatest Generation.
I wondered if Bill went to college under the GI Bill. He lead an incredible life and dealt with his disability with dignity. Thanks for posting this interview with Bill's son.
My Korean War 11B Grandpa (RIP) was the most active gentleman around; hiking, walking and kayaking in his 80s. He survived multiple heart attacks and even drove to the hospital himself after having said attacks. The old generations were made different. God rest his soul. The legends are watching from the Heavens on high.
God bless all the men of Easy Company and all those who have served their country in all wars. And God bless their families too. We should be thankful every day for our freedom which they bought for us with their blood and bodies. Never forget.
My father was Army Air Corp served in the Phillipines on A20s and B25s was wounded in flight an didn’t know it until his plane landed. His plane was later shot down and he was the sole survivor. MIA for 6 weeks PTSD ate him up.
I loved the Band of Brothers series. I bought it as soon as it came out, and must have watched it a dozen times. I gave the series to a former neighbor who served in Iraq (if my memory is correct) who never got to watch it and wanted to. Years later, I want to buy the series again.
Absolutely, positively one of the greatest things I’ve seen on UA-cam !!! I had goosebumps from beginning to end .Bill was of my favorites on BOB. The actor who portrayed him was superb. His son Gene made him come alive for me. God Bless you Bill and all of the HEROES of Easy Company ! I hope I’m wrong but I think they broke the mold when it came to you guys ! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
I really appreciate that your channel has some interviews like this - it is a good reminder that behind our hobby there are real soldiers who risked/endured so much for us. It is good to hear how that impacted them so we don’t forget or take it for granted. I’m very appreciative to these guys for sharing their family stories so we can better understand their fathers as men and not solely as soldiers.
Thanks Scott! It is always an honor and privilege to interview people like Gene and George. Hopefully we can keep their stories alive for future generations and inspire gamers to delve into the history of the games they play.
This was beautiful Gene. You must have been proud of you Dad. We are also from Philly. I’m your age. My dad was around your dad’s age. My dad was in the CCC. I think I read somewhere that your dad was also in the CCC. if so I wonder if their paths ever cross (being they both were from Philly)
I LOVE BAND OF BROTHERS AND THE GUYS!!!! YOU KIDS WERE SOOOOOO FORTUNATE TO HAVE HAD THESE WONDERFUL SOLDIERS, MEDICAL STAFF, ETC..... FOR PARENTS AND RELATIVES!!!! GOD BLESS Y'ALL 💜
I remember eating and then some drill sgt saying stop we are going to run 5 miles. Hated it at the time but remembering it brings a smile. Army retired after a few decades. To all my brothers and sisters in all services. Thank you for your service!
Great interview and bloody infuriates me they skimped on the pensions of our veterens based on their rank. RIP to all the brave men and women who sacrificed everything so that we can live a better tomorrow.
Wow - what a great interview. Their dads would b so proud of them - making sure that no one ever forgets the great sacrifice these heroes went through!!
This is beyond touching. These are priceless anecdotes. Mr. Guarnere’s son makes a statement towards the end of this clip that really resonated with me. Something to the effect that these men stuck together after the war and the fact that they would rarely talk about the war but rather their lives, their families and their activities. Of course, we want to know all about it but how does one who’s lived the horror rekindle those memories with the men that survived this ordeal? Unimaginable.
A wonderful tue story Of Wild Bill Guarnere. Thank you both for telling us about him. May he and the rest of his Band of Brothers Rest In Peace forevermore.
I completely understand the dislike for Christmas. As a Veteran, it bothers me the same way,I lost a friend Dec. 19, 2009. It takes a little more away from you every year.
Thank You Bill Guarnere and everyone in his family, all of Easy Company and everyone ever that has served the cause of freedom and fought or supported those who fought sacrificed and died for us all.
i met wild bill when he drove to huntingdon pa to meet with high school history teachers. band of brothers was currently being shown. wild bill who drove the 200 miles to visit our high school was one of the nicest and most sincere people i ever met. as the son of a wwII vet i honor meeting him and hearing his story. thanks, wild bill. tim english
Bill was such a lovely man. Had the pleasure to correspond with Bill and he was a prodigious respondent. They are treasured possessions and Bill's passing is most definitely regretted. RIP sir.
Even though band of brothers was incredible probably the best mini series ever made it still could not come close to the bond that these men shared in real life it’s something that only combat can bring out in people you could tell that they were all literally brothers and heroes every single one of them 🙏🏻
What a great man, and you portrayed him wonderfully. These are the guys that make me proud to be an American! Thank you. My Father was a prisoner of war of the Japanese I truly wish I would have asked him more about what he went thru during the war
They couldn't have cast a better actor for Wild Bill Gaurnere than Frank...
absolutely perfect.
This series does much to keep alive their memories. I hope some of the younger ones can appreciate what these men went through for us. I had the pleasure of knowing a number of WW2 vets, infantry, pilots, radar operator, Navy, and several who all I know is that they served. Dad was attached to headquarters of the Pacific Theater. Ever single one were men of character.
that can be said for the entire main cast
I think most of their casting was pretty damn good.
You're right. During the interviews, I was struck by how well the actors had portrayed the accents and mannerisms, which made them very familiar to me. The cast prepared for their roles with reverence.
@@stubryant9145I like that part about them all being men of character. I don't like to stereotype people but this generation coming up is soft, entitled and it makes me feel very insecure about our future here in america. When the call is put out, and it will be put out again, who's going to answer it? How are they going to answer it? How are they going to hold up to the stresses and strains of basic training let alone actual combat. The fact that the greatest Generation went through the depression is no coincidence. It gave these men spine for days that otherwise may have been lacking. And then to come back from that war and build the America that they built is absolutely amazing to me! Will never see another generation like that again. At least not in my lifetime is for damn sure and I'm 69 years young right now and was raised by two of the greatest Generation in both of my parents served during World War ii.
Bill was something special. When my dad (George Luz) passed away in 1998, he drove all the way, by himself, from Philly to Rhode Island for my dad's funeral.
Your pops was special too!
God's Blessings to you and your family.
Your dad was incredible!
@@rickyb6780 I was blessed to meet all the living guys from Band of Brothers at the premier in Paris, then at the Hollywood Bowl, the Emmy's and the reunion in Phoenix. My favorite was Johnny Martin. I'd always search him out at these events and sit by him and pump him for information on my Dad. I also like to sit by Babe, Don Malarkey and Buck Compton. I was in law enforcement in Los Angeles in the 70's when Buck was a judge in Superior Court. My Dad kept telling me to contact him, but I never did. Big regret.
I’m so moved by their story. Thank you for sharing that. Your dad and the men of ez were amazing.
your dad is amazing
"A man does not live by provolone"
Words I will remember
Wild Bill, one of Americas finest. RIP solder. Thank you for your sacrifice.
I visited George Luz and his wife Delvina's grave at wreaths across America last year. I made sure they got a wreath. It was such an honor just being there.
From what I got from the ending of Band of Brother, he had 1600 people come to his funeral. That just tells me that character of George Luz.
As a Belgian... I can't thank those men enough! I teach my kids that the life and freedom they have was not for free! With the current situations in the world... we all hope it stays the way that incredible generation left it for us when they got home! Love from Belgium!
❤ Love from America! Spent time in Belgium; beautiful country.🤗
Much love to you and yours from TN,USA
I hope you mention the British and Canadians.
@@ColinH1973 I talk about men! Not nationality's or races or whatever!
Thank you! Those men were truly our Greatest Generation.
On this Anniversary of D-Day, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for the sacrifice of these service men (and their families) gave that day and the rest of their lives. May God bless them all forever.
Beautifully said
God bless all of those men and their families.
The greatest generation, we owe them boys everything. God bless them
Anyone who has served in combat is of the greatest generation
Can't stop crying when watching stories about the greatest generation.
Me too.😂❤
Yup
I'm having one of those days today, just pulling at my heartstrings..😢
Such a great era.
The part where he’s talking about his Dad’s prosthetic leg and “stump sock” was very relatable for me. My Dad lost both of his legs in Vietnam, and very much the same feeling. I didn’t know any different. He was my Dad and that’s how things were. He worked a normal job for almost 40 years until retirement.
I'm humbled by what these young men did for my benefit. God bless their memory!
The sons of the BOB men coming together to talk about their dad's is just the Christmas gift I never knew was coming. This one and the one with Luz' son is just wonderful!
Had the extreme pleasure of meeting Wild Bill at a Band of Brother lithograph signing at Gettysburg's PA. "Aces High Club" bed & breakfast. Wild Bill was and is the complete Man's man. He & the rest of the Band of Brothers were truly given all respect that day that they deserve as being perfect examples of this country's Greatest Generation. There was a question & answer session after the signing & some lady told Bill that she had found during her research that Bill was entitled to some medals that he had earned during WW 11. Bill asked her if during all her research if she'd found the other half of his leg, he brought the whole house down with his response. I counted myself so fortunate to have meant him & share a porch swing with him in Gettysburg for a few minutes. A true American hero in my book. Greatest Generation for sure.
I'm sure he'd rather have the leg than a pile of medals.
Why not the medals and the leg!? Ever hear of the resurrection?
Breaks my heart that All these great men have passed away. Very few WW2 vets are with us and sadly soon there will be none. God Bless them All.
This short documentary on Bill Guarnere brought this veteran to tears.
I’m not a veteran, and my Dad was “4F”, which was his medical classification because of genetic hearing loss, and made him exempt from service during The Vietnam War. Later on in life, he became a respiratory therapist, and eventually did home care for the VA Hospital in Baltimore, specializing in home oxygen treatment (CPAP mask & machine) for vets with sleep apnea. That medical
technology helped a lot of vets get a good nights sleep, which in most cases was a godsend for the difference it made in their lives. That said, my grandfather & his two brothers were all in WW2, and miraculously all made it back home safely. That drawing based on a photograph at the end of this clip made me tear up. Can’t imagine the impact it has on, like yourself, those who served & saw combat. Tip of the hat, for you, and all who make the ultimate sacrifice for our country. Simply, thank you.🫡 🇺🇸
God bless all of that generation. My dad was one. Today we'd say he suffered from PTSD and suffer he did. Almost every night he could be heard shouting in his sleep. He didn't speak often of the war but when he told a story I'd often ask what happened to the people he described. The answer was almost always the same, "They died" At his funeral several "old" men who served with him where there. A friend told me she'd never seen old men stand at attention like they did when they lowered my dad into his grave.
God bless every one of you guys...
Wow....what a man. We need to keep these stories alive. Thanks guys.
God bless your father, and those he served with. God bless you, your children, and all their children. God bless Aamerica, and may we never forget what it means to be an American.
The WWII museum in New Orleans held a BoB “20th reunion” which was delayed two years by Covid. One of the panels was family and actors: George Jnr with Rick Gomez, who played George Snr; Robin Laing, who played Babe, with Babe’s daughter Trisha; John Frank Hughes (Wild Bill) with Gene, Doc Roe’s grandson Chris and actor Shane Taylor; and Ed Tipper’s daughter. It’s really, really good and very funny, and it’s on UA-cam.
The greatest generation by far. We owe these men everything.
Thank you. I am truly humbled and grateful to these men.
Are you European?
🇺🇸 For me, real men like these are the true heroes of America.
The everyday, extraordinary people - strong, yet humble, and tell it how it is.
🦅 'Wild' Bill, a frontiersman of sorts, lived between two worlds and walked through it.
What a privilege it would have been to fight alongside him and the 101st 🍻
Greetings from England, UK 🇬🇧
Currahee! 💪🏼
Great interview, and thanks for sharing.
May he rest in peace...
🙏🕯🪽
Mr. Guarnere was so nice to write of cover quote for my novel, Moses Trinidad Buffalo Soldier . He was so generous and classy.
You know you wrote a compelling character when a war hero recognizes the character’s heroics.
@@bigbrainedSteve - It was complete honor. I just wanted my book to be a tribute to those whose sacrificed.
When I was a kid I would see Gaurnere at an event I went to with my dad and at the age of about 5 he would ask me how many girlfriends I had. He was an amazing man. Rest in peace.
Truly our greatest generation.
Never forget. Never stop respecting. Most of us will NEVER comprehend what these young men (kids really) faced for US! Taken from this life, so soon, so cruely, before they had a chance to experience it. Gone as teenagers, never having really lived. I owe all my years, my experiences, my education, my happiness and the grief I was lucky enough to know, to these young men who died for me. I will NEVER HAVE ANYTHING but the greatest respect and admiration for these men who basically saved the World.
Really well said and such a heartfelt sentiment. I think it's safe to say that most of the people watching this feel the same as you. I certainly do. Both my parents served during the war, my dad was US Navy South Pacific. He joined at 17 to quote un quote see the world. My mom said that he saw far too much action for that 17-year-old body, Mind, and Spirit to endure and handle. She said he came home wrecked and it took years and years for his War to subside and pass in the rearview mirror. I can remember as a child hearing him shouting and crying in the middle of the night. I never knew what it was all about until my mom took me aside when I was about 13 or 14 and told me that my dad was still fighting his war. I'm so proud of both of my parents not a day goes by that I don't miss them. Rest in peace Mom and Dad, you did your jobs and you did them well!🙏🇺🇲⚓️💯💖😔
This was very interesting.
Bill Guarnere seems like a larger than life man.
The courage of him and the other guys is beyond comprehension.
So inspirational, what they were able to accomplish.
We can never forget them.
I've met some. My dad was in landing craft. All of those men were larger than life.
The fact that Guarnere had his leg literally blown off and still went to work every day is still amazing. I was a paratrooper for 9 years and I have nothing but the utmost respect for these guys
Edit: The thing about full disability was crazy too. I was deployed in July 2010 with 5/73rd Cavalry (82nd Airborne) and went through Operations Enduring Freedom, Iraqi Freedom, and New Dawn. It was in Enduring Freedom where I was hit with a grenade fragment in my left shoulder. There was little permanent damage, and I'm a righty so not being able to rotate my left arm all the way around wasn't too bad, but I had to fight for my Purple Heart. Fucking ridiculous. Eighty Deuce All The Way!
The whole family is still savage.
Had to fight the VA to get his rightful pension. Outrageous.
But not as Outrageous as the Veterans that our nations wars chewed up have to fight for their just compensations.
And now we've people demanding reparations for zip. Now that's outrageous.
@@LesterMoore I finally got my pension squared away for the future, the VA is fuking rediculous
@@Capitan_Doug_Keith Doug, very happy abd pleased to hear you are receiving the benefits and care you've earned. I wish you a healthy and anxiety free life.
According to my grandmother, two of my great-uncles were badly wounded in WW1 but - they absolutely refused any kind of pension as they saw it as 'charity'. Since both men had at least one good hand or arm left they just got on with working for a living as a tailor and swimming instructor respectively.
Airborne forces had the highest lost rate in DDay but they adapted, persevered and succeeded. Thankyou
I’m not going to sit here and try to take anything away from these men as the losses that day was staggering but the infantry units that was among the first wave to land on Omaha beach took a high casualty rate. I believe 80% was killed among those first landings. It was insane. Crazy thing was I believe they was part of the first army and none of the guys had battle experience. It was quoted that General Eisenhower said he needed young guys without the experience because they was clueless as to how bad war was. As with all young men you think your Superman and could never be hurt and that’s what they needed. He stated that men with battle experience knew what it was like and would possibly not get the job done. Regardless they all took heavy losses but who took the most losses can probably be argumentative. I believe they took around 3,700 casualties on Omaha beach while the Airborn units took 2,500 casualties but my memory could be wrong. These was all great men. They was some of the toughest hero’s ever to live. My grandfather served with the 7th armored division but passed away when I was younger pulling into the driveway of the farmer next to us and have a heart attack. He was on his way to visit that day. My Dad served in Vietnam and lost his leg. Heck he still talks of having phantom pains and used to
Even forget to put his leg on and fall which he has quit drinking so that stoped. lol.
Very well done, guys. Gene is very endearing and very articulate.
As a little girl, I would watch war movies with my grandpa every Saturday. Today is Saturday- so I’m watching videos about grandpas - w/ tears in my eyes.
You get these little flashes of yesteryear, vets at their reunions in the 80's and 90's, living the dream.
Always loved this series (I've still got it on DVD) So awesome to hear from these guys sons (Bills son sounds like he'd be just like him, a tough bloke) But a pair of bloody awesome legends, Bills son sounds just like him and I reckon he would've been a handful of fella back in the day just like his Dad. Thanks for the videos and making sure that these blokes are to be remembered to be the 'best generation' we've ever had in our world. Respect from an Afghanistan Vet (Aussie): 2004 to 2010 tours.
I pray all vets are taken cared off properly, be given the dues they deserve. Thank you for your service
Spot-On. Gene is a Vietnam Vet and retired Chief of Police.
Wow Wild Bill sure was a badass tough guy, my Dad was born 1918 those depression guys were hard men that make good times.
Our father, born also 1918, combat engineer T-Sgt, landed Normandy Omaha Beach day 2. My uncle, ended up making 5 landings in N Africa - Italy. Exceptional men of great character, Jewish men from West Philly (with the inescable accent as penetrating as any from South Philly). Greatest Generation hands down.
Thank you for this prize winning interview.
May their memories be for a Blessing!
These guys were the definition of the greatest generation! I'd never seen this video before I'm just super grateful that you uploaded it for all of us to see. After watching Band of Brothers countless times I really feel like I knew these men. I wish I did if for nothing else just to shake their hand and thank them. They don't make men like this anymore nor women either. These guys went through the Great Depression and knew poverty like none of us will ever know and came out the other side of World War II and built the lives that we all take for granted today. I'm 69 years young and I was raised by this generation both my parents being veterans of World War II. My dad was US Navy, South Pacific and my mom was in the Women's Air Corps and they called them WAC's. She was part of a unit that ferried Boieng B-17s from the plant here in Everett Washington down to California for deployment to the Pacific. She got the fire of the 50 caliber machine guns out over the Pacific and just absolutely loved her B-17s, to her dying breath she loved those planes! I'm super proud of both of my parents and they and they alone are responsible for who I am today and how I can hold my head and be proud to have been raised by such fine people. Rest in peace Mom and Dad, you did your jobs and you did them well!❤🙏🇺🇲⚓️💯💖😊
I met Bill and his grand daughter not to long before he passed. My son was so happy just to shake his hand and have a few words with Bill. At the time my young son knew more about Wild Bill than I did. Wish I was more into WW 2 history at that time.
Mad respect for these men, and their families. God bless the Greatest Generation, there will never be another like them.
Outstanding interview and history. Thank you 🙏
RIP Wild Bill and George Lutz..🇺🇸
Awesome video. I can never learn enough about these great men.
"When did your dad lose his leg?"
"Episode 7."
That got me. 🤣
Great dads brought us their great kids, same-ish humor lol
Mark and gang, these videos about the men of Easy company are incredible. Just to hear the stories passed down to the families reminds me of the stories my father told me when he served in WWII with the 9th AAF.
Such a special gift to have these discussions for all time to remember.
Patriotism was always a big deal in our family, to this day. My grandmother, who's still kicking at 102, was a Rosie who got on a train with my grand dad and went to Willow Run to build bombers. So the stories and lessons of living through the war had a lot more meaning to me especially because my grandparents were always my biggest heroes. Like them, BoB hit me in a way nothing else has.
Thanks guys! Love these stories!
My Dad was there at Bastogne with the 101st Airborne. He did not talk about what he went through but I have managed through the years to put together a little bit of what he went through. This interview confirms to me why he was the way he was. For that I am greatful and more in awe of him than ever. I lost my Dad at age 49 and along with that the opportunity to have those talks in my later years.
The 2 fellas sitting on the couch are forsure Best Buds since kids.
Of all the interviews I've seen with BOB Vets or relatives this one may be the best, in 1962 my Grandpa Burgett told me this man is our relative, Donald R Burgett was with Able Company alongside Easy Co and was friends of many Easy Men, Pvt Burgett went on to write 5 books on his experiences in WW 2, From dropping into Normandy, to Market Garden and the Bulge, he finished the war atop Hitlers Eagles Nest as depicted in BOB, Trooper Burgett told me stories that weren't mentioned in his books, RIP Screaming Eagle
I read his book Currahee as a 10 year old-i was an advanced reader. I just recently acquired another copy & have reread it. Having read his book,BoB was a fantastic addition to the stories around D-Day. Growing up,I was surrounded by old soldiers & I asked them many questions. Mostly they went unanswered,or they would try to steer my fascination into a different focus. I had no idea what I was doing to them,but they were so kind & gracious,it's hard to believe they did what they did,such lovely men...I miss them all
I believe I met your grandfather near Brecourt Manor near the 60th Anniversary, I could be mistaken, but I did meet a 101st vet on that road near Le Grand Chemin and he explained the entire scene to me. I read all 5 of those books, some of the best first hand accounts I’ve ever read. Currahee
I gave my son the entire collection on his 20th birthday, a few weeks ago.
I said to him, "You think 'all those old men' when you think of WWII veterans, but they were your age when they went through all that (what's in the books)."
I hope he gets something out of them. He's already a very respectful person.
Man does not live by prov-alone (provolone). That's the greatest thing I've ever heard.
Yeah, that was funny. Never really classified it as a stinky cheese, but I get it. I just know I don't like it because it's like shaved soft plastic, and it ruins every sandwich it's placed upon...especially them fake Philly cheesesteaks. You gonna eat a real Philly, it's gotta be a cheese spread.
This was an absolutely wonderful video. Thank you for sharing and thank you Mr. Guarnere and Mr. Luz.
Hey Cuz, it does my heart good to hear that South Philly accent! God rest the souls of our fathers who fought in that war, Gene. My father and all of my uncles were in uniform in both theaters of operation and they are all gone now. Never was the impermanence of life so glaring.
My mom's side of the family were all south Philly Italians till this day we call spaghetti sauce gravy lol
@@jimmyb4728 Both my parents were from 12th and Dickenson Sts. I was born on Passyunk Ave. across from the Moyamensing Prison when it was still there. We made the distinction between gravy and sauce. Gravy was either meatball, salsiccia, or pork ribs in a tomato-base sauce whereas la salsa was always simply "alla marinara" with no meat. Garlic, olive oil, and basilico along with salt and black pepper. In Italy, the "gravy" is called "Ragù".
@@dr.tomgio6694 I remember my grandmother saying pork n veal make the gravy, she had a meatball and Italian sausage gravy, also a chicken and pork gravy that was out of this world, but the veal n pork was the best.
@@jimmyb4728 Sounds Italian, to me!
Mark what a great interview. Thank you for making this.
Wild Bill was a class act. See's candies? The epitome of excellent chocolates. I couldn't help crying through this. Such decent men who fought for all of us and I could never thank them for what they did. Those men are gone now and we are the poorer for it. I can thank the families of these soldiers though. Thank you for their service and their tenacity and the hardships they faced while fighting for our safety and freedom. Every American needs to watch the series Band of Brothers and this video. I am glad I did. God bless these men.
It is absolutely amazing the bravery these men and women displayed to save democracy and our way of life. Words can not express my heartfelt appreciation, and these stories and videos should be a must-see to ALL high school students. Freedom is not free!!!!!
I could never see the reason for American involvement in foreign wars.
@@Kitiwake foreign? Hitler sought to take control over the entire world, if US hadn’t gotten involved in 1941, then Europe would’ve been lost to the Nazis and the US would’ve gotten invaded eventually.
I wished I could go back in time to when these events and get Sink, Strayer, and Winters in the same room and get their thoughts on the subject of Sobel, his charges against Winters, and the NCOs doing what they did.
When my Grandpa had his heart attack he drove himself to the hospital and my Grandma didn't know until the next day. They just don't make them like that anymore, they truly were the Greatest Generation.
I wondered if Bill went to college under the GI Bill. He lead an incredible life and dealt with his disability with dignity. Thanks for posting this interview with Bill's son.
My Korean War 11B Grandpa (RIP) was the most active gentleman around; hiking, walking and kayaking in his 80s. He survived multiple heart attacks and even drove to the hospital himself after having said attacks. The old generations were made different. God rest his soul. The legends are watching from the Heavens on high.
God bless all the men of Easy Company and all those who have served their country in all wars. And God bless their families too. We should be thankful every day for our freedom which they bought for us with their blood and bodies. Never forget.
My father was Army Air Corp served in the Phillipines on A20s and B25s was wounded in flight an didn’t know it until his plane landed. His plane was later shot down and he was the sole survivor. MIA for 6 weeks PTSD ate him up.
I loved the Band of Brothers series. I bought it as soon as it came out, and must have watched it a dozen times.
I gave the series to a former neighbor who served in Iraq (if my memory is correct) who never got to watch it and wanted to. Years later, I want to buy the series again.
Absolutely, positively one of the greatest things I’ve seen on UA-cam !!! I had goosebumps from beginning to end
.Bill was of my favorites on BOB. The actor who portrayed him was superb. His son Gene made him come alive for me.
God Bless you Bill and all of the HEROES of Easy Company ! I hope I’m wrong but I think they broke the mold when it came to you guys ! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
The mold isn’t broken. It’s a personal choice.
And thank you for doing this and sharing your memories of your Dad. And thank you for your service as well.
God bless all soldiers (men and women). Thank you for your great service.
I really appreciate that your channel has some interviews like this - it is a good reminder that behind our hobby there are real soldiers who risked/endured so much for us. It is good to hear how that impacted them so we don’t forget or take it for granted.
I’m very appreciative to these guys for sharing their family stories so we can better understand their fathers as men and not solely as soldiers.
Thanks Scott! It is always an honor and privilege to interview people like Gene and George. Hopefully we can keep their stories alive for future generations and inspire gamers to delve into the history of the games they play.
This was beautiful Gene. You must have been proud of you Dad. We are also from Philly. I’m your age. My dad was around your dad’s age. My dad was in the CCC. I think I read somewhere that your dad was also in the CCC. if so I wonder if their paths ever cross (being they both were from Philly)
You gotta love that Bill would call his own son "kid". He was the same with everybody. What a legend.
Thanks to these guys, I can go wherever I want, whenever I want and enjoy freedom in my country Belgium. I’m truly grateful.
Wow, thank you for this episode. Truly special.
What amazing parents you had I am Italian made me laugh so much about the food . Greatest Generation🙏🏽
The photo at the end says it all ❤
Definitely. It brought a tear to my eye.
I LOVE BAND OF BROTHERS AND THE GUYS!!!!
YOU KIDS WERE SOOOOOO FORTUNATE TO HAVE HAD THESE WONDERFUL SOLDIERS, MEDICAL STAFF, ETC..... FOR PARENTS AND RELATIVES!!!!
GOD BLESS Y'ALL 💜
That was a real nice interview, honest/down to earth and summed up what types of men these guys really were
He was really WILD and courageous. By God! What a Man your father was! Congrats. God Bless him for ever.
I'm a veteran... Seabee served in Desert Storm... Your fathers are my heroes... The best of men!
A wonderful film. The military brotherhood is a very special thing.
I remember eating and then some drill sgt saying stop we are going to run 5 miles. Hated it at the time but remembering it brings a smile. Army retired after a few decades. To all my brothers and sisters in all services. Thank you for your service!
Great interview and bloody infuriates me they skimped on the pensions of our veterens based on their rank. RIP to all the brave men and women who sacrificed everything so that we can live a better tomorrow.
Wow - what a great interview. Their dads would b so proud of them - making sure that no one ever forgets the great sacrifice these heroes went through!!
what a very honest account of a lovely man a hero respect
We will never forget the men who fought this horrible war. Thanks for working hard to keep their memories alive.
I met Bill at a few 101st Airborne conventions ( my dad was 101st 502) Bill was a good guy to talk to .
This is beyond touching. These are priceless anecdotes. Mr. Guarnere’s son makes a statement towards the end of this clip that really resonated with me. Something to the effect that these men stuck together after the war and the fact that they would rarely talk about the war but rather their lives, their families and their activities. Of course, we want to know all about it but how does one who’s lived the horror rekindle those memories with the men that survived this ordeal? Unimaginable.
Nicely done Mark. Only cried a little!
Thank you Mark for this wonderful video, we owe so much to the Greatest Generation but most of all our Freedom.
A wonderful tue story Of Wild Bill Guarnere. Thank you both for telling us about him. May he and the rest of his Band of Brothers Rest In Peace forevermore.
His son did this interview perfect. Learned a lot thanks to this vid. Thank you and may Bill and his brothers rest in peace
This hits so much harder being from Philly. The accent makes me so homesick.
MEN! something that the majority of the country has seemed to negate. We have males, but very few MEN. I salute my brothers in arms!
God bless Wild Bill and Babe Hefron and his /their sons and daughters !
I completely understand the dislike for Christmas. As a Veteran, it bothers me the same way,I lost a friend Dec. 19, 2009. It takes a little more away from you every year.
I am so glad they all had each other until the end. Amazing men.
I could have listened to their stories all day, easy.
They were True Heroes and Great Friends and the Best Generation this country ever had!
God bless all of the soldiers who helped our soldiers and who risked their lives for our country. Amen!!!! They sre in heaven now. 😊😊
Thank You Bill Guarnere and everyone in his family, all of Easy Company and everyone ever that has served the cause of freedom and fought or supported those who fought sacrificed and died for us all.
i met wild bill when he drove to huntingdon pa to meet with high school history teachers. band of brothers was currently being shown.
wild bill who drove the 200 miles to visit our high school was one of the nicest and most sincere people i ever met. as the son of a wwII vet i honor meeting him and hearing his story. thanks, wild bill. tim english
Bill was such a lovely man. Had the pleasure to correspond with Bill and he was a prodigious respondent. They are treasured possessions and Bill's passing is most definitely regretted. RIP sir.
It's sad to know that all the members of Easy Company have passed away.
Even though band of brothers was incredible probably the best mini series ever made it still could not come close to the bond that these men shared in real life it’s something that only combat can bring out in people you could tell that they were all literally brothers and heroes every single one of them 🙏🏻
What a great man, and you portrayed him wonderfully. These are the guys that make me proud to be an American! Thank you. My Father was a prisoner of war of the Japanese I truly wish I would have asked him more about what he went thru during the war
Fantastic video and great storytelling.