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Though I admit this unit's most storied actions do not take place until about a generation after WWII, not only could you include the 4th Special Forces Group of the Green Berets in a "Most Badass and Impactful American Units Part II", their most notorious actions took place in the very beginning of US military involvement in Vietnam. If you can find enough information on them (a FOIA request may be in order, but I'd imagine most of the best information remains classified and would be wholly redacted) their exploits are truly worthy of a video all their own. For those unfamiliar with them, they inspired Tom Clancy in his creation of the Ghost Recon units, as they operated very similarly: small teams, often of as few as four operators going behind enemy lines for extended periods with little to no outside support to bolster the fight of local resistance elements. They truly are the closest thing to real life "Ghosts"! I'm quite sure that a video explaining this would gather more than enough attention to warrant the necessary research deep dive!
@@tHEHEAd1138 I met Mark Radcliffe's niece a few years back and she told me about the book. I was glad I read it, as all I knew of the FSSF was the Hollywood version, which a friend who had met some of the veterans had said they hated that movie.
1 Unit that you should look up is the First Special Service Force made up of American and Canadian troops they are ancestors of the U.S. Special Forces (Green berets)
Could you do a video covering Canadian units? While I greatly respect americas contribution to the war I dont here often Canada contributions to the fight. Awesome video regardless
My dad fought on attu in the 48th field artillery but there is no history of the 48th artillery inthe battle they are the forgotten group to can you do a history of the 48th field artillery in world War 2?
@11:41. Terribly sorry old chap but the British invented the Commando which was the basis of all elite units to come like the SAS, SEALS, etc. Not only that but they had those Commandos in the field at the time you are talking about these chaps being the instigators of special forces branches.
My parents and I met a veteran from the 2nd Ranger Battalion long ago. I really miss him he was a great person. I have the utmost respect for our veterans. It's people like them that got me into military history.
Ironically, the 442nd was attached to the All-Negro 92nd Division that had the WORST combat record from WWII and was recommended by their general--Major General Arnold to be disbanded and NEVER re-commissioned.
@@kevinprzy4539 They were U.S Citizens and weren't just "diStRusTeD" they were sent to concentration camps. You should be "dIsTrUsTfUL" of the people who can suspend your constitutional rights, and at will send you and your family straight into camps(ie: other white people).
The Marine Raider Battalions did an amazing job in the Pacific. Many small units, company and platoon size fought incredibly but in the bigger picture they are often overlooked because of their size. Well done! Thank you for sharing!
@@redaug4212 let me put things in perspective as an ex-resident of the state of Georgia. I did not learn about Japanese internment camps until I went to college in 2010. I did not learn about the 442nd until AFTER college in 2014. Plus the majority of WORLD WAR 2 Allie media representation( Band of Brothers, the pacific, call of duty, etc) is predominantly white despite the majority of the planet consist of non white people. Would you prefer if the World War was referred to as White on White Crime the series ?
The 442nd is a unique bunch. Those in Hawaii volunteered to prove their loyalty as American citizens in the face of racism, while those from the mainland signed up to free themselves and their love ones from the camps. Those from Hawaii clashed with those from the mainland due to a difference in cultural upbringing. Those in Hawaii were the majority living under a white minority rule of the plantation, while those in the mainland are a scattered minority in predominantly white areas. The 442nd were the most distinguished with the body count to match due to their racist commanding officers sending them on suicide missions. One infamous example is 800 casualties of the 442nd to rescue 200 men of the Texas battalion.
There’s a reason that their generation was known as “The Greatest Generation”. Thanks for making videos like these so that the bravery and achievements of these heroes will never be forgotten
@@laktisandpipik9265 I got tired of picking out all the errors. A hundred years from now they'll probably think these actors were the real soldiers. (sigh)
442 IN legacy exists now as the 100th BN. Its the Army Reserve's infantry battalion. Still located in the Pacific and filled by American Pacific Islanders.
Glad you mentioned the 32nd and the Alamo Scouts, but where are Darby's Rangers (1st, 3rd, and 4th Ranger Battalions) and the 6th Rangers (Cabanatuan rescue)? The MARS Force (successor to the Marauders) and, yes, the Marine Raider Battalions and the UDTs? Sounds like you need a sequel. Maybe 2.
Speaking of the Merrill's Marauders, will you do a video about the British Fourteenth Army in Burma under William Slim? Who himself deserves his own video for his astounding performance in that unit. Nice video!
A number of fronts became forgotten during that war. The Italian campaign especially after D-Day in France, the Middle East, east of the Suez, & even the Sino-Japanese War after 1942. A lot to cover because was a world war.
@@newsieboys1171 You are absolutely right! Italy quickly became a forgotten front after the Normandy Landings; and the Second Sino-Japanese War was overshadowed by other campaigns after the Invasion of Poland.
Excellent subject but there were many errors made in this video. “The Longest Day” actor Robert Mitchum instead of the actual General Norman Cota was one. Flip flopping 5307th's three battalions to three divisions, and mispronouncing Myitkyina (mitchinar). Focus on your quality instead of rushing through your work.
What about the UDT units? those guys helped make both D-Day and a bunch of of the Pacific Theater landings possible. They also would eventually become the SEALS (though not until JFK’s administration)
Same. I got to 2/75 a couple months after Grenada went down (was still in basic when the invasion went down), so I missed that jump. I stayed long enough, almost 7yrs, that I made the jump into Rio Hato, Panama. I was the Wpns Sqd Ldr, 3rd Plt, B Co., the main effort at Rio Hato going up against the 6th n 7th Companies of the Panamanian Defense Forces.
would you guys be able to do videos just like this but for other countries i would love to learn about more famous units like Canadas Devil Brigade or even Task Force Bruiser
And may they return, if not give birth to new, equally prestigious hero units in the generations to come, for the world has gotten both duller and more dangerous lately.
Baddest of all, Merrill's Marauders. Out of 2700 men only 200 made it out unscathed. Highest casualties of any unit in American history. Inspiration for US Spec Ops. Entire time spent as deep penetration unit behind enemy lines fighting against the Japanese in Burma, worst jungles on the planet. Supplied completely from the air. Every battle they fought they were heavily outnumbered.
Historically American Special Forces have traced their roots back to "Rogers Rangers" in the Revolutionary War. Also, Mosby's Rangers (CSA) are considered a root force in the line of American Special Forces.
I loved this video. Enjoyed every second. Now I hope that this channel does video's on the best of the best from all the other combatants of WWII. Because they're stories are just as worth telling.
I had the great honor of practicing judo at our local VFW hall in Ontario. Oregon. I was a young boy and this was the 60s. All of the instructors were veterans of the 442. I had no idea Back then. I was a little confused because I thought we had just fought a war with the japanese. Anyway I can't thank them enough for what they did for me. To this day, 1 of the biggest judo tournaments on the west coast is held in Ontario. There was also an internment camp but that's a story for another day.
My uncle Sidney was one of the 130 Marauders you mentioned. He suffered from what we today call PTSD for the rest of his life and retired as a fishing trip guide. He was a good man.
The 1st Special Service Force in Italy, N Africa, and S France. The Devils Brigade. Also the Moroccan Goumiers. 1st SSF was a true commando unit. Fantastic combat record. Bill Mauldin of willy and Joe fame said they were one of the best US Army units in history.
My cousin, John Aid, was a member of Merrill's Marauders in the CBI. After Pearl Harbor he lied about his age, joined the US Army and attended & graduated from one of the early Ranger schools. He was a radio operator & mule skinner with the Marauders. He was injured by a bayonet wielding Jaoanese soldier. Later John served in both the Korean War & Vietnam. He died a few years ago.
The 442nd Infantry regiment really warmed my heart. Those brave men sacrificed lives for their country, and they weren't Japanese, but Americans. It just goes to show that just because someone is of descent from a certain nation, their loyalty doesn't lie with that nation. That's something the USA had incredible trouble to deal with. The German-Americans in WWI, and Japanese-Americans in WWII, the Eastern European-Americans and Russian-Americans during the Cold War, and Muslims and Arab-Americans nowadays. I had friends who were of Serbian extraction, were born in Switzerland, and moved here when they were young (I think their parents fleed the country after the wars started). They weren't in support of Serbia and weren't Serbian patriots. They were Americans and my friends. After all, America is what it is today because of immigrants, not the descendants of English colonists. America has struggled to understand that, and racial hatred is practically the only reason that America isn't a great and respectable nation.
"not the descendants of English colonists"? The USA literally only exists because of the descendants of British colonists. Who do you think the Founding Fathers were?
Not saying they achieved something like the 2nd and 5th rangers, but the 351st regiment is extremely notable. They pushed all the way up Italy from Naples and were the first all-draftee regiment to see combat, and the last unit in Italy to see combat. 1942 is when they were ordered into combat.
Great list man! But I have to say I am very disappointed that you didn’t include Carlson’s or Edson’s raiders on this list. The Battle of Edson’s Ridge and Carlson’s patrol on Guadalcanal definitely qualify both of these units to be on this list.
Rudder's Rangers, the 2nd Battalion, didn't all land Pointe du Hoc. Rudder landed with about 150 men, and the XO had the second wave on the way but diverted to help out at Omaha because Rudder had things going well and the 29th Infantry needed all the help they could get. Which makes it all the more impressive that Rudder held out for 3 days.
@@benpurcell4935 right, but they didn't. Only about 150 men (about 1 company) went to Point du Hoc, the rest of the battalion, meant to be the second wave, diverted to Omaha Beach.
@@patrickh9937it was 3 companies that landed at the cliff side Force A under Rudder was made up of companies D, E, and F. Force B made up of company C of the 2nd rangers landed at Omaha. Force C was made up of A, B companies of the 2nd ranger battalion and the 5th ranger battalion that were supposed to be in the 2nd wave to support Rudder but ended up diverting to their second plan of landing with force B at Omaha. Also ranger companies back then were not made up of 150 men each company was 68 men in total so Rudder’s Force A was 210 men strong spread out between companies D, E, and F of the 2nd ranger battalion. But yes you are correct that the XO did go to Omaha with the second wave of rangers in force C.
@@patrickh9937 no worries happy to help. I love military history and I always try to be polite when pointing out things. A great book on the subject is Dog Company by Patrick K O’Donnell. Also I’ve always wanted to visit there sounds like an amazing place to visit as see the cliffs they fought up.
Using a picture of actor Robert Mitchum to represent a general on the beaches of Normandy, without giving the citation was pretty cheesy and amateurish. I'm disappointed.
The Alamo Scouts were not named for the Alamo battle. They were a unit formed for Krueger's Sixth Army, code-named Alamo due to the 6th Army's pre-war stationing in San Antonio, Texas. MacArthur, Krueger's CO did not trust the War Office or the OSS and wanted his own intelligence unit - Thus Krueger formed the unit which was referred to as the Alamo Scouts.
The Alamo Scouts rescue of the Cabanatuan POW camp that resulted in no casualties might have been due to the Filipino guerillas tasked to engage the nearby Japanese barracks/garrison while the scouts engage the prison guards, and rescued the prisoners. Also provided by the guerillas was the carabao drawn carts that carried the weak and injured POWs to friendly lines. The guerillas lost a few and the prisoners lost one if I recall correctly.
I was born, raised, and still lived in Hawaii. Most of my elders were members of the 442nd regimental combat team. They began their time is the 100th infantry battalion, its members taken from the Japanese American members of the Hawaii Army national guard. Volunteers and trustees, eventually swelled the numbers of the battalion into a regiment. In time, 18,000 men served in the 4/42. 14,000 of them came from Hawaii. The other 4000 volunteers from West Coast concentration camps on the mainland. The 100th is still based in Hawaii, the only infantry unit in the army reserve. Companies C and D are based in American Samoa. Of interest, the 5307 provisional unit eventually became the 75th Ranger Regiment. (You can see the 12 pointed Nationalist Chinese star in their unit crest). About half the 14-member Japanese language interpreter unit were from Hawaii. You never know how close you are to living history, until you spend time with the veterans.
Man... I love this channel! Easily my favorite on UA-cam! Well researched. Well presented. I learn something new with every video! Please don't stop! Thanks! 🤓
My old landlord's Dad was one of those Silver Stars, in Hawaii., a native of Kahuku. I saw his commendation papers for his Star. He had joined up in November 1941. My own Grandfather joined in the Summer of '41, fighting his War from the top of phone poles. He was not on the Front, but saw some action anyway. He saw his Dad's village in Sicily. He took the long way around, through Africa into Europe.
7:14.... ????? LOWER 48 Cousins???? Lower 48???? The term is used with reference to ALASKA and the rest of the Contental USA.... but from HAWAII the term is MAINLAND USA.... Doesn't ANYONE edit these videos????
You mentioned the 32nd ID in Leyte. The Alamo Scouts were in Leyte beginning in October 1944. They conducted 13 missions (recorded) in support of the Allied landings on Leyte, Philippine Islands (but there were probably more). They actually had a ASTC (Alamo Scout Training Center) at the mouth of Cadacan River Abuyog, Leyte 26 Dec 1944.
Time hack 16:46. That IS NOT Merrill, the photo is of General Joseph STILWELL. Could not watch the whole video because of the numerous screwups. Do better.
If anyone could provide any help on finding something about a WW2 soldier please let me know. My great uncle (who adopted and raised my father) served in WW2 in the 66 division. He was in France on June 9 1944, and was trained before that in Arkansas but that’s all we know as far as specific information. He earned a Purple Heart as well. I have photos of him and his battle buddies but there’s no more information on any of them, and my dad has always wondered
Ok I'm trying to pieced somethings together. Did US ARMY engineers serves RAF airfields in England regularly..or even at all? If not. here is my puzzle. I'm trying to figure out the following. How a US ARMY engineers and a US Army Air corp mechanic. became good friends in 43 to 45. Its possible they knew each other prior to the war. No one is alive I can ask. Ok add to this. I was never told by my step grandfather that they were in Europe. I just always though that the Army wasn't in the Pacific except for Hawaii. Now I see that the in fact were. So it possible all four of my grandfathers were in the Pacific. I know for sure one was. He was Navy and a POW to Japanese. How long I don't know. But I know that he never did like Japanese. Dont get me wrong. He kept it civil. But he didn't like them. That was very clear. He never talked about the war. I didn't even know he was a POW until his funeral. Two where Army Air corp. But the one that retired from the air force. I really think he was in Europe due to something my grandmother said. But the two friends. I just thought they were in Europe, but now see they could have been in the Pacific. Oh now I wish I would have asked my step grandfather. The one that retired from the Air Force. really don't matter much. Since he was a step grandfather. And even though I meet him. I don't remember it. he died in the early 70s. Really the important thing is he made my grandmother happy. So, the mystery is the two friends. my grandfather and step grandfather. In truth I wish I knew a lot more about my grandfather. But was told very little. I know he was an Army Engineer. I know he was full blooded Native American. I know his grandparents disowned him for joining the Army. They were still very upset about being slaves 30 years prior. I know he and my ancestors are from California. I know he and my step grandfather were good friends. I know he died in WWII. I know his father did in early 1970s 71 to 73. And all but his father dieing in the 70s. came to me by my step grandfather. I remember going to my great grandfather funeral. Think it was the first I remember. But was very young. The Pacific makes more sense. No RAF airfields. But still the window is 43 to 45.
Two units that had joined the fight but would not be considered as a "single organized unit" in battle are the US 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments organized in California. After their training, they were actually deployed as individual detachments to various other American infantry units serving in New Guinea and the Philippines as well as to various Filipino guerrilla groups. They acted as scouts, advisers, translators, signalmen, and intelligence analysts. They were influential in a hidden sort of way to the war campaigns in those areas but would never really fight as one coherent or consolidated unit on just one battlefront. Consider them to be like the Australian Coastwatchers, Alamo Scouts, Marine Raiders, and the Navajo Windtalkers combined.
Alamo Scouts. They were the ones who were scouting the Cabanatuan Raid. They didn't suffer any casualties. The casualties Americans get were the battalion surgeon, and a friendly fire, both weren't Alamo Scouts.
Good sir, Hawaii's statehood became effective on August 21, 1959, well after Pearl Harbor. I can't watch any more after that incorrect fact. One that should be easy to avoid, imo.
The Norman dutch showed around 18:34 looks like an actor from the 50's...the name eludes me. I'll return if i recall name. That shots from a movie...I KNOW I'm not going crazy.
The First Special Service Force (The Devil's Brigade) should be done this year in Honour of one of the toughest fighting force. The Canadian Highlanders of them, were chosen from right where I live. Nasty -40 nearly 800 cm of annual snowfall, and that's the best season, in spring, summer & fall the nasty blackflies & mosquitos can carry you off. Rugged. US Col. was right.
Slight error in your information regarding Pointe du Hoc. The 155mm repurposed French artillery had been removed and placed behind the cliff area. The guns were inactive and pretty well hidden. The Rangers did put several major machine gun emplacements and multiple German troops out of commission. They suffered extreme losses due to several factors.. Initially they were landed in the wrong spot and their reinforcements did not come. After defeating the. Germans located at Pointe du Hoc, they went on to find the French guns and disable them. Extremely brave men!
Hey, the photo you have of Dutch Cota is actually the actor Robert Mitchum, who played Cota in the movie "The Longest Day." You also use Mitchum's photo on your title card. Just thought someone should let you know.
If you are going to do videos about the US in WWII you need to do better research. The attack by the Japanese on Dutch Harbor was a diversion for the Midway operation. And you should have covered the 1st Special Service Force.
The 2nd Rangers were even more badass then you covered that day and the few days after. Their mission was to destroy 6 155mm guns that would've wreaked hell onto the US landing beaches and the Rangers made the climb only to find the Germans has stuck painted telephone poles in place. Undaunted, the Rangers figured the guns would be in the area and sent out a few small patrols in the midst of the fighting and they found and destroyed the guns. The hardest part came over the course of 2 days when the Germans relentlessly counterattacked and pushed the Rangers back, the situation so desperate that the Rangers ran their guns dry and started using enemy weapons before relief arrived. Unfortunately, the Rangers' desperate weapon use had tragic consequences when Allied tanks fired on them due to the sounds of the German weapons, costing a few lives before the mistake was realized.
Just throw a rock in any direction when it comes to WWII history and you’ll find a number of units that made history in some last stand or major offensive. There’s a reason they’re known as the greatest generation
WOW!!! What an amazing look at some of true examples of America's fighting spirit! Thank you so much for bringing to light these units that absolutely deserve recognition. A very well put together historical look at these units and the hells they endured to accomplish their mission.
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do Canada next plz
@The Front… great subject but you made many errors.
Though I admit this unit's most storied actions do not take place until about a generation after WWII, not only could you include the 4th Special Forces Group of the Green Berets in a "Most Badass and Impactful American Units Part II", their most notorious actions took place in the very beginning of US military involvement in Vietnam. If you can find enough information on them (a FOIA request may be in order, but I'd imagine most of the best information remains classified and would be wholly redacted) their exploits are truly worthy of a video all their own. For those unfamiliar with them, they inspired Tom Clancy in his creation of the Ghost Recon units, as they operated very similarly: small teams, often of as few as four operators going behind enemy lines for extended periods with little to no outside support to bolster the fight of local resistance elements. They truly are the closest thing to real life "Ghosts"! I'm quite sure that a video explaining this would gather more than enough attention to warrant the necessary research deep dive!
I'm under the impression that the Japanese navy got the idea from raids on Italian coast.
@@HollywoodMarine0351 true, but still love the effort
The First Special Service Force (The Devil's Brigade) should have been covered. The Marine Raiders were also left out.
Raiders had a very high success rate
Ya, I checked the info and was disappointed that FSSF was left off. I read A Perfect Hell a few years ago.
Have not read much on the Marine Raiders.
@@mikehilbert9349 Brilliant book! Go Canada! 🍁
@@tHEHEAd1138 I met Mark Radcliffe's niece a few years back and she told me about the book. I was glad I read it, as all I knew of the FSSF was the Hollywood version, which a friend who had met some of the veterans had said they hated that movie.
I agree
really liked this one - would love to see similiarly themed videos about other countries.
11:47 Keith Richards is much, much older than we realized.
Thanks for adding the Alamo scouts…….RESPECT!
1 Unit that you should look up is the First Special Service Force made up of American and Canadian troops they are ancestors of the U.S. Special Forces (Green berets)
Could you do a video covering Canadian units? While I greatly respect americas contribution to the war I dont here often Canada contributions to the fight. Awesome video regardless
General Norman "Dutch" Cota? That is an image of Robert Mitchum at 18:35.
My dad fought on attu in the 48th field artillery but there is no history of the 48th artillery inthe battle they are the forgotten group to can you do a history of the 48th field artillery in world War 2?
Thanks for the information !!
@11:41. Terribly sorry old chap but the British invented the Commando which was the basis of all elite units to come like the SAS, SEALS, etc. Not only that but they had those Commandos in the field at the time you are talking about these chaps being the instigators of special forces branches.
My grandfather was one of the injured at Dutch Harbor.
Let's see some civil war units
Can we please get a video
special units on the axis side.
So the brave Marines who defended Wake didn't get mentioned?
It's hard to call them the most impactful when they only fought one battle. No disrespect of course.
Lest we forget.
What about the scientists and staff of the Manhattan Project? Sorry but ultimately that’s what settled it all!
as the picture of norman ( dutch ) cota , you have a picture of actor robert mitchim . not realy up on accuracy are you.
My parents and I met a veteran from the 2nd Ranger Battalion long ago. I really miss him he was a great person. I have the utmost respect for our veterans. It's people like them that got me into military history.
The 442nd were bruised and bloodied yet they kept pushing forward, all for a home nation that viewed them as potential enemies. Insanely brave men.
Ironically, the 442nd was attached to the All-Negro 92nd Division that had the WORST combat record from WWII and was recommended by their general--Major General Arnold to be disbanded and NEVER re-commissioned.
Go for broke .... sums up the units attitude for battle
@@charlesfiscus4235 VAN JOHNSON.
the people had a right to distrust them, their bravery and courage is what earned the home nations trust forever.
@@kevinprzy4539 They were U.S Citizens and weren't just "diStRusTeD" they were sent to concentration camps. You should be "dIsTrUsTfUL" of the people who can suspend your constitutional rights, and at will send you and your family straight into camps(ie: other white people).
The Marine Raider Battalions did an amazing job in the Pacific. Many small units, company and platoon size fought incredibly but in the bigger picture they are often overlooked because of their size.
Well done! Thank you for sharing!
The 442nd definitely earned their place on this list
The 442nd is badass, but definitely oversaturated. I think the Front has made three or four videos featuring them by now.
@@redaug4212 And yet zero mainstream Hollywood movies about them. 🤔Average person doesn't know about the 442nd and should.
@@user-pn3im5sm7k The 442nd is more widely known than the vast majority of other infantry outfits that served in the US Army. You can't deny that.
@@redaug4212 let me put things in perspective as an ex-resident of the state of Georgia.
I did not learn about Japanese internment camps until I went to college in 2010.
I did not learn about the 442nd until AFTER college in 2014.
Plus the majority of WORLD WAR 2 Allie media representation( Band of Brothers, the pacific, call of duty, etc) is predominantly white despite the majority of the planet consist of non white people. Would you prefer if the World War was referred to as White on White Crime the series ?
The 442nd is a unique bunch. Those in Hawaii volunteered to prove their loyalty as American citizens in the face of racism, while those from the mainland signed up to free themselves and their love ones from the camps.
Those from Hawaii clashed with those from the mainland due to a difference in cultural upbringing. Those in Hawaii were the majority living under a white minority rule of the plantation, while those in the mainland are a scattered minority in predominantly white areas.
The 442nd were the most distinguished with the body count to match due to their racist commanding officers sending them on suicide missions. One infamous example is 800 casualties of the 442nd to rescue 200 men of the Texas battalion.
There’s a reason that their generation was known as “The Greatest Generation”. Thanks for making videos like these so that the bravery and achievements of these heroes will never be forgotten
That was not General Cota at 18:40. That was actor Robert Mitchum playing Cota in the movie The Longest Day.
Might as well show Tom Hanks too, huh?
@@laktisandpipik9265 I got tired of picking out all the errors. A hundred years from now they'll probably think these actors were the real soldiers. (sigh)
I was gonna say the same thing. They could have at least found an actual picture of the REAL General.
Next they good show John Wayne as Lt. Col. Benjamin H. Vandervoort?🤣
442 IN legacy exists now as the 100th BN. Its the Army Reserve's infantry battalion. Still located in the Pacific and filled by American Pacific Islanders.
Glad you mentioned the 32nd and the Alamo Scouts, but where are Darby's Rangers (1st, 3rd, and 4th Ranger Battalions) and the 6th Rangers (Cabanatuan rescue)? The MARS Force (successor to the Marauders) and, yes, the Marine Raider Battalions and the UDTs? Sounds like you need a sequel.
Maybe 2.
The First Special Service Force would be another unit to look at
A joint US and Canadian outfit.
I was surprised the weren't even mentioned here.
32nd infantry division was and currently is a Wisconsin national guard unit that traces it roots back to the civil war.
Speaking of the Merrill's Marauders, will you do a video about the British Fourteenth Army in Burma under William Slim? Who himself deserves his own video for his astounding performance in that unit.
Nice video!
A number of fronts became forgotten during that war. The Italian campaign especially after D-Day in France, the Middle East, east of the Suez, & even the Sino-Japanese War after 1942. A lot to cover because was a world war.
@@newsieboys1171 You are absolutely right! Italy quickly became a forgotten front after the Normandy Landings; and the Second Sino-Japanese War was overshadowed by other campaigns after the Invasion of Poland.
The 6th Ranger Battalion who liberated Los Banos camp might also have been included.
Excellent subject but there were many errors made in this video. “The Longest Day” actor Robert Mitchum instead of the actual General Norman Cota was one. Flip flopping 5307th's three battalions to three divisions, and mispronouncing Myitkyina (mitchinar). Focus on your quality instead of rushing through your work.
The Devils brigade would be another unit.
What about the UDT units? those guys helped make both D-Day and a bunch of of the Pacific Theater landings possible. They also would eventually become the SEALS (though not until JFK’s administration)
"By Water Beneath the Walls" by Ben Milligan has a great section about them.
I notice that most of these units have already been covered in previous videos, but good choices nonetheless.
Also medal figures for the 442nd are incorrect, but that's a long discussion.
@@redaug4212 Yup! There were many errors made in this video.
506th?
Go for broke! 🇺🇸
They are Pure Unadulterated Badass.
I volunteered for the 75th Ranger Regiment and got assigned to 2nd Ranger Battalion. The standards back then are still applied today.
Same. I got to 2/75 a couple months after Grenada went down (was still in basic when the invasion went down), so I missed that jump. I stayed long enough, almost 7yrs, that I made the jump into Rio Hato, Panama. I was the Wpns Sqd Ldr, 3rd Plt, B Co., the main effort at Rio Hato going up against the 6th n 7th Companies of the Panamanian Defense Forces.
would you guys be able to do videos just like this but for other countries i would love to learn about more famous units like Canadas Devil Brigade or even Task Force Bruiser
And may they return, if not give birth to new, equally prestigious hero units in the generations to come, for the world has gotten both duller and more dangerous lately.
Baddest of all, Merrill's Marauders.
Out of 2700 men only 200 made it out unscathed. Highest casualties of any unit in American history.
Inspiration for US Spec Ops.
Entire time spent as deep penetration unit behind enemy lines fighting against the Japanese in Burma, worst jungles on the planet. Supplied completely from the air. Every battle they fought they were heavily outnumbered.
Historically American Special Forces have traced their roots back to "Rogers Rangers" in the Revolutionary War. Also, Mosby's Rangers (CSA) are considered a root force in the line of American Special Forces.
I loved this video. Enjoyed every second. Now I hope that this channel does video's on the best of the best from all the other combatants of WWII. Because they're stories are just as worth telling.
I'm not American but mad respect to these soldiers. V for Vagene I mean Victory!
Robert “Dutch” Mitchum? 😂
I had the great honor of practicing judo at our local VFW hall in Ontario. Oregon. I was a young boy and this was the 60s. All of the instructors were veterans of the 442. I had no idea Back then. I was a little confused because I thought we had just fought a war with the japanese. Anyway I can't thank them enough for what they did for me. To this day, 1 of the biggest judo tournaments on the west coast is held in Ontario. There was also an internment camp but that's a story for another day.
My uncle Sidney was one of the 130 Marauders you mentioned. He suffered from what we today call PTSD for the rest of his life and retired as a fishing trip guide. He was a good man.
Too bad you didn't include a picture of Norman Cota. Your picture was of Robert Mitchum, he played Cota in the movie "The Longest Day."
The 1st Special Service Force in Italy, N Africa, and S France. The Devils Brigade. Also the Moroccan Goumiers. 1st SSF was a true commando unit. Fantastic combat record. Bill Mauldin of willy and Joe fame said they were one of the best US Army units in history.
My cousin, John Aid, was a member of Merrill's Marauders in the CBI.
After Pearl Harbor he lied about his age, joined the US Army and attended & graduated from one of the early Ranger schools. He was a radio operator & mule skinner with the Marauders.
He was injured by a bayonet wielding Jaoanese soldier.
Later John served in both the Korean War & Vietnam. He died a few years ago.
I really appreciate the Americans because they saved the world when all seemed lost during the Second World War.
The Russians and Soviet Union might beg to differ here, although they did get huge amount of supplies from the Western Democracies
The 442nd Infantry regiment really warmed my heart. Those brave men sacrificed lives for their country, and they weren't Japanese, but Americans.
It just goes to show that just because someone is of descent from a certain nation, their loyalty doesn't lie with that nation. That's something the USA had incredible trouble to deal with. The German-Americans in WWI, and Japanese-Americans in WWII, the Eastern European-Americans and Russian-Americans during the Cold War, and Muslims and Arab-Americans nowadays.
I had friends who were of Serbian extraction, were born in Switzerland, and moved here when they were young (I think their parents fleed the country after the wars started). They weren't in support of Serbia and weren't Serbian patriots. They were Americans and my friends.
After all, America is what it is today because of immigrants, not the descendants of English colonists. America has struggled to understand that, and racial hatred is practically the only reason that America isn't a great and respectable nation.
"not the descendants of English colonists"? The USA literally only exists because of the descendants of British colonists. Who do you think the Founding Fathers were?
The photo at 16:40 is of General "Vinegar Joe" Stilwell.
What about the FIrst Special Service Force? Or do the Canadians in the unit not count?
Not saying they achieved something like the 2nd and 5th rangers, but the 351st regiment is extremely notable. They pushed all the way up Italy from Naples and were the first all-draftee regiment to see combat, and the last unit in Italy to see combat. 1942 is when they were ordered into combat.
Great list man! But I have to say I am very disappointed that you didn’t include Carlson’s or Edson’s raiders on this list. The Battle of Edson’s Ridge and Carlson’s patrol on Guadalcanal definitely qualify both of these units to be on this list.
Easter Egg 18:43 showing a photo of the actor Robert Mitchum from a WWII movie. Funny
Rudder's Rangers, the 2nd Battalion, didn't all land Pointe du Hoc. Rudder landed with about 150 men, and the XO had the second wave on the way but diverted to help out at Omaha because Rudder had things going well and the 29th Infantry needed all the help they could get. Which makes it all the more impressive that Rudder held out for 3 days.
He points out that three companies of the 2nd Batttalion went to Point du Hoc.
@@benpurcell4935 right, but they didn't. Only about 150 men (about 1 company) went to Point du Hoc, the rest of the battalion, meant to be the second wave, diverted to Omaha Beach.
@@patrickh9937it was 3 companies that landed at the cliff side Force A under Rudder was made up of companies D, E, and F. Force B made up of company C of the 2nd rangers landed at Omaha. Force C was made up of A, B companies of the 2nd ranger battalion and the 5th ranger battalion that were supposed to be in the 2nd wave to support Rudder but ended up diverting to their second plan of landing with force B at Omaha. Also ranger companies back then were not made up of 150 men each company was 68 men in total so Rudder’s Force A was 210 men strong spread out between companies D, E, and F of the 2nd ranger battalion. But yes you are correct that the XO did go to Omaha with the second wave of rangers in force C.
@@anc757 thank you. That's definitely more detail than I got when I was at Pointe du Hoc.
@@patrickh9937 no worries happy to help. I love military history and I always try to be polite when pointing out things. A great book on the subject is Dog Company by Patrick K O’Donnell. Also I’ve always wanted to visit there sounds like an amazing place to visit as see the cliffs they fought up.
Using a picture of actor Robert Mitchum to represent a general on the beaches of Normandy, without giving the citation was pretty cheesy and amateurish. I'm disappointed.
The Alamo Scouts were not named for the Alamo battle. They were a unit formed for Krueger's Sixth Army, code-named Alamo due to the 6th Army's pre-war stationing in San Antonio, Texas. MacArthur, Krueger's CO did not trust the War Office or the OSS and wanted his own intelligence unit - Thus Krueger formed the unit which was referred to as the Alamo Scouts.
The Alamo Scouts rescue of the Cabanatuan POW camp that resulted in no casualties might have been due to the Filipino guerillas tasked to engage the nearby Japanese barracks/garrison while the scouts engage the prison guards, and rescued the prisoners. Also provided by the guerillas was the carabao drawn carts that carried the weak and injured POWs to friendly lines. The guerillas lost a few and the prisoners lost one if I recall correctly.
"come out fighting"-761st Tank Battalion motto
16:38 is general Stillwell not frank its alright they look alike
The marine raiders
"go for broke "-442nd infantry remiment
The Engineer Special Brigades were an awesome amphibious force from the Army. They cleared beachheads before any other force arrived.
I was born, raised, and still lived in Hawaii. Most of my elders were members of the 442nd regimental combat team. They began their time is the 100th infantry battalion, its members taken from the Japanese American members of the Hawaii Army national guard. Volunteers and trustees, eventually swelled the numbers of the battalion into a regiment. In time, 18,000 men served in the 4/42. 14,000 of them came from Hawaii. The other 4000 volunteers from West Coast concentration camps on the mainland. The 100th is still based in Hawaii, the only infantry unit in the army reserve. Companies C and D are based in American Samoa.
Of interest, the 5307 provisional unit eventually became the 75th Ranger Regiment. (You can see the 12 pointed Nationalist Chinese star in their unit crest). About half the 14-member Japanese language interpreter unit were from Hawaii.
You never know how close you are to living history, until you spend time with the veterans.
18:35 General Norman "Dutch" Cota - That's actually actor Robert Mitchum.
Man... I love this channel! Easily my favorite on UA-cam! Well researched. Well presented. I learn something new with every video! Please don't stop! Thanks! 🤓
My old landlord's Dad was one of those Silver Stars, in Hawaii., a native of Kahuku. I saw his commendation papers for his Star. He had joined up in November 1941. My own Grandfather joined in the Summer of '41, fighting his War from the top of phone poles. He was not on the Front, but saw some action anyway. He saw his Dad's village in Sicily. He took the long way around, through Africa into Europe.
Like the use of the photo of Robert Mitchum playing General Cota in The Longest Day.
7:14.... ????? LOWER 48 Cousins???? Lower 48???? The term is used with reference to ALASKA and the rest of the Contental USA.... but from HAWAII the term is MAINLAND USA.... Doesn't ANYONE edit these videos????
I thought the 77th Infantry Division was one of the best ones.
The 77th wasn't mainstream enough when this video came out.
You mentioned the 32nd ID in Leyte. The Alamo Scouts were in Leyte beginning in October 1944.
They conducted 13 missions (recorded) in support of the Allied landings on Leyte, Philippine Islands (but there were probably more). They actually had a ASTC (Alamo Scout Training Center) at the mouth of Cadacan River
Abuyog, Leyte 26 Dec 1944.
How hasHollywood missed the Japanese American contribution to the ETO? It would write itself.
Go for Broke! (1951)
Actually Hollywood made that movie.
442 were volunteers not draftees.
Time hack 16:46. That IS NOT Merrill, the photo is of General Joseph STILWELL.
Could not watch the whole video because of the numerous screwups.
Do better.
If anyone could provide any help on finding something about a WW2 soldier please let me know. My great uncle (who adopted and raised my father) served in WW2 in the 66 division. He was in France on June 9 1944, and was trained before that in Arkansas but that’s all we know as far as specific information. He earned a Purple Heart as well. I have photos of him and his battle buddies but there’s no more information on any of them, and my dad has always wondered
Some jobs are just tougher than the standard requiring special forces.
🥇
Your photo at 18:40 of Cota is actually of Robert Mitchum, an actor from the movie “The Longest Day.”
Yup that's a fact. I saw that too.
You forgot the NOTORIOUS "Easy Company, 506 Parachute Infantry Regiment"!!!!
Ok I'm trying to pieced somethings together.
Did US ARMY engineers serves RAF airfields in England regularly..or even at all?
If not. here is my puzzle.
I'm trying to figure out the following.
How a US ARMY engineers and a US Army Air corp mechanic. became good friends in 43 to 45.
Its possible they knew each other prior to the war.
No one is alive I can ask.
Ok add to this.
I was never told by my step grandfather that they were in Europe. I just always though that the Army wasn't in the Pacific except for Hawaii.
Now I see that the in fact were.
So it possible all four of my grandfathers were in the Pacific.
I know for sure one was. He was Navy and a POW to Japanese. How long I don't know. But I know that he never did like Japanese. Dont get me wrong. He kept it civil. But he didn't like them. That was very clear. He never talked about the war. I didn't even know he was a POW until his funeral.
Two where Army Air corp. But the one that retired from the air force. I really think he was in Europe due to something my grandmother said.
But the two friends. I just thought they were in Europe, but now see they could have been in the Pacific.
Oh now I wish I would have asked my step grandfather.
The one that retired from the Air Force. really don't matter much. Since he was a step grandfather. And even though I meet him. I don't remember it. he died in the early 70s. Really the important thing is he made my grandmother happy.
So, the mystery is the two friends. my grandfather and step grandfather.
In truth I wish I knew a lot more about my grandfather. But was told very little.
I know he was an Army Engineer.
I know he was full blooded Native American.
I know his grandparents disowned him for joining the Army. They were still very upset about being slaves 30 years prior.
I know he and my ancestors are from California.
I know he and my step grandfather were good friends.
I know he died in WWII.
I know his father did in early 1970s 71 to 73.
And all but his father dieing in the 70s. came to me by my step grandfather. I remember going to my great grandfather funeral. Think it was the first I remember. But was very young.
The Pacific makes more sense. No RAF airfields.
But still the window is 43 to 45.
Guam
Wake Island
The Commonwealth of the Philippines
All were American soil in December 1941. All were invaded.
Two units that had joined the fight but would not be considered as a "single organized unit" in battle are the US 1st and 2nd Filipino Infantry Regiments organized in California. After their training, they were actually deployed as individual detachments to various other American infantry units serving in New Guinea and the Philippines as well as to various Filipino guerrilla groups. They acted as scouts, advisers, translators, signalmen, and intelligence analysts. They were influential in a hidden sort of way to the war campaigns in those areas but would never really fight as one coherent or consolidated unit on just one battlefront. Consider them to be like the Australian Coastwatchers, Alamo Scouts, Marine Raiders, and the Navajo Windtalkers combined.
Carlton’s Marine Raiders were some of those most “bad ass” units!
Remember this:
Uncle
Sam’s
Misguided
Children
or USMC, OOHRAH
Alamo Scouts. They were the ones who were scouting the Cabanatuan Raid. They didn't suffer any casualties. The casualties Americans get were the battalion surgeon, and a friendly fire, both weren't Alamo Scouts.
I think your picture of Norman "Dutch" Cota isn't actually him. The picture is that of Robert Mitchum who played Cota in "The Longest Day".
Good sir, Hawaii's statehood became effective on August 21, 1959, well after Pearl Harbor. I can't watch any more after that incorrect fact. One that should be easy to avoid, imo.
Uhm...no OSS? Also Merrill's Marauders counts as part of the regimental history of the 75th Ranger Regiment now.
The Norman dutch showed around 18:34 looks like an actor from the 50's...the name eludes me. I'll return if i recall name. That shots from a movie...I KNOW I'm not going crazy.
The First Special Service Force (The Devil's Brigade) should be done this year in Honour of one of the toughest fighting force. The Canadian Highlanders of them, were chosen from right where I live. Nasty -40 nearly 800 cm of annual snowfall, and that's the best season, in spring, summer & fall the nasty blackflies & mosquitos can carry you off. Rugged. US Col. was right.
Slight error in your information regarding Pointe du Hoc. The 155mm repurposed French artillery had been removed and placed behind the cliff area. The guns were inactive and pretty well hidden. The Rangers did put several major machine gun emplacements and multiple German troops out of commission. They suffered extreme losses due to several factors.. Initially they were landed in the wrong spot and their reinforcements did not come. After defeating the. Germans located at Pointe du Hoc, they went on to find the French guns and disable them. Extremely brave men!
Hey, the photo you have of Dutch Cota is actually the actor Robert Mitchum, who played Cota in the movie "The Longest Day." You also use Mitchum's photo on your title card. Just thought someone should let you know.
If you are going to do videos about the US in WWII you need to do better research. The attack by the Japanese on Dutch Harbor was a diversion for the Midway operation. And you should have covered the 1st Special Service Force.
The 2nd Rangers were even more badass then you covered that day and the few days after. Their mission was to destroy 6 155mm guns that would've wreaked hell onto the US landing beaches and the Rangers made the climb only to find the Germans has stuck painted telephone poles in place. Undaunted, the Rangers figured the guns would be in the area and sent out a few small patrols in the midst of the fighting and they found and destroyed the guns. The hardest part came over the course of 2 days when the Germans relentlessly counterattacked and pushed the Rangers back, the situation so desperate that the Rangers ran their guns dry and started using enemy weapons before relief arrived. Unfortunately, the Rangers' desperate weapon use had tragic consequences when Allied tanks fired on them due to the sounds of the German weapons, costing a few lives before the mistake was realized.
Just throw a rock in any direction when it comes to WWII history and you’ll find a number of units that made history in some last stand or major offensive. There’s a reason they’re known as the greatest generation
You missed the 1st Special Service Force (AKA Devil's Brigade)
The Alamos lost 2 guys in the Raid in Cabanatuan where they rescued 500+ American POWs
WOW!!! What an amazing look at some of true examples of America's fighting spirit!
Thank you so much for bringing to light these units that absolutely deserve recognition. A very well put together historical look at these units and the hells they endured to accomplish their mission.
That wasn't Gen. Norman Cota, but the actor, Robert Mitchum. I guess you couldn't google a pic, huh?