Stewart Rhodes' son: ‘How I escaped my father’s militia’ - BBC News
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- Опубліковано 28 лис 2022
- The son of militia leader Stewart Rhodes spent years plotting to help his family escape an abusive household. Now that the elder Rhodes faces decades in prison, the rest of the family is rebuilding their lives.
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His son is far more articulate and heroic than the father could ever be. I wish them peace, success and safety above all.
@@NinjaDildoShow let the copium conspiracies commence!!
@@NinjaDildoShow perhaps are the actor
@@NinjaDildoShow you....are completely incorrect....fact....it's easy to look up this young man and it's easy to see how hard it has been for him and his remaining family. UNTIL ....you have a father who raised you to build punji pits before leaving on a family vacation....do not speak on the validity of this young man. The sickeness that follows the conspiracies behind the far right wing and the sane Americans witnessing it all...is deeply appalling. YOU ....are what is wrong with America. Attempting to spread more conspiracy shit...is exactly why this young man and his siblings have hidden in fear. SHAME ON YOU....and all of you who attempt to defame this young man. I am sickened by the conspiracy shit that has lead many families down this dark road the past few years...absolutely sickened. I am the daughter of a vietnam vet who fell deep into the conspiracies of the TRUMP CULT....deep into it...and to unbury myself from the rest of my family...is exactly..what I did. KUDOS to this mom and her children for taking the hard road toward self preservation, freedom, and healthy livelihoods. SMH
@@NinjaDildoShow well everywhere says he is do you have proof to show otherwise or are you just another stupid person om the Internet?
@@NinjaDildoShow prove it? Would be as easy as a link to his actor publicity website 🤔 why didn't you do that?
a son showing his dad what a real man should be
Amen
Ditto that!!
Yup! Glad they escaped !
Not a Domestic terrorist who failed Jan 6th?
That is what liberal and progressive children are for!
His dad was sentenced to 18 years in prison. I hope the rest of the family can live a little easier for a while. ❤
Having known and worked with abusive men with cluster B personality disorders,
It was tragically very predictable that Stewart would begin to see his son as a threat to his own status and authority as he got older.
I am so proud of this young man for getting out, and I hope he gets the best therapy and gives himself the best self-care and love that he can.
He very much deserves a happy, free life!!
*This young man is what NON TOXIC masculinity looks like.* A genuine family man.
Exactly. So thoughtful, introspective, and confident in what he says. Really inspiring.
lmao right because toxic masculinity is men who stood up and fought for your freedom to say stupid shit like u just said :))
B E T A cuck that's what u r lmao
That's a misandrist term.
@@redrick8900 what is?
What an articulate, thoughtful young man! Any other father would burst with pride at having this class-A son.
That childs realization that his dad was only a dangeorus obstacle is heart breaking.
100%. That was powerful!
@@jay4you853 ... how gullible are u people... your 'minds' are well prepared to freely join the communist party...
He calls his own father by his first name throughout the video
This family is far bettering off.
Great interviews
His first name is Elmer
That son is a true hero. What a courageous, loving young man to help his family escape this abuse. I’m sure he had opportunities to walk away on his own, and he’ll have his share of trauma but they’re all in a better place and I hope they thrive.
His father is the hero....
.. one day he'll realize that and be greatly ashamed of what he's done here.
@@DRourk Wah wah wahh..
Dad's in jail for at least 18 years
Dad definitely won't even live to walk free.
Dad betrayed the country and is now serving what is effectively a life-sentence for sedition!
His dad was NOT the hero.
@@PhrontDoor In absolutely no way did Stewart Rhodes betray the USA.
Whether he lives to see life outside of prison, I have no idea.
If he actually remains in jail for 18+ years though, what little is left of the USA will have died. It's almost dead now.
@DRourk Brainwashed dolt
@@DRourk daddy just got 18 years for sedition. If you think he's a hero, than you're a traitor too
We're living in an age of narcissism that must be exposed and kept in check. Thank you to all of the people who participated in making this film.
Calling his Dad Stewart instead of Dad, changing his name & becoming the father figure for the family shows just how strong, resilient & unbelievably brave he is!!!
Thissss
He’s the real Chad in this story.
@@vogelvogeltje what is a Chad.... How bout calling him a man... Just a human just a man ... Smh!
So dang true...
Yes. The way he ran away from an old man with one eye and recurring problems from a broken back was truly heroic.
Doubt is actually a gift, a part of common sense.
He's a miracle that he developed an independent mind.
He seems like a good kid. His mom must have done a hell of a job raising him because so often children can't recognize the horrible things that their parent does.
For this man to grow up to be an actual contributing member of society and a responsible older brother to his family despite being raised by a narcissistic psychopath is just incredible. Stewart Rhodes could only wish to be a fraction as good as his son. ❤
So well said.
It was his father that taught him. 🥴
@Always Overcoming Bear Nice of you to erase the fact Dakota has a mother, too. Can't imagine she might have taught him anything. 🙄
@@alwaysovercomingbear4809 shut up with that crap already
@@alwaysovercomingbear4809 taught him how not to act
His comment about when people say about a domestic abuse situation "why didn't she just leave"....that was great. Because it shows that he has extrapolated from his own awful experience in a compassionate way . He took what had happened to him, and focused it onto other people's lives with concern about them.
That IS actually an inspiring person. Really impressive.
Exactly. Most people can't possibly understand how life threatening it is to leave. Statistics show overwhelmingly that more women and children die trying to leave their psychopathic husbands/fathers than at any other time in the relationship.
@@lyricessence Yup and that's not even including that you are losing your housing and and the ability to take care of your children, perhaps. It takes a lot to leave and enter into a situation you have no idea if you will be able to support yourself.
It's truly amazing that he snapped out of the grooming and brainwashing his father put him through. He's insightful, brave, intelligent, responsible, and in a much better place now in every way. Plus his father is going to jail for a long time. That's what matters.
I was thinking about this in domestic violence terms right before he brought it up. Imagine, you’re not only terrified of the husband you’re trying to get away from, but that husband is the leader of an armed militia. So very glad they are safer now. Probably never going to be able to completely stop watching their backs. (The mother’s point about losing access to their money due to lawsuits etc is heartbreaking and shouldn’t be allowed.)
It's a little different when your husband is a gun nut.
An intelligent, articulate and sensitive young man. Bless you and your family.
This boy turned man is inspiring beyond words. I'm shocked and in awe, Becoming a fire fighter, taking on the roles of head of the household! Much love and respect to you. I shall think of you and how you're doing.
Boy turned "male"????
He "always" was a "male"!!!
You have to mean "boy turned "man". RIGHT?? If not, could you clear up what you mean? TY...
@@FLo-jc7ig sorry my bad I shall correct this ignorant wording on my part.
@@FLo-jc7ig edited
“ I had one parents, and a dangerous obstacle”. This young man truly has gotten it together. He’s a reasonable, articulate young man.
Some may say he’s a traitor to his father’s beliefs and therefore a traitor to his father’s constitution.
@@alvaroq2024 good. If it weren’t for treason, we wouldn’t be USA 🤡 it’s funny how that works, eh?
@@alvaroq2024 There will always be the "some may say"ers..they're judgements are irrelevant. His "father's beliefs and constitution", sent him to prison...a good place for real traitors.
@@alvaroq2024 Lol who says that
@@alvaroq2024 or is he being his own man..not being to be the man that his dad wants him to be. He may like soccer over football
I love that the son mentioned that it took 2 years of planning to leave. This couldn't be truer as someone formerly in an abusive marriage. You're fearing for your safety, and these aren't people you can just talk to. You have to save, plan, and sometimes even leave when they're not present, so you're essentially sneaking around. Plus, that entire time, you're still dealing with abuse. I'm so glad they got out, and I'm glad they are working through all the trauma. I wish them all the best!
Wishing you all the best too.
I was a very abused child. I knew my job was to protect my younger brother and my mum from harm. I got between them and my father and made sure he went for me not them. As is too often the case my mother couldn't leave because of financial control. When he finally left I was mentally and physically disabled. I wish this young strong young man and his mother the best. They deserve it. I wan't the USA to have healthcare that could help them for free. It would make their lives easier.
@@brianwilliams9605 thanks for sharing your experience with us. 🙏
And all that time you have no stability, you don't even know when you put your decorations up, if you'll be able to have a peaceful holiday meal, or if you should plant flowers in the yard, cuz you might have to leave the next day . . Feeling guilty all the time for putting your child through it, cuz you believe its all your fault
I’m glad you got another chance
This man is nothing short of astounding 💜
What a example of courage. A fine line, of sanity vs. insanity.
Yes, indeed - as is his mom
Trying to leave an abusive relationship is like trying to defuse a bomb. It requires a lot of patience and planning.
I'm glad this family is okay. They are heroes for putting this story out there, and for managing not to drown in Stewart's tsunami of hatred.
Want to give your comment thousand upvotes if I can!.
That's another reason why its important to be as financially independent as you possibly can especially if you're a woman.
You nailed that one perfectly!❤
@@mjohnson1741 It’s part of the oppression, keeping the wife from working outside the home so she is completely dependent in every way, even questioning herself at wanting to leave. Abusers like this are master manipulators. He was even able to manipulate tens of thousands of people who he didn’t control 24/7 for years like he did his wife.
@@mjohnson1741 9:53 You can see how conflicted she was. It's not easy when that is all you've known for over a decade.
His son is a friggin hero. This young man could have easily chosen to go down his fathers path. He was surrounded by it but he made a stand and did the right thing for his family.
He is very intelligent and empathetic.
You don’t see men like this these days. A man who stands apart from the crowd.
Big respect to him!
And most do!
@@teambikini8746 that's your takeaway from the comment?
@@teambikini8746 what a pathetic and small perspective. “I can’t comprehend that another human could possibly disagree with the proud boys, therefore they must be fake.” Ignorance is power, isnt it?
That kid is a model for all republican children. Reject the insanity. Vote Blue!
That young man is gonna be alright. Under enormous circumstances his mother raised a very self effacing, mindful young adult.
I was impressed. He's a solid well grounded person.
She raised a cancerous pig.
He needs therapy ,even though he is out from under that monster ,he needs a lot of therapy
What a remarkable woman. Getting away from a psychopath is a life-threatening choice. It takes tremendous courage, patience, planning, and strength. So happy that this family made it out safely.
A psychopath who believes in the Founding Fathers and the Constitution. Yes what a terrible threat to America.
@@joefairweatherblues8511 If he did, he wouldn't be a domestic terrorist for a living.
@@lyricessence You've been hoodwinked by the MSM (mainstream media), aka "fake news media" as Donald Trump called them out as. Rhodes is not a terrorist anymore than Washington, Jefferson, Adams, Franklin and Co were. He's a true American patriot.
Btw was Nelson Mandela a terrorist? By comparison Rhodes did not engage in any comparable terror activity compared to Mandela.
These two are phenomenal. And as a kid who relied on my brother to get through my childhood, I feel confident in saying that your siblings probably think the world of you.
His wife is so normal, so nice. She and his son knew him so well. I’m sure they’re breathing a sigh of relief that he’s behind bars. What a horrible father figure to grow up with.
“In fact I had a one parent and a dangerous obstacle”
Damn that’s heartbreaking to hear.
Silver lining: his dad shot his own eye out with a .22 pistol. That's why he wears an eyepatch.
@@MrJonsonville5 Rhodes shot himself in the face
DO NORMAL NAME !!!!!!!!!!!!
@@MrJonsonville5 And that the abhorrent excuse of a father is going to prison for his treason and crimes.
@@lucasrem eh, same shit, different pile : )
The moment that he looked right at the camera and reiterated “TWO years” I realized that this young man has so much potential to do real, good, hard hard, empathetic work with survivors of domestic violence, and I have no doubt in my mind he’ll live up to it. Whether on the micro or the macro. This interview alone is wonderful towards that end.
Yes, I agree
Liberals got fooled here: most of our food is loaded with chemicals that poison our body and blood. But CNN/BBC are lying and saying a bigger threat is cosplayers or open carry advocates. Latter are stupid but libs totally got fooled, you don't realize it yet
@@heightsofsagarmatha you don’t say….
This kid is stronger than most people will ever be, all the best to you and your family Dakota
Well done young man. Brave, compassionate, thoughtful, intelligent, insightful and articulate. In related news, I have just read that Stewart Rhodes has now been sentenced to 18 years, and in the same week their divorce is now finalised. A good week for the family amongst a lifetime of (to say the least) difficulty.
I totally feel for Tasha. The fact that she has to remind herself that she doesn’t have to worry about how mad he gets anymore really hits home. That’s what it’s like after an abusive relationship, learning that their anger is not going to punish you anymore.
Agree….and when he gets in any kind of trouble basically you get in worse trouble when you are in a relationship with this type of man.
The fight is not over for Tasha and Dakota they still have to face retaliation from people fighting to be the next cult leader of Oath Keepers. At least they escape the Stewart Rhodes part of the Oath Keepers just not sure how they would escape his successors though.
You've completely missed the point of this report. Have you read the title?
@@LMB222 thank you for your concern. I gleaned more than one thing from the report. You should try it some time.
Yes!
They were so brave by leaving! Imagine living with a lunatic like this for so many years. It must have been extremely hard. You guys are the true heroes.
The BBC do nothing but lie
@@edwingibson628 You can think whatever you like, it won't change the reality
stop calling people "heroes" so lightly holy sh*t
@@tgreaux5027 The young man took the higher road to escape with his loved ones, from the persona of his own father, when that father was obviously capable of riling up a bunch of other violent and lethal-minded rabble that attempted to keep their Orange-faced leader in charge of MY country. He looked out for his immediate family and he made a hard choice at a young age. If you can't respect him for that, then it's because you don't have any respect to share.
@@tgreaux5027 He could have done the easy thing and poked out his dad's other eye, 😉 🤺 but instead he did what he could without exhibiting the violent streak that put his father in prison, I'd say that's evolution.
Can’t believe I’m saying it’s heartwarming to see so much good come out of this horrific experience. Any child growing up with this man as their father should be doomed, yet here is a story of hope, courage and love in a time where our country is in desperate need a real hero.
What this young man was able to and still is doing for his family is very touching and remarkable. I hope his family finds peace and healing
Stuart’s son is a markedly bright and articulate fellow. I hope that over time he can resolve his internal conflicts and reshape his life in a satisfying way.
He had to take on so many responsibilities, which was so unfair for him. He might need therapy, because he needs an outlet for all that pain he’s gone through, even if it’s just counseling! 😢
@@marjorjorietillman856 Damn on one hand congrats that the entire family escaped a cult leader like Stewart Rhodes but on the other hand they have to watch out for Oath Keepers Cult members going after them from escaping the cult.
Absolutely impressed Dakota. You stepped up for your mother and sisters. You took the sacrifice so that they will have a chance at a normal life. You're more of a man than your father will ever be. You should be proud of yourself, your sisters are lucky to have you, don't ever give up.
This is misleading. He has his masters from Yale law as a Constitutional lawyer worth over $8 million. The land alone in Montana is worth over $20 million!
I once was a liberal and then I woke up and realised that everything I'd been told about equality was a lie.
My father was not in a militia, but everything else about Stewart Rhodes is nearly identical to my father in the way he treated his family. My father was a control freak who disciplined me every time I showed any kind of personal initiative, any time I attempted to display my personality & any time he fealt that I disrespected him (which was several times a day). After my father passed away over a year ago I decided that I would release all my anger toward him, to just let it go. That in itself showed me that I can tolerate anyone now & I don't hate anyone, I don't hold grudges & I don't let people anger me. No one will ever hurt me again because I won't allow it. I am strong.
Untreated mental illness
Yes, yes, you are!! Don't forget that voice inside telling you how "you got this!" ✌🏼💗😊
I feel you I also had an abusive father punched my mom and I for years until I was old enough to put a gun to his head is a long story, he still lives Im not a criminal, I just helped mom to escape that hell...
Sounds very familiar. Was he ex military? Because my father was and it contributed to his mental illness.
@@TheMELTDOWN911
Thank xxxx you didn't pull a trigger! You'd see at least 10 Xmases inside and it would have changed you.
Excuse the phrase but "you dodged a bullet there!" 🙂 You have to laugh, eh?
At least you didn't witness your father acting out a one-man campaign to save the Constitution from "all known enemies foreign & domestic".
Stuart, we're living in this foxhole and eating apple & oatmeal to get us used to the coming revolution! We have to defend the Constitution from the home-grown crazies! LOL
This was heart wrenching. I really wish the best for this young man and his mother, and we owe them such a debt of gratitude for speaking out honestly, it could not have been easy for them, but it was a great service to our country, thank you.
Yes. A courageous man. For survivors of abuse. For the conspiracy people who go too far.
I pray for you and your s safety. I honour your spirit and that of your mum.
I lived family violence too. But pulled me and my young daughter free. It is so so hard and you had it harder in your situation.
Thank you from Australia.
What an intelligent and thoughtful young man.Very lucky his mother wasn't of the same mindset. Glad they are free of him .
The bravery of this mom and son is absolutely stunning.
Truly.
It must be to the point they reckon there's more to lose by being controlled by a maniac and NOTHING to lose by breaking themselves free taking the ultimate risky chance! It is SCARY!
Esp the boy. Like wow having to look at your own father that way
wow cannot believe how these poor people lived
A brave young man! Thank you for standing up to evil.
His mum did an incredible job. He seems a good guy.
Dude, he's off-the-charts an exceptional human being. So intelligent. So clear-thinking and well-spoken. And down to earth. Yes, his mom must have done real good.
Rhodes is the terrorist he fears. Crazy and irregular father.
Says a lot about mom that even in such a shitty abusive situation she was still able to raise such a kind, responsible, brave, and resourceful person. I'm glad they seem to be slowly picking up the pieces and getting back on track. I hope they find happiness and safety again.
I think ol' stu being convicted is a big step in the right direction for them. Going to and being caught at the January 6th capital riot was probably the only good thing he's ever done for his family. I hope for his estranged family's sake they lock him up and throw away the key.
What courage it must have took to stand up to a man who so ruthlessly manipulates others. You two are both an inspiration to me.
Mad respect for this kid. He bounced back from an oppressive situation so hard.
What about the kids of all those Sheriffs out there who followed this mental case who say they're not going to enforce the law if they think it violates the Oathkeepers code? We can't stop here, we need to go after every last poisoned mind that he infected.
@@BillySBC You're a f%kin psycho
@@BillySBC True, but no need to start with the "what about ism " because someone else's situation in no way minimizes the experience of Dakota, his mother, and his sisters.
I'm not sure 'bounced back' is _quite_ accurate here. I sense this clearly brave and eloquent young man will be unpicking the emotional and psychological fallout of his upbringing - if you can call it that - for many years to come. With a father like Stewart Rhodes, he'll have learnt to hide his true feelings (the powerful ones) both for his own safety and that of his Mum and sisters - and ultimately that rarely ends well...
@@221b-Maker-Street abuse survivors usually have some work to do, but they can and will do it, they do it every day. They aren't broken, and it's the people who left recently who are most visible. You'd be surprised if you knew how many people have been through a domestic abuse situation, because down the road, they look and live like everyone else. They just have experience that others don't. Healing happens.
Has anyone noticed how many of these men have abusive relationships with women and their families. We’d probably prevent a lot of violent crimes by taking violence and intimidation of women very seriously
Thank you .
I totally agree
Women are also abusive.
@@AwakenedAvocado women certainly can abuse and men can be victims. But the preponderance of criminals associated with January 6th are men and many of them have histories of violence and or abuse towards women
@@jip230 and how do you know that. Where are their records tou checked every one? Sure. Maybe they're people sick to death of the lies and corruption of an inadequate government.
A harrowing tale. Kudos to that young man and his mother for surviving and escaping. Even now, you can see the stress they still go through. It's an extraordinary act of toughness & grace that Dakota has gotten his head screwed on right and is able to stand in as father for his siblings. May they finally find happiness as a family.
What a good kid. Overcoming that “obstacle” and taking care of his family. He could not have articulated his realities more poignantly. I wish him well.
Dakota is a far stronger, braver and more capable man than his father could ever pretend to be. I wish him, his mother and sisters a peaceful recovery of not only surviving this abuse but thriving into their future.
Amen!
I suspect that's why Stewart say him as a threat.
Blessings to the son. He was a victim himself, of an abusive father and he has aspired and committed himself to helping his family heal. I can only hope his life brings him the joy and support and community he deserves in plentiful quantities!
I wish you so much happiness in your life Dakota, you’re a decent, honourable man who stepped up for your mother and siblings when they needed you… well done 🇦🇺
There should be an award for people with this character, commitment and resilience. Amazing human.
Fathers like Stewart makes me realize that being Blood doesn’t make a Family, Love is what makes a Family.
Love, and shared good values is what makes family.
Love how he calls his father ‘Stewart’😂 like there is no association!!
👊 proud of the man he has become!!
Yes, it's healthy for him to dissociate in that way. He should be very proud of himself indeed, yes!
Congrats that the entire family escaped the cult.
I wish he would call him ELMER 🤭
At this point, he is but a sperm donor. He didn't raise his son. He terrorized and abused him. That's no father.
@@garfield2439 Shh! Be wery wery qwiet.
This kid grew up to be a man and a father figure that his own father failed to be. He needs to keep his head up especially when he saved his mother and siblings
What a strong young man, in spite of his father. His mother did a great job raising him.
That kid and his mom are heroes.
That guy's something else not only to be denied his childhood; not only to be able to get out of the mess he was in; but to actually help his family out and continue to support them so his little sisters could have what he never did. I'm both incredibly sad for him and incredibly amazed by his fortitude.
It made me cry, sad for him, them all but especially him. For joy and hope as well. His doing what he feels right and IS, sets a bar we should all strive for. Hope is great motivator and more and more of these younger people are adding to that hope everyday... A Real Man....
I'm honestly surprised that I haven't heard any stories from people who were sexually abused, or otherwise treated inappropriately, by "Stewart", as the son called him, not Dad.
@@sarah2.017 If what you’re alleging turns out to have some weight, the family may decide to write a book, and benefit handsomely.
@@sarah2.017 I didn't realise that he had been implicated in sexual abuse but it wouldn't surprise me. After all, his 'hero' Trump is a serial sexual abuser!
@@Spearca be patient that’s what they’re use to out here apparently.
Bless this young man and his family. Looks like intelligence and goodness skipped his father's birth and went straight to his son. 💙😊
She’s brave to come forward and explain all this for us to understand. I hope her and family are getting serious mental health counseling. Sending positive love.
One of the saddest realizations about this story is that it is not unique but one that many others experience, an oppression of abuse. Dakota shines as a father figure in helping his mom and siblings afterwards and rejecting the lies that he had been taught. I was taken by his sacrifice in helping his siblings to have the childhood that he was denied. Truly an inspiring story of giving to others.
He Is A Breath Of Fresh Air This Young Man 😊 He Could Teach A Course At Collage Level On What Is A Real Man
"an oppression of abuse"
It's uncanny how often the most oppressive people are the most afraid of being oppressed by "them".
It's just projection all the way down for authoritarians.
@@IRGeamer There is a cycle to abusing. Abusers were often abused. I know nothing about Stewart's background, but I would expect an abusive home environment growing up. Also he had anger issues that lead to abuse. Possible mental illness too.
It appears that Dakota has broken the chain of abusing, I hope. Such a pattern is hard to break.
It is strange that an off hance encounter to join a volunteer fire department was so crucial in helping him out of the darkness of his home life.
@@michaelroark2019doesn’t matter about the cycle. Stewart grew up n chose to continue the cycle. Whereas Dakota chose to break the cycle.
@@michaelroark2019 one of the reasons abusers and the alt right demonize the media is because it suppresses their voice and diminishes their power. It shows the abused that abuse isn’t normal.
Both he and his mom are very well spoken. They are very courageous with sharing their family story. I can only imagine what they went through all their lives. If I were them though, I'd still be looking over my shoulder... maybe not for roads himself, but the people who shared his philosophy. I pray for their safety and their well-being!
Your son is the type of person I am so proud of, he also makes me feel we still have hope. I am the oldest of seven with a dad that was kind of the same, but with his own personal reasons, he was never the same after being in a war from what I’ve heard, he would cry a lot, but when he wasn’t crying he was angry, mean, nasty, and very uncaring, thank God we had our mom. I do miss them both, but I feel sure they are in a better place, and neither one of them suffering anymore, what’s left of the rest of us no longer have to suffer because of how things were but we have lingering affects. Your son remembers oatmeal and dried apple slices, I remember watered down cornmeal, I shared mine with my siblings, I remember trying to share with mom because I was old enough to know she would do without so that her babies had something in our bellies. There is a lot I don’t remember and have been told by other family that it’s probably best I don’t. I don’t talk about this past normally, my siblings and I don’t even talk to each other about it our past although we probably should have. I am 65 now and still think about things, not meaning to…the memories just happen. Thank God for our mom, I just wish I would have told her that before her dying, but I guess I thought because she was so strong for so long that maybe and would be here longer, I’m sure she was really tired. I didn’t mean for this a book, I just meant to say I’m happy for you, and also happy your son can talk about things, I know from experience that you should talk about whatever has hurt you, I wish I would have.
I cried when I read this, my heart goes out to you, take care of yourself and enjoy the rest of your life
All credit to the mom for keeping herself and her children alive, loving and sane in an insane, terrifying home life. She is so incredibly smart and strong. The son is so amazing I can't even find words. This family needs to be studied. Their story is saving more families than their own and will continue to. They give me hope for all the other families living in terror of the patriarchal mentally ill husband and father. How many other families like this are out there right now around the globe? God bless and keep these survivors who are thriving so beautifully. They are examples to us all.
He said peaceful protest???
That is a huge lie. I was watching. I had never in my 70 yes seen such at the capital, Whitehouse or another government property. Never!!!
Yes.
Yes! She gave these kids hope.
In my experience, men don’t even have to be mentally I’ll to be abusing… the system of gender roles, the media representations of gender, and the pressure of responsibility… anyway, it’s scary and studying this family and how they coped and made it would indeed be important!
@Cole Thompson it's a comment section, people are expressing their opinion.
That young man is exceptional - you can tell he's a brilliant guy. Good to know he got out.
I AM SO HEARTENED THAT YOU ARE ON THIS PLANET!! WHAT CAN I DO TO ASSIST YOUR FAMILY?
For this young man to grow up to be an actual contributing member of society, and responsible older brother to his siblings and mother is remarkable! Young man, you are QUITE the OPPOSITE of your narcissistic father! I wish you, and your family all the very best moving forward. ❤
That's a brave and sensitive young man that any other father worth the name would be proud to call his own.
What a courageous young man. He withstood the brainwashing, and saved his family from that maniac. We need to learn from this, to provide better support to such victims as this family, and stop extremism, before it devours us all.
Unfortunately there's a lot of brain washing going around today on both ends of the spectrum. I'm glad the family got away from this man and his. Beliefs
These family members seem like they were blessed with good luck to survive and escape the clutches of a disturbed individual. Every day there are more stories in the news about families not so lucky. It's sad how many murder suicides occur in families like this.......even the babies don't escape being butchered by madmen or madwomen as it were. I'm glad they are survivors so we can hear their life stories.
Are we not gonna give any credit to his mom???
@@vice.nor.virtue
Why do you think she wants him in jail? A millionaire lawyer with a huge ranch🤔
@@Tbone1492 why does she want him in jail? Maybe cause he threatend her every step and beat her all the time. Didn't you watch the video or are you simply a moron?
Best wishes to that thoughtful and responsible young man who has taken on the duties of his father. May the family be free of him forever!
What was the mother doing to help? I mean, after they got away he's talking about making sure they got to their soccer practice and whatnot. What was the mom doing? This is very common in abusive households, children become parentified.
@@AaaaNinja She probably held down a job.
@@AaaaNinja probably working. Maybe multiple jobs!
Every son deserves a great dad. I'm so sorry you didn't have one. I hope you have found a substitute or will soon one day.
The son is well spoken and has a good head of his shoulders. He should give Americans hope.
He is a smart young man, wish him and his family well.
Thank you for addressing the issue of domestic violence, and how ridiculous and cruel the "why didn't you just leave?" question is. Victims are most likely to be murdered when they leave and for the next 364 days. It is terrifying when you leave.
I'm sure the guy you left is living his best life now that out of his life ? Did you take his kids with you too
@@bazkiller ?what
I'm so proud of both of you for being strong and brave, knowing that you could have died at any moment. You are truly an inspiration.
This boy is amazing, to have been through so much and to have come out the other side! I wish him joy
The son is so articulate and knew right from wrong and was able to see the madness his Dad created and was able to get his mom and siblings away from a monster, 👍
So proud of this young man for stepping away from this horror, very proud of his mother also for finally escaping with her children.
🧡💛💚💙🤎
Yeah. That's exactly how I feel too. None of that was anywhere easy for them. I wish them peace.
Truly inspiring indeed!
Same.
@Cole Thompson I’m sure you’re a blast a parties huh? 🤡
This boy has intelligence and insight. Good for him, and good for his momma for helping him grow up normal.
Let us celebrate the courage & honor of this young man. He should be forever regarded as a son & patriot of this nation.
I will never judge anyone in an abusive relationship for not picking up and leaving. Two years it took this man and his family to get away from Stewart Rhodes. I'm sure if he could have left in a day he would have. I just hope this young man can begin to enjoy his life for the first time- and that goes for his poor mother, as well.
Escaping is a daunting goal! In cases of DV, you have to realize DV shelters are usually full. And have a waiting list! Food can also be a challenge! Some states make you wait for food stamps, others are quick to help . It takes precision and calm, to get out of there quickly n quietly!
I’m sure he was quietly making a plan to escape his narcissistic father!
@@janinecox256 my aunt mailed clothes and supplies to her mother. One by one. Then got on a train and left her abuser.
Me; I sold the only thing of value (my father's WW2 Japanese sword) to pay for a place.i knew he'd find me in a shelter. And I figured my father would rather have me alive!!!
We could call them by their names if the report had introduced them!
Thing is I never knew this I got out but my mom didn't in the end and I've been blaming myself for that though as long as I was there my dad threatened me to keep her under his control.
Dakota represents the truest sense of a patriot, a family man who serves for the greater good. I have no more words to describe a man who can see beyond his upbringing and chose to be a better person. Seriously, what he did is truly a monumental feat. Much much respect.
It really is amazing that he turned out this well after being abused by a crazy man since childhood.
@@SaintD382
Dakota was lucky enough to have the counter balance of a mother who was a refuge from an unstrung father. He also had the opportunity to see what his father's behavior did, not only to his mother and siblings, but retrospectively, to himself. When Stewart and Dakota are in the same room, Dakota is the only adult there.
thin red line between a patriot and a maniac
@Steffen In The Bubble I think we need to stop using the word patriot in these instances, and use the more precise term, jingoist.
Edit: When speaking of extremists like Rhodes. He is a jingoist, not a patriot
The word patriot is so horribly misused that it's worthless. Patriotic... fatherly? honoring your "father"?...who or what do you consider your "father"? Your Dad? Your country? Your "special" group? Your planet? Your sun? I'm gonna go with TIME, the biggest and oldest "father" symbol I can think of. I'm patriotic to TIME.
What an extremely courageous mother, son and siblings; so glad they were able to escape, unscathed physically, that savage mad man. :)
Incredible that they came out of this as decent rational people. I wish them all the best. I hope they get to enjoy life and put this behind them.
I applaud this mother and son for escaping that awful man and way of life and for speaking out about it. We should all be grateful for your courage and tenacity. Your voices are incredibly important and I thank you for sharing this story.
I feel like it’s very very brave of them to tell their story. I wish them all the best for a happy, normal, rewarding life to reimburse them for the life that Stewart stole from them.
Amen! 🙏
This young man was the best father the girls ever had.
This woman and her children are extremely brave. It must have been terrifying living in a home with someone who was dangerous and unstable. May you have the peace and comfort you need.
Dakota is the true patriot and hero. He took care of his family like a real man, and now takes care of his community.
I'm truly happy his son saw the wrong his father was doing. I wish him and other family members a better life.
Both the mother, son and all the kids are some of the strongest individuals. To be taken hostage by such a monster, who should be ypur husband and father. But be able to overcome and escape it is no easy task by ANY means.
And those still entrapped in such a situation, does not mean they are not strong. It is a delicate thing to escape abuse & psychotic people.
She's an amazing woman and amazing momma. My heart goes out to her and praying she finds peace and healing.
And her son is a hero for their family as well.
Prayers for this young man and his family. Prayers for anyone going through an ordeal similar to theirs.🙏♥️
Thanks to this courageous woman and her son, some of her children have a chance to grow up happy, sane, and free.
Bless them - and all the others trying to escape from an obsessive violent partners.
... from an obsessive partner*.
My heart goes out to this family. I grew up under the same abusive father scenario but my mother and I were finally free of him when I was 13 after running from him when I was 7.
Stewart Rhodes level of child abuse exceeds comprehension. His family deserves not only compassion but mental health care for years of mental abuse.
Dakota Rhodes is the flip side of his father: his intelligence is channeled into service for his family & the community. I wish he & his sibs all the best!
This young man and his mother are what REAL courage looks like.
AWOL traitor is courageous now, 😂😂😂😂😂. I can’t with you people anymore.
@@Nuttyirishman85 Leaving an unstable abusive psycho isn’t traitorous and you can’t be AWOL (absent without official leave) if you’re not actually enlisted in anything.
Dakota is braver than you could ever hope to be 🤷♂️
@@randomnessiscool where is the loyalty though? That is a huge quality in people.
@@Nuttyirishman85 You genuinely believe people should just be 100% loyal to someone no matter how abusive they are or how they act? Hypothetically if your father beats and rapes you, should you still be loyal to him and not leave?
To answer your question though, his loyalty was with his family-his mother and siblings who he knew were in danger. He acted bravely to protect them.
@@Nuttyirishman85 You expect people to be loyal to an abuser? To a man who made threats on their lives?
This young man is brilliant😊
May his spirit continue to evolve❤
The son is so grown-up. So much insight intelligence. Wants to do the right thing for his family himself. Find some purposeful meaning yet there is a sadness there. Good for him escaping the monster.
I credit this young man's Mother for helping get through this. Thank goodness they got out.
What a remarkable young man. That he stepped in to make certain his younger siblings have a more normal childhood and his volunteer firefighting are both heartwarming, uplifting, and inspiring.
Glad this appeared in suggested videos.
I came from a dysfunctional family, but this kind of terror is beyond anything I have ever heard of. They are brave to be able to make a run for it. It's like prisoners of war escaping from a gulag. And these are children and a woman not enemy soldiers. The fact that the little ones hid in terror from their own father speaks volumes.
These fanatics don't give their families a second thought except as a group of people they can intimidate.
These fanatics aren't minutemen, they're not brave enough, they are TRAITORS!!!
Way to go young man. You survived and saved the rest of your family. Outstanding.
I feel so sad hearing about what his son and wife had to endure at the father’s hands, very dark, scary & difficult. They were actually his prisoners.
Wow. Both the son and his mother are incredibly brave. To think what it must have taken for them to flee, with only some guns to sell, having to build an existence for their family from almost nothing… That is so admirable.
I hope Mr. Rhodes never tastes a steak again, and in prison, spoiler alert...they Don't serve steak.
@@ridethecurve55 He'll have plenty of tube steak.
@@ridethecurve55 They might do for his last meal.