My father was with the 501st of the 101st on D-Day. He went on to take part in operation Market Garden and Bastogne. He remained in the Army until 1970 when he retired as a Colonel. He passed away in 1989 of Cancer.
I am humbled watching your videos. My three uncles, the Grasswick brothers, enlisted together into the Army Air Corps. The youngest was 15 at the time (grandma signed he was 18). They went in together, trained, went to England and came home together. My mom served as a shipyard welder and was one of 5 women awarded the Maritime Commission Award. I grew up hearing all their wartime stories. That time is an important part of me. Thank you for honoring all of them. God bless you.
It's amazing how many of the structures in the film had stood the test of time. I've watched the Band of Brothers so many times and I am glued to the tv screen each time the film is shown as reruns. We owe a lot to these intrepid soldiers who made the utmost sacrifice to keep our freedom.
I greatly appreciate what you are doing, especially as a former paratrooper in the 82nd Abn. So many in recent generations have little understanding of the bravery and sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation in WWII. I was in Normandy in 2011, but only at Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach. As I walked the areas, I couldn’t but help feel the spirits of those who died there. Hopefully, I will be able to return again and explore more of the D-Day sites in Normandy. In the meantime, I look forward with great anticipation to your new productions and your excellent explanation of what happened. God Bless you and your colleagues for keeping the history of D-Day alive so we do not forget the great sacrifices made by the thousands of brave American soldiers on D-Day. Because of them, it was the beginning of the end of the war in Europe.
I agree with your comment with my heart. Too many do not understand the sacrifices made by what I truly consider the greatest Generation. These men and women should never be forgotten. My father served outside Manchester England at Air Base Depot No. 2 and worked on all the planes repairing and keeping them running. It was a job he did with great expediency and efficiency and with all the respect for those who flew all the planes. My mom’s oldest brother joined up to serve in 1944. He was slaughtered by the Nazis January 12, 1945 in the Battle of Colmar., along with many from his group. He is buried in the American Military Cemetery in Epinal, France, I have hope one day to visit his grave and pay my respects to him. Thankfully, my oldest brother has been there.
My step uncle was a proud WW2 paratrooper who dropped "behind the lines" over Europe. When he returned as a veteran he told accounts of his service. I was 13 yo and he was about 25. His name was Manuel Paredes (Manuelito) and a very interesting character all his life. We were all proud of him! I wish I had been more mature to ask him to tell me much more.
I grew up on the south side of Chicago and my friend on the next block, that I played baseball with, his dad was in the 82nd Airborne and jumped into Normandy. He had had a party with his war buddies, and I got to meet some of these heroes. All of our fathers it seemed fought in the war. My dad fought in Burma, with the 8th army Air Corp. I was 12 years old when I met the men of the 82nd Airborne and only remember them drinking beer and teasing the guy who was hung up on the church steeple. Never forget that. I ended up in the 82nd Airborne 69-71. My buddies dad told me he was proud of me when I got out. I always remember that.
I found your videos recently. What drew me was the Then & Now photos. My parents were 10 & 12 in 1942 and I grew up hearing stories about them practicing air raid drills in school and mom sewing strips of cloth to make blankets for the war aid. Mom watched a lot of war documentaries as well as war movies and I watched with her so my interest always leaned towards war facts & photos. I’ve been in love with history all my life. It amazes me that these buildings are still around and still being used.
I served with the SF in Nam. My dad was a ww2 vet. A merchant marine capt. Had 2 liberty ships sunk by German u boats. I absolutely honore each and every one of those brave that served. They are the greatest generation. Thank you for the effort and passion you and your team have to create these videos. AIRBORNE All THE WAY.
Fascinating, you bring history to life, you can feel it and it has emotion. Attention to detail is good as is the narrative. WW2 is such a massive historical event, so much given by so many. Bless the souls that have passed but thank you for not forgetting. A truly amazing experience watching your video footage. You're clearly very passionate about the subject, it's tangible.
Seeing you people at the actual sites walking in the footprints of our brave men at that time puts more realization in the stories and the pictures bringing them to life. It's nice seeing photos of the men I read stories about in BoB and others puts a face to them.
Very true. I live in the Atlanta Georgia area and most of the city and suburbs had changed drastically. I so wish most of it was left alone, but due to expansion and growth, it is impossible. I sure miss the areas I was brought up in the '50s and '60s..... The biggest problem I have is looking at the exchange rates of the book on the D Day Publishers site I cannot do the exchange rate into UDS.
We are proud of the work and passion of Joey van Meesen and Florent Plana for presenting this outstanding history lesson! Then and Now photographs and films are a great way to educate the future generation and share unique areas where our soldiers fought during World War II. Fantastic job boys!
I am so grateful that you captured these moments in time that mean so much to so many. The men who fought in this campaign must never be forgotten and are worthy of our solemn and eternal gratitude.
I watch WWII videos because my father served then. He landed on Omaha Beach in Sept. 1944 and fought through the same villages and towns that you and others have shown. Thank you for all of your hard work to bring us these amazing 'then and now' photographs!
ANOTHER great job Joey! Huge follower of your work for years. My interest stems from my dad who was in the 104th Infantry Div. in an Anti-Tank Company. After "liberating" a Zeiss camera from a POW, he took hundreds of pictures documenting his track from Holland, Aachen, through the Bulge, Nordhausen Mittlebau-Dora camp, to meeting the Russians at the Mulde River. Also have dozens of his letters to his mother. I've followed his path on several trips in the last several years. Keep them coming!
That means a lot my friend. I am from The Netherlands myself and am eagerly looking for 104thTimber Wolves photographs in Holland in the Achtmaal area to do a Then & Now video about. Your dad was a true hero and the 104th is one of those overlooked divisions. Thank you for watching!
Hi guys, I absolutely loved your video. My Grandfather landed on D-day as part of the 48th Royal marine commando He is 97 and still going well. I love watching & learning about WW2 as I have always been close with him & I love listening to his old war stories. It’s on my bucket list to come & see ww2 history in France, I’m just so far away living in Australia. I am so thankful for you guys for the effort you have put in.🙏
Let us know why you are interested and which Then & Now is your favorite! ➡️ Take a look at all the Then & Now photographs of this video on www.snafu-docs.com/wwii-then-now-airborne-in-normandy Edit: We realized we made a mistake and said Teddy Roosevelt Jr was the commander of the 4th ID. He was not! Roosevelt Jr was the Deputy Commander of the Division and General Barton was the Commanding General.
I am interested in this video because my Dad, Wilson Whicker, I believe he was a Corporal, was a Paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne during D Day in Normandy.
My first active duty assignment as a brand new soldier, fresh from basic training, was Ft. Campbell, KY. - home of the 101st ABN Div. - and "B" Co. 1st Btn. 506th Inf.(Airmobile). By the time I arrived in November, 1973, however, I'd missed all of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam. In the end though, I was fortunate to have retired on Ft. Bragg, NC after a final deployment in August, 1990 to the first Persian Gulf Operation (Shield/Storm) with the 2nd Bde. - 2nd Btn. 325th A.I.R.
i'm 72yr old.. my dad was a medic - landed D+3 but he never knew which beach. i couldn't understand how he wouldn't know til i watched Saving Pvt Ryan and them hitting the beach under fire. You don't care what the name is, just GET ASHORE. Dad was NOT a paratrooper, but i watch in close attention hoping someday to catch a glimpse of him. All i know is his unit (31st Medical Group, the 188th Medical Battalion, or the 463rd Medical Collecting company) and his journey took him across northern France, into Belgium then Holland where he and another non-com (dad a sgt) were put in charge of a hospital. I have been studying WW2 since my teenage years ~
WW2 is such a critical part of history. It's sad there is only two surviving members left of Easy Company. They made the ultimate sacrifice and should never be forgotten.
I like WWII history because: all wars embody life, death, courage, fear, hope, despair. We learn from the unfortunate participants and reflect on our own lives. WWII given the recency has more stories and materials to learn from. Thank you both for a great channel!
I love the job you guys are doing with locating all these sites ! I’ve always been fascinated with our country’s military’s history and all history in general. But the WW2 has always been special.
Thank you. Lest we forget. My father served in the Pacific Campaign. He ended up making the military a career of 27 years. One of places we were stationed at was Wiesbaden, Germany in 1960's. I love this stuff. I've longed to do this sort of thing for some 30 years and have an idea to put "permanent" markers for many of these photographed places. I wish I could join you guys.
I grew up in Manhattan and saw old ladies with tattoos on their arms when I was nine years old. That began my education about World War II. It never stopped. Thank you so much for your great work. Fascinating and important. Bravo
I really love how you compare the two photos amazing work! I’m currently serving in the 101st Airborne myself and I enjoy learning about my units history
It’s very sad that most of these brave men have passed away. I especially love that you know their names, what a blessing to their families. Thank you for all your hard work!
I love ww2 stuff cause i have a hard time wrapping my head around all that went on, its amazing to me. Also they're film and eye witness accounts of what went down not even 100 years ago. Great question
Thank You Men ! jumping into Normandy to rid the world of a madman. Special Thank You to my departed friend of the 82nd William (Bill) Stroup I am very grateful that I got to know you for all you done. I throughly enjoyed you sharing your stories with me. !! RIP my friend !! You Sir are missed and appreciated.
I was a U.S. Army Paratrooper from 1988 to 1992. I was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division and the 20th Engineer Brigade during that time. The content in this video is part of my military lineage.
Once again a great video, you outdid yourself on this one. It's really interesting to see these pictures in modern day view. I truely speaks to your imagination and feels like you're right there. Keep it up!
I served in the Marines in early 2000s. We have it easy now compared to what these Brave men had to go through. We owe them everything. Thank you for sharing their stories and helping share their history. Keep up the great work.
I have been your fan for along time. I would love to meet you and shake your hand. Thank you for not letting people forget our great men who fought so valiantly. You are truly one of my hero's.
Love the Then and Now videos. I hope you continue to do more. My father was in the navy and my mother’s brother was in the army during world war 2. Thank you for all the detective work that you do to put these together.
This is 3 years old, but I never get tired of viewing it because it is living history. My uncle was in the 10th Armored Div. Belgium. Just a few short months the Ardennes Offensive began. I hope to visit these sites one day. Thank you for putting these together and posting them on UA-cam.
Love the then and now pics. The comparisons are absolutely fascinating. I had a tour a couple of years ago, and I totally agree with the Kenneth Hylton comment, so difficult to wrap my mind around all that happened in that area.
22 year Army veteran (Military Police/Infantry) here. Another quality video, and thanks for keeping their memory alive. One day I hope to make it to Normandy.
I took basis training with Baker Co.,101st Airborn Infantry, Fort Jackson, So. Carolina Jan- Feb 1955 and was sent to Brook Army Med. Center, Fort Sam Huston training as a combat aid man and stationed with the (9th Med Bn, Hardtkaserne, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany) as a teacher 1955-56 and discharged; used the GI Bill to attend Med School (UVa). I have always treasured my experience with the Army, and feel that the draft should be re-instated. I learned a huge amount about living.
My Dad was a Captain in Signal Corps. He landed on June 8 at Omaha. He never talked about it. I understand now how deeply he was effected by the year he spent grinding through Normandy and then on into Germany. I have a friend who just passed away a few days before his 101st birthday. He was Wounded by shrapnel on D day. He went on to fight in The Battle of the Bulge. 🇺🇸
In my almost three decades in the US Army I served over 11 years on jump status. I had the honor and the privilege to serve in A 2/325, C 1/505, C 1/508 and in A 1/506 and HHC 1/506, but those were not on jump status but as an Air Assault battalion on the DMZ in Korea. During my time in C 1/505 I was deployed to Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Going to Normandy has been on my bucket list for many years to be able to walk the ground of the giants upon whose shoulders I stood while in uniform.
Peter, thank you for your service. My uncle jumped into Normandy on June 6, 1944 from a C-47 with the 82nd ABD. Later in the day on June 6, he was killed near St. Mere Eglise. In the letters we have from one of his buddies (written to my grandparents) after my uncle's death, he was described as a "fighting fool". He was brave guy and you are right, "it is his shoulders we stand upon". He fought to keep us (and the world free) as did you. Thank you again for your service. Also, I did have a chance to visit Normandy and the area near St. Mere Eglise. It is sobering to be there and know what took place. May the world never forget the "Greatest Generation".
As an old man now,who remembers this dreadful era I thank you so much for your brilliant work.you will never know how much it means to us that you young men take the time to produce such wonderful memories.god bless,stay safe.Doug (Yorkshire U.K.)
Thank you so much for the work you have done. My interest is that my uncle (Pvt. Murlyn E. Wilson) was a paratrooper with the 82nd ABD 505 PIR Company B. He landed in DZ O and was proceeding to the LaFiere Bridge when he was killed by German aircraft strafing. He died late in the day on June 6, 1944. I had the privilege to visit this area (St. Mere Egliese and the La Fiere bridge) in 2016. I was able to bring back to my mother and her sister my experience of where their dear brother gave his life for the fight of freedom. Thank you again for your work. Keith D. (Indianapolis, Indiana, USA)
Thank you so much for sharing this Keith. You are one of the reasons for producing these videos. Connecting with relatives of veterans is an honor for us
Thank you very much for bringing fresh life to the stories of our grandfathers. It is hard to watch these videos without emotion for what these men did for freedom, for France. It is very meaningful to see your appreciation of their sacrifices.
I have been a WWII history buff since elementary school. I am currently an administrator for the Fans of the C-47 Skytrain group on Facebook.. I really enjoyed this episode because you showed them dropping the Paratroopers from the C-47s.. I also own the Band of Brothers DVD collection.. I totally enjoy your channel..
Second video that I have watched, tonight, I am 61 , too young to have been in WWII but my ex English Father in law was. Being Irish my father had other issues, but I was born in England. I am dismayed that my generation born in the 60s lost so much history, but enraptured that you 20-30 somethings, with French counterparts, are backfilling History so well. As an excuse, my Boomer generation was focused on growing the world post 50s and WWII , looking ahead, making families and stability. You are our prodgeny with time and cameras and Tech. I am so happy a small percentage of you have ignored social media and are making new input, like Mark Felton, I cannot thank you enough ! I have been to Normandy 5 x during 2004-2010 as we lived in Paris and have 2/4 boys really engaged in WWII History ad nauseum. Fantastic site and subscribed. Will be devouring your high quality content in the coming week ! Fabulous job ! Eamo'
A well-made video again Joe congratulations ! Flo and Yannick are in their environment, they are really good guys and hunters for Then and Now pictures 😉 Thanks again guys 👌
@@SNAFUDOCS I think the best picture is the Then and Now on the wall of St Marcouf Cemetery... With Flo we didn't know where it was but now I can see where it's ! Thanks
This is an excellent video presentation of the locations of the exploits of the American Paratroopers mainly those of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions in the early part of the liberation of Europe. I was blessed with the opportunity to visit various parts of France including a number of the fields of battle of WW2 in and out of France. Two of my highlights were 4 visits to Bastogne and a week's stay in Normandy during the 75th anniversary in 2019 of the Allied landings. Your video adds to my knowledge of historical events which should never forgotten. I salute all the brave Americans who fought in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters and I thank you for presenting an important chapter of their story.
It’s so good to see these pictures as the American troops were known to carry them for moments like we see. Without them we rally can’t appreciate that this was what everyman was doing for all what we have today. Just wish more people had done what you’ve done. Brilliant gents and thank you.
It’s one thing to say troops were in a location, but the pictures bring their time to life and the locations stand witness to their sacrifice … keep up the great work.
Truly the Greatest Generation fighting the worst evil the world has ever known. What you gentlemen do is fascinating, educational, and extremely interesting. What you do is tantamount to taking a ruler, a pencil, and drawing a straight line from point A to point B. Except the line is through time, not space. Amazing. I have always loved history...specifically The Civil War and WWII. That's what lead me to your channel, and I'm so grateful. Thank you for honoring these men and women and for sharing your passion and talent with us.❤
Awesome video again guys! I was very fortunate to be able to visit Normandy in 2009 with a work colleague who was born and raised there. Talk about a perfect tour guide! I wish we could have spent weeks there instead of just a day. One of my favorite pictures I took, the inside of the church at Sainte Mere Eglise - of the stained glass window of Mary and Baby Jesus watching over the paratroopers. To me, this was trip of lifetime. Thank you for all of your work on these videos. They mean so much, keep up the great work!
One of the first things that happened when I got to the 2/505 82nd airborne in 1995 was, I was grilled about the units history and the divisions history. I don't know about now, but I felt like I was connected to the past. All the streets are named after WWII battles, we found old .30-06 shell casings on live fire ranges, many of the older building still stood, the jumps of WWII were spoken of before jumps by the higher ups sometimes not every jump.
I joined the Army and had it written into the contract (1972) to go Airborne, more less on a fluke, not knowing anything about the 82nd or 101st, until I was assigned to the 82nd. I had always had a deathly fear of heights, and figured I would either get over it or continue to pee my pants over it. I got over it. While getting over it, I also learned about the 82nd and 101st, and their proud history, as I was assigned to B Co. 1/325 AIR. The 325 was a glider unit in WW2, and later converted to an Airborne unit. I love visiting new information about the Airborne as well as refreshing old information, as it seems you always find new nuggets of information. There were a lot of nuggets in this video. Thank you.
Greatest generation! People came together to fight against evil and sacrificed so much! Absolutely love these videos and learning more about that time in history. It’s really not that long ago. Never knew about d-day publishing, definitely going to get several of the publications.
My uncle jumped in on d-day at st Mere eglise he was in the 82nd and 101st. He fought across Europe. Jumped in Market Garden also. Thank you guys for showing me where he was. Keep up the good work. Never forget!!!
My Grandad served with the British Army Royal Engineers from 1939 till 1946, he died in 1991 before I had a chance to talk to him adult to adult about his experiences so I'm completely fascinated with everything related to WW2. He received an citation of bravery issued by Field Marshall Montgomery which we still have along with his medals.
Informative video I wish I can visit those places one day. My uncle went in Iwo Jima in 2011 and Im so jealous but in 2018 I manage to visit and give Respect to the Brave souls. Much love from The Philippines.
Great job guys! I read Donald Burgett book in 1979 called Currahee. I was starved for information on the paratrooper battles in Normandy but there just wasn’t that much back then no Internet no nothing. I never thought I want to get to Normandy but I’ve been there several times and your videos make me extremely jealous of you guys and what you have been able to research - please keep it up
Hello, very important work you are doing documenting all this history. My late grandfather RIP was part of the landings that day June 6, 1944. I followed the family tradition to serve and I did serve for 23 years 6 months. June 6 become a more honorable and unforgettable date for me because the same date decades later (2004) while in combat operations in Iraq I received my Army combat patch, officially known as the "shoulder sleeve insignia-former wartime service" for combat service with the 1st Infantry Division “The Big Red One - No Mission Too Difficult. No Sacrifice Too Great. Duty First!”. Thank you for what you do and glad to have come across your channel. 🤝
I went through the airborne school in the early 80's then sent to a mechanized infantry division. Never made another jump. In the 90's, I met one of these band of brothers. Later on he stopped by my work. He brought his old buddies to meet me. They were on their way to a 82nd reunion. These were the real guys later shown in the HBO band of brothers. I felt so small but extremely privileged to meet them. I just went through the school with five jumps. They were the real deal.
My father fought in WWII in Burma as a Merrill Marauders is one reason I'm interested. I enjoy seeing these before and after photos about the Europe conflict. Brave young men and women back then.
Fantastic video guys! So amazing 🤩 The reason why I have always followed the fighting men of the two world wars is because my father was a leading airman in the RCAF WW2 also my uncle was a major in the British army WW2. I’ve always felt this emotional draw to all these men who served and died for their country’s. Keep them coming boys! 🤩
Superb. These videos of yours would not look out of place on Discovery Channel or any paid TV network. For a few guys to put them together is fantastic. Maybe when Covid is put to bed I will make my own trip and explore these places. Merci encore.
Keeping the moto “May these stories live on forever”... thanks for your dedication and relive the amazing and brutal period of WWII. My fav is the Pfc Guth solo photo with the german helmet. Awaiting ansious for the next one ...
Wow! This video is so great! I learned a lot, it is awesome how many things are out there you can discover. Since 2010 spend my summer holidays in Normandy and I am very interested in WW2 history, but still I learned many new things. Thank you for this video. I hope we all can see more videos like this! Good Luck!!!
My grandfather was a veteran of ww2, and I've been interested in ww2 history since I was a child. Now I study and read all I can pertaining to the subject and also collect relics.
I’ve always been fascinated with WWII because my grandfather fought in WWII... As a child I would sneak into his room, and on his dresser was a small box that had about 100 photographs of his experience, and I used to look at them.. I own them today, and I’ve always had a connection with that long gone error thru him...privately He had a difficult time putting the war behind him for a decade but his generation did not openly discuss it.
I served with 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, North Carolina and then with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1966-67 and then back to the 82nd at Bragg until we were alerted and sent to Vietnam in 1968 during the Tet Offensive. So I am proud of my service with these two airborne divisions and proud and humbled by the men who served in WW2 before me. My father served as a gunner in a B-24 from September 1944 to May 1945 with 35 missions. He got out of the military in 1945 but went back in shortly after I was born in 1947 to escort war dead bodies from Europe to the United States. One of the bodies he escorted was PFC Robert Lorance of Laclede County, Missouri. Robert was the son of Clarence Lorance who had a 2nd marriage to my dad's Aunt Rosie. Robert served in the 501st PIR of the 101st and was killed October 12, 1944 in Holland. Dad escorted Robert home and he was buried at White Oak Pond Cemetery in January 1949. Even though I was not a blood relative of Robert Lorance he was the son of a man I called Uncle and a fellow paratrooper who gave his life for freedom.
excellent, the picture with the bespectacled paratrooper is mistakenly the front cover of the french paperback edition of "Band of brothers". A mistake now corrected.
I had the privilege to serve in both the 1/506 IN and the 505 PIR in both Afghanistan and Iraq. These pictures and the stories you tell in this, and other videos make me grateful to have been a Paratrooper and heir of the Airborne legacy. Thank you for this video.
May the photos live on forever and we are so grateful for your channel for keeping this part of history going so future generations can learn and remember . Thank you
I am an 85 year old American who as a child during the war remember that every man in my family were in the armed forces and all over the world fighting, my father in the pacific theater. Two of my uncles suffered with PTSD the rest of their lives.
My uncle was commander of F company on D Day. He also was in Market Garden with the 82nd and back with the 101st at Bastogne. He also retired as a Colonel. Sammie N Homan. My hero growing up..
Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt Jr. was the XO (deputy commander) of the 4th I.D. and the highest ranking U.S. officer to land on the Normandy beach head on D-day. He died of a heart attack July 12th while still leading at the Normandy Front. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1944. His father's Spanish-American War Military Cross was upgraded to a Medal of Honor in 2001.
Fascinating looking at these photos, very soon there will be no survivors of WWII left alive, but these photographs will be a testament to their bravery. My father was a mechanic in the RAF, and my mother was in the Women's RAF. She still remembered seeing Glen Miller play at RAF Debden, when the USAAF were based there.
My father was with the 501st of the 101st on D-Day. He went on to take part in operation Market Garden and Bastogne. He remained in the Army until 1970 when he retired as a Colonel. He passed away in 1989 of Cancer.
He will never be forgotten. Thank you for our freedom
May his memory forever live.
What is his name
Your dad was a American Hero be proud, I'm sure you are.
Kenneth E Holmes
These men belonged to the “Bravest Generation” ever, may their stories of incredible bravery be told forever and never forgotten.
I am humbled watching your videos. My three uncles, the Grasswick brothers, enlisted together into the Army Air Corps. The youngest was 15 at the time (grandma signed he was 18). They went in together, trained, went to England and came home together. My mom served as a shipyard welder and was one of 5 women awarded the Maritime Commission Award. I grew up hearing all their wartime stories. That time is an important part of me. Thank you for honoring all of them. God bless you.
“May these stories live on forever”. You are healing keep them alive! Thank you!
It's amazing how many of the structures in the film had stood the test of time. I've watched the Band of Brothers so many times and I am glued to the tv screen each time the film is shown as reruns. We owe a lot to these intrepid soldiers who made the utmost sacrifice to keep our freedom.
These young men who fought in these battles are our Heroes our Supermen .We must never forget the journey they took to keep the world free.
I greatly appreciate what you are doing, especially as a former paratrooper in the 82nd Abn. So many in recent generations have little understanding of the bravery and sacrifices made by the Greatest Generation in WWII. I was in Normandy in 2011, but only at Pointe du Hoc and Omaha Beach. As I walked the areas, I couldn’t but help feel the spirits of those who died there. Hopefully, I will be able to return again and explore more of the D-Day sites in Normandy. In the meantime, I look forward with great anticipation to your new productions and your excellent explanation of what happened. God Bless you and your colleagues for keeping the history of D-Day alive so we do not forget the great sacrifices made by the thousands of brave American soldiers on D-Day. Because of them, it was the beginning of the end of the war in Europe.
I agree with your comment with my heart. Too many do not understand the sacrifices made by what I truly consider the greatest Generation. These men and women should never be forgotten. My father served outside Manchester England at Air Base Depot No. 2 and worked on all the planes repairing and keeping them running. It was a job he did with great expediency and efficiency and with all the respect for those who flew all the planes. My mom’s oldest brother joined up to serve in 1944. He was slaughtered by the Nazis January 12, 1945 in the Battle of Colmar., along with many from his group. He is buried in the American Military Cemetery in Epinal, France, I have hope one day to visit his grave and pay my respects to him. Thankfully, my oldest brother has been there.
My step uncle was a proud WW2 paratrooper who dropped "behind the lines" over Europe. When he returned as a veteran he told accounts of his service. I was 13 yo and he was about 25. His name was Manuel Paredes (Manuelito) and a very interesting character all his life. We were all proud of him!
I wish I had been more mature to ask him to tell me much more.
@Aditya Rajeshirke the hindus were fierce fighters in the pacific. even some indians in the werhmact!
Glad you were lucky to hear his stories!
@@Therileyrileyriley the Hindu? Who cares?
@MrTy YT "Step Uncle".... not father
@@XxBloggs means do you know the power of india today
I grew up on the south side of Chicago and my friend on the next block, that I played baseball with, his dad was in the 82nd Airborne and jumped into Normandy. He had had a party with his war buddies, and I got to meet some of these heroes. All of our fathers it seemed fought in the war. My dad fought in Burma, with the 8th army Air Corp. I was 12 years old when I met the men of the 82nd Airborne and only remember them drinking beer and teasing the guy who was hung up on the church steeple. Never forget that. I ended up in the 82nd Airborne 69-71. My buddies dad told me he was proud of me when I got out. I always remember that.
I found your videos recently. What drew me was the Then & Now photos. My parents were 10 & 12 in 1942 and I grew up hearing stories about them practicing air raid drills in school and mom sewing strips of cloth to make blankets for the war aid. Mom watched a lot of war documentaries as well as war movies and I watched with her so my interest always leaned towards war facts & photos. I’ve been in love with history all my life. It amazes me that these buildings are still around and still being used.
I served with the SF in Nam. My dad was a ww2 vet. A merchant marine capt. Had 2 liberty ships sunk by German u boats. I absolutely honore each and every one of those brave that served. They are the greatest generation. Thank you for the effort and passion you and your team have to create these videos. AIRBORNE All THE WAY.
Fascinating, you bring history to life, you can feel it and it has emotion. Attention to detail is good as is the narrative. WW2 is such a massive historical event, so much given by so many. Bless the souls that have passed but thank you for not forgetting. A truly amazing experience watching your video footage. You're clearly very passionate about the subject, it's tangible.
Wow what a nice comment. Thank you so much Mark, it means the world to us and we are proud to honor these men.
Very professional presentation. Enjoyed it immensely and look forward to more.
Seeing you people at the actual sites walking in the footprints of our brave men at that time puts more realization in the stories and the pictures bringing them to life. It's nice seeing photos of the men I read stories about in BoB and others puts a face to them.
Really interesting, i like the fact that some of these building have hardly changed in nearly a hundred years
Truly incredible, isn't it!? Thank you for watching!
Very true. I live in the Atlanta Georgia area and most of the city and suburbs had changed drastically. I so wish most of it was left alone, but due to expansion and growth, it is impossible. I sure miss the areas I was brought up in the '50s and '60s..... The biggest problem I have is looking at the exchange rates of the book on the D Day Publishers site I cannot do the exchange rate into UDS.
We are proud of the work and passion of Joey van Meesen and Florent Plana for presenting this outstanding history lesson! Then and Now photographs and films are a great way to educate the future generation and share unique areas where our soldiers fought during World War II. Fantastic job boys!
Thank you for all the support!
I am so grateful that you captured these moments in time that mean so much to so many. The men who fought in this campaign must never be forgotten and are worthy of our solemn and eternal gratitude.
I watch WWII videos because my father served then. He landed on Omaha Beach in Sept. 1944 and fought through the same villages and towns that you and others have shown. Thank you for all of your hard work to bring us these amazing 'then and now' photographs!
ANOTHER great job Joey! Huge follower of your work for years. My interest stems from my dad who was in the 104th Infantry Div. in an Anti-Tank Company. After "liberating" a Zeiss camera from a POW, he took hundreds of pictures documenting his track from Holland, Aachen, through the Bulge, Nordhausen Mittlebau-Dora camp, to meeting the Russians at the Mulde River. Also have dozens of his letters to his mother. I've followed his path on several trips in the last several years. Keep them coming!
That means a lot my friend. I am from The Netherlands myself and am eagerly looking for 104thTimber Wolves photographs in Holland in the Achtmaal area to do a Then & Now video about. Your dad was a true hero and the 104th is one of those overlooked divisions. Thank you for watching!
Ojalá pudieras compartir esas fotografías
Hi guys, I absolutely loved your video. My Grandfather landed on D-day as part of the 48th Royal marine commando
He is 97 and still going well. I love watching & learning about WW2 as I have always been close with him & I love listening to his old war stories. It’s on my bucket list to come & see ww2 history in France, I’m just so far away living in Australia. I am so thankful for you guys for the effort you have put in.🙏
Let us know why you are interested and which Then & Now is your favorite!
➡️ Take a look at all the Then & Now photographs of this video on www.snafu-docs.com/wwii-then-now-airborne-in-normandy
Edit: We realized we made a mistake and said Teddy Roosevelt Jr was the commander of the 4th ID. He was not! Roosevelt Jr was the Deputy Commander of the Division and General Barton was the Commanding General.
My favourite then and now picture is the 8th one with the 101st soldiers walking past a graveyard👌👍
I am interested in this video because my Dad, Wilson Whicker, I believe he was a Corporal, was a Paratrooper of the 82nd Airborne during D Day in Normandy.
My first active duty assignment as a brand new soldier, fresh from basic training, was Ft. Campbell, KY. - home of the 101st ABN Div. - and "B" Co. 1st Btn. 506th Inf.(Airmobile).
By the time I arrived in November, 1973, however, I'd missed all of WWII, Korea, and Vietnam.
In the end though, I was fortunate to have retired on Ft. Bragg, NC after a final deployment in August, 1990 to the first Persian Gulf Operation (Shield/Storm) with the 2nd Bde. - 2nd Btn. 325th A.I.R.
thank you for video.very very good.
i'm 72yr old.. my dad was a medic - landed D+3 but he never knew which beach. i couldn't understand how he wouldn't know til i watched Saving Pvt Ryan and them hitting the beach under fire. You don't care what the name is, just GET ASHORE. Dad was NOT a paratrooper, but i watch in close attention hoping someday to catch a glimpse of him. All i know is his unit (31st Medical Group, the 188th Medical Battalion, or the 463rd Medical Collecting company) and his journey took him across northern France, into Belgium then Holland where he and another non-com (dad a sgt) were put in charge of a hospital. I have been studying WW2 since my teenage years ~
WW2 is such a critical part of history. It's sad there is only two surviving members left of Easy Company. They made the ultimate sacrifice and should never be forgotten.
EASY COMPANY IS RUNNING UP CURRAHEE. 3 MILES UP, 3 MILES DOWN!
@@SorryBadName hiyo silver!
Those smiles before landings.. real courage.
This is one of my favorite things to do regarding history. I love going to historic places and comparing old photos to the current geography.
Glad you enjoyed it
I like WWII history because: all wars embody life, death, courage, fear, hope, despair. We learn from the unfortunate participants and reflect on our own lives. WWII given the recency has more stories and materials to learn from. Thank you both for a great channel!
Great job I jumped into Normandy for the 50th anniversary what a experience it was. We must never forget
Wow that must've been an incredible experience. Thank you for watching!
Holy Crap that must have been totally awesome!!
I love the job you guys are doing with locating all these sites ! I’ve always been fascinated with our country’s military’s history and all history in general. But the WW2 has always been special.
Thank you. Lest we forget. My father served in the Pacific Campaign. He ended up making the military a career of 27 years. One of places we were stationed at was Wiesbaden, Germany in 1960's. I love this stuff. I've longed to do this sort of thing for some 30 years and have an idea to put "permanent" markers for many of these photographed places. I wish I could join you guys.
Although 76 years have passed, videos like this bring the memories back to life. 👍🏻
The men who fought in WW II, were a special group. Especially in the 101st Airborne.
I grew up in Manhattan and saw old ladies with tattoos on their arms when I was nine years old. That began my education about World War II. It never stopped. Thank you so much for your great work. Fascinating and important. Bravo
I really love how you compare the two photos amazing work! I’m currently serving in the 101st Airborne myself and I enjoy learning about my units history
Thanks buddy! And thank you for your service.
@@SNAFUDOCS thank you!
It’s very sad that most of these brave men have passed away. I especially love that you know their names, what a blessing to their families. Thank you for all your hard work!
I love ww2 stuff cause i have a hard time wrapping my head around all that went on, its amazing to me. Also they're film and eye witness accounts of what went down not even 100 years ago. Great question
It's truly fascinating isn't it!
Thank You Men ! jumping into Normandy to rid the world of a madman.
Special Thank You to my departed friend of the 82nd William (Bill) Stroup I am very grateful that I got to know you for all you done. I throughly enjoyed you sharing your stories with me.
!! RIP my friend !! You Sir are missed and appreciated.
Fantastic... Never Ever Forgotten & God Bless Them All.
I was a U.S. Army Paratrooper from 1988 to 1992. I was assigned to the 82nd Airborne Division and the 20th Engineer Brigade during that time. The content in this video is part of my military lineage.
Excellent work on this video. I love the "then and now" comparison videos. I wish UA-cam would let me give two thumbs up. -Bronson
Glad you enjoyed it! Hope to meet up again one day!
Once again a great video, you outdid yourself on this one. It's really interesting to see these pictures in modern day view. I truely speaks to your imagination and feels like you're right there. Keep it up!
Many thanks brother!
My wife and I have been honored to travel to Normandy several times. Thanks for the videos.
I served in the Marines in early 2000s. We have it easy now compared to what these Brave men had to go through. We owe them everything. Thank you for sharing their stories and helping share their history. Keep up the great work.
Semper Fi, 1st Marine Division right
I have been your fan for along time. I would love to meet you and shake your hand. Thank you for not letting people forget our great men who fought so valiantly. You are truly one of my hero's.
Thanks buddy! Those men are the heroes, we just try to keep their memory alive!
Thank you ...what an amazing trip you took us on. I truly love the before and now photos. Brings the conflict and time period to life.
Thank YOU for watching!
Love the Then and Now videos. I hope you continue to do more. My father was in the navy and my mother’s brother was in the army during world war 2. Thank you for all the detective work that you do to put these together.
Thank you Paul, that means a lot!
This is 3 years old, but I never get tired of viewing it because it is living history. My uncle was in the 10th Armored Div. Belgium. Just a few short months the Ardennes Offensive began. I hope to visit these sites one day. Thank you for putting these together and posting them on UA-cam.
Love the then and now pics. The comparisons are absolutely fascinating. I had a tour a couple of years ago, and I totally agree with the Kenneth Hylton comment, so difficult to wrap my mind around all that happened in that area.
Thanks for watching brother!
22 year Army veteran (Military Police/Infantry) here. Another quality video, and thanks for keeping their memory alive. One day I hope to make it to Normandy.
Thanks for watching and thank you for service!
I took basis training with Baker Co.,101st Airborn Infantry, Fort Jackson, So. Carolina Jan-
Feb 1955 and was sent to Brook Army Med. Center, Fort Sam Huston training as a combat
aid man and stationed with the (9th Med Bn, Hardtkaserne, Schwäbisch Gmünd, Germany)
as a teacher 1955-56 and discharged; used the GI Bill to attend Med School (UVa). I have
always treasured my experience with the Army, and feel that the draft should be re-instated.
I learned a huge amount about living.
Thanks for sharing with us!
@@SNAFUDOCS: I remember well when
SNAFU was used in everyday conversation.
My Dad was a Captain in Signal Corps. He landed on June 8 at Omaha. He never talked about it. I understand now how deeply he was effected by the year he spent grinding through Normandy and then on into Germany. I have a friend who just passed away a few days before his 101st birthday. He was Wounded by shrapnel on D day. He went on to fight in The Battle of the Bulge. 🇺🇸
In my almost three decades in the US Army I served over 11 years on jump status. I had the honor and the privilege to serve in A 2/325, C 1/505, C 1/508 and in A 1/506 and HHC 1/506, but those were not on jump status but as an Air Assault battalion on the DMZ in Korea. During my time in C 1/505 I was deployed to Desert Shield/Desert Storm. Going to Normandy has been on my bucket list for many years to be able to walk the ground of the giants upon whose shoulders I stood while in uniform.
Thank you for your service sir!
Thank you for your service.
Peter, thank you for your service. My uncle jumped into Normandy on June 6, 1944 from a C-47 with the 82nd ABD. Later in the day on June 6, he was killed near St. Mere Eglise. In the letters we have from one of his buddies (written to my grandparents) after my uncle's death, he was described as a "fighting fool". He was brave guy and you are right, "it is his shoulders we stand upon". He fought to keep us (and the world free) as did you. Thank you again for your service. Also, I did have a chance to visit Normandy and the area near St. Mere Eglise. It is sobering to be there and know what took place. May the world never forget the "Greatest Generation".
As an old man now,who remembers this dreadful era I thank you so much for your brilliant work.you will never know how much it means to us that you young men take the time to produce such wonderful memories.god bless,stay safe.Doug (Yorkshire U.K.)
Thank you so much for the work you have done. My interest is that my uncle (Pvt. Murlyn E. Wilson) was a paratrooper with the 82nd ABD 505 PIR Company B. He landed in DZ O and was proceeding to the LaFiere Bridge when he was killed by German aircraft strafing. He died late in the day on June 6, 1944. I had the privilege to visit this area (St. Mere Egliese and the La Fiere bridge) in 2016. I was able to bring back to my mother and her sister my experience of where their dear brother gave his life for the fight of freedom. Thank you again for your work.
Keith D. (Indianapolis, Indiana, USA)
Thank you so much for sharing this Keith. You are one of the reasons for producing these videos. Connecting with relatives of veterans is an honor for us
I will never understand war, except for tragedy and loss of innocent life . Amazing job guys you bring history to life .
Great show. I visited normandy in 2019. A dream come true. As an american, I was blown away by the kindness of the local people. Thanks for the vid.
Thank you very much for bringing fresh life to the stories of our grandfathers. It is hard to watch these videos without emotion for what these men did for freedom, for France. It is very meaningful to see your appreciation of their sacrifices.
Thank you so much Chuck!
I have been a WWII history buff since elementary school. I am currently an administrator for the Fans of the C-47 Skytrain group on Facebook.. I really enjoyed this episode because you showed them dropping the Paratroopers from the C-47s.. I also own the Band of Brothers DVD collection.. I totally enjoy your channel..
Thanks man! Glad you enjoyed it. WWII is truly fascinating
I’m interested in WWII because my father was a DDay veteran.
A hero!
Second video that I have watched, tonight, I am 61 , too young to have been in WWII but my ex English Father in law was. Being Irish my father had other issues, but I was born in England. I am dismayed that my generation born in the 60s lost so much history, but enraptured that you 20-30 somethings, with French counterparts, are backfilling History so well. As an excuse, my Boomer generation was focused on growing the world post 50s and WWII , looking ahead, making families and stability. You are our prodgeny with time and cameras and Tech.
I am so happy a small percentage of you have ignored social media and are making new input, like Mark Felton, I cannot thank you enough !
I have been to Normandy 5 x during 2004-2010 as we lived in Paris and have 2/4 boys really engaged in WWII History ad nauseum.
Fantastic site and subscribed. Will be devouring your high quality content in the coming week ! Fabulous job ! Eamo'
A well-made video again Joe congratulations ! Flo and Yannick are in their environment, they are really good guys and hunters for Then and Now pictures 😉 Thanks again guys 👌
Exactly! We are a group of friends and I'm glad the viewer experiences the 'atmosphere'.
@@SNAFUDOCS I think the best picture is the Then and Now on the wall of St Marcouf Cemetery... With Flo we didn't know where it was but now I can see where it's ! Thanks
This is an excellent video presentation of the locations of the exploits of the American Paratroopers mainly those of the 82nd and 101st Airborne Divisions in the early part of the liberation of Europe. I was blessed with the opportunity to visit various parts of France including a number of the fields of battle of WW2 in and out of France. Two of my highlights were 4 visits to Bastogne and a week's stay in Normandy during the 75th anniversary in 2019 of the Allied landings. Your video adds to my knowledge of historical events which should never forgotten. I salute all the brave Americans who fought in the Atlantic and Pacific theaters and I thank you for presenting an important chapter of their story.
The airborne dudes during WWII were bad asses, they lived on nothing, ate shit, froze and still kicked ass.
Didn’t ate shit, they didn’t live on nothing either they had not a lot of food but enough for them to last few months
Yes they did kicked asses
Yeah, its difficult to become a Airborne/Para, but its Critical
It’s so good to see these pictures as the American troops were known to carry them for moments like we see. Without them we rally can’t appreciate that this was what everyman was doing for all what we have today. Just wish more people had done what you’ve done. Brilliant gents and thank you.
It’s one thing to say troops were in a location, but the pictures bring their time to life and the locations stand witness to their sacrifice … keep up the great work.
Truly the Greatest Generation fighting the worst evil the world has ever known. What you gentlemen do is fascinating, educational, and extremely interesting. What you do is tantamount to taking a ruler, a pencil, and drawing a straight line from point A to point B. Except the line is through time, not space. Amazing. I have always loved history...specifically The Civil War and WWII. That's what lead me to your channel, and I'm so grateful. Thank you for honoring these men and women and for sharing your passion and talent with us.❤
Thank you so much for this humble comment. We really appreciate it!
Awesome video again guys! I was very fortunate to be able to visit Normandy in 2009 with a work colleague who was born and raised there. Talk about a perfect tour guide! I wish we could have spent weeks there instead of just a day. One of my favorite pictures I took, the inside of the church at Sainte Mere Eglise - of the stained glass window of Mary and Baby Jesus watching over the paratroopers. To me, this was trip of lifetime. Thank you for all of your work on these videos. They mean so much, keep up the great work!
Thank you Dave! The area is so fascinating, I can't wait to go back!
One of the first things that happened when I got to the 2/505 82nd airborne in 1995 was, I was grilled about the units history and the divisions history. I don't know about now, but I felt like I was connected to the past. All the streets are named after WWII battles, we found old .30-06 shell casings on live fire ranges, many of the older building still stood, the jumps of WWII were spoken of before jumps by the higher ups sometimes not every jump.
I joined the Army and had it written into the contract (1972) to go Airborne, more less on a fluke, not knowing anything about the 82nd or 101st, until I was assigned to the 82nd. I had always had a deathly fear of heights, and figured I would either get over it or continue to pee my pants over it. I got over it. While getting over it, I also learned about the 82nd and 101st, and their proud history, as I was assigned to B Co. 1/325 AIR. The 325 was a glider unit in WW2, and later converted to an Airborne unit. I love visiting new information about the Airborne as well as refreshing old information, as it seems you always find new nuggets of information. There were a lot of nuggets in this video. Thank you.
Wow! Thank you for your service. I was lucky enough to meet and guide WWII Veteran of the G Co. 325th GIR soldier in 2018.
Excellent work that you all are doing. I think that this was my favorite episode so far. Keep up the good work!
Hey man, that means a lot to me! Thank YOU so much!
Greatest generation! People came together to fight against evil and sacrificed so much! Absolutely love these videos and learning more about that time in history. It’s really not that long ago. Never knew about d-day publishing, definitely going to get several of the publications.
Thanks for watching Christian!
My uncle jumped in on d-day at st Mere eglise he was in the 82nd and 101st. He fought across Europe. Jumped in Market Garden also. Thank you guys for showing me where he was. Keep up the good work. Never forget!!!
My Grandad served with the British Army Royal Engineers from 1939 till 1946, he died in 1991 before I had a chance to talk to him adult to adult about his experiences so I'm completely fascinated with everything related to WW2. He received an citation of bravery issued by Field Marshall Montgomery which we still have along with his medals.
Cant get enough of this part of history. Thanks for the good book and interview tip!
Informative video I wish I can visit those places one day. My uncle went in Iwo Jima in 2011 and Im so jealous but in 2018 I manage to visit and give Respect to the Brave souls.
Much love from The Philippines.
Great job guys! I read Donald Burgett book in 1979 called Currahee. I was starved for information on the paratrooper battles in Normandy but there just wasn’t that much back then no Internet no nothing.
I never thought I want to get to Normandy but I’ve been there several times and your videos make me extremely jealous of you guys and what you have been able to research - please keep it up
His other books are really awesome too!
Thanks for watching man!
Hello, very important work you are doing documenting all this history. My late grandfather RIP was part of the landings that day June 6, 1944. I followed the family tradition to serve and I did serve for 23 years 6 months. June 6 become a more honorable and unforgettable date for me because the same date decades later (2004) while in combat operations in Iraq I received my Army combat patch, officially known as the "shoulder sleeve insignia-former wartime service" for combat service with the 1st Infantry Division “The Big Red One - No Mission Too Difficult. No Sacrifice Too Great. Duty First!”. Thank you for what you do and glad to have come across your channel. 🤝
Very entertaining! I hope there will be more.
Love the narrative, photos and music. Haunting and respectful.
Fantastic stories and great pictures. Thanks!!
Glad you like them!
The power of revisiting these places is amazing. Thanks so much.
I went through the airborne school in the early 80's then sent to a mechanized infantry division. Never made another jump. In the 90's, I met one of these band of brothers. Later on he stopped by my work. He brought his old buddies to meet me. They were on their way to a 82nd reunion. These were the real guys later shown in the HBO band of brothers. I felt so small but extremely privileged to meet them. I just went through the school with five jumps. They were the real deal.
What an amazing person you are. So dedicated to getting everything perfect. Many hours of work to put all these wonderful videos together.
My father fought in WWII in Burma as a Merrill Marauders is one reason I'm interested. I enjoy seeing these before and after photos about the Europe conflict. Brave young men and women back then.
Fantastic video guys! So amazing 🤩 The reason why I have always followed the fighting men of the two world wars is because my father was a leading airman in the RCAF WW2 also my uncle was a major in the British army WW2. I’ve always felt this emotional draw to all these men who served and died for their country’s. Keep them coming boys! 🤩
Superb. These videos of yours would not look out of place on Discovery Channel or any paid TV network. For a few guys to put them together is fantastic. Maybe when Covid is put to bed I will make my own trip and explore these places. Merci encore.
Love seeing the comparisons of then and now great work 👍
Keeping the moto “May these stories live on forever”... thanks for your dedication and relive the amazing and brutal period of WWII.
My fav is the Pfc Guth solo photo with the german helmet.
Awaiting ansious for the next one ...
I love watching your videos because I love learning more about history.
My grandfather served in ww2. He is 97 and still alive..he is my hero. Went to france last november to see normandy and the american cemetary
Wow! This video is so great! I learned a lot, it is awesome how many things are out there you can discover. Since 2010 spend my summer holidays in Normandy and I am very interested in WW2 history, but still I learned many new things. Thank you for this video. I hope we all can see more videos like this! Good Luck!!!
Thank you for watching!!!
@@SNAFUDOCS I really like your Then and now in Sainte-Mère-Eglise with the Willys Jeep
My grandfather was a veteran of ww2, and I've been interested in ww2 history since I was a child. Now I study and read all I can pertaining to the subject and also collect relics.
I’ve always been fascinated with WWII because my grandfather fought in WWII... As a child I would sneak into his room, and on his dresser was a small box that had about 100 photographs of his experience, and I used to look at them.. I own them today, and I’ve always had a connection with that long gone error thru him...privately He had a difficult time putting the war behind him for a decade but his generation did not openly discuss it.
I served with 82nd Airborne at Fort Bragg, North Carolina and then with the 101st Airborne in Vietnam in 1966-67 and then back to the 82nd at Bragg until we were alerted and sent to Vietnam in 1968 during the Tet Offensive. So I am proud of my service with these two airborne divisions and proud and humbled by the men who served in WW2 before me. My father served as a gunner in a B-24 from September 1944 to May 1945 with 35 missions. He got out of the military in 1945 but went back in shortly after I was born in 1947 to escort war dead bodies from Europe to the United States. One of the bodies he escorted was PFC Robert Lorance of Laclede County, Missouri. Robert was the son of Clarence Lorance who had a 2nd marriage to my dad's Aunt Rosie. Robert served in the 501st PIR of the 101st and was killed October 12, 1944 in Holland. Dad escorted Robert home and he was buried at White Oak Pond Cemetery in January 1949. Even though I was not a blood relative of Robert Lorance he was the son of a man I called Uncle and a fellow paratrooper who gave his life for freedom.
Outstanding work guys. Thank you very much.
excellent, the picture with the bespectacled paratrooper is mistakenly the front cover of the french paperback edition of "Band of brothers". A mistake now corrected.
I had the privilege to serve in both the 1/506 IN and the 505 PIR in both Afghanistan and Iraq. These pictures and the stories you tell in this, and other videos make me grateful to have been a Paratrooper and heir of the Airborne legacy. Thank you for this video.
That was amazing ! WW2 was fault with the most amazing Men of all time. I can't get enough of these stories.
May the photos live on forever and we are so grateful for your channel for keeping this part of history going so future generations can learn and remember . Thank you
I am an 85 year old American who as a child during the war remember that every man in my family were in the armed forces and all over the world fighting, my father in the pacific theater. Two of my uncles suffered with PTSD the rest of their lives.
My uncle was commander of F company on D Day. He also was in Market Garden with the 82nd and back with the 101st at Bastogne. He also retired as a Colonel. Sammie N Homan. My hero growing up..
Thank you gentlemen , this was a fantastic historical piece
Glad you enjoyed it!!
Brigadier General Theodore Roosevelt Jr. was the XO (deputy commander) of the 4th I.D. and the highest ranking U.S. officer to land on the Normandy beach head on D-day. He died of a heart attack July 12th while still leading at the Normandy Front. He was awarded the Medal of Honor in 1944. His father's Spanish-American War Military Cross was upgraded to a Medal of Honor in 2001.
Oh damn! I realize the mistake now. Thanks for sharing buddy!
Fascinating looking at these photos, very soon there will be no survivors of WWII left alive, but these photographs
will be a testament to their bravery. My father was a mechanic in the RAF, and my mother was in the Women's RAF.
She still remembered seeing Glen Miller play at RAF Debden, when the USAAF were based there.