Pilot WW2 - Actor Jimmy Stewart - Forgotten History

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  • Опубліковано 6 лют 2025
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    Many of the great stars of Hollywood and European films were veterans of World War II becoming famous many years later, but a few were already big stars during the Golden Age of Hollywood even before the war and they also enlisted to serve in the cause of freedom. James Stewart stood out above all the rest. Hosted by Colin D. Heaton. Forgotten History is a 10th Legion Pictures Production.
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    Sources:
    The Jimmy Stewart Museum
    Starr Smith, “Jimmy Stewart: Bomber Pilot” Zenith Press, 2005.
    Air Classics, May 1993
    Interview by phone with Brig. Gen. James Stewart 1994.
    Supplemental interviews with Generals Curtis E. LeMay, Walter Cronkite, Lt. Gen. Karl Wolff, Leni Riefenstahl, Hedy Lamarr, Artur Axmann, Lt. Gen. Adolf Galland, and James H. Doolittle.

КОМЕНТАРІ • 804

  • @FORGOTTENHISTORYCHANNEL
    @FORGOTTENHISTORYCHANNEL  Рік тому +9

    If you are moving to a warmer State or just a family friendly region contact Real Estate for Life to work with one of their 1,400 conscientious, experienced agents in the US or Canada. Go to realestateforlife.org/
    or call 877-543-3871 and don't forget to mention you heard it on Forgotten History.

  • @DFSJR1203
    @DFSJR1203 11 місяців тому +19

    I got to meet Mr. & Mrs. Stewart back in 1978. He lived next to my Fathers cousin's home. While we were eating I saw a man and woman enter the back yard of his home and sure enough it was Jimmy and his wife. We talked with him and his wife for about an hour about the war and his film career. It totally made our cross country trip. I will never forget that day.

  • @rickyeakel3291
    @rickyeakel3291 Рік тому +54

    My father in law served as an officer under Jimmy Stewart as his commander in England. He spoke so highly, as if Stewart was a leader and friend. He said that he was so lucky to have James Stewart as his commanding officer. Thank you for sharing such wonderful true facts. We will never see America as it was then.

    • @davefellhoelter1343
      @davefellhoelter1343 Рік тому +3

      this fact scares me! very Much. Every man I looked up to was a Vet from these times and had put his money where his mouth and Heart was.

  • @Awake2Evil
    @Awake2Evil Рік тому +15

    I love Jimmy Stewart. The man did it all, and it never once went to his head.

  • @christopherjones8798
    @christopherjones8798 3 місяці тому +4

    As an elderly former British Rifleman I am deeply impressed with this film about James Stewart and his Military Service

  • @TennesseeMelanie
    @TennesseeMelanie Рік тому +37

    There is NOTHING forgotten about Jimmy Stewart as far as I am concerned. He WAS amazing.

  • @johnbauby6612
    @johnbauby6612 Рік тому +38

    An American icon. Nothing like the societal trash we have today. Back then it was be humble and strong. Today it is look at me and the spectacle I create. I wish we could wind back the clock.

  • @garythomas4431
    @garythomas4431 7 місяців тому +7

    I just finished reading the book "Mission: Jimmy Stewart and the Fight for Europe " by Robert Matzen. I highly recommend this book for not only Jimmy Stewart fans, but for World War II researchers as well.
    It goes in depth into the missions Jimmy was involved in.
    The author spent almost a decade in research, interviewing military soldiers who were under Jimmy's command in their many missions in B-24 Liberators.
    I thank you for this video.
    People like Jimmy Stewart should not fade away as time passes.
    We need these heros.

  • @patriciasmith7074
    @patriciasmith7074 Рік тому +8

    I was born in 1946 to a young man who joined the US Navy at age 17 in 1942. My dad was under the minimum weight requirements. Look at how handsome Jimmy was but they almost all look cute in uniform. I loved watching these old war movies with my parents.

  • @jakhaughton1800
    @jakhaughton1800 5 місяців тому +5

    A proper hero and inspirational leader of his men. RIP

  • @JohnRodriguesPhotographer
    @JohnRodriguesPhotographer Рік тому +27

    The more i learn about James Stewart, the more I love and respect the man.

  • @melissavancleave8686
    @melissavancleave8686 Рік тому +165

    How refreshing to see and learn more of truly outstanding "quiet heroes." Stewart was a real man, I am starting to miss real men. Thank you for a lovely video.

    • @FORGOTTENHISTORYCHANNEL
      @FORGOTTENHISTORYCHANNEL  Рік тому +8

      Glad you enjoyed it

    • @cortelyons9540
      @cortelyons9540 Рік тому

      Yea, sucks that feminism killed it, and made women fat.

    • @danielcurtis1434
      @danielcurtis1434 Рік тому +11

      I am at least glad you are only “starting to miss real men””!!! I’ve been feeling that since I was 14 in 2004-2005

    • @caleetholen895
      @caleetholen895 Рік тому +9

      And so nice to see how much they loved their country🇺🇸

    • @chainsawsubtlety9828
      @chainsawsubtlety9828 Рік тому

      They are still out here. But, being "quiet", they get drowned out by the numberless hordes of loud morons.

  • @johnwood551
    @johnwood551 Рік тому +47

    If only Hollywood had people like him today ! We miss you James.

    • @ziggyfreud5357
      @ziggyfreud5357 Рік тому

      So true

    • @BlackoutPatriot
      @BlackoutPatriot 7 місяців тому

      True now they are spoiled narcissist turning g their kids into freaks

    • @jasonm949
      @jasonm949 7 місяців тому

      Well...even though they are Hollywood, they are smart enough not to go get entangled in foreign wars.

    • @kevinalexander6812
      @kevinalexander6812 2 місяці тому

      Chris Pratt. He's a real one.
      Loves God. Loves America 🇺🇸

  • @AmyRall-o1z
    @AmyRall-o1z Рік тому +63

    My dad flew a few missions over Germany as a gunner on a B-24 with Jimmy. On one of those missions the plane was hit. The flak went threw the back of Jimmy's seat and up by my dad. My dad had shrapnel wounds. My dad said Jimmy asked him if he was okay, he was always claim like if nothing happened. My dad had always had the greatest respect for him.

  • @donnied9432
    @donnied9432 Рік тому +243

    Me and my employer were talking about these guys that left movie-making, to serve the country. And, how we didn't think it would be that way now.

    • @alantoon5708
      @alantoon5708 Рік тому +45

      Now, most of the current Hollywood types would either avoid service or would join the other side...

    • @GarrettBradfordTX
      @GarrettBradfordTX Рік тому

      How is your comment two weeks old but the video says it just posted an hour ago?

    • @tobingallawa3322
      @tobingallawa3322 Рік тому +1

      He is a member maybe. You get more content and get it earlier I think. Perhaps the moderator liked that comment and that made it appear at the top

    • @Magicrat39
      @Magicrat39 Рік тому

      Now hollywood idiots threaten to leave the country but never do

    • @sherryridlen9357
      @sherryridlen9357 Рік тому +3

      @@GarrettBradfordTX this a old showing but never the less worth seeing again

  • @noraleebauthuesstewart1936
    @noraleebauthuesstewart1936 Місяць тому +2

    And in everything Jimmy Stewart did, he did it with a gentle, decent, beautiful humility. Thank you for producing such a wonderful tribute to Mr. Stewart; I learned so much. He will always be one of my most favorite individuals.

  • @Lutzboater
    @Lutzboater Рік тому +163

    I served in Viet Nam at a small post at Bac Lieu. I was there from Oct 68 to Oct 69 and had the honor of meeting Mr. Stewart and his wife. Unlike some other celebrities that made appearances at the big bases, he and his wife were on a hand shaking tour of the smaller posts. They were so friendly and cordial to all of us. I have never forgotten that day, and the wonderful time meeting these two caring and delightful people.

    • @Capt_OscarMike
      @Capt_OscarMike Рік тому +7

      That is truly amazing...although I would not object to spend some time with Raquel Welch 🙂

    • @ffjsb
      @ffjsb Рік тому +7

      He actually flew on a bombing mission in a B-52 as an observer too.

    • @LeannaLoomer-z5t
      @LeannaLoomer-z5t Рік тому +5

      @@ffjsb Jimmy Stewart flew on TWENTY bomber missions. They finally took him out of combat (not at his request) because the Axis powers wanted to capture him and make him a prize. Hitler wanted him. Others, too. His family was active going back to the Revolutionary War. Also the Civil War. He lost a son who was serving in Viet Nam.

    • @johnschuh8616
      @johnschuh8616 Рік тому +3

      He was in Fort Worth staying with a class friend, and made an appearance at a downtown theatre. He said a few words after the film, and then met people down by the stage. He had joked about having his hair died and wearing make-up. in that familiar boogie of his. Shook a few hands on the way out. I was about ten feet away watching him. Very politite, but, the actor vanished was very much the military officer in mufti when someone asked him a question about Carlswell, One of my favorite actors, but of course more than that. When is why after I sat with my for an hour at the funeral home I decided to watch “Shenandoah,” at a local theatre. Somehow it gave me comfort to “visit” with this very real man, too,

    • @JamesRichards-mj9kw
      @JamesRichards-mj9kw Рік тому

      The US invasion of Vietnam was illegal under international law.

  • @APG2112
    @APG2112 Рік тому +144

    How can someone like that not make you proud to be an American. A class act, through and through.
    I’m convinced this channel and its authors are creating some crucially important archival material.
    Thank you Colin.

    • @thomascornell7562
      @thomascornell7562 Рік тому +4

      Gonna get a LOT of FIRE BREATHING HATE for this........General Stewart was a REAL man as opposed to John Wayne

    • @genuinsanity
      @genuinsanity Рік тому +1

      Jimmy always had time for his fans and would never "snub" them. Never too busy for an autograph .

    • @philipbrooks402
      @philipbrooks402 Рік тому +2

      Why should you get hate for stating the truth. Wayne ‘avoided’ military service in WW II. That is a fact. Clarke Gable was mentioned in the above video but another Stewart contemporary, Henry Fonda, served in the USN in the Pacific theatre as I recall.
      I read one article about John Wayne in which he turned up at a rally for the US Marines, dressed as a marine, and was booed by the men who wore the uniform for real.

    • @APG2112
      @APG2112 Рік тому +5

      Ted Williams is another celebrity status veteran.

    • @stevenridings7880
      @stevenridings7880 Рік тому +3

      Lee marvin is another vet, I believe a combat marin

  • @xray86delta
    @xray86delta Рік тому +232

    I did not think it was possible for me to admire Jimmy Stewart more than I did, but I was wrong. Thank you for this video!

    • @kimjohnson8471
      @kimjohnson8471 Рік тому +2

      Ikr!❤

    • @jackshittle
      @jackshittle Рік тому +1

      Ditto.

    • @davefellhoelter1343
      @davefellhoelter1343 Рік тому +3

      Wrong? "I Admire!" Jimmy! MORE! and I was a Fan for Decades! Before!

    • @DavidSmith-xs3or
      @DavidSmith-xs3or Рік тому +9

      I've always liked James Stewart. From all the things I've heard about his life, both before I've seen this video and now, and with Stewart not wanting a parade in his honor after his wartime service, he always seemed like a well-grounded, down-to-earth person, inspite or regardless of his Hollywood fame. James Stewart-War Hero.

    • @tonyosborne4909
      @tonyosborne4909 Рік тому

      Me also….Thank you….

  • @larryniidji
    @larryniidji 7 місяців тому +4

    Loved for many reasons. Missed as few could ever fill his shoes. I salute Jimmy Stewart.

  • @SMichaelDeHart
    @SMichaelDeHart Рік тому +84

    My father and mother were part of the Greatest Generation. Born 1917 & 1923 respectively.
    Dad joined the US Army Air Force in January 1942 and served as a Flightline Engineer and Mechanic on the Republic P-47 Thunderbolt in the Pacific Campaign on Guam, Tinian, Saipan and Iwo Jima. As a Combat Veteran, dad was in the 20TH USAAF, 7TH Army Air Corp, 414th Fighter/ Bomber Group, 413th F/ B Squadron until November 1945, earning the rank of Staff Sergeant. As the youngest of 7 children, mom and dad raised us in a Blue Collar, Christian home in southern West Virginia. Dad spent 38 as a Class A Transmission Lineman for Appalachian Power Company and passed in 2006 at the age of 88yo.

    • @mikenixon2401
      @mikenixon2401 Рік тому +9

      I've come to realize how fortunate guys like us were to have parents of the greatest generation. Something I fear we will never see this again -- and hope we do not have to find out in the same manner. BTW my uncle was Army infantry and my dad the Army Air Corps. Uncle in Europe, dad in Pacific Theatres.

    • @joanofarc1338
      @joanofarc1338 Рік тому +6

      Truly the Greatest Generation…my Dad flew as a B-17 pilot with the 325th Bomb Squadron, 92nd Bomb Gp, 8th Air Force. He was shot down over Berlin on his 2nd mission, half of his crew were killed,
      13 months in Stalag Luft 1 .
      While he was still listed as MIA, my Mom and Grandmother got the telegram saying my Uncle Edward, who had gone up the cliffs of Point du Hoc with the 2nd Ranger Bn on D-Day, had been killed in action in Greece serving with the OSS.

    • @natecampbell4708
      @natecampbell4708 Рік тому +3

      My Dad was born in 1924, & served in the Army as a Quartermaster during WW2, in the Pacific Theater on Saipan. You're the 1st person I've ever come across that had a Dad that was there in the same time period, so that's pretty cool. He usually never talked about his experience, but I asked him once about it. Without going into detail, it wasn't a pleasant experience, & I apologized & never asked him about it again. I couldn't put him through it again. Thanks for sharing!

    • @SMichaelDeHart
      @SMichaelDeHart Рік тому +3

      @natecampbell4708 dad's best friend and tent mate on Iwo Jima was a Quatermaster by the name of Robert Baldwin. They connected up in the mid 80's and stayed friends till dad passed. Mr Balwin and his wife live in Columbia, SC and mom & dad in Saint Albans, WV. My eldest brother spent one summer meeting with dad and Mr Baldwin together and recorded the experience together island hopping. I still have all the photographs dad sent back home to mom and she made up photo albums. There's numerous pictures of the dead/burnt Japanese soldiers that were on the working end of flame throwers.
      Dad always reminisced about Mr Baldwin sneaking huge cans of Vienna Sausages to their tent for snacks. I grew up loving Vienna Sausages. Dad ate till he passed, lol.

  • @paulsuppes7862
    @paulsuppes7862 Рік тому +8

    Jimmy Stewart great man and pilot. My respect.

  • @gearoidable
    @gearoidable Рік тому +5

    MR JIMMY Stuart RIP and thank you for your service.

  • @tripmcneely6519
    @tripmcneely6519 7 місяців тому +4

    I'm always blown away and humbled simultaneously when I hear about these families that served in every single American war, not a lot of families can say that. 🇺🇸

  • @velikovskysghost
    @velikovskysghost 8 місяців тому +2

    "James Maitland Stewart was one of the finest men who ever lived!" This coming from an old gentleman who wroked with Stewart on all of his movies and served in the Coast Guard in WW ll. Alton R. (Al) Hendrickson (1st guitarist) for 40+ years at all the major studios, told me that James Stewart was very easy to work with and would get his lines on the first take most of the time. These men and those who stood against tyranny, Hitler, Mussolini, Tojo and their ilk, the greatest generation indeed! I add that none of these men and the women who also served were suckers or losers but some of the bravest people our United States of America has ever produced!

  • @robertbeermanjr.2158
    @robertbeermanjr.2158 Рік тому +37

    An Absolute Treasure of a Human being. What a wonderful person Mr. James Stewart was. 💫

    • @conniesimon6305
      @conniesimon6305 9 місяців тому +1

      I am so proud to have him as my cousin. I cannot tell everyone what a blessing this wonderful man was.

  • @DaleWheeler
    @DaleWheeler Рік тому +14

    I am 81 years old and Jimmy Steward has always been my favorite actor. He didn't need special effects or 'stunts' to make a good film. His stellar acting was enough to get the job done. I knew he had served with distinction in WWII and seeing this video added to my admiration of the man. Thank you for presenting it.

  • @donf3877
    @donf3877 Рік тому +10

    "My only fear was in failing my men" and THAT is a TRUE MAN speaking right there.

  • @seangleason260
    @seangleason260 Рік тому +57

    Jimmy Stewart sounds like an amazing man and leader. He cared about his men and shared the risk they took, and that's why his men fought harder for him- they trusted him and knew he genuinely cared for them

  • @jeffpowell8308
    @jeffpowell8308 Рік тому +25

    He was such a inspirational man not just for his movie roles but more importantly how he valiantly served our country. RIP General.

  • @thesarge4457
    @thesarge4457 Рік тому +16

    Truly a Great Man, Great Actor, Great Family Man, Great Military Leader, Very Well Round Human Being, I liked his style of acting, both in comedy and drama, but my personal favorite is "It's a Wonderful Life". Thank You Mr. Stewart/Sir, for you Service, you compassion, your fairness with your men, and in people. RIP Sir. THE SARGE

  • @Hoplophile1
    @Hoplophile1 Рік тому +20

    As you say, BG Stewart was truly one of the best examples of "The Greatest Generation". His likes shall not be seen again.

  • @jakecook2375
    @jakecook2375 Рік тому +25

    Thanks for sharing what a patriot that Jimmy Stewart was and to this day "It's a Wonderful Life' is one of my all time favorite movies;

  • @scottb4029
    @scottb4029 Рік тому +10

    I was in the 8th air force at Carswell afb TX. In 1990 and Gen. Stewart came to our base and was honored by a dedication of one of our B52s being christened "Bam-Bam". After the name of the bomber he flew in the movie Strategic Air Command.

    • @barryirvin2417
      @barryirvin2417 9 місяців тому +2

      Oh how Jimmy loved Fort Worth . I got to see him when he was on a book tour in late 1980’ in Fort Worth . How I loved this man .

    • @scottb4029
      @scottb4029 9 місяців тому +1

      @@barryirvin2417 that is probably when we dedicated the B52. I was there 88-91 .

  • @catallaxy
    @catallaxy Рік тому +36

    I always thought that Jimmy Steward was a level headed person, given his status as a Hollywood celebrity. Now I know why; he was level headed, to the core. His screen persona was just the tip of the iceberg. Thank you Mr. Heaton for another truly moving video.

  • @tonyosborne4909
    @tonyosborne4909 Рік тому +5

    Thank you for this heartfelt tribute to a truly wonderful man.Thank you so much.

  • @tm502010
    @tm502010 Рік тому +5

    The man was the REAL DEAL! 👍

  • @guns2317
    @guns2317 Рік тому +43

    I remember reading about his B-24 taking a flak hit right in the cockpit floor and thinking just how horrifying that had to have been, having to fly back for hours with that massive hole right at their feet. What absolute guts these men had to do their jobs.

  • @davefox8948
    @davefox8948 Рік тому +43

    Thank you so much for helping to keep the memories of great American Hero’s like Jimmy Stewart alive.

  • @SuperZytoon
    @SuperZytoon Рік тому +15

    This was such a tribute to a true American Hero. To leave a successful acting career and volunteer to aid in the world war tells one how strong of a man he was. To lose a son the way he and his wife did would be paralyzing. Mr. Stewart led an honorable life. Thank you for this documentary. It really touched me deeply.

  • @ilonaacerno3263
    @ilonaacerno3263 Рік тому +3

    AWESOME!Thank you so much for making this documentary of my favorite Hollywood actor and American Icon. I really would have loved to meet him, alas that didn't happen. But I own most of his movies! Loved Him!

  • @thomasroutson3046
    @thomasroutson3046 Рік тому +7

    One of my earliest role models and hero. Thank you for this!

  • @forrestwebb8590
    @forrestwebb8590 Рік тому +14

    Jimmy Stewart is one of my favorite actors! He came from a long line of Patriots! Just thinking about him, makes me feel good! God's Speed

  • @madmanmechanic8847
    @madmanmechanic8847 Рік тому +7

    I grew up watching his movies and always loved him he was one of my favorites. They dont make men like that anymore.

  • @3dfreak2000
    @3dfreak2000 Рік тому +1

    Jemas Steward is one of my inspiring aviation heroes.

  • @nightsky1730
    @nightsky1730 Рік тому +17

    Oh, what a wonderful history you did for him, what a tribute. It brings tears to my eyes to see what America used to be. I know we still have wonderful military people, and Americans, but that was a different time indeed. my parents were from that generation and I knew many wonderful wonderful people from the greatest generation. What a privilege for me these many years afterward to remember those people when they were young! God bless them all. May we never forget where we came from..🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🌹🌹❤️❤️

  • @allysondoerfler2435
    @allysondoerfler2435 Рік тому +19

    I knew that he had served and had earned medals, but learning more of the detail was wonderful. Make sure your kids and grandkids watch It's a Wonderful Life at least once. He was one of a kind.

  • @dvdosterloh
    @dvdosterloh Рік тому +5

    As I listen to this I'm tearing up, they just don't make em like that too often. An example to all and humble too boot.
    God Bless you Jimmy

  • @Dave-in-France
    @Dave-in-France Рік тому +4

    A brilliant video !
    I knew that Mr.Stewart had been in the services but had no idea that he had given as much and risen in the ranks to such high office. A real American.

  • @Lechaim11
    @Lechaim11 Рік тому +5

    When you see actors playing heroes on the screen you come to accept that in real life they would be just that! He is one actor that is true to his character in films. In the pantheon of war heroes, the likes of James Stewart, Audie Murphy, David Niven, and those others who served in the Second World War can hold their heads high. One trait they all have is their humility. Such men are legends in real life as well as up on the screen. Unfortunately, such men seem to be a dying breed these days in America where greed is everything and honor and integrity seem to have gone out the window.

    • @mrjockt
      @mrjockt Рік тому

      Reading about David Niven and how he originally left the British Army is a laugh in itself, he was commissioned into the Highland Light Infantry in the early thirties as a 2nd Lieutenant, after promotion to 1st Lieutenant he ended up serving in Malta where he found himself under close arrest for insubordination to a superior officer, he made a cheeky comment to a visiting Major General, Niven “released” himself from confinement after sharing a bottle of whisky with the officer assigned to guard him and hopped onto a ship bound for the U.S., half way across the Atlantic he sent the resignation of his commission via telegraph. Niven returned to England the day after war was declared, against the advice of many of his Hollywood friends, and rejoined the Army.

  • @Chuck-kg4fe
    @Chuck-kg4fe Рік тому +1

    Excellent. If young people would use Jimmy Stewart as a role model, the world would be a better place.

  • @rogerabrahams8886
    @rogerabrahams8886 Рік тому +1

    Tibbenham airfield in Norfolk,England is the home now of Norfolk Gliding Club. As member and pilot I and the other members are very proud that Jimmy Stewart agreed to be President of the club.

  • @thenavylady4630
    @thenavylady4630 Рік тому +9

    Thank you for this video. I love Jimmy Stewart, and as a retired US Navy officer, I am so proud of him and his military service. It sounded like he was an amazing military leader, and I would have been proud to have served under him. He was also an amazing actor. I read that the movie he made after he separated from the service, "It's a wonderful life", was hard for him to make. He still suffered PTSD, sand Donna Reed commented years later that the film set was not a fun place to be. Tense at times and everyone was serious. Jimmy's PTSD brought more intensity to the scene when he realized that his life had really changed. Watch his face during that scene. Amazing. Jimmy was a humble and down-to-earth man and my favorite actor of all time.

  • @richardcorwin1828
    @richardcorwin1828 Рік тому +6

    Thank you sir. We need more men like these especially in these days and times.

  • @johnallen7807
    @johnallen7807 Рік тому +11

    The same generation as my father who served for 8 years in the RAF throughout WW2. We will not see a generation like them again.

    • @bethmiller7544
      @bethmiller7544 7 місяців тому +1

      Agreed. We lived with real life heroes.

  • @peteboll5034
    @peteboll5034 Рік тому +27

    Excellent video. I was aware of his service, but I had no idea of the breadth and depth of his commitment to our country's military. Thank you for bringing this information to light. It truly is "Forgotten History."

    • @Lt_Tragg
      @Lt_Tragg Рік тому +2

      You should read the book Jimmy Stewart - Bomber Pilot if you haven’t already. Respect!

    • @peteboll5034
      @peteboll5034 Рік тому +1

      @@Lt_Tragg Thanks!

  • @cgrscott
    @cgrscott 9 місяців тому +1

    This is such vital history for me that blows some myths out of the water. My Dad served in the Army Reserve until he was 51 then started his Army Reserve pension while he finished up his career at Eastman Kodak. My Dad assured me that Jimmy Stewart survived Army Air Force service, in WWII, because he was kept away from dangerous situations because he was a celebrity.
    This Forgotten History UA-cam Channel documentary clearly shows that this view of James Stewart's military service is so far from the truth. Colin Heaton's documentary clarifies that Jame Stewart survived his many bombing missions and Air Force service because he was an exceptional combat commander and leader, time and time again. This brief documentary is a remarkable story of Jame’s Stewart’s WWII combat service. Thanks for providing this.

  • @joanofarc1338
    @joanofarc1338 Рік тому +11

    BGen Stewart was the real deal. So was the “Mighty 8th”. It established the USAF combat tradition of “Never once turned back by enemy action” …..a statement and standard that has been upheld ever since. Another thing that is the real deal is your videos Prof. Heaton.
    Very, very informative and educational, yet very entertaining‼️

  • @brandons9398
    @brandons9398 Рік тому +18

    It was definitely one in 1 million, a very rare breed. We need more men and women like him today.

  • @jerryrenn346
    @jerryrenn346 Рік тому +14

    Prof. Heaton you just hit another one right out of the park. Jimmy Stewart has always been one of my favorite actors. I had known of his combat missions but not in the level of detail you just provided. Also, it was heart breaking to hear of the loss of his stepson in Vietnam. The Stewart family was a class act all the way. It breaks my heart that so many brave and honorable men and women have given so much to/for this country and have it be in the shape it is now.

  • @jonandkelliejowilliams5338
    @jonandkelliejowilliams5338 Рік тому +21

    Thank you for this video. I knew he was a pilot in ww2, but I had no idea of his level of dedication to this country. I now have a much bigger sense of respect and admiration for this giant among men.

  • @ShinAkuma204
    @ShinAkuma204 Рік тому +5

    Mr. Stewart sounds like a courageous and honorable man.
    Thank you for this

  • @alantoon5708
    @alantoon5708 Рік тому +25

    Jimmy Stewart came home with what we would now call PTS. (I do not consider it a disorder). Many thought he would not be able to continue with his film career.
    His first film, post war was "It's A Wonderful Life".
    By the way, Stewart took a substantial pay cut when he enlisted!
    Ronald Reagan joined the California Guard before the war and of course made movies during the war.
    I had not heard some of the stories about Jimmy Stewart...but were typical of his character.

    • @Paladin1873
      @Paladin1873 Рік тому +6

      Reagan did more than make wartime training films, but in later years his political enemies often tried to paint him as a coward for never having served in combat. In so doing they conveniently avoided any mention of the fact that he had voluntarily entered the Army Reserve in 1937 as a private in the US Cavalry and earned a commission as a second lieutenant. In Oct 1941 he was called to active duty, but Warner Brothers filed a deferment, requesting a delay until his last and arguably best movie, Kings Row, was completed. He entered active duty in April 1942 and tried repeatedly to get reassigned to an overseas posting but was denied due to his poor eyesight. Like all good soldiers (and airmen, for he was transferred to the USAAF), he did as he was ordered. Postwar his career suffered, as did the careers of many prewar actors, and he became more involved in politics. The rest is history, but not forgotten.

    • @Capt_OscarMike
      @Capt_OscarMike Рік тому +1

      AMEN!!!!

    • @regould221
      @regould221 Рік тому +5

      Jimmy Stewart used his PTSD to help film the scene of his raging and tearing up things when he returned to the Bailey home. It was reported some actors thought he was being too realistic in this scene.
      So when you see the "end of my rope" scene notice he was crying even though the scene did not call for it. The scene was done in one take. Originally the scene was not done with a closeup camera but Frank Capra was so impressed with the scene he later enhanced the film scene to make a close up for the final cut.

    • @TeaParty1776
      @TeaParty1776 Рік тому

      >PTS. (I do not consider it a disorder).
      Is it psychological health?

  • @alanphelan-l6d
    @alanphelan-l6d Рік тому +16

    You hit the ball out of the park again, my friend. An excellent video about a truely outstanding man. Men of his sort are so rare they are practically legends. But, I fear they will become so rare that one day they will be regarded as myths.

  • @stevenward3856
    @stevenward3856 Рік тому +13

    One of Jimmy Stewart's movie rolls was that of big band legend Glenn Miller who was killed by so-called "friendly fire" in WWII. Glenn and most of his band joined/established the Army Air Corp Band. Jimmy did an excellent job in spite of his PTSD. Most of Glenn's band was part of the reinactment, if I remember correctly. Glenn Miller's story would be a great one to tell, if you haven't already produced one already.
    I thoroughly enjoyed this video, and have also enjoyed Jimmy's comedy movies like "Harvey", which was previously a stage play that also featured James Stewart.

    • @irrigationjoehenggeler2863
      @irrigationjoehenggeler2863 Рік тому +1

      My father was a Bomb Squadron Commander in the 388th Bomb Group. Glenn and his band played at their base & there are nice pictures of Glenn with some 388th members.

    • @BrisLS1
      @BrisLS1 Рік тому +5

      Great reminder, it was not just the 4 names mentioned in this video. Hundreds of people we all watch on TV every day (if you like old shows) served in WW2. You may know Don Knotts, as the clumsy deputy on Andy Griffith, but he served and earned reams of awards in WW2. Bogart was enlisted into WW1. Paul Newman, Hal Holbrook; Jonathan Winters quit high school to go to WW2. You can go on for years, just listing all these brave souls. Norman Fell ( you know Mr Roper on 3's company ) was a tail-gunner. Rod Serling was a paratrooper and then moved to something called "the Death Squad". Gave us the Twilight Zone. List goes on forever.

  • @SuperDave_BR549
    @SuperDave_BR549 Рік тому +5

    Thank you Colin! he was a one in a billion and they broke the mold when he hit the ground running.
    when he and the duke made the movie "The Shootist" everybody on the set as well as the audience knew it was the end of a era that will never return again.

  • @TgTheRedHood
    @TgTheRedHood 6 місяців тому +1

    I had already admired Mr. Stewart because of his combat role in WW2, but I didn’t to what extent. Along with making what could be arguably the best movie in cinematic history, he was a real American hero. Thank you so much for the video. God bless.

  • @jayjohnson9996
    @jayjohnson9996 Рік тому +3

    Jimmy Stewart was one of my favorites Hollywood Stars that I enjoyed watching on tv growing up as a kid and to this day I still watch his movies. This documentary taught me a lot about his Military career and his life before and after World War 2. Well done job on the making of this short documentary because I really enjoyed it.

  • @jackklinger2112
    @jackklinger2112 Рік тому +1

    My dad was a air mechanic under Jimmy. Loved his leadership also met Gen Doolittle

  • @robertrenaud958
    @robertrenaud958 Рік тому +2

    Thank you. What wa wonderful American.

  • @tinomejia8396
    @tinomejia8396 Рік тому +1

    As I grew into a young adult and started hearing more on Jimmy Stewarts war time service. Well I was blown away. Now I'm 56 and still impressed every time I hear of his service.
    Thank you for loving your country- James Stewart and Rest in Peace.

  • @garylawson5381
    @garylawson5381 Рік тому +7

    Thank you Forgotten History for this great documentary video of this great American. I miss him.
    May we never forget!

  • @ChristinaMitchell-USA
    @ChristinaMitchell-USA Рік тому +15

    I long admired Jimmy Stewart for his courageous contribution to the war effort. Most Hollywood stars became military officers who made propaganda films in complete safety. Jimmy volunteered as an ENLISTED man in the US Army Air Corps and joined a bomber squadron. In 1942, Bomber crews suffered an extremely high casualty rate: 55,573 killed out of a total of 125,000 airmen (a 44% death rate). Initially, bomber airmen only had to fly 20 missions. Jimmy volunteered to continue flying after he served his 20 missions. Jimmy flew bombers throughout the entire war. He rose in rank from enlisted man to Brigidar General. BECAUSE of Jimmy Stewart, Pslam 91 is my favorite one. Prior to each mission, Jimmy pulled out a piece of paper from his bomber jacket's breast pocket, and read it. Psalm 91 was written on that paper. Read that psalm, and then you will realize why he depended on it to see him safely through his bombing missions.

    • @bartbutkis
      @bartbutkis Рік тому

      Sorry, you are going to have to do a little bit more homework regarding Mr Stewart actually flying combat missions in Europe. His first year after being commissioned an officer, he worked training new pilots in the United States. He finally got over to England and flew his first combat mission in December, 1943. He flew for three months (from Dec. '43 to the end of Feb.'44 and then was "transferred" to a newly established AF command where he served as a administrator and mission planner for the rest of the war. Why he no longer flew in combat is a mystery at this point, but PTSD has been offered as one possible reason. Still a good man.

  • @shaunsutton699
    @shaunsutton699 Рік тому +23

    You don't have people like him anymore.

  • @yamdog8860
    @yamdog8860 28 днів тому

    God Bless James Stewart and thank you for your service

  • @nancywhitehead219
    @nancywhitehead219 Рік тому +2

    Thank you. May we never forget who served valiantly 🫡

  • @Traderjoe
    @Traderjoe Рік тому +43

    It’s sad to think that there will never be any Hollywood stars who would be willing to do what Jimmy or Clark did. It really might as well be stuff that was done in pre history.

    • @mattosullivan9687
      @mattosullivan9687 Рік тому +10

      Look up Steve Beschimi. He was a NYFD member before he acted. He was in NYC on 9-11. He dropped what he was doing and reported for duty

    • @rbra9611
      @rbra9611 Рік тому +2

      We recently elected a draft dodger as President. Tells you all you need to know.

    • @mattosullivan9687
      @mattosullivan9687 Рік тому

      I believe the last one who saw anything like combat was George HW Bush, navy bomber pilot@@rbra9611

    • @kristend344
      @kristend344 Рік тому

      Clark Gabel was grieving the death of his wife, Carole Lombard, in a plane crash. He would volunteer for dangerous assignments.
      Walter Matheau was just a young man, when we worked up the nerve to ask his CO, Jimmy Stewart, about acting.

  • @michaelchevreaux7780
    @michaelchevreaux7780 Рік тому +1

    He Starred As a WW2 Combat Vet
    In Only 1 Small And Overlooked Movie,
    "The Mountain Road" (1960) Based On True Events About The Forgotten China Campaign.

  • @shanenolan5625
    @shanenolan5625 Рік тому +13

    He really had a wonderful life

  • @JohnnyBananas0
    @JohnnyBananas0 Рік тому +3

    This Almost made me cry from inspiration. Talk about a man. An architect, a pilot, a legendary actor and he was giving his all to protect his country in the hardest of wars. Inspirational,

  • @essexpeter6116
    @essexpeter6116 Рік тому +2

    My favourite actor from that era; a true role model, gentleman and modest hero.

  • @rahrah5091
    @rahrah5091 Рік тому +1

    Lastly. Thank you for YOUR Service. God Bless.

  • @chathamabs2011
    @chathamabs2011 Рік тому +1

    Fantastic video. Thank you and greetings from 🇬🇧

  • @richardea4223
    @richardea4223 Рік тому +6

    Wow! All I have to say is wow! Brigadier General Stewart, Sir, I salute you and your band of brothers. You and your men are true American Heroes!!!😎

  • @janlindtner305
    @janlindtner305 Рік тому +1

    Great presentation of a, in my eyes, thoroughly true American. Well done Colin👍👍👍

  • @68orangecrate26
    @68orangecrate26 Рік тому +1

    Another great presentation about one of our greatest Americans. Thank you…

  • @batdude7519
    @batdude7519 Рік тому +3

    It's stories like these that make me really miss my Papa. Truly interesting lives that generation lived. They'll never make'em like that anymore

  • @elvistommy1
    @elvistommy1 Рік тому

    Loved all your Movies & thank you for your outstanding Military Service to our Country & your Men. RIP Jimmy ⚘️

  • @Pablosky1968
    @Pablosky1968 Рік тому +1

    Thank you very much from Spain ! 🤗🌟

  • @bevinboulder5039
    @bevinboulder5039 Рік тому +3

    I certainly knew that Stewart flew bombers in WWII, though I thought he flew B17s. But I'm 74 so I lived though a good portion of the time he served in the Air Force reserve. Glad I watched this so I could correct what I know about him. Glad to have found a good, solid history channel so I subscribed too. Thank you for this vid and the channel.

  • @merlin51h84
    @merlin51h84 Рік тому +2

    One of my favourite actors. A great human being and a true leader.

  • @AmericanImperium1776
    @AmericanImperium1776 Рік тому +1

    Great video. Jimmy Stewart was indeed a great hero and good man. Peace ✌🏻

  • @grahamcole4240
    @grahamcole4240 Рік тому +2

    One of my favourite actors.

  • @MikeBaxter-n6m
    @MikeBaxter-n6m 9 місяців тому

    His role in It's a Wonderful Life cemented my love for his acting skill this video cemented my admiration and respect for the man himself

  • @francinebarr1204
    @francinebarr1204 11 місяців тому

    Thank You So Much For Giving Us This Piece Of History About Our Wonderful Jimmy. He Is Very Close To My Heart And Many Other’s As Well. He Is One Of My Favorite Leaders. From My Family To Jimmy’s Thank You 💋💋

  • @timothyratcliffe4471
    @timothyratcliffe4471 Рік тому

    Thanks for that! I never knew how long he was in the forces having always seen and admired him as a actor. As for all of it, fighting, acting and being a Gentleman, let's use his own words...."You're good kid real good, but so long as I'm around you'll always be like......second best" So TRUE

  • @MynewTennesseeHome
    @MynewTennesseeHome Рік тому +1

    Thank you for showing us the life of Jimmy Stewart. This gives me hope for our humanity.

  • @kenhurley4441
    @kenhurley4441 Рік тому

    If I had an opportunity to meet anyone from history Mr. Jimmy Stewart would be at the top of my list. He was as good in the military as on the screen. I've try to model myself after him. Thank you for making this video.

  • @LittleCountryCabin
    @LittleCountryCabin Рік тому +1

    What a wonderful video about a wonderful American. Thank you so much for sharing ❤

  • @brucescanlan1162
    @brucescanlan1162 Рік тому +1

    This is the absolute best video of Forgotten History. I was shocked when I understood what this man did. Very well done.