I actually like The Pacific more than Band of Brothers. The Pacific does a great job at telling each character's personal stories, then having them cross paths and connect. Even the subtle moments like Leckie being present in formation for Basilone's Medal of Honor ceremony were well done.
The reason The Pacific is better at telling the individual stories is because its based off of Sledge’s and Leckie’s books, while BoB was based off of Steven Ambroses book that covered Easy Co as a whole
@@zp1944 just to expand on your point, there are 3 main characters in The Pacific: Sledge, Leckie, and Basilone. After Basilone died, there were only 2 left whose stories needed to be told. In BoB, arguably the entire company plays the main characters of the series. Bull gets his own episode, Lipton gets his own, Doc Roe gets his own, Webster gets his own. Shit, even Blythe got an episode. A lot of the others are heavily featured as well-Guarnere, Toye, Perconte, Shifty, Nixon, Malarkey-and though that may not get a whole episode to themselves, we know them as well as those who did. And this of course doesn't even address Winters as the de facto protagonist of the series.
I think both series are awesome they have their own things that's good. I can give my thoughts but at end of the day I think is do you prefer Pepsi or coke (giving a random example of sodas but can be any example make sense to you) both good just a matter of what your in the mood for. If your more 1 then other cool that is your prefence but either way both sodas diffrent but same and just a matter what you for yourself enjoy more
I've heard lots of people say that they used to be in The Army, The Navy, or The Air Force, but Marines ALWAYS say I AM a Marine, even when they're in their '90s.... and THAT is pretty cool!
The Call is why I’m in the process of joining the military at 35, because I knew it was now or never. And there was no way I was going to live the rest of my life without trying to serve, even if it’s just the Air National Guard. Did everything else in life by getting married, starting a family, built a house. My wife and I have stable careers, kids are old enough so now it’s time. Thanks for bringing this up because it’s great encouragement, love your channel and enjoy listening to it while I’m running and exercising.
Good luck to you sir. I’m 43 and I totally regret not joining the military. I’ll never know what it’s like to be in a high pressure situation. I just wish UA-cam was around back in my high school days.
Good on you brother! I'm going on 22 years Army National Guard. Always wanted to go SF but deployments kept coming up and I couldn't say no. I've ran into multiple dudes my age and a bit older on the civilian side and they ask me what it's like. I explain the level of camaraderie isn't able to be replicated anywhere outside the military and it is such a great thing to have in times of hardship. I've met more guys my age and older that I truly believe they regret not serving in some capacity.
I went to junior high with a guy who's grandpa was in Easy Company and was featured in Band of Brothers. Joe Toye was his grandpa... we were both from Pennsylvania so that's how we started talking. I think it was more his dad just trying to avoid having to say goodbye cause he knows there is a very real possibility he might not see his son again and men back than definitely did not show emotions especially in public. I think I would have rather fought in Europe than the Pacific.
If I remember correctly from the book his Dad actually was an emotionally neglectful ass so this scene goes beyond the typical 'men not showing emotions' of the time period. Leckie wrote that he was the youngest to older parents and he was unwanted and generally unloved and ignored. Its been a while since I read the book but thats the general gist of it that I remember. I think they keep it vague in the show because itd be a pretty negative scene and they want to let the viewer make their own interpretations.
The officer at the beginning is Chesty Puller! The man was a legend in the Marine Corps and continues to serve as THE EXAMPLE of what a Marine and an officer should be!
Couple of things, guys. Had the chance to work with an SF team and I gotta tell you that out of the entire Army, these guys were the first group of people that treated me like an adult, a professional and a competent human being. I thought of SOF as the "alphas" and all that at first until I had to work with them; changed my perspective completely. I agree with respecting the enemy thing. Later on, you'll see a lot of instances where they emphasize a lot of respect for the enemy theme, and some of these are harsh realities Can't stress enough guys, you put out some great content! Keep it up! 🤙🏼🤙🏼
Lecki was the youngest of the 8 in the family, his parents never really showed him any affection. You will see that theme throughout the series with him.
I love the Pacific. Every Marine knows who Chesty Puller and John Basilone. We get taught about these great MoH recipients and leaders and it was so cool to see these stories come to live action.
I've spoken to some Marines who were at Tarawa. They said essentially the same thing: You'll never see the fighting in movies because it was too brutal.
Guys, just want to say thanks. I just retired after 26 years and the vets in my new job are few and far between. You all provide me a great touch point as I continue to transition to the next phase. Bravo Zulu.
Thank you for your service, brother. Hope your new career is as successful as your last. I hope you find a purpose as fulfilling as the military. I know a lot of vets struggle with that after retiring/separating.
@@mcelravys Basilone was definitely a cut above the fray (i.e., honor, courage and commitment). Bravo Zulu to your father for being a career Marine - that takes tenacity.
He was awarded the CMH for Guadalcanal and then went back to the war after raising that money, met his end on Iwo Jima if I am not mistaken. If I am, do correct me, cheers.
The officer in the beginning was LtCol. Puller. These guys were told to expect a heavy fight at the beach (this happened before the Normandy invasion) we (Marines) were always told that we are an amphibious assault force and amphibious assaults have almost always been high casualty producing fights. And I agree you have to respect your enemy, but something to remember (not justifying the scene where they "miss" the soldier) this was months after Pearl, these guys wanted revenge. Add to this the dehumanizing that the media had been pumping out calling the Japanese "yellow monkeys" they (largely) didn't see them AS human especially at first. Later in the series Basilone addresses this.
The Japanese troops that Leckie's unit ran into at Alligator Creek were a battalion sized unit called the Ichiki Detachment, named after their commander. They were highly experienced assault troops that had seen action in China and had been part of the force that was sent to capture Midway before the IJN got smoked.
Michael Cain the actor mentioned this, when fought in Korea, he could sense the enemy due to their smell of garlic caused through its use in the enemy food
I'm a mail carrier and I would deliver parcels from Korea that smelled so bad I would deviate and deliver them first, I found out that they had Kim Chee in it.
The first thing chesty did when he took command in Guadalcanal was to move the CP closer to the front, the first thing his successor did was move it further back
Kurt's analysis of the Dad resonated with me. My grandfather could never show affection to my Dad. MY Dad (now 73) shows affection but he cannot say "I love you" back.
Same with me. My entire life he has worked hard & shown me affection, but still gets tripped up when I say “I love you”. His father was never around & showed no love or affection. He was able to break that generational cycle, in his own way. After one of my tours, my brother mentioned how he would sit quietly in front of the news on TV, with anxiety every night I was still deployed. Have always known he loves me, just he never really says it.
The guy who was talking was Chesty Puller he enlisted in the marines before WW1 and worked his way up from private to major general. He saw combat in Haiti and Nicaragua prior to the war.
He was also a distant cousin to General George S. Patton and in the series they touch on John Basilone's service in the Army. He was known as "Manila John" because of being stationed there with the Army.
First, Do read both the Sledge and Lecky books. The depiction in the Pacific is very real. Second, I live in the town next to the town Basilone grew up. There is a parade every year and his memorial is very well taken care of by the local residents. Let’s hope that level of respect continues.
@@claytonbryan If your reading this, how did it go. You in the marine corp yet. Good luck brother and thank you for fighting for our freedom. I am just a teenager but semper fi
Same for me. My family was not happy when I told them I will be enlisted but later they are so proud that I am a Marines. My parents put the USMC stickers on their cars. My sister made me wear the dress blues on her wedding.
Man of that era showed no emotions. They were a different breed. They survived World War I, the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, bread lines, and soup kitchens, astronomical unemployment. A lot of people lived in Hovervilles, shanty towns. They were hardened people. Some say they were The Old Breed.
That was Chesty Puller the most decorated Marine and a living legend and the reason its not propaganda or just some saber rattling is because he going is going in with them.
When I joined out of high school the Vietnam War had just ended. My mom was scared. My dad, a WWII Seabee who’d served in New Guinea and Saipan, understood. I looked at all services. I wanted to fly. The Navy gave me the chance. Flew 4 years on P-3s then got out. A year later I missed the life, so I used my GI bill and commissioned into the Air Force. First USAF assignment was to a mobile radar site. I remember jumping into a water-filled foxhole one night with my M-16 in a pouring rain as aggressors attacked. Had a snake swimming in the foxhole. It was 0200. I remember wondering how I ended up there joining the Air Force. If I’d want to sleep in mud and ice I’d have gone Marine or Army. Next assignment was flying on the AWACS. Never looked back. Only war I was in was Desert Storm, but the danger was nothing compared to what the fighters and ground-pounders did. Retired in the mid-90s and am still training crews as a contractor. But these old WWII guys were my boyhood heroes. They still are. Those guys saved the world and so many paid the price. Their history and shows like this should be required in schools. We need a new generation of patriots. People who don’t know the prices paid by past generations for America soon take America for granted.
You guys are 100% spot on with the regret of not answering the call. I was interested in the military my entire childhood and just never ended up joining. I’m 30 now and the wonder and regret is maybe as powerful as ever. My advice to younger guys would be answer the call if you have it.
I had a few years when I could have joined before I became "disabled". I'm mid-forties now and still see it as my main regret in life. If you have health I would encourage you to consider the national guard. It's not too late for you. You don't want to be hitting mid life and still wondering.
I joined the US Army in 1981 and a guy in our unit was 34 years old. The drill sergeants hassled him about not joining during the Vietnam War. He took it and basically said the same thing. He said that he was being eaten alive with regret for not joining the military. He was such a calm and mature guy that was a stabilizing presence to all of the young combat engineers. AATW!
My grandfather fought in WWII. Whenever the subject of killing the enemy was brought up, he would say "if that Japanese kid had stayed home doing whatever he did and left me alone to finish High School, he'd be alive today. We didn't start the war." For context: my grandfather worked in the triple 8" A turret of a heavy cruiser, so his action wasn't in the mud and face to face like the infantry, but his ship was attacked by kamikazes a few times, so it wasn't all long range gunnery either.
The reason they were shooting around the guy in the river is because at that time, the greatest honor for a Japanese Soldier was to die in battle. The greatest dishonor was to live when all your men have died. Basically, they were toying with him and denying him that death.
When the USMC first landed on Guadalcanal, the only Japanese on the island was a construction battalion with very limited weapons. The only properly armed Japanese were across the channel on Tulagi where they already had a seaplane base. It wasn't until about a week later where the Japanese army landed combat units did the real fighting begin.
8:15 Idk, Buck, my dad is a former Marine, so there was definitely something to that. But I didn't do it to "make Daddy happy". As it turns out, we hadn't gotten along well at all before I went to boot camp. The last thing I heard him say was, "Don't come back!" Knowing my dad like I do now, I'm (almost completely) sure that he was having a bit of fun at my expense. But he made my entire family to take the ride...in a rented minivan, no less...so they could all be at my graduation on Parris Island...my parents and all of my siblings. He also had reserved (and paid for) me to have my own room at the Hilton hotel on Hilton Head Island, which really surprised me. Needless to say, our relationship improved immensely then, and we have continued to improve upon it since then.
You two are right about the dream, my dad didn't wanted me join us army. He serve with second Indianhead division. Korean war combat veteran. silver star, purple heart, three PUC, two South Korean PUC. Great Job you two.
The thing with the dad reminds me of my first time on leave from Bosnia, my dad wasn’t told I would be home as I wanted to surprise him. He looked at me, asked when I was leaving, and went to the bathroom for 30 minutes. My mom told me later he cried for the 30 minutes, but never showed it to me. But he did tell me he was proud of my service years later a few years before he died.
The father son goodbye scene at 7:38 is emblematic of that time. That was a different generation of fathers and sons, just as fathers from 20 years ago are different in their own way from fathers today. My dad was a WW2 vet in his mid to late 30's when we were born and the affection he showed towards us was limited and I don't think he ever said I love you, but he provided for us and protected us so I never once questioned if he did. He raised us after our mom died when we were very young. Yes I wanted him to be as proud of me as I was of him, and 44 years after his death I still live to make him proud, no shame in that.
Thanks guys for reviewing the Pacific. It’s always interesting to hear your perspective. Throughout my teen years I had planned on joining the Navy, when the time came I chickened out. It ate on me for years, that I had let my country down. In my early 30’s I joined the rural fire dept in my area. After 5 years of being a brush truck junkie I finally feel like I’ve been doing my part, that I found my calling.
The good-bye scene between Leckie and his father: there is a later episode with a scene between Leckie and Stella (in Melbourne) where he explains how and why his family is emotionally stunted.
Leckie, like Buck, deals with his trauma through humor. His trauma is always below the surface and always comes out during non-combat situations like Gloucester or Pavauu. During battle, he is solid and brave but he is definitely mentally damaged after Guadalcanal, Gloucester and Peleliu. One of my favorite lines is where he says, "I fought for television" as he stares at Vera (his girlfriend).
I'm assuming most Marines that love you guy's were probably going into nervous convulsions and yelling 'that's god damn chesty puller!' when you were talking about the old man at the beginning 😂. From Haiti to the Frozen Chosin, the man is a legend. Its understandable people outside of the marines dont know who he was, I just know some people who were probably having a stroke watching that 😂.
Pacific is realiest war series I ever seen. Couldn't even see twice because I can't stand the brutality of it. It's almost like second hand PTSD you suffer just watching them suffer
Another great video (although I prefer Band of Brothers). The quote you're looking for is very similar: "Every blessing ignored becomes a curse." The Alchemist, p. 60.
The thing about the medic being killed is that the Marine Corps and Army also knew all those small tactical things about not going outside the wire etc... But when expanding 20, 30 times in size and training hundreds of thousands in just a few months for the first campaigns spread the experienced troops pretty thin. Took a while for it to really sink in to all the newbies
26:12 agreed. Not everyone has the call, even those that were in the USMC before our unit shipped to Iraq in 2005. It was hard, a handful found reasons not to go. We pressured them to find the call if it was there, but it was not there for them. They separated from the military, but I should follow up on them, see how they are. I don't know what to tell them outside of, it was the right decision for them and the unit if they could not do it then.
I was on the Los Angeles Police Department and a Reserve Marine was called up for deployment to Iraq. He suddenly became a conscientious objector and was discharged from the Corps. He stopped wearing his EGA pin on his uniform and other Marines hated him. Especially after Robert Cottle (USMC Reserve Sergeant Major and LAPD SWAT operator) was killed in combat operations in Afghanistan.
This is actually a great series. Definitely watch the whole thing 👍👍👍👍👍👍 also keep up the good work! I watch majority of your breakdowns and are very inspirational and funny
"A stream of white hot tracers snapped past my face and I pulled my head back like a turtle into it's shell and flopped over the side of the Amtrak into a twisted pile of gear on the sand." E.B. Sledge
It was hard for me to enlist since everyone in my family was against me joining, but I knew deep down it's what I wanted and it was calling to me. It got to the point where every day they would argue with me, and they all broke down sobbing when I told them I enlisted. 3 years in made it to Sgt and have been loving everyday of it, I tell my parents all the time of my accomplishments and they're super proud of me and always ask for pictures to show their friends.
Louis B. “Chesty” Puller, as several others have pointed out was a legendary leader in the USMC. The depiction seems pretty accurate. You guys should read up on the Chosin Reservoir in Korea as well. Mike
14:00 not a forward observation post, but a dugout. The only Japanese troops on Guadalcanal were an aviation engineer battalion building the airfield. When the Marines landed they bugged out into the forest, leaving a large supply of rice, sake and engineering equipment which the marines put to good use in finishing the airstrip. The fighting Japanese troops were landed a few days afterward.
So true about having a dream. And not fulfilling it when I had the chance. Since I was a kid and heard the Ballad of the Green Berets. That is what I wanted to do. I even bought a green Beret at an Army surplus store when I was 16. Yet, when I finally got the opportunity. I walked away. I literally had orders in my hand to the Q course. And a plane ticket. I just didn't get on the plane. At 60 years old. It's still the biggest regret of my life. 😞
My grandfather was with Chesty Puller all the way from the Inchon Landing to the Chosin Reservoir and back. My grandmother had high school photos of my mom and her siblings on the wall going up the stairs. But at the top looking down at you all the way up was a big portrait of Gen. Puller as he was in Korea.
Hey Fellas. Just want to say that I enjoy watching yalls Beers and Breakdowns. Not only for the cuttin up and having a great time but also the wisdom yall drop from life experiences. What yall give is not just for military purposes and prep but also everyday life. I grew up without a father in my life as well and had the biggest chip on my shoulder and anger in my heart because of it. I learned from a few families that God had placed in my life to not allow that to affect who I was or who I will become. Yalls remarks on the father and son scene around the 12 minute mark I believe is right on both accounts. Growing up one way, knowing one way and seeing one way can be hard to see another point of view. It's great to see and hear both of your views and opinions. Outstanding gentlemen.
I came from a military family. My dad was a fighter pilot in WW2 , I saw the medal for 80 combat missions. I enlisted in the army, coast guard, and Air Force. Was turned down because of heat surgery. I got drafted in 64 for Vietnam, but got classified 4f . Talk about unfulfilled dreams.
The scene where Lekey and his father part ways at the train station is not unusual for that time period. My father grew up in that era, and let's just say that physical and other emotional sentiments from men were not all that forthcoming. It is just the way it was. Men were tougher and harder back then because they needed to be. Remember, this was at the tail end of the depression.
That little conversation you had about the Call really resonated for me - my first best fate was to serve in the Royal Navy and my father would not allow me to. When the time came that I no longer needed his permission to do so, my feet were on another path. But for years I kept glancing over to that road not taken and I have always regretted that, a little before my 33rd birthday, I was standing at the RN recruiting desk at an air-show and I, after what seemed like an hour, walked away. As the rules were back then, that was my last chance to join as an officer and, in the quiet places of my mind, I still think I blew it. My father forbidding me when I was a teenager may have saved my life because I wanted to serve on Type 21's (beautiful ships) and we lost a fair few of those in the Falklands but, again in those quiet places of my mind, I have never really forgiven him for altering the way my life has gone.
Sup guys. I love the show. Buck is a funny and crazy mofo. Abel is the comic relief and Kurt just in between. I have a short story since you guys mentioned answering the "call." My mother was never there so I tried to enlist in the Air force. I passed the physical and also the asvab. My plan was to go OTS and come out a brand new man. So I waited and waited. Only to get a letter said (not verbatim) "Due to you being the only one carrying your bloodline we can't accept your application for enrollment." That hurt me so bad I literally cried.
Just a personal note. Buck, I am a widow's son. Not having a father can make you different, in exactly the way you describe. I grew up during the Vietnam era, and I watched all my friends struggle with their fathers -- especially the guys who were against the war. Remember, their dads were the "greatest generation" who fought WW2. It was horrific for these men, sons and fathers both. You can imagine. I was deeply aware, and in a way grateful, that I just missed all that. But in a sense, we men who grew up without fathers will always stand apart in a way. I see you know that and just wanted to acknowledge it.
I completely agree with your view on the Marine Corps. When I was taking Executive Protection security classes, we had a lot of Marines in the class with me (a civvie), and the Marine Corps birthday was a big deal. Not so much with the Army; although the two or three Army guys were more than happy to talk crap about the Marines from across the room when they were celebrating the Marine Corps birthday.
The US Army in general does not glorify its history and traditions like the Marine Corps does. They remember their battles like Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, Chosin Reservoir, Hue City and Fallujah. They emphasize November 10, 1775 and Tun Tavern. Semper Fidelis, blood stripes, the ceremonial sword, the leatherneck collar, EGA, Parris Island. They are a tight group and always let you know who they are.
17:55 Yessirs. That's why it's actually in the written guidelines to avoid using any soaps or deodorants which use fragrances. For your trainees: Ivory soap!! That's all you'll need. Plus, you can slice off bits to use it for cleaning clothes and equipment.
When you said, " If you know what you're doing is right, you don't need anyone else's approval " that is so true so, in a way a lot of people would envy your unique situation in where your father wasn't around freeingbyou if that crushing burden of having to need their approval when it's ultimately bullshit.
The dad scene is a mixture of: silent era generation, the parent knows to be very reserved- strict stone face, don't show fear or sadness just live strong. The dad isn't gonna want to say bye to his son knowing what could happen. The son just wants to have that small moment of approval one man to another to see him off.
In my opinion the Army is aimed more at Unit Pride, where the Marine Corps is more about overall pride in the Corps. Neither is any better or worse than the other.
Thank you for posting these! Always fun to watch. I would encourage you to read two books, “Helmet For My Pillow” and “With the Old Breed”. Both books will paint a picture in your mind of what these guys were going through during the Pacific campaign in WWII. It helps understand why the Americans sometimes were a bit dark in the way they treated Japanese foes. Right or wrong, it was reality and I believe these books capture that horror of war.
I read both those books. What they went through with the land crabs, rats and other nastiness is incredible. Dan Carlin in Hardcore History podcasts says that captured Japanese soldiers said that the officers encouraged them to commit atrocities so that they would be less likely to surrender, figuring the same would happen to them if captured.
Anyone out there… im a dad to two boys… all i want for them is to be happy. I dont care what they are what they do or who they do it with. And i know you may not think so but id bet your parents are the exact same. Their your parents they love you regardless
my first time finding this channel and this is my first video of yours. I enjoy the conversation exchange between you two. I'll be looking forward to future videos about The Pacific. Semper Fi
Outstanding review. I felt a calling for a long time, had a major injury that prevented me from joining and planned on catching up to it later. I think I made it to MEPS and was planning on delayed entry. By the time I could run again I’d met my future wife and started a family. I love em & wouldn’t trade them for the world but that voice has always nagged me. God bless all you who served. Life can get busy and convoluted really fast. Dig in and fight to heed that call if you feel it.
Love what you guys are doing. I'm not in the military and I don't live in US but what you said about the call is so true. I had the call, the dreams, all the stuff unfortunately I've had medical stuff what created a situation that I wasn't approved to enlist and it hunts me up to this day. The closest I can get to the feeling is playing milsim games. Keep it up do enjoy what you guys do video wise and support wise
Dudes, you two decided to serve your country. I wish I could but not being able to hear doesnt exactly make me all that useful out on the battlefiled but regardless it's not you two that should be proud. It's all of us. Men like you are the reasons why we can sleep safely at night or why some kid overseas gets to see another sunrise. Thank you for your service, our governments may not appreciate you but I and Im certain the majority of the public certainly do.
Please don't be too hard on the moms and dads who don't want you to join. We're not thinking about your dreams: we're just terrified of getting a condolence letter from the Department of Defense. We're terrified of the idea of our sons and daughters bleeding out on a godforsaken field ten thousand miles from home, without us there to comfort them. It's an incredibly heightened level of attachment that you can't understand until you have a child of your own.
That old man you just mentioned was Chesty Puller. 5 navy crosses and a Marine Corps legend
Give them one for chesty
And a Distinguished Service Cross.
Chesty Puller the Maríne legend
Good night, Chesty!
Every Marine knows his legend. Rah
I actually like The Pacific more than Band of Brothers. The Pacific does a great job at telling each character's personal stories, then having them cross paths and connect. Even the subtle moments like Leckie being present in formation for Basilone's Medal of Honor ceremony were well done.
The reason The Pacific is better at telling the individual stories is because its based off of Sledge’s and Leckie’s books, while BoB was based off of Steven Ambroses book that covered Easy Co as a whole
The Pacific has a better soundtrack and the final episode is great.
@@zombiTrout the sound track literally gives me chills
@@zp1944 just to expand on your point, there are 3 main characters in The Pacific: Sledge, Leckie, and Basilone. After Basilone died, there were only 2 left whose stories needed to be told.
In BoB, arguably the entire company plays the main characters of the series. Bull gets his own episode, Lipton gets his own, Doc Roe gets his own, Webster gets his own. Shit, even Blythe got an episode.
A lot of the others are heavily featured as well-Guarnere, Toye, Perconte, Shifty, Nixon, Malarkey-and though that may not get a whole episode to themselves, we know them as well as those who did.
And this of course doesn't even address Winters as the de facto protagonist of the series.
I think both series are awesome they have their own things that's good. I can give my thoughts but at end of the day I think is do you prefer Pepsi or coke (giving a random example of sodas but can be any example make sense to you) both good just a matter of what your in the mood for. If your more 1 then other cool that is your prefence but either way both sodas diffrent but same and just a matter what you for yourself enjoy more
I've heard lots of people say that they used to be in The Army, The Navy, or The Air Force, but Marines ALWAYS say I AM a Marine, even when they're in their '90s.... and THAT is pretty cool!
The Call is why I’m in the process of joining the military at 35, because I knew it was now or never. And there was no way I was going to live the rest of my life without trying to serve, even if it’s just the Air National Guard. Did everything else in life by getting married, starting a family, built a house. My wife and I have stable careers, kids are old enough so now it’s time. Thanks for bringing this up because it’s great encouragement, love your channel and enjoy listening to it while I’m running and exercising.
Best of Luck!!!
I joined at 32, you’ll do great man! Good Luck 👍🏻
Good luck to you sir. I’m 43 and I totally regret not joining the military. I’ll never know what it’s like to be in a high pressure situation. I just wish UA-cam was around back in my high school days.
Good on you brother!
I'm going on 22 years Army National Guard. Always wanted to go SF but deployments kept coming up and I couldn't say no.
I've ran into multiple dudes my age and a bit older on the civilian side and they ask me what it's like. I explain the level of camaraderie isn't able to be replicated anywhere outside the military and it is such a great thing to have in times of hardship. I've met more guys my age and older that I truly believe they regret not serving in some capacity.
Dude, I did it twice, 17/ 32. You are so going to get over. The kids are way softer and got more stupid the you.
I went to junior high with a guy who's grandpa was in Easy Company and was featured in Band of Brothers. Joe Toye was his grandpa... we were both from Pennsylvania so that's how we started talking. I think it was more his dad just trying to avoid having to say goodbye cause he knows there is a very real possibility he might not see his son again and men back than definitely did not show emotions especially in public. I think I would have rather fought in Europe than the Pacific.
❤❤❤❤❤❤
100% at least during downtime in Europe there was some resemblance of civilization whereas if the pacific it’s just malaria infested jungles
“I can use some brass knuckles.”
If I remember correctly from the book his Dad actually was an emotionally neglectful ass so this scene goes beyond the typical 'men not showing emotions' of the time period. Leckie wrote that he was the youngest to older parents and he was unwanted and generally unloved and ignored. Its been a while since I read the book but thats the general gist of it that I remember. I think they keep it vague in the show because itd be a pretty negative scene and they want to let the viewer make their own interpretations.
@@rednecksniper4715 *cough* The Melbourne episode of The Pacific *cough*
The officer at the beginning is Chesty Puller! The man was a legend in the Marine Corps and continues to serve as THE EXAMPLE of what a Marine and an officer should be!
Good night Chesty… where ever you are..
He’s fine where he is
Couple of things, guys.
Had the chance to work with an SF team and I gotta tell you that out of the entire Army, these guys were the first group of people that treated me like an adult, a professional and a competent human being. I thought of SOF as the "alphas" and all that at first until I had to work with them; changed my perspective completely.
I agree with respecting the enemy thing. Later on, you'll see a lot of instances where they emphasize a lot of respect for the enemy theme, and some of these are harsh realities
Can't stress enough guys, you put out some great content! Keep it up! 🤙🏼🤙🏼
Lecki was the youngest of the 8 in the family, his parents never really showed him any affection. You will see that theme throughout the series with him.
Buck always drops videos at a great time...stepping off for a ruck listening to the man himself, nothing better
Just landed at my 1st duty station, terrific timing…
I love the Pacific. Every Marine knows who Chesty Puller and John Basilone. We get taught about these great MoH recipients and leaders and it was so cool to see these stories come to live action.
I don't believe Chesty ever received an MOH. I could be wrong
I've spoken to some Marines who were at Tarawa. They said essentially the same thing:
You'll never see the fighting in movies because it was too brutal.
Guys, just want to say thanks. I just retired after 26 years and the vets in my new job are few and far between. You all provide me a great touch point as I continue to transition to the next phase. Bravo Zulu.
Thank you for your service, brother. Hope your new career is as successful as your last. I hope you find a purpose as fulfilling as the military. I know a lot of vets struggle with that after retiring/separating.
John Basilone was a world war 2 medal of honor recipient that the machine gunner is based on. He died in 1945 a decorated Marine on Iwo Jima.
That battle is absurd. The marines reaction that night/the morning after is priceless. And his humility is perfect. Just doing my job.
Chesty Puller is the commander and John Basilone (played by Jon Seda) is the NCO, who is later nominated for MoH.
Basilone was my Dads hero when he was a kid and why he became a career Marine.
@@mcelravys Basilone was definitely a cut above the fray (i.e., honor, courage and commitment). Bravo Zulu to your father for being a career Marine - that takes tenacity.
He was awarded the CMH for Guadalcanal and then went back to the war after raising that money, met his end on Iwo Jima if I am not mistaken. If I am, do correct me, cheers.
Basilone is the first enlisted Marine to get the MoH
@@sriigWhat about Sergeant Dan Daly? He had 2 Medals of Honor, Navy Cross and DSM. Sergeant Daly fought in the Boxer Rebellion, Haiti and WWI.
The officer in the beginning was LtCol. Puller. These guys were told to expect a heavy fight at the beach (this happened before the Normandy invasion) we (Marines) were always told that we are an amphibious assault force and amphibious assaults have almost always been high casualty producing fights. And I agree you have to respect your enemy, but something to remember (not justifying the scene where they "miss" the soldier) this was months after Pearl, these guys wanted revenge. Add to this the dehumanizing that the media had been pumping out calling the Japanese "yellow monkeys" they (largely) didn't see them AS human especially at first. Later in the series Basilone addresses this.
I love The Pacific! I am probably the only one who likes this series over Band of Brothers and I am Army. The stories really relate to me more.
The Japanese troops that Leckie's unit ran into at Alligator Creek were a battalion sized unit called the Ichiki Detachment, named after their commander. They were highly experienced assault troops that had seen action in China and had been part of the force that was sent to capture Midway before the IJN got smoked.
Michael Cain the actor mentioned this, when fought in Korea, he could sense the enemy due to their smell of garlic caused through its use in the enemy food
That’s a straight up no $hitter…. You can smell kimchi a long assed way away…
Everyone even til this day says if the Korean s catch you by yourself they'll chop you up
Actually in #Korea, the smell is from #Kimchee .. you can smell #Kimchee for several hundred feet ..
@Brad Hartliep thanks for the information, it must have had some aroma then!
I'm a mail carrier and I would deliver parcels from Korea that smelled so bad I would deviate and deliver them first, I found out that they had Kim Chee in it.
Chesty was a combat veteran and also was constantly being told by his commanders that he was to close to the front lines
The first thing chesty did when he took command in Guadalcanal was to move the CP closer to the front, the first thing his successor did was move it further back
Thanks boys for this one. It's a really good series of the Pacific theater.
Sir, that officer is Chesty Puller. Colonel at the time, and Marine Corps legend. He fought and led men in WW2 and Korea.
There was a surplus store that had a slogan that read " if chesty didn't want it, you don't need it."
Kurt's analysis of the Dad resonated with me. My grandfather could never show affection to my Dad. MY Dad (now 73) shows affection but he cannot say "I love you" back.
Same with me. My entire life he has worked hard & shown me affection, but still gets tripped up when I say “I love you”. His father was never around & showed no love or affection. He was able to break that generational cycle, in his own way.
After one of my tours, my brother mentioned how he would sit quietly in front of the news on TV, with anxiety every night I was still deployed. Have always known he loves me, just he never really says it.
The guy who was talking was Chesty Puller he enlisted in the marines before WW1 and worked his way up from private to major general. He saw combat in Haiti and Nicaragua prior to the war.
He was also a distant cousin to General George S. Patton and in the series they touch on John Basilone's service in the Army. He was known as "Manila John" because of being stationed there with the Army.
First, Do read both the Sledge and Lecky books. The depiction in the Pacific is very real. Second, I live in the town next to the town Basilone grew up. There is a parade every year and his memorial is very well taken care of by the local residents. Let’s hope that level of respect continues.
Yes, Yes, Yes..... By reading the books that the show was made from gives you a deep understanding of the realism of the movies...
Everything you said is why I am enlisting in the Marines. It’s the only thing I have ever really wanted to do in life.
Try to pick a job with a vehicle
I’m going in as an 0621 radio operator
@@claytonbryan If your reading this, how did it go. You in the marine corp yet. Good luck brother and thank you for fighting for our freedom. I am just a teenager but semper fi
Same for me. My family was not happy when I told them I will be enlisted but later they are so proud that I am a Marines. My parents put the USMC stickers on their cars. My sister made me wear the dress blues on her wedding.
That guy is Chesty Puller. He was an NCO for a number of years before he was commissioned. Also had already been awarded his first of 5 navy crosses.
Man of that era showed no emotions. They were a different breed. They survived World War I, the Great Depression, the Dust Bowl, bread lines, and soup kitchens, astronomical unemployment. A lot of people lived in Hovervilles, shanty towns. They were hardened people. Some say they were The Old Breed.
Life is better when FNG drops a review 👌🏻
HBO Pacific is a classic 😎
Dude…the absolute best. Hard freakin men, unbelievable odds. My favorite mini series.
That was Chesty Puller the most decorated Marine and a living legend and the reason its not propaganda or just some saber rattling is because he going is going in with them.
When I joined out of high school the Vietnam War had just ended. My mom was scared. My dad, a WWII Seabee who’d served in New Guinea and Saipan, understood. I looked at all services. I wanted to fly. The Navy gave me the chance. Flew 4 years on P-3s then got out. A year later I missed the life, so I used my GI bill and commissioned into the Air Force. First USAF assignment was to a mobile radar site. I remember jumping into a water-filled foxhole one night with my M-16 in a pouring rain as aggressors attacked. Had a snake swimming in the foxhole. It was 0200. I remember wondering how I ended up there joining the Air Force. If I’d want to sleep in mud and ice I’d have gone Marine or Army. Next assignment was flying on the AWACS. Never looked back. Only war I was in was Desert Storm, but the danger was nothing compared to what the fighters and ground-pounders did. Retired in the mid-90s and am still training crews as a contractor. But these old WWII guys were my boyhood heroes. They still are. Those guys saved the world and so many paid the price. Their history and shows like this should be required in schools. We need a new generation of patriots. People who don’t know the prices paid by past generations for America soon take America for granted.
You guys are 100% spot on with the regret of not answering the call. I was interested in the military my entire childhood and just never ended up joining. I’m 30 now and the wonder and regret is maybe as powerful as ever. My advice to younger guys would be answer the call if you have it.
I had a few years when I could have joined before I became "disabled". I'm mid-forties now and still see it as my main regret in life. If you have health I would encourage you to consider the national guard. It's not too late for you. You don't want to be hitting mid life and still wondering.
I joined the US Army in 1981 and a guy in our unit was 34 years old. The drill sergeants hassled him about not joining during the Vietnam War. He took it and basically said the same thing. He said that he was being eaten alive with regret for not joining the military. He was such a calm and mature guy that was a stabilizing presence to all of the young combat engineers. AATW!
So stoked you guys are doing this series!! The Pacific is my favorite war series to date.
My grandfather fought in WWII. Whenever the subject of killing the enemy was brought up, he would say "if that Japanese kid had stayed home doing whatever he did and left me alone to finish High School, he'd be alive today. We didn't start the war."
For context: my grandfather worked in the triple 8" A turret of a heavy cruiser, so his action wasn't in the mud and face to face like the infantry, but his ship was attacked by kamikazes a few times, so it wasn't all long range gunnery either.
4:39 that was chesty Fuller and at the time he was a lieutenant colonel
I've never seen you two so dialed in watching clips before. This one hit home. Always appreciate your breakdowns boys!
The reason they were shooting around the guy in the river is because at that time, the greatest honor for a Japanese Soldier was to die in battle. The greatest dishonor was to live when all your men have died. Basically, they were toying with him and denying him that death.
When the USMC first landed on Guadalcanal, the only Japanese on the island was a construction battalion with very limited weapons. The only properly armed Japanese were across the channel on Tulagi where they already had a seaplane base. It wasn't until about a week later where the Japanese army landed combat units did the real fighting begin.
8:15 Idk, Buck, my dad is a former Marine, so there was definitely something to that. But I didn't do it to "make Daddy happy".
As it turns out, we hadn't gotten along well at all before I went to boot camp. The last thing I heard him say was, "Don't come back!"
Knowing my dad like I do now, I'm (almost completely) sure that he was having a bit of fun at my expense.
But he made my entire family to take the ride...in a rented minivan, no less...so they could all be at my graduation on Parris Island...my parents and all of my siblings.
He also had reserved (and paid for) me to have my own room at the Hilton hotel on Hilton Head Island, which really surprised me.
Needless to say, our relationship improved immensely then, and we have continued to improve upon it since then.
That was fucking Chesty Puller. Semper Fi MFs. 🤘🏼🤘🏼🤘🏼
You two are right about the dream, my dad didn't wanted me join us army. He serve with second Indianhead division. Korean war combat veteran. silver star, purple heart, three PUC, two South Korean PUC. Great Job you two.
The thing with the dad reminds me of my first time on leave from Bosnia, my dad wasn’t told I would be home as I wanted to surprise him. He looked at me, asked when I was leaving, and went to the bathroom for 30 minutes. My mom told me later he cried for the 30 minutes, but never showed it to me. But he did tell me he was proud of my service years later a few years before he died.
The father son goodbye scene at 7:38 is emblematic of that time. That was a different generation of fathers and sons, just as fathers from 20 years ago are different in their own way from fathers today. My dad was a WW2 vet in his mid to late 30's when we were born and the affection he showed towards us was limited and I don't think he ever said I love you, but he provided for us and protected us so I never once questioned if he did. He raised us after our mom died when we were very young. Yes I wanted him to be as proud of me as I was of him, and 44 years after his death I still live to make him proud, no shame in that.
Finally! A reaction video to The Pacific. Can't wait to other episodes 👍👍
Thanks guys for reviewing the Pacific. It’s always interesting to hear your perspective. Throughout my teen years I had planned on joining the Navy, when the time came I chickened out. It ate on me for years, that I had let my country down. In my early 30’s I joined the rural fire dept in my area. After 5 years of being a brush truck junkie I finally feel like I’ve been doing my part, that I found my calling.
The good-bye scene between Leckie and his father: there is a later episode with a scene between Leckie and Stella (in Melbourne) where he explains how and why his family is emotionally stunted.
Leckie, like Buck, deals with his trauma through humor. His trauma is always below the surface and always comes out during non-combat situations like Gloucester or Pavauu. During battle, he is solid and brave but he is definitely mentally damaged after Guadalcanal, Gloucester and Peleliu. One of my favorite lines is where he says, "I fought for television" as he stares at Vera (his girlfriend).
My grandfather was captured in WWII on Corregidor, took part in the Bataan death march, and spent 4 years in a Japanese POW camp.
I'm assuming most Marines that love you guy's were probably going into nervous convulsions and yelling 'that's god damn chesty puller!' when you were talking about the old man at the beginning 😂.
From Haiti to the Frozen Chosin, the man is a legend.
Its understandable people outside of the marines dont know who he was, I just know some people who were probably having a stroke watching that 😂.
Pacific is realiest war series I ever seen. Couldn't even see twice because I can't stand the brutality of it. It's almost like second hand PTSD you suffer just watching them suffer
Another great video (although I prefer Band of Brothers). The quote you're looking for is very similar: "Every blessing ignored becomes a curse." The Alchemist, p. 60.
The thing about the medic being killed is that the Marine Corps and Army also knew all those small tactical things about not going outside the wire etc... But when expanding 20, 30 times in size and training hundreds of thousands in just a few months for the first campaigns spread the experienced troops pretty thin. Took a while for it to really sink in to all the newbies
Brothers, at the start of the show that is Chesty Puller talking to the NCO's at the start, and one of the most decorated Marines of all time.
26:12 agreed. Not everyone has the call, even those that were in the USMC before our unit shipped to Iraq in 2005. It was hard, a handful found reasons not to go. We pressured them to find the call if it was there, but it was not there for them. They separated from the military, but I should follow up on them, see how they are. I don't know what to tell them outside of, it was the right decision for them and the unit if they could not do it then.
I was on the Los Angeles Police Department and a Reserve Marine was called up for deployment to Iraq. He suddenly became a conscientious objector and was discharged from the Corps. He stopped wearing his EGA pin on his uniform and other Marines hated him. Especially after Robert Cottle (USMC Reserve Sergeant Major and LAPD SWAT operator) was killed in combat operations in Afghanistan.
@ralphalvarez5465 served with Major Ricardo Crocker. Was in Haditha with him that day. Effing great man, terribly missed.
@ralphalvarez5465 long shot, but did you know him? Like asking a Pittsburgh guy if he knew someone from Ohio lol.
This is actually a great series. Definitely watch the whole thing 👍👍👍👍👍👍 also keep up the good work! I watch majority of your breakdowns and are very inspirational and funny
"A stream of white hot tracers snapped past my face and I pulled my head back like a turtle into it's shell and flopped over the side of the Amtrak into a twisted pile of gear on the sand." E.B. Sledge
It was hard for me to enlist since everyone in my family was against me joining, but I knew deep down it's what I wanted and it was calling to me. It got to the point where every day they would argue with me, and they all broke down sobbing when I told them I enlisted. 3 years in made it to Sgt and have been loving everyday of it, I tell my parents all the time of my accomplishments and they're super proud of me and always ask for pictures to show their friends.
3 year sgt wtf?
Louis B. “Chesty” Puller, as several others have pointed out was a legendary leader in the USMC. The depiction seems pretty accurate. You guys should read up on the Chosin Reservoir in Korea as well. Mike
14:00 not a forward observation post, but a dugout. The only Japanese troops on Guadalcanal were an aviation engineer battalion building the airfield. When the Marines landed they bugged out into the forest, leaving a large supply of rice, sake and engineering equipment which the marines put to good use in finishing the airstrip. The fighting Japanese troops were landed a few days afterward.
So true about having a dream. And not fulfilling it when I had the chance. Since I was a kid and heard the Ballad of the Green Berets. That is what I wanted to do. I even bought a green Beret at an Army surplus store when I was 16.
Yet, when I finally got the opportunity. I walked away. I literally had orders in my hand to the Q course. And a plane ticket. I just didn't get on the plane. At 60 years old. It's still the biggest regret of my life. 😞
My grandfather was with Chesty Puller all the way from the Inchon Landing to the Chosin Reservoir and back.
My grandmother had high school photos of my mom and her siblings on the wall going up the stairs. But at the top looking down at you all the way up was a big portrait of Gen. Puller as he was in Korea.
Totally amazing series & pretty realistic 👏
Hey Fellas. Just want to say that I enjoy watching yalls Beers and Breakdowns. Not only for the cuttin up and having a great time but also the wisdom yall drop from life experiences. What yall give is not just for military purposes and prep but also everyday life. I grew up without a father in my life as well and had the biggest chip on my shoulder and anger in my heart because of it. I learned from a few families that God had placed in my life to not allow that to affect who I was or who I will become. Yalls remarks on the father and son scene around the 12 minute mark I believe is right on both accounts. Growing up one way, knowing one way and seeing one way can be hard to see another point of view. It's great to see and hear both of your views and opinions. Outstanding gentlemen.
This is no joke, but I have serious respect for anybody has done this stuff.
I came from a military family. My dad was a fighter pilot in WW2 , I saw the medal for 80 combat missions. I enlisted in the army, coast guard, and Air Force. Was turned down because of heat surgery. I got drafted in 64 for Vietnam, but got classified 4f . Talk about unfulfilled dreams.
The scene where Lekey and his father part ways at the train station is not unusual for that time period. My father grew up in that era, and let's just say that physical and other emotional sentiments from men were not all that forthcoming. It is just the way it was. Men were tougher and harder back then because they needed to be. Remember, this was at the tail end of the depression.
That little conversation you had about the Call really resonated for me - my first best fate was to serve in the Royal Navy and my father would not allow me to. When the time came that I no longer needed his permission to do so, my feet were on another path.
But for years I kept glancing over to that road not taken and I have always regretted that, a little before my 33rd birthday, I was standing at the RN recruiting desk at an air-show and I, after what seemed like an hour, walked away. As the rules were back then, that was my last chance to join as an officer and, in the quiet places of my mind, I still think I blew it.
My father forbidding me when I was a teenager may have saved my life because I wanted to serve on Type 21's (beautiful ships) and we lost a fair few of those in the Falklands but, again in those quiet places of my mind, I have never really forgiven him for altering the way my life has gone.
Sup guys. I love the show. Buck is a funny and crazy mofo. Abel is the comic relief and Kurt just in between.
I have a short story since you guys mentioned answering the "call."
My mother was never there so I tried to enlist in the Air force. I passed the physical and also the asvab. My plan was to go OTS and come out a brand new man. So I waited and waited. Only to get a letter said (not verbatim) "Due to you being the only one carrying your bloodline we can't accept your application for enrollment." That hurt me so bad I literally cried.
I would honestly tune in and watch Buck and Kurt talk about anything and everything...the movie review is just a bonus! Love this channel guys! 👍
Just a personal note. Buck, I am a widow's son. Not having a father can make you different, in exactly the way you describe. I grew up during the Vietnam era, and I watched all my friends struggle with their fathers -- especially the guys who were against the war. Remember, their dads were the "greatest generation" who fought WW2. It was horrific for these men, sons and fathers both. You can imagine. I was deeply aware, and in a way grateful, that I just missed all that. But in a sense, we men who grew up without fathers will always stand apart in a way. I see you know that and just wanted to acknowledge it.
Thanks for the review. Excellent job as usual. Semper Fi to all my Marine Corps brothers and all brothers in arms everywhere.
This series is amazing. And that officer was Chesty Puller! Lmao god damn stud. Don’t think his brother Peter was in it.
wish u guys would do 1 series at at time.
I completely agree with your view on the Marine Corps. When I was taking Executive Protection security classes, we had a lot of Marines in the class with me (a civvie), and the Marine Corps birthday was a big deal. Not so much with the Army; although the two or three Army guys were more than happy to talk crap about the Marines from across the room when they were celebrating the Marine Corps birthday.
The US Army in general does not glorify its history and traditions like the Marine Corps does. They remember their battles like Belleau Wood, Iwo Jima, Chosin Reservoir, Hue City and Fallujah. They emphasize November 10, 1775 and Tun Tavern. Semper Fidelis, blood stripes, the ceremonial sword, the leatherneck collar, EGA, Parris Island. They are a tight group and always let you know who they are.
The marines are the smallest branch but have the toughest missions and our toughest enemies
“Every blessing ignored becomes a curse.”
17:55 Yessirs. That's why it's actually in the written guidelines to avoid using any soaps or deodorants which use fragrances.
For your trainees:
Ivory soap!!
That's all you'll need.
Plus, you can slice off bits to use it for cleaning clothes and equipment.
When you said, " If you know what you're doing is right, you don't need anyone else's approval " that is so true so, in a way a lot of people would envy your unique situation in where your father wasn't around freeingbyou if that crushing burden of having to need their approval when it's ultimately bullshit.
The dad scene is a mixture of: silent era generation, the parent knows to be very reserved- strict stone face, don't show fear or sadness just live strong. The dad isn't gonna want to say bye to his son knowing what could happen. The son just wants to have that small moment of approval one man to another to see him off.
In my opinion the Army is aimed more at Unit Pride, where the Marine Corps is more about overall pride in the Corps. Neither is any better or worse than the other.
SLLS is basically me turkey hunting after ive heard any noise i can miscontrue as a turkey
Thank you for posting these! Always fun to watch. I would encourage you to read two books, “Helmet For My Pillow” and “With the Old Breed”. Both books will paint a picture in your mind of what these guys were going through during the Pacific campaign in WWII. It helps understand why the Americans sometimes were a bit dark in the way they treated Japanese foes. Right or wrong, it was reality and I believe these books capture that horror of war.
I read both those books. What they went through with the land crabs, rats and other nastiness is incredible. Dan Carlin in Hardcore History podcasts says that captured Japanese soldiers said that the officers encouraged them to commit atrocities so that they would be less likely to surrender, figuring the same would happen to them if captured.
good energy in this video good stuff fellas
Anyone out there… im a dad to two boys… all i want for them is to be happy. I dont care what they are what they do or who they do it with. And i know you may not think so but id bet your parents are the exact same. Their your parents they love you regardless
my first time finding this channel and this is my first video of yours. I enjoy the conversation exchange between you two. I'll be looking forward to future videos about The Pacific.
Semper Fi
Pacific and Band of Brothers are both excellent series based on real characters. The horrors they faced were different and personal.
Outstanding review. I felt a calling for a long time, had a major injury that prevented me from joining and planned on catching up to it later. I think I made it to MEPS and was planning on delayed entry. By the time I could run again I’d met my future wife and started a family. I love em & wouldn’t trade them for the world but that voice has always nagged me. God bless all you who served. Life can get busy and convoluted really fast. Dig in and fight to heed that call if you feel it.
Based on the book”The Old Breed” by Eugene Sledge, highly recommended.
Helmet for my pillow by Lekey is the bases for the early war stuff Sledge’s book covering the latter part of the war.
The advice you guys have given in this video has helped me alot
I had the same story when i enlisted my mom cried so much she still was supportive but not at first.
Love what you guys are doing. I'm not in the military and I don't live in US but what you said about the call is so true. I had the call, the dreams, all the stuff unfortunately I've had medical stuff what created a situation that I wasn't approved to enlist and it hunts me up to this day. The closest I can get to the feeling is playing milsim games. Keep it up do enjoy what you guys do video wise and support wise
You guys need to look up Chesty Puller. That’s who the “Old Man” is in the beginning.
On the jungles on Okinawa today you can still see mortar pits dug into the sides of hills, fingers, etc. From ww2.
Dudes, you two decided to serve your country. I wish I could but not being able to hear doesnt exactly make me all that useful out on the battlefiled but regardless it's not you two that should be proud. It's all of us. Men like you are the reasons why we can sleep safely at night or why some kid overseas gets to see another sunrise. Thank you for your service, our governments may not appreciate you but I and Im certain the majority of the public certainly do.
My grandfather fought in Manila Philippines and I believe new guinea. He was in Manila a while, brought back a lot of cool stuff from the locals
Please don't be too hard on the moms and dads who don't want you to join. We're not thinking about your dreams: we're just terrified of getting a condolence letter from the Department of Defense. We're terrified of the idea of our sons and daughters bleeding out on a godforsaken field ten thousand miles from home, without us there to comfort them. It's an incredibly heightened level of attachment that you can't understand until you have a child of your own.
My father (23 year USN CPO, VN Veteran) shook my hand for the first time when I left out for Navy Boot Camp.
Tapping the head is the count where you start from the back. I'm one you're too, until you're three all the way up to the front.