Don Graves - World War II Marine Survives Iwo Jima with Flamethrower, Grenades, and Pistol | SRS #69

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  • Опубліковано 10 січ 2025

КОМЕНТАРІ • 9 тис.

  • @ShawnRyanShow
    @ShawnRyanShow  Рік тому +986

    This episode was released early on Patreon AD free, with the exception of Shawn’s personal reads. www.patreon.com/VigilanceElite The toll is $5 a month.
    Supporting us on Patreon and Ad Rev is what enables us to produce the quality content that we have come to love. We strive for perfection with each and every one of these stories. Please enjoy the show!

    • @Aluttuh
      @Aluttuh Рік тому +37

      God did not come to bring peace, but a sword against evil.

    • @pickel_operator12
      @pickel_operator12 Рік тому +13

      Always killing it Shawn, thank you for this.

    • @butcho7492
      @butcho7492 Рік тому +25

      It's hard to pick a favorite episode, Shawn, but I think this it for me. We will never see men like this again-sadly. We owe them everything we have today. I'm in awe of this generation.

    • @chrisburdick6368
      @chrisburdick6368 Рік тому

      Good afternoon, gentlemen, Katie, and crew 😊🙏 God bless

    • @anthonyryan6716
      @anthonyryan6716 Рік тому +8

      PLEASE get Larry cappetto on here he deserves a seat he's a treasure trove of ww2 Korea Vietnam desert Storm and the last 20years of bull sith wars in the middle east

  • @PerpetualWhiteBelt
    @PerpetualWhiteBelt Рік тому +6369

    God he’s sharp for 98 years old. What an absolute legend. Truly the greatest generation. Thank you Shawn for getting his story out.

    • @killerkarma3574
      @killerkarma3574 Рік тому +150

      @@SufyanJohnson Not that that's saying much. hell I'm 23 and he seems sharper than me.

    • @anthonykruse8470
      @anthonykruse8470 Рік тому +110

      Last generation wo there food being contaminated

    • @caleb-gt7pf
      @caleb-gt7pf Рік тому +9

      Thats right

    • @larrr451
      @larrr451 Рік тому +18

      Moves around pretty damn well too

    • @thedescendedangel
      @thedescendedangel Рік тому +42

      Still feel like he could kick my ass.

  • @mhurley7621
    @mhurley7621 Місяць тому +647

    Don passed aug 2 of 2024! He was 100 years old. R.I.P to a true American hero and real man!

    • @vundervaffel7516
      @vundervaffel7516 Місяць тому +21

      Rest in peace, Don! God bless and watch over us!❤🙏🙌🇺🇲

    • @Merrillizer
      @Merrillizer 29 днів тому +22

      Not the same guy. That guy was in the Army. This guy is a Marine.

    • @Jim_Frost
      @Jim_Frost 29 днів тому +6

      That is so sad. Soon we won't have any of these great men left. Instead we will only have second hand stories of what these incredible and brave men did, not just in war, but with their lives afterwards.

    • @MicahKelsall
      @MicahKelsall 27 днів тому

      He died 2 days before my birthday 😢

    • @benmatlock5746
      @benmatlock5746 26 днів тому +30

      He's still alive and he's only 99 and not 100.

  • @MASTER_DAD
    @MASTER_DAD Рік тому +5540

    Hearing these old timmers laugh, warms my heart. Reminds me so much of my grandfather who served in the pacific.

    • @ShawnRyanShow
      @ShawnRyanShow  Рік тому +490

      It does us too.

    • @robdubent
      @robdubent Рік тому +110

      Yes. ‘I got to Ireland tooo!’
      Said with an Irish accent had me giggling. Sharp guy.

    • @hoosierangler210
      @hoosierangler210 Рік тому +39

      I was thinking the same thing, reminds me of my grandfather.

    • @Peg_Leg9n
      @Peg_Leg9n Рік тому +21

      It’s always nice to see someone relive the good memories

    • @josephevans5703
      @josephevans5703 Рік тому +11

      Ditto bro my papa's was there too

  • @robertwhite3752
    @robertwhite3752 Місяць тому +47

    Men like this are my heroes. I wouldn’t be here today raising my family in a free country if it wasn’t for men like you sir. Thank you for all your sacrifices, and thank sharing your story with us. You are indeed the greatest generation. And Shawn, all I can say is thank you as well. Thank you for bringing us such important content. And while I eat tons of fresh fish and wild game, I can only pray to be as sharp as this when I’m 98 years old. It’s truly inspiring. I’m honored to have had the privilege of listening to this man, and I’m all the better for it. Interviews such as this should be required and mandatory “LESSONS” in every single school across America. While it’s been an all out assault throughout this great nation to erase our history and re-write our entire story, your show serves to preserve it, protect it, and teach it. God bless us all, and God bless America.

  • @giandiaz610
    @giandiaz610 Рік тому +1973

    335 marines only 18 came back ... Man I'll remember this interview for the rest of my life. Don Graves had balls of steel

    • @brooksphillips2234
      @brooksphillips2234 Рік тому +76

      He was the only man with a flame thrower to survive!

    • @jamierainey7386
      @jamierainey7386 Рік тому +46

      Yea I do t think I’ll
      Forget his face or his laugh for the rest of mine either. Real men leave an impression on others

    • @nomz8810
      @nomz8810 Рік тому +21

      Bros got balls of platinum shit

    • @donaldmack2307
      @donaldmack2307 Рік тому +14

      He had to do what he had to do.

    • @Kiwis-x4c
      @Kiwis-x4c Рік тому +12

      Hoorah

  • @jordonvh91
    @jordonvh91 Рік тому +2036

    I got chills when he recited FDR’s speech. You know something made a massive impact on someone’s life when they recite it word for word 82 years later

    • @THEGREENHELIUM
      @THEGREENHELIUM Рік тому +143

      Not just word for word but cadence for cadence exactly how President Roosevelt said it because for them it was bigger than our 9/11 could ever be. For them it was a reckoning and a call to arms to defend and avenge Pearl Harbor. When did we get sick of ourselves and our Patriotism? We’ve lost a lot of what made America - America. We’ve lost our soul and he has seen it all from when we did to the shell of what we are now. Incredible

    • @JoPerry-by3wd
      @JoPerry-by3wd Рік тому +7

      Agreed. I wish I could give this comment several 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍

    • @kkpage01100
      @kkpage01100 Рік тому

      @@THEGREENHELIUMpeople lost the sense of patriotism when they started voting their rights away for deceitful mf people

    • @honxsolo
      @honxsolo Рік тому +4

      @@THEGREENHELIUMdont blame the people blame the ones in control. Goverment got soft.

    • @rktsnail
      @rktsnail 11 місяців тому +1

      @@THEGREENHELIUMcouldn’t agree more

  • @Catechuman23
    @Catechuman23 Рік тому +1185

    What an honor. His memory and energy at 98, incredible. We don't have many WW2 vets left, let's cherish these episodes.

    • @dimitrimariutto
      @dimitrimariutto Рік тому +33

      Quite a stark contrast to our current Commander in Chief, no?

    • @Doctom91
      @Doctom91 Рік тому +5

      @@dimitrimariutto Your current Commander in Chief is stil way better than Truman, just saying.

    • @joshuagary2745
      @joshuagary2745 Рік тому

      ​@@Doctom91I'm not saying either is better than the other. I didn't live through Truman. Bud Joe Biden is a pedophile and his son got caught with crack. Next please

    • @calebh7902
      @calebh7902 Рік тому +31

      ​@@dimitrimariutto18 years older than the "commander" in chief, yet 100% more coherent and competitent, and battle proven.

    • @jacksonquinn8744
      @jacksonquinn8744 Рік тому +4

      ​@Doctom91 you don't even believe that. Comon now

  • @davidpestana5530
    @davidpestana5530 2 дні тому +3

    I am truly amazed at the level of sharpness in Don Graves. Men like this are a rare treasure that we should honor and respect. The kind of respect we don't see today. These are.our true hero's. When he recited Roosevelts speech on the 8th of December. One day after pearl harbor. He was as sharp as a tack. Our youth today don't know how to show respect or to honor these hero's. Thank you Shawn for bringing us this American hero who probably would not consider himself a hero but he is one to me. I could listen to him all day. God bless him, and God bless America.

  • @fusionmedia08
    @fusionmedia08 Рік тому +1012

    For a 98 year old man put through battle, explosions, gunfire, and everything else, he is incredibly sharp and healthy. His memory is better than mine. Thank you for your service Don Graves.

    • @JaviVibes
      @JaviVibes Рік тому +6

      Is call organic diet most of his life

    • @jessestinson9252
      @jessestinson9252 11 місяців тому +4

      Not to mention a flame thrower that beyond crazy

    • @brandonbell9957
      @brandonbell9957 10 місяців тому +6

      @@JaviVibesyou are most certainly right. They didn’t have all the processed garbage and sedentary lifestyle back then.

    • @jaco2real
      @jaco2real 10 місяців тому

      tbf it is really hard to forget shi when u got ptsd and everytime u think it’s of the ppl u saw dead and the horrors you went through. It’s not ideal and leads plenty of people to suicide. some people are blessed to grow through it. some, not so much

    • @heshelmangel1893
      @heshelmangel1893 6 місяців тому +3

      And he's talking about starting to feel at 98 that his legs aren't what they used to because of his younger years. Ha!

  • @hylannn4771
    @hylannn4771 8 місяців тому +634

    At the end he chokes up and says “We gotta love our country again. It breaks my heart.”
    Man that made me tear up

    • @Maltlicky50
      @Maltlicky50 7 місяців тому +13

      Same here, that came from the heart.

    • @SamuelThomson-qs8py
      @SamuelThomson-qs8py 6 місяців тому

      same here. Reflecting on it, its amazing how far we have come technologically, but oh how far we have fallen. The problem is not technology, it's the human. While we have improved some social economic metrics, other metrics have not improved. Like the other republics in history, the decadence of our mighty nation has decayed us. We are confused now, pumped with misinformation and disinformation. I used to be an atheist, but I now think only God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are the antidotes we need to ground ourselves philosophically as to not diffract away like light through a prism.... God has helped us out of sticky situations before, He will help us still. People need philosophical foundations to ground them, unless you are grounded and well read, you don't know what to think. We need Jesus, family, patriotism, and a love of learning. But thats just my two cents. Lots has changed for the better, but lots has changed for worse. We are lost, but studying that Bible is step 1 to understanding the human experience, and our duty to always do what is right. Even when we fail we grow stronger from the experience by nurturing our relationship with God. I'm not saying be a fundamentalist, I'm saying keep an open mind to understand the Bible's code while studying it. It's not something you teach as much as it is something you have a conversation with others about after reading something. Critically and creatively think, get excited about it, never stop dreaming, and be the change you want to see in the world. I say all of this because I'm afraid we are loosing our ability to think creatively, critically, and respectfully. Honor is more rare by the day. We have a lot of problems to fix and much work to do.

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому +1

    • @MrErnieHanks
      @MrErnieHanks 5 місяців тому

      Can't do that when you import people who hate the country

    • @oskorei123
      @oskorei123 3 місяці тому +12

      "We will rekindle new faith in our values, new pride in our history, and a new spirit of unity that can ONLY be realized through love for our country. Because we understand that America is NOT a land cloaked in darkness, America is the torch that enlightens the entire world."
      President Donald J. Trump

  • @smax4895
    @smax4895 Рік тому +1081

    It’s really sad to think that in just a few years, there will be zero WWII survivors left. These conversations are so important. I encourage everyone to seize any chance to have a conversation with these vets and if possible, document it.

    • @johnshot11
      @johnshot11 Рік тому +53

      Best comment right here. I’ve thought about this for years now and thought I they would pass on sooner but these WW2 vets just never give up. Absolute respect for the greatest generation.

    • @KTA99
      @KTA99 Рік тому +22

      Many video on here people have interviewed from WWII. I stumbled upon and an Old interview with 2 civil war veteran. It was in black in white but it still on here. I just wish more people cared.

    • @karasu1982
      @karasu1982 Рік тому +30

      Start talking to the Korean and Vietnam vets too.

    • @jonathanramos8414
      @jonathanramos8414 Рік тому +15

      I once met a guy that fought in the Mexican American war 1846-1848

    • @brooksysdead
      @brooksysdead Рік тому +16

      Born in 82 , currently 41 year's old. I feel privileged to have grown up in an era so full of ww2 vet's 👏 we had a few come to my school as a kid and told us stories and let us ask questions. It was an amazing experience that in grateful to have had

  • @BrianStrum
    @BrianStrum Місяць тому +90

    “I’m gonna skip school tomorrow to go join the Marines”
    HOLY COW what a powerful statement!!!!!!

    • @Jim_Frost
      @Jim_Frost 29 днів тому +9

      This is exactly what I did when the Gulf war started. I was a senior in HS. Instead of going to school I drove to a local mall where there was a Marine and Air Force recruiting office. A few month later, I shipped out. Those were crazy times.
      This guy is correct about the Middle East. Islam is 1,500 years old, and for that whole time there has been nothing but conflict and war between the Sunni and Shia for the past 1,400 years over who should succeed their Muhammad. About 85% are Sunni and the rest Shia and both side will kill to have their guy declared the successor and leader of Islam. Ad to this that both sides think non believers (Infidels) should be given an option to convert or be killed if they don't.
      1,400+ years is just too long for the rest of the modern world to tolerate any more.

    • @pokeee
      @pokeee 28 днів тому +1

      what timestamp is this at

    • @jpinyan5911
      @jpinyan5911 22 дні тому +1

      Finish school then join the Marines Marines don't take quitters

    • @BrianStrum
      @BrianStrum 17 днів тому +1

      @@pokeee1:00:11

    • @BrianStrum
      @BrianStrum 17 днів тому +1

      @ 1:00:11

  • @whiterabit09
    @whiterabit09 Рік тому +581

    Notice how happy and positive this man is?
    Even when speaking about the bad times.
    A role model for all of us.

    • @kaxmo69
      @kaxmo69 Рік тому +25

      not meaning to come off negative at all, but i’d imagine it’s easier to stay positive in “normal” life after experiencing the most horrific combat known to man, id imagine the feeling is being grateful for everyday he’s lived off that god forsaken island

    • @robg8203
      @robg8203 Рік тому +15

      @@kaxmo69true, but a lot of people don't really "come home" after the war. Their mind is still stuck in those most horrific years of their lives. Don is one of the lucky/strong ones though, not to come back with any PTSD or "shell shock" I think is what they called it back in that time.

    • @whiterabit09
      @whiterabit09 Рік тому +9

      Just a guy on the internet....
      But i think happiness comes through resilience to adversity, you can mimic this through physical training ie crossfit and intermittent fasting, cold therapy etc.
      Makes you appreciate the little things and sets you up to work hard.. success is a by-product.

    • @MaxCady7.62
      @MaxCady7.62 Рік тому +4

      ​@@robg8203he probably does have ptsd. A lot of people keep it to themselves.

    • @Jeff-jl2xc
      @Jeff-jl2xc Рік тому

      ​@@kaxmo69of course it would be easier because you'd be lying to yourself.. there is nothing positive about these men and their experiences.. that's why our country is so fucked right now is from our country convincing us we have something to be proud and positive about when we don't

  • @AGuyFromUSA
    @AGuyFromUSA Рік тому +681

    This man has witnessed nearly 40% of America's existence - a truly remarkable honor to hear from him. The podcast is a priceless gift, granting us the opportunity to listen to someone who has lived through and contributed to the nation's journey. Thank you for making this possible. May God bless you a lot.

    • @ryank_maniac
      @ryank_maniac Рік тому +4

      Well said!!

    • @TheJoeBrennan
      @TheJoeBrennan Рік тому +16

      When you put it like that wow lol. Crazy to think about

    • @tracemiller1519
      @tracemiller1519 Рік тому +4

      It’s amazing, my great grandma who passed last year was born the year before him and they remind me a lot of eachother. Amazing stories and crazy to put it into perspective like that!

    • @Stcddot
      @Stcddot Рік тому +8

      I saw your comment and thought”man hell naw he’s certainly exaggerating let me do the math” and it came up as 39,6%. That’s insane when u put it in perspective and thank u for helping me see it through that lense

    • @IhaveaDoghouse
      @IhaveaDoghouse 3 місяці тому

      I have a kind of funny story about being alive for percentage of a country’s history.
      When my dad was in kindergarten my grandpa was 50 and Canada was 100 years old.
      Grandpa told my dad that he was HALF as old as Canada and he misheard him and thought he said he was AS OLD as Canada.
      Dad told his teacher his fun fact and adamantly argued with his teacher that his dad IS AS OLD AS CANADA! Until he got home and grandpa corrected him.
      When my grandpa died he had witnessed over 66% of the history of Canada as a country.
      He was a carpenter that travelled down the coast to California and built several houses some of which still stand around Lake Tahoe.
      During WW2 he was in work camps doing construction around Banff Alberta where there was a Japanese internment camp. In his later years he was a cabinet maker and Christian author.
      One of the things he built during the war was the “little beehive” in Banff AB which you can still hike to today.

  • @bobbybarker3782
    @bobbybarker3782 Рік тому +992

    Shawn Ryan is such a honorable and respectable man. Not interviewing these celebrities but true American heros! Thank you Shawn! You’re the blessing we didn’t know we needed!

    • @bobbybarker3782
      @bobbybarker3782 Рік тому +13

      @@netwurk88 Amen brother!

    • @TheOGSticks11
      @TheOGSticks11 Рік тому +9

      Fucking A baby, gotta love a real American Soldier. They're the greatest generation for a reason.

    • @joebenson528
      @joebenson528 Рік тому

      WWI/II were real wars. Unlike that War on CIA-armed te**or bs.

    • @iLoveSpreadingMisInformation
      @iLoveSpreadingMisInformation Рік тому +2

      ​@@TheOGSticks11please put aye 😂😂😂

    • @dahof2789
      @dahof2789 Рік тому

      ​@@iLoveSpreadingMisInformation in Ohio it's "Hay" 😅

  • @craigc8453
    @craigc8453 3 місяці тому +74

    This is one of my favorite episodes ever. I could listen to Mr Graves talk for as long as he wanted to. What an amazing man he is.

  • @bennettsampson5789
    @bennettsampson5789 Рік тому +1236

    "Only young men can fight wars. We were brain washed..." Powerful stuff.

    • @NetherPrime
      @NetherPrime Рік тому +67

      he also said it was necessary, it kept you alive and it got you killed.

    • @tdoran616
      @tdoran616 Рік тому +8

      @@NetherPrimeI believe he’s right.

    • @raisetheline
      @raisetheline Рік тому +8

      What a fucking badass!!

    • @dahof2789
      @dahof2789 Рік тому +4

      ​@@raisethelinetuck your shirt in!

    • @TheNodrokov
      @TheNodrokov Рік тому +24

      @@NetherPrime It was necessary, but horrible. I found myself disagreeing with a lot of his political opinions, but I realized listening to him that the thing that irritates me so much about those kind of opinions is that they're far too often held by people with no understanding of the human cost to be paid by war. He's proud (rightly so) of the war he fought in, but he fully and completely understands how terrible it was, and how only the youngest and most idealistic in our society ever truly paid for it. Not the politicians. Not the internet commenters bragging about how "cool" US fighter jets are. The brainwashed, scared children were the ones to die.

  • @Maxisblackk
    @Maxisblackk Рік тому +879

    This episode is actually history. I feel like the reason the youth lacks patriotism is because they don’t know about stories like these. This is what makes this channel so powerful. The people or at least Americans need to know about the heroes who have fought and died for us. This channel makes me prideful to be American

    • @JohnSmith-xv2ob
      @JohnSmith-xv2ob Рік тому +63

      Speaking as a youth (23), these kinds of stories are easily accessible obviously, but people my age would rather scroll tiktok than listen or watch this "BoRiNg HiStOrY sTuFf", and even if they listened to it, there would be some history teacher and woke college student on the internet trying to make the Japanese seem sympathetic.

    • @mattiethesurfer
      @mattiethesurfer Рік тому

      It’s the liberal ideology taking over schools. It’s written in the communist teachings, especially Marx. Start with the youth; indoctrinate them.

    • @big_narc
      @big_narc Рік тому

      Also speaking as a youth (23), I'll share my perspective. Trying my best to keep it short, I believe many young people view our politicians as corrupt clowns, and that there is a growing sentiment that this government is more of a giant corporation. Billions to Israel, billions to Ukraine, stuffing weapon dealer pockets while the middle class shrinks, inflation rises, and the housing market doubles. Congress is full of ghouls and demons, we elect a blatant piece of shit TV star, and then someone who is damn near senile, all seemingly concerned with lining their own pockets. Most of us don't view presidents as heroes like this man views Roosevelt--and they shouldn't, because none of them are. People are more focused on witch hunting make-believe "woke", blue-haired hippies than on actual problems, and the growing political division keeps us from making meaningful progress. Recognizing all of this makes it hard to idolize the US govt.
      I respect American heroes and recognize their sacrifices, I know that it's definitely been worse throughout history, I am aware that the USA is still one of the best countries to live in, and my American patriotism lies within the USA as an ideal and as a group of people of which I am a part of. Those are my thoughts, a lot of it is anecdotal, feel free to disagree.

    • @brendan7704
      @brendan7704 Рік тому +31

      I half agree. I think a lot of it also has to do with a lack of trust in our government. Back then everyone respected the President and Congress. They were transparent, and not creating conflict to stay in power. Today you can’t trust either party. They’re all self interested.

    • @emosam07
      @emosam07 Рік тому +22

      Literally could be the last interview we ever get from a surviving ww2 soldier

  • @BillMcGuckan
    @BillMcGuckan Рік тому +522

    As a Marine from the 80s and 90s who was influenced by a survivor of iwojima I have to say this meant so much to me. God bless Don Graves. Thank you

    • @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul
      @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul Рік тому +12

      Thank You for your service Sir! I pray you and your family are well!

    • @jimmybaker4253
      @jimmybaker4253 Рік тому +7

      Thank you! I was denied in 2004 for a heart mumor in the navy. Honor be to God. Thank you for your sacrifice and your patronage

    • @beenthruhellnback1617
      @beenthruhellnback1617 Рік тому +12

      Thank you for ur service. My grandfather was a marine. Passed away 4yrs Veterans Day. Which the day before, Nov 10th, I'm sure you know is the Marine Corp bday, an is also my G'ma, his wife's bday😊 anyways, I watched my G'pa will his self to live that day. No way in hell was he dyin on the Marine Corp's bday, nor my G'mas!!! Watchin this episode late tonite brought me to tears a few times an laughed a few. Reminded me so much of my G'pa.🧡 again, thank you so much for ur service!🧡🙏🇺🇸

    • @Nannisuze
      @Nannisuze Рік тому +2

      Yes! I know to some it may be a meaningless phrase but I truly in my heart mean it!

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому

  • @CatherineSobczak
    @CatherineSobczak 2 дні тому +4

    Best guest ever! Thank you for interviewing this national treasure of a man. ❤

  • @Abandonship31
    @Abandonship31 Рік тому +302

    My Grandpa was a ww2 Medic and passed away a 2 years ago on his 100th birthday! Greatest man I ever knew, continued to serve his community up until 95. Helping "old folks" (his words) get to their doctors appts. And would help serve dinners and wash dishes in the retirement home. When asked how he lived so long, he replied "Always stay moving and volunteer to help out when ever you can."

    • @brooksphillips2234
      @brooksphillips2234 Рік тому +9

      Helped the old ppl! Lol. That's awesome!

    • @BabyKobeeee
      @BabyKobeeee Рік тому +4

      My great aunt is about to turn 100 and your scaring me

    • @Abandonship31
      @Abandonship31 Рік тому +16

      @BabyKobeeee hey, the best thing to keep in mind is that they lived to watch their families grow up. They got to experience more in life than anyone else alive, just with the advancments in technology alone in their life times. Not to mention the historic events they witnessed in real time. Our minds stay young, but our bodies grow old. The hardest thing to hear him say was, "I have outlived all my friends." We are not built to live forever. My grandpa made it to the finish line and passed away sitting in his chair with his entire family around him and all his children holding his hands.

    • @crazydrummerofdoom
      @crazydrummerofdoom Рік тому +6

      Dick van dyke says the same thing in his biography literally titled keep moving.

    • @tigmasterkev9140
      @tigmasterkev9140 Рік тому +3

      He sounds amazing. God bless him

  • @Shelbyzd
    @Shelbyzd Рік тому +507

    It's crazy how coherent he is. At 37, I could not convey my life even remotely as easily as he does. I've always been envious of people who are able to tell their story with no hitches. Salute to you, Don Graves!

    • @Dominic-jr3on
      @Dominic-jr3on Рік тому +26

      literally. If someone asked about my life id have it summed up in 4/5 minutes

    • @Shelbyzd
      @Shelbyzd Рік тому +3

      @@Dominic-jr3on pretty much the same. My brain doesn't work that way lol

    • @Dragonologist
      @Dragonologist Рік тому +14

      You are still living your life. At some point old guys start talking about what used to be more than what comes next. He's got practice. 40 more years of practice than you.

    • @Shelbyzd
      @Shelbyzd Рік тому +13

      @@Dragonologist I think you're missing the point. He's very aware and coherent not at 77 but at 98! Most people at 98 can't even care for themselves let alone carry on a full blown conversation about his life in quite detail.

    • @mhern57
      @mhern57 Рік тому +3

      ​@@Shelbyzd
      Agree. He missed the point totally. Oh well

  • @Nas_Atlas
    @Nas_Atlas Рік тому +414

    I can't believe in 2023 this man still lives and breathes amongst us. Live as long as you can Don. We appreciate you so much.

    • @Ryan-li8qc
      @Ryan-li8qc Рік тому +11

      Hope he becomes worlds oldest man

    • @jessestinson9252
      @jessestinson9252 11 місяців тому +7

      I'm so glad he's alive but so sad to see everything he fought for went all to nothing

  • @AustinLeffler
    @AustinLeffler 9 годин тому +1

    What a treat, I absolutely love hearing people from an older generation speak about their experiences.

  • @JulianDorey
    @JulianDorey Рік тому +263

    Thank you for your service Don Graves! You walked so that we could all run 🙌✊💯

  • @SethM65
    @SethM65 Рік тому +494

    Don Graves came to my work today in Denton Texas and had it not been for this podcast I might not have known who he was. Still can’t believe I got to shake hands with this legend! What an incredible story, he also gave you a nice shoutout Shawn!

    • @squintz831
      @squintz831 Рік тому +22

      That's Mr. Ryan and Mr. Graves fixing our culture in action.

    • @emilycoltrin5251
      @emilycoltrin5251 10 місяців тому +11

      He eats breakfast at a restaurant by my house in north Texas every single morning

    • @taylorwelch9209
      @taylorwelch9209 10 місяців тому +7

      @@emilycoltrin5251 would you mind telling me where he comes to eat? I really would like to meet him or say hi, I have never met a ww2 vet and I really want to before they are all gone. I live in the Plano north texas area

    • @patrickferryman6579
      @patrickferryman6579 10 місяців тому +3

      I also work in Denton, what business did he come in to?

    • @SethM65
      @SethM65 9 місяців тому +9

      Peterbilt motors, the room was as packed as it could be. A ton of vets in the room too! They presented him with an award and he told a condensed version of his story and sang for us at the end! I have the picture of me shaking his hand framed above my fireplace!

  • @lorigullison3473
    @lorigullison3473 Рік тому +526

    I have never enjoyed an interview as much as listening to this talk. I am a Canadian, not a military family and have never liked war or the talk of war. but listening to this man and his testimony has touched something deep in my soul. God bless him and the Americans and you for our freedom even here in our Canada. Love you Brother in Christ.

    • @blaydenschmidt4361
      @blaydenschmidt4361 Рік тому +5

      I loved it so much

    • @kekistanimememan170
      @kekistanimememan170 Рік тому +1

      As opposed to those who love war.

    • @chanceberg832
      @chanceberg832 Рік тому +17

      Canadians Should be proud The USA didn't and couldn't win that war...On her Own..Thank You Canada and the Canadians that helped Fight for freedom too.

    • @thekidcomn5938
      @thekidcomn5938 Рік тому +5

      Hahaha. “Freedom in Canada…..” That’s pretty funny!

    • @Fistfury42
      @Fistfury42 Рік тому

      You got Swedish Ancestry? 🙏🇸🇪

  • @Brynden-Rivers
    @Brynden-Rivers 7 днів тому +7

    Love this freaking guy. Especially the flamethrower part. Our country owes this man an unpayable debt....

  • @ImOldGreggg
    @ImOldGreggg Рік тому +165

    Afg and Iraq vet here. Just wanted to stop by and say how thankful we are out here for you Shawn. God bless Don and the greatest generation to have ever lived.

    • @jasonjewell1667
      @jasonjewell1667 Рік тому +5

      Thank you for your service brother

    • @noname2-190
      @noname2-190 Рік тому +3

      Thanks for stepping up and serving our country man

    • @mr.smithgnrsmith7808
      @mr.smithgnrsmith7808 Рік тому +2

      Thank YOU dude, from the bottom of my jaded cynical heart

    • @beenthruhellnback1617
      @beenthruhellnback1617 Рік тому +2

      Thanks so much for ur service man!! Both G'pas were vets, now brothers n cousins servin cause of the 2 men at head of our fam!! Again, thank you so much for ALL YOU GAVE N SACRIFICED!! 🧡🙏🇺🇸

  • @The_Like_Button000
    @The_Like_Button000 Рік тому +462

    One of the best SRS interviews I’ve watched to date. Letting this man, someone who’s literally living history talk, and Shawn being so respectful was so nice to see.

  • @b_Loopy
    @b_Loopy Рік тому +226

    I met this guy in Normandy beach on June 7 2023. I took a picture with him outside the bar in Saint Mere Eglise France, the first liberated town in Europe from the DDay campaign. I have a picture with him. Didn’t get to talk to him for long, but it was a true honor. He wore that same hat. Such a good guy, was so happy to see an American eager to meet him. Traveled all the way to Europe to meet these hero’s.

  • @tomdobbs2733
    @tomdobbs2733 2 місяці тому +22

    He’s a man who’s story needs to be heard. Even dementia was scared of him even in old age he’s still witty

  • @The2ndProtectsTheRest
    @The2ndProtectsTheRest Рік тому +298

    I have to admit that I cried a few times during this one. Don is an amazing amazing American and one hell of a Patriot!

    • @allison2941
      @allison2941 Рік тому +9

      Me too! Really touched my heart.

    • @michellepack4134
      @michellepack4134 Рік тому +10

      I definitely did then proceeded to bawl a little at the end when he was singing 😢

    • @The2ndProtectsTheRest
      @The2ndProtectsTheRest Рік тому +5

      @@michellepack4134 same!

    • @theycallmenyquil8064
      @theycallmenyquil8064 Рік тому

      You know what he would say? Get off your ass and do something about it. But not in the biased bs way so called Patriots talk about. If it means so much to you then you should be advocating for what he is talking about. And that. Comes from a millenial the last sane genration.

    • @FrankTheTank7575
      @FrankTheTank7575 Рік тому +4

      The absolute greatest generation. Never has god made so tough and resilient a group of people.

  • @the_roflcakes
    @the_roflcakes Рік тому +508

    Ww2 vets on the Shawn Ryan show is the veteran content we didn't even know we needed

    • @Erosgates
      @Erosgates Рік тому +13

      Yeah right, man! We knew we needed this!

    • @zechariahross1444
      @zechariahross1444 Рік тому +10

      For real. I've always like WW2 history. I met a guy a couple years ago random while remodeling his home and he told me all the nuke test he was apart of and how the dug trenches and the blast just blow over him and the boys

    • @hanzo3188
      @hanzo3188 Рік тому +2

      ​@@Erosgatesfacts

    • @Jerbo1125
      @Jerbo1125 Рік тому +3

      I had chills moments of triumph moments of I guess you could call it depressed state. This was such an impactful interview one of my favorite podcasts. It never lets me down I’m 39 and I never did a minute in the service but I appreciate all you guys that served. God bless everybody.

    • @Paul-gf9fc
      @Paul-gf9fc Рік тому

      Need Korean war, Vietnam vets before these stories are lost forever.

  • @dylanchilders2987
    @dylanchilders2987 Рік тому +321

    Hearing Don laugh is such a pleasure. Man’s got a life of demons that he refuses to let win. A true warrior, American hero, and deserves every ounce of recognition he can get. This man is a legend through and through. 🇺🇸

    • @trevorthiessen6317
      @trevorthiessen6317 Рік тому +3

      He reminds me of my Grandpa. He's 95 years old this year. But always laughing. He and my grandma had such a great relationship. He misses her dearly. She passed away a couple years ago.

  • @art9606
    @art9606 6 днів тому +3

    Im a year too late but I’m grateful that i stumbled upon this interview. Its real and raw, It made me tear up.

  • @SlowAsitgets
    @SlowAsitgets Рік тому +336

    From all the trauma and horrors he faced, was the family that most hurt him.. it’s indeed an eye open for all of us, thank you for your service sir

  • @bearpaw9204
    @bearpaw9204 Рік тому +182

    Can't wait for this one. This was the greatest generation of all time, men and women. Not only did the soldiers sacrifice, everyone on at home did as well. From rationing rubber, steel, food....everyone pitched in. God bless this warrior, we owe him and everyone of that era a huge debt of gratitude.

    • @ShawnRyanShow
      @ShawnRyanShow  Рік тому +32

      Don speaks on a lot of this. Get ready!!

    • @MGTimmy
      @MGTimmy Рік тому +3

      You said it!

    • @jordandunne5292
      @jordandunne5292 Рік тому +3

      Way better than the generation that fought for our independence......🥴

    • @burningwitchstudio3629
      @burningwitchstudio3629 Рік тому +3

      I agree 100!! Also those during the revolution war were great too.

    • @readrothbard153
      @readrothbard153 Рік тому

      Not sure they're the greatest generation, the folks of 1776 were much greater and their principles have been increasingly betrayed since.

  • @Maxs-tn9rc
    @Maxs-tn9rc Рік тому +237

    I feel privileged just to be able to listen to this legend speak.. thank you Don and Shawn and GOD BLESS AMERICA 🇺🇸

    • @thewinteragendadraganclove2323
      @thewinteragendadraganclove2323 Рік тому

      How can you say god bless America after listening to this. God is responsible for every horror expressed in this interview

    • @Yankeepride03
      @Yankeepride03 Рік тому

      @@thewinteragendadraganclove2323🤡

    • @carlJr_v8
      @carlJr_v8 Рік тому +3

      ​@@thewinteragendadraganclove2323why are blaming God for humanity sins God made us in his image we weren't supposed to sin but we rebelled against him so don't blame God blame humans

  • @stevencohn922
    @stevencohn922 Місяць тому +20

    Don spoke at our church last night Veterans Day 2024! He’s an amazing man of faith !

    • @jeannebenson9613
      @jeannebenson9613 Місяць тому +1

      Wow! What a sincere honor to witness this. He is truly an incredible American hero. I was wondering how he’s doing. He is a National treasure. God bless him! 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸

    • @stevencohn922
      @stevencohn922 Місяць тому +1

      He is traveling around to schools and churches speaking and everywhere people are very attentive to every word because how many active alert WW2 veterans are there 80 years after the war?

    • @mikeyd5969
      @mikeyd5969 Місяць тому +2

      I’m glad to hear he’s doing well.

    • @karlBob2006
      @karlBob2006 22 дні тому

      I'm sorry he passed away about four months ago. Nice writeup for Donald Graves on Lynch and Sons Oxford website. God bless

    • @stevencohn922
      @stevencohn922 22 дні тому

      @@karlBob2006 sorry but Don is alive as of Veterans Day 2024 I wasn’t witness to a ghost at Crosscity church speaking to a few hundred people! If he passed since that day no announcement was made!

  • @ann67mcswain
    @ann67mcswain Рік тому +309

    This hero is a National Treasure. Thank you, Shawn, for this interview. Makes me proud to be American to stand in the shadows of two such men. God Bless You!

    • @danc8458
      @danc8458 Рік тому

      lol this was years ago when the gov tricked innocent folk to fight blood money wars

    • @Jeff-lu9wi
      @Jeff-lu9wi Рік тому +3

      Absolutely a treasure!

    • @mile3018
      @mile3018 Рік тому +2

      Amen!

    • @theone---
      @theone--- Рік тому +1

      ...international treasure

    • @ann67mcswain
      @ann67mcswain Рік тому

      @@theone--- Agreed! 😊

  • @kyleRS87
    @kyleRS87 Рік тому +201

    Man, I wish this was a 72 hour interview. This guy is a gem. I sent this video to my Grampa. They’re around the same age and he feels the same way Don does. Thank you both for the show. 🇺🇸

  • @JasonMaurath
    @JasonMaurath Рік тому +102

    I’m a Marine Vet and have been to Iwo Jima, toured the old bunkers and pill boxes. Climbed Mt. Suribachi where the flag was raised. This interview brought chills down my back because I know exactly where he was on that island.
    Semper Fi Leatherneck. Thank you for your service

    • @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul
      @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul Рік тому +3

      Thank You for your service Sir! I pray you and yours are doing well!

    • @beenthruhellnback1617
      @beenthruhellnback1617 Рік тому +5

      Thank you for ur service man!! My G'pa was Marine, passed away 4yrs ago Veterans day. Watch him will his self to live thru the day before, which I'm sure you know is the Maine Corp's bday, but my G'mas bday as well. No wY was he passin on that day. His oxygen was below 40, but he was passin. The next morn at 8am he looked at my G'ma, an his 2 daughters an said it's time. My G'ma had his fave shot glass, an the 3 of them used medicine cups, haha my G'ma poured his fave bourbon, they took their shots, he said he loved them all, gave my G'ma a kiss, said he loved her again, said 'HOORAH' laid back an passed within 45 seconds!🧡🙏🇺🇸.... again, thank you for ur service man!! Semper Fi

  • @KyleRhoneforBellevueward3
    @KyleRhoneforBellevueward3 2 дні тому +1

    Shawn, thank you for having this Marine from the Greatest Generation!!!

  • @TRIVICbuilder
    @TRIVICbuilder Рік тому +240

    I feel honored to be able to hear this man’s story. Truly a great American. 🇺🇸

    • @jimmyboe25
      @jimmyboe25 Рік тому

      Man some of the things he says seems profound to me but it was the norm

  • @RedDawnReadiness
    @RedDawnReadiness Рік тому +196

    If you didn’t have a grandfather like this, I’m very sorry my grandfather lived till he was 98 born on the 3rd of July and created Patriots out of all his grandchildren ! Amazing interview, notice this man carried a flame thrower and lived through so much and only time he was about to cry is when he talked about how we are losing our country not anything to do with war 💪🏼🇺🇸

    • @fbg57
      @fbg57 Рік тому +13

      Mine was trained by the CIA to become a South Vietnamese Army Intelligence Office. When the war was over in 1975 was snitched on and caught by the Vietcong then went on to serve 8 years in the concentration camp survived on 1 potato per day. He ultimately made it to the U.S. in 1991 and died of cancer in 2017 at age 76.

    • @RedDawnReadiness
      @RedDawnReadiness Рік тому +3

      @@fbg57 sounds insane I feel
      Bad for anyone who chose to work as an “Agent” in the CIA, FBI, NSA or anything other 3 letter organization. I would never want to spend my life pretending to be anything I’m not. Wish you the best… I just am high against lying and my grand father taught me that and this man in the video I think would agree when he said we need God fearing men to run our country. I feel you and your grandfather 🙏🏼

    • @fbg57
      @fbg57 Рік тому +2

      @@RedDawnReadiness he wasn’t a CIA agent. Was just trained by them to do espionage work for the South Vietnamese government, due to the fact he carried a northerner accent and that made it extremely easy to do his job. My ancestors migrated to the south in 1954 when the French left, they brought with them all the traditions and culture of northerners. But even the SV government was hella corrupt in the sense that they just sat back to collect all the fundings from the U.S. they thought since the U.S. is funding this war and its troops are here on the ground in our country why don’t we just sit back, relax and enjoy what they’ve brought with them here.

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому +1

  • @xitzx_war_eagle
    @xitzx_war_eagle Рік тому +199

    I love how Shawn just lets him tell his story and just watching him gets immersed in them. And how patient he is.

    • @bigboi9877
      @bigboi9877 Рік тому +30

      It’s the only podcast where the Host never interrupts the guests and always lets them tell the full story. Shawn is a humble man indeed

    • @brianh4979
      @brianh4979 Рік тому +7

      ​@@bigboi9877Sometimes I dont think he could hear what Shawn said, but thats perfectly ok, im only 41 and my hearing is pretty bad. Im with You i could listen for hours and hours

    • @jmd489
      @jmd489 Рік тому +5

      @@brianh4979Yeah he definitely missed some questions, but almost was more enjoyable to see the places he would go just speaking about what he wanted to.

    • @brianh4979
      @brianh4979 Рік тому +2

      @@jmd489 Yup. Hes the kinda of guy you could hand the mic to and say talk about all you want to

    • @SvgeRose
      @SvgeRose Рік тому

      I know it may seem like he’s rambling at times. But when elderly people speak I listen intently

  • @dankilpatrick3910
    @dankilpatrick3910 6 днів тому +1

    Thanks!

  • @josiahfry3635
    @josiahfry3635 Рік тому +228

    This is the greatest podcast of all time. And I’m not joking. This man is a fucking National hero and treasure. Never seen a 98 year old person with their mind this solid. Such an amazing person. Respect

    • @squintz831
      @squintz831 Рік тому +1

      Agreed

    • @SoundOfFreedom35
      @SoundOfFreedom35 Рік тому

      Because men was raised and built different then. Men like this doesn’t exist anymore and with each generation they get softer and softer

    • @btappan88
      @btappan88 11 місяців тому +5

      My neighbor is 97. He didn’t serve in WWII but trained in project V-12 right before war ended. His memory is impeccable, and I spend as much time as I can with him. I’ve had him come to our men’s group with me, shoveled his driveway, invited him over for coffee. People like this won’t be around much longer. I try to get as much information out of him as I can, he runs a bible study at our local Catholic Church. At 97 that’s pretty damn crazy. He lives alone at that, it’s crazy how he is so self sufficient.

  • @davidemery4759
    @davidemery4759 Рік тому +108

    I’m 25 min in and the cadence and flow of this interview is magical. Don’s memory of his past life is amazing and Shawn isn’t getting in his way and letting it go. Amazing.

  • @JOECorsoNova
    @JOECorsoNova Рік тому +253

    Thank you so much Shawn, what a privilege to hear this man’s story, and thank you Mr. Graves for your bravery and devotion to this great country of ours! 🇺🇸

  • @LeadingPaws
    @LeadingPaws 9 днів тому +4

    I had the pleasure of climbing Mount Surubashi while I was living in Japan and serving in the Navy. I kept a bottle of black sand which is just a really cherished souvenir. The overlook view from the mountain to the beach is unbelievable. The fact the Marines prevailed is incredible.

  • @cerebralfirearms
    @cerebralfirearms Рік тому +114

    I once did a hospice rotation for my psych department which turned out to be my favorite rotation ever. We did in home with veterans from World War Two in East Tennessee. I met some of the most heroic men who became mentors to me after my time in the navy. It was astounding how proud and courageous these guys were at 17-20 years of age. It’s few and far between that you find that now. Manliness is frowned upon by most and it’s time to take a stand against the movement against men.

    • @LuckyCharms777
      @LuckyCharms777 Рік тому +1

      People don’t usually have hospice until they’re at death’s door, but from what I understand, they technically qualify once they’re diagnosis is terminal. On average, how long were these men still alive that they were able to mentor you?

    • @MommaLousKitchen
      @MommaLousKitchen Рік тому +1

      AMEN

    • @cerebralfirearms
      @cerebralfirearms Рік тому +6

      @@LuckyCharms777 my longest was about six months… I was only in Tennessee for my last year and a half of undergrad and then moved back to Va for Grad school. I had three patients, two of which served in the marines and army, one in the navy. All three also worked in either Y-12, K25, or X10. If you are interested in learning about how a government took over the town of Oak Ridge, that’s where I worked. If you listen to wise words, an individual can speak to you long after they are gone.

    • @30AndHatingIt
      @30AndHatingIt Рік тому +7

      It’s just the cycle…
      Hard times make strong men.
      Strong men make good times.
      Good times make weak men.
      Weak men make hard times.
      You know what we’re in… but it won’t last, as again, it’s a cycle.

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому

  • @HunterCrip11
    @HunterCrip11 Рік тому +98

    I love how normally, Shawn likes to direct the conversation and keep the dialog going in a pointed direction yet in this interview he takes a total back seat to let this living legend talk. Pure class and respect on display.

    • @PickleLicker357
      @PickleLicker357 Рік тому +11

      He’s the best listener while also being the best interviewer

    • @SaltyChip
      @SaltyChip Рік тому +5

      He actually is keeping dialog going and doing things that an interviewer should do, but he’s asking good, simple questions, and this guest is so good at talking and telling stories you don’t even notice Shawn even trying!

    • @jrev2284
      @jrev2284 Рік тому +2

      Ya, there's a special way to communicate with someone who has so many stories and is full of knowledge. I had a 94 year old neighbor and it was the same with him. Old timers like them are a gift and I was so happy to see Shawn show the proper care and respect towards him

  • @bw9412
    @bw9412 Рік тому +142

    Absolutely ZERO disrespect to the other amazing hero soldiers of men, but I feel this is the best interview. I'd love to shake Don's hand!!

  • @goaskmymom1350
    @goaskmymom1350 2 дні тому +2

    I'M NOT CRYING... YOU ARE!!
    How did we stray so far off course from this great man's generation?!?!
    God help us and God, please give this warrior much love and peace. 🙏🏼

  • @Kristengs
    @Kristengs Рік тому +184

    I listened to this one on Spotify and Wow! He is witty and sincere. I absolutely respect this guy and I appreciate this interview. I look forward to seeing his facial expressions on this video. Well done Shawn!

    • @ShawnRyanShow
      @ShawnRyanShow  Рік тому +65

      Sharp as a tack.

    • @30AndHatingIt
      @30AndHatingIt Рік тому +2

      Shawn, can you do anything about these spammers trying to pose as you, like the commenter above? They’re clearly trying to use your recognizability to cash out.

    • @taglor
      @taglor Рік тому +1

      I can only strive towards such stoicism as Don. My grandfather was a navigator on Lancaster's in WW2 and the most he ever said was "I lost a lot of friends". That sentence always stuck with me as it was the only time I ever saw the old sod (apart from our last wave to each other when I said my final goodbye at the hospital 15 years ago) show emotion. His 3rd wife (he married his 4th at 80) my Nanny (although not biological) told me just the one story about the War. She was in a cinema in Birmingham UK during a bombing by Germans. The roof collapsed and she was trapped in the rubble. As a young boy it seemed so exciting but as a man I just respect how calmly she told me. It was that old stuff upper lip. Now people would be live streaming rather than helping people out of the rubble. She also had a brother who passed away in the 1980's. He had a full military honour service. Later she told me he had been one of the first members of the SAS in Africa and had first been at Dunkirk then Arnhem and later D-Day. I so wish I had met him. One last story that nobody will probably see but at least the memory will live on in cyberspace is my mum told me how my grandfather always rode his motorcycle home after the pub and if the wooden gates were closed he used to just drive through them. He was usually drunk and did it many times. He lost my Grandmother with the birth of their second daughter my auntie. Being a WW2 veteran and being a widow must give him a pass for some of his behaviour 😊. Anyway, Saluting you Don and Shawn as ever. If I can get back on my feet (wife just left me and the kids) soon I'll definitely join on patreon or wherever the service is. Thanks for the free content in the meantime, it's not just enjoyable for the content but your team makes a top notch quality show.

    • @JediMentat
      @JediMentat Рік тому +1

      ​​@@ShawnRyanShowlove you Shawn. Thank you for shining a light on these heroes, as well as the vermin in power. You're a real patriot.

    • @RealBREAKtheArtist
      @RealBREAKtheArtist Рік тому +1

      @@30AndHatingItIt is Shawn though 😅

  • @josephkrause3531
    @josephkrause3531 Рік тому +117

    What an amazing guest. Perspective from almost 100 years. That man is still as sharp as a whip. Well done, Marine!❤

    • @robg8203
      @robg8203 Рік тому +3

      Right, it seems to me like he has another decade or two left in him! God bless him

  • @TheSlavepattern
    @TheSlavepattern Рік тому +104

    My grandfather served as a marine in WW2. I am glad he passed away before seeing the country fall into the state it is today. A great interview that brings tears to my eyes.

    • @witchywomen6650
      @witchywomen6650 Рік тому +3

    • @jscho8674
      @jscho8674 Рік тому +7

      Mine was a Chief Petty Officer on the Coral Sea. I was just talking to my Dad yesterday about how truly shocked my grandfather would be at the awful state of our country now. 💔

    • @badas45
      @badas45 Рік тому +4

      My grandfather was in the Navy on a aircraft carrier in the Pacific During ww2 .he passed away about 7 years ago at tne age of 98....I am glad he didn't see that last few years if he had it would have killed him

    • @mikegraves3673
      @mikegraves3673 Рік тому +1

      This is the man who should be leading this country as president. Not that thing that is sitting in the Oval Office now.

  • @jtmslk1
    @jtmslk1 Рік тому +92

    I could listen to Don all day. I am not American but it is so nice to see such loyalty for their country from a Distinguished gentlemen, Thank you for sharing

    • @Jerbo1125
      @Jerbo1125 Рік тому +5

      Me too my great grandfather was alive until I was in my early 20s and I wish I would’ve picked his brain a lot more than what I did. He was such a good man he was born in 1914

    • @toddlinder-flowman6687
      @toddlinder-flowman6687 Рік тому +2

      @@Jerbo1125you and me both brother. Mine was in the OSS, and it absolutely disgusts me that I spent all that time with him talking sports and such, and didn’t think to dig deeper into his service. When he passed, we found his DD-214. Just a list of dates and out to the side “Out of country - Destination unknown”.

    • @Jerbo1125
      @Jerbo1125 Рік тому +2

      @@toddlinder-flowman6687 God bless you and your family man. Hopefully this country gets straightened out for our kids sake, and hopefully if I ever have grandchildren.

  • @keithhenderson1470
    @keithhenderson1470 Рік тому +158

    Shawn I did not want this episode to end. What an honor to hear Don Graves story. I pray the hearts of Americans will turn back to being patriotic and loving our country.

  • @ivey3393
    @ivey3393 Рік тому +82

    I really appreciated how he didn't cut him off when he went on his tangents and small stories. Even in his old age he just loves telling these stories even if he can't quite hear or notice he's cutting you off sometimes. Much respect!

  • @jaccirose
    @jaccirose 2 дні тому +1

    Omg, I love this. I worked caring for the elderly. These feisty badasses were my favorite. I spent more money on them than I made. You're awesome, Shawn. So is Don. ❤😭😭😭😭😭

  • @stevegurgon
    @stevegurgon Рік тому +71

    US Army -Medic 1971-1973, you made Pastor Don Graves day Shawn. This, in turn, made mine. My Father in-Law just left us last year at 94 and he too was in the Pacific. God Bless you, your Team, and any members of the Greatest Generation that are still boots up.

  • @darrenwelsman2851
    @darrenwelsman2851 4 місяці тому +99

    Hi Shawn, I don't normally write a response, but this was pure Gold. I'm a brit from a military family, and I've spent too many hours pouring over details of the second world war. I've listened to countless interviews, but this was pure Gold. Sharp as a tack, with a huge laugh, but serious as a marine when it came down to it. Nothing but admiration and respect, for his love for God, Country and fellow serviceman and civilian alike..I love his patriotism and pride of his country and to see him tear up over that very thing, hit me hard. Things have got to shit soup here in batshit bonkers Britian, but there are still a few diehards left to stand against the craziness of this world..
    One scripture came to mind, when the righteous are on power, the people rejoice..
    Don't see much of that lately but one day.....❤

  • @davidherber4233
    @davidherber4233 Рік тому +137

    What a treasure of a man. Thank you for posting this. Don is a true American Patriot. This was my favorite show of all time. Thank you

  • @SeekTheTruth205
    @SeekTheTruth205 15 днів тому +2

    Omg! This is mind-blowing!!! This brought tears, my cheeks are soaking wet ❤
    Shawn this is awesome brother! Don Graves thank you for your service! R.I.P ,Thank you Shawn! Much love from Tuscaloosa Alabama!
    GOD BLESS THE USA! ❤🤍 💙

  • @richneedre48
    @richneedre48 Рік тому +89

    God Bless that man Don Graves!!🙏🙏.... if there is an American hero.....its him..100yrs old so well spoken and a great man....that was the most emotional episode ive ever seen..!! I wish him good health. America needs to hear him as long as he livesv! Thank yuo Shawn Ryan..again per usual an amazing podcast ! ✌️🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

  • @costelrusu9025
    @costelrusu9025 Рік тому +93

    I’ve never listened to anyone like I have this man. 2+ hours of pure truth and joy hearing him. A national treasure. I hate that there aren’t more like him around anymore. Breaks my heart for our future generation. God bless you sir. May god give you many more years of health and happiness so you can keep us informed. You’re a national treasure and 😢 I hope future generations to come get to hear your words. 😢

  • @Scope_Bite
    @Scope_Bite Рік тому +233

    I couldn't help but smile when Don sang "God Bless America" you can feel his love for the Stars and Stripes. Definitely felt the pride. God bless you Don and thank you for your service! 🇺🇸

    • @roycarlson0517
      @roycarlson0517 Рік тому +2

      ❤ beautiful voice he has. I was in total tears hearing him sing ❤ God Bless America 🇺🇸 😊

    • @nickjosephson3797
      @nickjosephson3797 Рік тому +3

      Remarkable. Brought tears to my eyes.

    • @Freight_Train
      @Freight_Train Рік тому +2

      Agreed. I began singing along.

    • @jalyrgaming
      @jalyrgaming Рік тому +2

      I sang along

  • @derekvance3511
    @derekvance3511 Місяць тому +4

    I had the honor of meeting Mr. Graves at the Marine Corps Museum a few years back. Seeing this gave me chills knowing that I had the privilege to speak with him and hear his story. A truly remarkable man that is as humble as he is wise.

  • @aaronmcmenomey4734
    @aaronmcmenomey4734 Рік тому +66

    Makes me miss my Grandpa. We lost him a few years ago. He served in the Pacific in WW2.

    • @JediMentat
      @JediMentat Рік тому +2

      I'm glad you had the pleasure of meeting and knowing him. That's a gift

    • @WeeJasperVetClinic
      @WeeJasperVetClinic Рік тому +3

      He saved Australia from being invaded. Yes we got bombed a few times but not once invaded because of your grand father

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому

      Me too

  • @kieransutter5902
    @kieransutter5902 Рік тому +116

    I’m an Infantryman in the Army. Listening to this gentleman speak about his experiences and what he went through, the friends he lost, the peoples he’s killed and how he’s lived his life since has made me regret anything I’ve ever complained about since I’ve been in the military. Listening to what Mr. Graves went through, It’s insane. Thank you sir, the last of a generation of warriors.

  • @jscho8674
    @jscho8674 Рік тому +103

    Don was such a joy. I could listen to him talk all day. Thank you Shawn, for preserving this wonderful man's life story. God bless you both. ❤

  • @kathleenmartin6123
    @kathleenmartin6123 23 години тому

    Hello Shawn,
    I know this was a.year ago, but I just began watching your show. Still, I'd like to say what a touching show. Especially for Don, I think it made him know America still has many many patriotic Americans who love this country & won't ever forget him & our fallen, what EVER war. Thank you, Don & all our service men for your service. May God bless the United States of America. 🇺🇸

  • @BaronOfHeid
    @BaronOfHeid Рік тому +139

    This interview needs to be preserved in a museum. Thank you both for your service and sacrifices!

  • @GladiatorBrig
    @GladiatorBrig 4 місяці тому +62

    Both my Grandfathers fought in WWII. Only met one of them. He was in the Navy. I had a lot of conversations like this growing up. His morality and principles will always stay with me.

  • @invasionmedia
    @invasionmedia Рік тому +87

    I've been a fan of SRS for years but this is by far the most inspiring and emotional episode to date. God bless this man, God bless the greatest generation. We ALL have A LOT to learn from Don Graves.

  • @MichaelDecker-w4m
    @MichaelDecker-w4m 5 днів тому

    What a great podcast. Shawn has a fantastic way of asking questions while letting the guests answer freely. Much respect to both men here. My great grandfather served in both world wars but unfortunately I never got to meet him. It was nice to hear stories of what the world was like back then and how lots of us wouldn't be here if it wasn't for our veterans. Rest in peace to Don Graves. L&R

  • @ryanpowell6115
    @ryanpowell6115 Рік тому +42

    They just don’t make men like him anymore. Honored to have listened to this. Very inspiring..Thank you S R!

    • @danc8458
      @danc8458 Рік тому +1

      they dont make blind warriors anymore, do you support the homless vietnam vets like this?

  • @jameslowe6253
    @jameslowe6253 Рік тому +63

    Don is a treasure, I'm Australian and my family are generational professional trawler fisherman and I would absolutely love to cook him some of our seafood here as we have some of the finest on the great barrier reef here, coral trout, red emperor, mud crabs, coral crabs, it would be beyond words sitting and having a Australian seafood feast with such a wonderful man! Thanks again Shawn and you are definitely invited brother! Love your work my friend!

    • @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul
      @TheSorcererAhrimanahsul Рік тому +4

      That's so kind of you Neighbor, it never ceases to amaze me of how many non Americans are so kind to our Vets. If no one else tells you I want to be the first thank You so much for such an act of kindness that you offered Him and I hope he reads your message and goes to visit someone so kind as yourself. Sorry this was so long but your comment was hella worthy of a genuine response from at least someone. May you and your family be prosperous and well!

    • @noname2-190
      @noname2-190 Рік тому +4

      ​@@TheSorcererAhrimanahsulexactly and that's how we should all treat our vets be it vets from our country of origin or our allied nations they all risk everything to keep our nations safe and preserve our way of life

    • @steventoal6594
      @steventoal6594 Рік тому

      God Bless You. I can imagine Don in his glory setting down to a fine sea food feast prepared with love and care that you our Australian friend can do.

    • @Yetified_Mayhem
      @Yetified_Mayhem Рік тому +2

      No better friend than an Aussie!

  • @Richyw0278
    @Richyw0278 Рік тому +33

    I am 28 and i wish we lived in a world where my genereation have people like Don. Respectful. A true hero and a man to be admired by all.
    Thank you Shawn for another great episode.

    • @loriburnip
      @loriburnip Рік тому

      I would love to live in a time like the 50s, if you could add our modern civil rights. I think that would be perfect.

  • @StarwaterCWS
    @StarwaterCWS Місяць тому +7

    In 1981 a Japanese man placed his umbrella over my head in the rain as this tall American sailor walked to the Tokyo airport. No words spoken, just from me, a simple thanks.

  • @collin5219
    @collin5219 Рік тому +220

    Massive respect to Shawn for flat out giving people permission to monetize this content as long as you tag him. That’s a truly rare gesture these days.

    • @naturesfinest2408
      @naturesfinest2408 Рік тому +11

      Thats how I got here.

    • @inboundira329
      @inboundira329 Рік тому +13

      Free marketing and people can make money so they put work in

    • @donramanayake1505
      @donramanayake1505 11 місяців тому

      Lol I think you might be a bit naive😂

    • @btappan88
      @btappan88 11 місяців тому +4

      @@donramanayake1505Accuse him of being naive but give no reasons? Sounds like you’re the one who is naive.

    • @donramanayake1505
      @donramanayake1505 11 місяців тому +1

      @@btappan88 I'd have thought it was obvious. But here goes - its naive to think that this channel which is run as a business is giving permission for other channels to use the material with the requirement that the channel be tagged, is not doing it as part of strategic product placement but as part of a gesture of good will.

  • @killerhaus2012
    @killerhaus2012 Рік тому +35

    The fact that he knew that speech by heart gave me chills

  • @TheFactsSpeaker99
    @TheFactsSpeaker99 Рік тому +122

    98 years old. A whole damn century. And he's so sharp, memory on point. Speaks fluently, almost flawlessly. A 98 year old man!
    He went through hell and came back to tell the story. He has seen the world and it's societies spin around.
    Yet he's so much sharper then current US President.
    What a hero!

  • @JennMiesse
    @JennMiesse День тому

    This is my favorite interview!! This man has lived through all the craziness and still loves life!! Make my heart happy!!

  • @COPPIPERGaming
    @COPPIPERGaming Рік тому +96

    We owe these men a debt that is impossible to repay. I wish I spent more time with my grandfather, I’m honored to have even met men like this.

    • @unsheckledamerica4809
      @unsheckledamerica4809 7 місяців тому

      The fraud ethnostate called Israel, owes these men a debt of gratitude

  • @NPC-hw9yo
    @NPC-hw9yo Рік тому +19

    My grandpa was a flame thrower in the 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps during WWII. I was never able to speak to him about it because he died when I was very young. This interview is very insightful and helps me learn what his contribution was to the war effort. Thank you both and God Bless!

  • @jnease205
    @jnease205 Рік тому +68

    This mans a gem. So self aware, even at this age. Sharp as a tack. More grit than any peer i can think of. His generation truly was, the greatest generation.

  • @just_nickk
    @just_nickk Рік тому +43

    I've been listening to this show for a long long time. This is by far the best episode yet. We need more men like Sir Don. What an honor to watch this episode.

  • @rubenvf9772
    @rubenvf9772 Рік тому +37

    Sitting for hours listening to this incredible hero, feels like having a blood transfusion. Thank you so much for your service and protecting our Country, Sir.

  • @kallyb1998
    @kallyb1998 Рік тому +61

    Overwhelming testimony from Don Graves. I had to stand in my front yard as he sang 'God Bless America'. What a soul, a voice, a hero, an American.

  • @losethealtitude7730
    @losethealtitude7730 12 днів тому +1

    Damn. What a humbling interview. Don graves is an absolute legend. A true American hero. Part of the greatest generation to have ever lived in my opinion and it’s sad we’ve lost that. Thank you Sean for bringing him on. More people need to hear this interview.

  • @jrocks1971
    @jrocks1971 Рік тому +14

    I can't get over how on the ball this man is at 98 years of age and Shawn was a perfect interviewer -- GREAT guest, excellent topics covered, straight talk from one of the Greatest Generation. Loved it.

  • @jasonsecord1482
    @jasonsecord1482 Рік тому +48

    Shawn, this was the best episode yet. Mr. Graves is a shining light in an increasingly dark time. God bless you both, and God bless America.

  • @joserodriguez2255
    @joserodriguez2255 3 місяці тому +95

    Wow I can't even imagine what this Gentleman went though in WW2. The way he speaks about our country really gives me chills. I hope we can get back to that for my children's sake and for everyone in this country 🙏🏽 great interview Shawn!

    • @Bloodborn420
      @Bloodborn420 3 місяці тому +1

      Agreed

    • @Free_thinker94
      @Free_thinker94 2 місяці тому +4

      I don't have kids... One day I really would love to have a few but if that day ever comes I would want them to have the best life, and have endless opportunities to follow their dreams. I'm 29 and since I think 13 or 14? I started to listen. Listen to what people are saying about each side.. my dad always told me before you make a decision on following or voting for someone, don't follow the crowd. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. And then decide what you want from others. Can't think about short term.. sometimes you gotta think what would be best for the long run. Not a year or 4 years from now... I mean like 20-30 years down the line when you have grandkids. My fear is that call me crazy or a conspiracy theorist but.. the select few elite people control EVERYTHING. Like media, and the news channels. How come they are all reading the same script and telling us what they want us to hear.. now think about this, now you hear about how much news is "fake news" right? If true (I'm sure it is 99% of it) now think about history. How much of the world history didn't actually happen the way they say it did. They could change history to be in certain people's favors. How would we know? We brainwash generation after generation with the same history over and over. All I know is things are not always what they seem and I'm just nervous that something big is gonna happen... Hopefully not in our lifetime or our great great great grandkids life but.. it almost feels like a bubble that's been expanding for years and one day it'll be so much and all hell is gonna break loose... But who knows lol.. take one day at a time and live life to the fullest

    • @buddygraham1486
      @buddygraham1486 22 дні тому

      @@Free_thinker94sounds to me that your inner conscience/spirit is telling you something. Google Chuck Missler and listen to him speak about the coming psalms 83 war. It’s actually taking place over in Israel right now. He also teaches on Romans which would be an excellent place for you to start if you want to know why we are here on this earth in the first place. Enjoy!

  • @JoshLane-yk7ht
    @JoshLane-yk7ht 13 днів тому

    Only 18 men coming down Mt. Suribachi... Talk about powerful. Thank you, Shawn and Mr. Graves. GOD BLESS AMERICA indeed!!!

  • @kaitlinprit
    @kaitlinprit Рік тому +45

    If I close my eyes, it's almost like hearing my grandfather speak again. He was a WWII Marine, passed away in 2016. I wish I would've asked him more questions.
    Great work Shawn!!

    • @noname2-190
      @noname2-190 Рік тому +1

      I pray to God your grandfather is at peace now I can only imagine the stories he had

    • @WoodysSteakHouse
      @WoodysSteakHouse 5 місяців тому


      Made me miss my granddaddy.