MEDAL OF HONOR: Leading the LAST Bayonet Charge in Vietnam | James E. Livingston

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  • Опубліковано 27 лют 2023
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    James E. Livingston was commissioned a Second Lieutenant in June 1962, following graduation from Auburn University. Early assignments included service as a Platoon Commander, Intelligence Officer, and as a Recruit Training Regiment Series Commander.
    Promoted to Captain in June 1966, General Livingston served as the Commanding Officer of the Marine detachment aboard the aircraft carrier USS Wasp, before joining the 3rd Marine Division in the Republic of Vietnam in August 1967.
    On May 2, 1968, while serving as Commanding Officer, Company E, 2nd Battalion, 4th Marines, Livingston distinguished himself above and beyond the call of duty in action against enemy forces during the Battle of Dai Do. His actions that day would lead to him being awarded the Medal of Honor by President Richard Nixon on May 14, 1970.
    James E. Livingston would serve on active duty in his beloved Marine Corps for over 33 years before retiring as a Major General on September 1, 1995.
    Interview recorded on November 5, 2022
    Video Credits:
    Interviewer - Greg Corombos
    Director of Photography - Jon Hambacker
    Editor - Daniel Taksas
    Learn more about the American Veterans Center: www.americanveteranscenter.org/
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КОМЕНТАРІ • 730

  • @ramsnover3599
    @ramsnover3599 Рік тому +5

    My uncle, Glenn Ross Urquhart Jr, KIA Da Nang Vietnam 2-5-69, recipient of the MILITARY MERET MEDAL from South Vietnam ...only 22 American Marines received this MEDAL, basically the MOH of South Vietnam....a soldier in the South Vietnam military had to be in their service 13yrs. minimum, and the act in question had to be witnessed by 3 or more and one had to be at least a captain, so very few got this award...Glenn smothered a pop mortar walking point escorting some high ranking South Vietnam officers to an intelligents point...received it postumasly , made possible by an officer who witnessed his action, God Bless you all.

  • @Edward.Rippett.
    @Edward.Rippett. Рік тому +636

    These are the type of men our youth need to look up to, not toxic rappers

    • @aaronstolz9936
      @aaronstolz9936 Рік тому +11

      Imperialists?

    • @zq7142
      @zq7142 Рік тому +14

      Yes your right but that ain’t gonna stop me from listing to gunna

    • @Edward.Rippett.
      @Edward.Rippett. Рік тому +37

      @@zq7142 I didn't say you have to stop listening to them. But when people start modeling their lives off of them then it becomes a problem

    • @da90sReAlvloc
      @da90sReAlvloc Рік тому

      Or demonic politicians like trump

    • @stevearkie5722
      @stevearkie5722 Рік тому

      Cowardly rapper would dare enter hell like a Marine .

  • @erics362
    @erics362 Рік тому +148

    It's noteworthy that he feels greater pride in having been a Marine than a Medal of Honor recipient.

    • @georgemcadoo8546
      @georgemcadoo8546 Рік тому +11

      That is a quality of every Marine. Us, not me.

    • @KaoretheHalfDemon
      @KaoretheHalfDemon Рік тому +3

      I love Marines.

    • @guitargod3545
      @guitargod3545 Рік тому +5

      A lot of medal of honor recipients hate the the thing. I've listened to quite a few of these and a lot of them have the sentiment of, why reward me when all I did was my job and I couldn't even do it good enough to save everyone else.

  • @scenepointjudge
    @scenepointjudge Рік тому +146

    "To be a Marine, you have to Marine every day."
    What a quote from this absolute legend.

    • @treadhead
      @treadhead Рік тому

      DEVIL DOG LEATHERNECKS , IN COMBAT ----- MESS WITH 1 --- MESS WITH THEM ALL , BANDING TOGETHER FOR THE FINAL OUTCOME ,
      *** AMERICA'S TIP OF THE SPEAR !!!

    • @MarkusBracey-cs5rm
      @MarkusBracey-cs5rm 2 місяці тому +2

      Out of 180 Marines 30 WALKED AWAY. My Father was part of that 30. Sylvester Bracey Sr 2nd Batt 3rd div 9th Marine RECON I HEARD THIS STORY AS A KID. THE BATTLE OF DONG HA. POPS said no matter how much we shot THEY JUST KEPT COMING THEY WERE EVERYWHERE WE HAD TO RETREAT. But they didn't get dong ha base. We were out numbered but WON THE BATTLE. Plenty 100s dead and wounded body parts Everywhere

  • @ramrod7922
    @ramrod7922 Місяць тому +5

    I know General Livingston personally. I met him while working as a service advisor at a car dealership and worked on his car many times over the years. One of the nicest people I’ve ever met, and so humble. You would never be able to guess he is a Medal of Honor recipient, if you didn’t already know before meeting him. He is the definition of a great man and I’m honored to have been able to shake his hand and speak to him on so many occasions. I look forward to telling my kids one day, when they are older and can appreciate what he did and what it means, about knowing a real-life hero. Thank you for your service/sacrifices, General Livingston. 🇺🇸

  • @ivanlowjones
    @ivanlowjones Рік тому +276

    I used to work with a guy who served in the Marines in the early 80's. His basic training battalion commander at Parris Island was a then LTC Livingston. I remember him recounting their full dress uniform inspection and seeing his CMoH medal on his dress blue uniform and him being saluted by every senior higher ranking officer who was present.

    • @alethiapotter9218
      @alethiapotter9218 Рік тому +21

      That is stupendous to hear. Makes me proudly tearful.

    • @waynefletcher9884
      @waynefletcher9884 Рік тому +7

      I served from 1982-89 and I also served a tour as a Recruiter (8411) We didn’t have any inspections where we wore dress blues. Back then only the guide wore dress blues. Secondly the commanding officer, officers and DI’s wore Alphas that is it ….so why would the lieutenant colonel be the only one wearing dress blues?! Your story doesn’t make sense or you’re just embellishing and didn’t realize it didn’t make sense to those of us that are in the know. My bullshit meter is always on mind you. Semper Fi

    • @ivanlowjones
      @ivanlowjones Рік тому +31

      @@waynefletcher9884
      It's been nearly twenty years since I worked with the guy so forgive me if I missed a few specifics. Secondly, I'm an Army vet so I couldn't tell you the first thing about which Marine uniform is worn on what occasion and in what particular setting. I do know my co-worker stated the first full dress uniform inspection they had as a basic training company, LTC Livingston was present in his dress uniform with his CMoH worn around his neck. My co-worker shared this story back in the early to mid 90's and it always stuck with me. I have no need to embellish his story in the least. Seeing this video about Gen. Livingston immediately reminded me of my co-workers story, so I shared my recollection of it. Perhaps you should lighten up Francis and accept my story as the respectful tribute for which it was intended.

    • @waynefletcher9884
      @waynefletcher9884 Рік тому +5

      @@ivanlowjones No harm brother! It’s ok my second oldest brother served from 1970-76 in the Army. My oldest brother was a Marine and I followed suit as you can see!
      I understand the essence as to what you were saying Dawg! Ooraah go Army! ✊🏽

    • @ivanlowjones
      @ivanlowjones Рік тому +8

      @@waynefletcher9884
      First you call me a liar and now you offer an "Oo-rah, Go Army"? I don't accept fake apologies.

  • @thomclark7641
    @thomclark7641 Рік тому +141

    LtCol Livingston was my Battalion Commander at 3rd Bn MCRD Parris Island in 1982. During our Final Uniform Inspection I froze when he stood in front of me as a mere recruit starring at a MOH ribbon was intimidating.

    • @joeosman2629
      @joeosman2629 Рік тому +10

      In 1970 at MCRD San Diego the officer in charge of the receiving barracks had an MoH. One of my junior DIs had a Navy Cross.

    • @bannaxe7338
      @bannaxe7338 Рік тому +15

      @@joeosman2629 old timers like you need to do interviews so new marines like me can gain some knowledge

    • @hawkgrunt4182
      @hawkgrunt4182 Рік тому +8

      H company, 3095 and my experience was exactly the same! Semper Fidelis brother.

    • @billysheppard6091
      @billysheppard6091 7 місяців тому +5

      Brother I was in 3rd battalion also grad.oct 1982.i remember he joined our platoon on a run.and during the cool down when you go under the shower.he removed his t shirt..the man was rail road stitched scars on his back.i took a brief glance and didn't want to stare..

    • @danielconniff5300
      @danielconniff5300 7 місяців тому +4

      @thomclark7641
      I was in Platoon 3020 and graduated June 18th. I felt the same way with him in front of me. He led the Commanding General's 10 mile run just before graduation, and I remember seeing his legs. Huge chunks were missing because of his wounds. It was an especially memorable honor to have been under his command.

  • @smellygoatacres
    @smellygoatacres Рік тому +88

    The part where he points out that it was a political loss, not a military loss was so spot on. Nailed it.

    • @michaelwallace7587
      @michaelwallace7587 Рік тому +2

      We never stopped the sapper attack at US Bases and never kept the VCI away from the people. And most battles the Viets set they table they choice where, when, and how long the fight lasted.

    • @YeOldeTowneCryer
      @YeOldeTowneCryer Рік тому

      The damned communists used our own media against us to stir up protests.
      US won all athe battles, how do you lose a war like that?
      Congress shut off the funding.
      Without food, fuel and ammo your army can't fight a war. They had to leave.

    • @loetzcollector466
      @loetzcollector466 Рік тому +4

      ​@Michael Wallace Yes. For political reasons. You think the military didn't want to push into North Vietnam? Use your brain man.

    • @TheVistaview1
      @TheVistaview1 Рік тому

      We lost.

    • @berean77
      @berean77 Рік тому +3

      We were capable of winning that war. But there was no way we would be able to win the peace.

  • @daviddixon1611
    @daviddixon1611 Рік тому +8

    Enlisted in the Marine Corps in 1980 and found myself at MCRD Parris Island I Company 3rd Battalion. The Marine Corps quickly indoctrinates recruits into its history and culture. ANY war veteran is revered. ANY citations for Combat Bravery are more revered. At the time there were a few, but not many, combat veterans from Vietnam. Lieutenant Colonel Livingston was our Battalion Commander. Our Drill Instructors, who seemed to be impressed by few things were in awe of this man. He was in possession of The Medal. The Congressional Medal of Honor is not awarded for showing up to work.
    On several occasions Lt. Col. Livingston would "appear" during Physical Training Sessions. He gave no speeches; he barked no orders. He just got in the dirt with the lowly Marine recruits and suffered. We all wore shorts during structured P.T. One of Lt. Col Livingston's legs were a mass of scar tissue. He ran with a limp. He was not the most fit guy out there, but he was far from last. We were all very young and didn't have a long list of combat injuries. Once we did a PT Test practice session. (Pull Ups, Sit Ups, 3 Mile Run). The "old guy" looked to be in pain while running on that leg, but he finished ahead of middle of the pack. Keep in mind this guy was in Command of the whole Battalion. He didn't have to do a thing. He taught many of us that day what Leadership by Example really means. I'm still in awe. What he did on the Battlefield is 100 times more impressive.

  • @oldtruthteller2512
    @oldtruthteller2512 Рік тому +34

    Anyone who's ever been in combat will understand the absolute chaos that ensues when the lead flies. It's hell on everyone, especially the NCOs and Corpsman. Officers like this Marine are true leaders and trying to keep up with it all and focus on a fluid situation is a special hell.

    • @davidsollinger8886
      @davidsollinger8886 11 місяців тому +1

      Men that excel under pressure, I couldn't imagine but especially while being shot at relentlessly for hours in a situation of live or die, are men you respect and don't go poking at.

  • @markadams2907
    @markadams2907 Рік тому +3

    I am not a Vietnam veteran, but I have been saying for years that we did not lose that war; we just didn't win in the sense that the average mind views winning. It is such an honor to hear this hero describe what I've been saying ..US Forces NEVER lost a single solitary major battle of that war. And even with the inflated body count the NVA/VC lost more soldiers (with all due respect) and the US chose to leave Vietnam. The politicians did not get what they wanted...that was the loss.
    Vietnam Veterans: stand tall with your heads held high, I for one salute you!

  • @mehmedii7594
    @mehmedii7594 Рік тому +8

    Seen him here in Charleston in his awesome red corvetter with MOH plates. Right behind him in the starbucks line.

  • @codyhilton1750
    @codyhilton1750 Рік тому +22

    Once a Marine Always a Marine. Semper Fi!

  • @phil4483
    @phil4483 Рік тому +24

    This man is a well-known Marine Corps legend.

  • @KCODacey
    @KCODacey Рік тому +5

    It was my 2nd year out of medical school when I met then LCOL James E. Livingston, USMC. I was assigned to be the Battalion Surgeon of Headquarters Co, 2nd Marine Division at Camp Lejeune, NC. One day I walked into my office & LCOL Livingston was seated there, waiting for me. Apparently I was late because he shot out his arm & very purposefully looked at his wristwatch. I was a wet-behind-the-ears Navy LT. I didn't know anything about the man except this: this guy was a no-nonsense Marine. I addressed his concerns, all the while profusely apologizing for my tardiness. I saw him a few more times after that. He was always a ram-rod straight Marine except for a brief few seconds when I once asked him to explain what he had done in Vietnam to earn his MoH. He softened ever so slightly & I swear I saw a tear briefly form in one eye, & then LCOL Livingston was back in the room.
    A few decades later I received a package from the WW2 Museum in New Orleans. It was a purchase from their gift shop & they used a recycled box. On that box was MGEN Livingston's name and address. I still have that box & cherish it as a highly valued memento.

  • @SSgt-
    @SSgt- Рік тому +18

    James Livingston was my battalion CO when I went to Parris Island in the fall of 82.

    • @brianwade8649
      @brianwade8649 Рік тому

      Only 35 of 180 walked away. Was that considered a success? Seems like a very high loss rate.

    • @SSgt-
      @SSgt- Рік тому +1

      @@brianwade8649 a direct assault on fortified positions is high risk just look at many of the battles in the Pacific theater of WW2. I will not second guess MGen Livingston’s battle plans that day since I was 4 years old at the time. I never meet a Marine who had anything negative to say about him although they may exist.

    • @bradr2142
      @bradr2142 Рік тому +2

      @@brianwade8649 you missed what he said they killed 500+ nva and Vietcong. 5 to 1 maybe ratio. We had alot wounded.

  • @stubaker2574
    @stubaker2574 Рік тому +5

    Im an army vet(101st Airborne) and this man I would never call a "Jarhead" that was for barroom dancin'!! but Leatherneck maybe, but he knew to go toward the fight and not go back and let them deal with it..nowadays if a unit comes under fire they want to retreat before anyone gets shot..not everytime but much to many times..makes me wonder who taught it to them...the media is an enemy sometimes...I salute this man...lost to many but war is hell..

  • @BlueWaterSTAX
    @BlueWaterSTAX Рік тому +151

    God Bless our heroes. Those Vietnam veterans are tough as nails. Thanks again 👍

    • @mattysee24
      @mattysee24 Рік тому +1

      This guy sent 145 young men to their deaths on a suicide mission. I'm sure he had no choice but damn

    • @boxelderinitiative3897
      @boxelderinitiative3897 Рік тому +3

      @@mattysee24 And most of them died for nothing

    • @nychris2258
      @nychris2258 Рік тому

      They lost.. and it was a pointless war.

    • @CrossOfBayonne
      @CrossOfBayonne 8 місяців тому +1

      Upmost respect and Semper Fi

    • @cyclone8974
      @cyclone8974 3 місяці тому

      @@nychris2258 It wasn't pointless. It was to stop the communists from taking over South Vietnam. Ho Chi Minh killed hundreds of thousands of civilians in North Vietnam a Million fled to South Vietnam. They went on to do the same thing in South Vietnam. Millions fled after the war.

  • @robertrice5703
    @robertrice5703 Рік тому +23

    Twenty years, retired USAF. He is what a true Leader is. I salute you, sir!

  • @rn2cro03
    @rn2cro03 Рік тому +6

    That man is sharp as a tack. Semper fidelis!

  • @grobsop6688
    @grobsop6688 Рік тому +62

    The epitome of a role model

  • @TRockett55IRISH
    @TRockett55IRISH Рік тому +30

    Im the son of a Canadian USMC Vietnam veteran who served two tours 67-69 with the 1st Marine Division I have the utmost respect for that generation and hearing this gentleman's story was just humbling to listen to him .

    • @jameswells554
      @jameswells554 Рік тому +6

      Your Father is an unsung Hero; as are all our Canadian brothers who served in Vietnam. Sadly too few know of their bravery and sacrifice.

    • @CatsAgainstCommunism
      @CatsAgainstCommunism Рік тому +2

      Trevor, smokes lets go

    • @TRockett55IRISH
      @TRockett55IRISH Рік тому +2

      @@jameswells554 appreciate that comment Mr. Wells unfortunately what you said is so true its never talked about just how many Canadians fought and died alongside their American brothers and sisters in that war . Sir I've always been proud and honoured to be his son but I never knew what he truly went through until I enlisted and deployed 4 times myself I understood at a higher level what it was like for him and yet I still wont compare what I went through to what he did . Again thank you sir for that comment.

    • @jameswells554
      @jameswells554 Рік тому +2

      @@TRockett55IRISH my Dad is a Nam Vet, and I always made sure to tell those old guys "Welcome Home" when they greeted us when we returned from Deployments. They would just give a shy smile, nod, and say thanks; sometimes we'd even hug. Those Men deserve better than they received.

  • @Zeekstuff
    @Zeekstuff Рік тому +51

    I've had the pleasure of meeting General Livingston a few times. My grandfather lead the attack on Dai Do and was wounded. If you want to see a complete documentary on this battle look up the show Against the Odds: The Bastards of Dai Do.

    • @ferallion3546
      @ferallion3546 Рік тому +6

      What an honor that must have been. I’ll check out that doc. Thx for the lead.

    • @alethiapotter9218
      @alethiapotter9218 Рік тому +2

      Thank you for the information about the history.

    • @antonkrieg3708
      @antonkrieg3708 Рік тому +1

      I'll have a look at that.

    • @kevinnummi3154
      @kevinnummi3154 Рік тому +2

      Great book by best Vietnam War author, Keith Nolan

    • @Zeekstuff
      @Zeekstuff Рік тому +4

      @@ferallion3546 yes, my grandfather is Brig General Weise and is interviewed in that show I mentioned. We have been trying for the past 15 + years to get a movie made about this. They essentially stopped a second Tet offensive. This battle was 10,000 NVA vs 750 Marines.

  • @WETHEPEOPLEUSMC
    @WETHEPEOPLEUSMC 5 місяців тому +3

    At the time, Lt. Col. Livingston was my battalion Commander with 3rd Battalion MCRD Parris Island. What an honor it was to have this man do my final inspection before graduation from boot camp in Feb. 1983...
    3rd Bat.
    H Co.
    Plt. 3016
    OOH-RAH!!

  • @timp3035
    @timp3035 Рік тому +77

    At a loss for words! Gods speed to our Vietnam Vets!

    • @boxelderinitiative3897
      @boxelderinitiative3897 Рік тому +1

      They lost

    • @nicholaswilson2761
      @nicholaswilson2761 Рік тому

      @@boxelderinitiative3897 One day you won’t be 14 anymore and you’ll look back on making comments like this one and be embarrassed for yourself.
      Either that, or you’re just an asshole.
      Not even going to get into the “they” lost argument. Military loss =\= political loss.

    • @ammocache6879
      @ammocache6879 Рік тому +1

      @@boxelderinitiative3897 nope

    • @boxelderinitiative3897
      @boxelderinitiative3897 Рік тому +2

      @@ammocache6879 Yep

    • @ammocache6879
      @ammocache6879 Рік тому +3

      @@boxelderinitiative3897 I would suggest you read "A Bright Shining Lie: John Paul Vann and America in Vietnam"
      by Neil Sheehan; Little hard to get into for the first couple of chapters, but a good read. My father served in Vietnam and most of leadership figures (boy scouts, church, explorers, and friends) were vets. Why do you think it took so long to take Saigon after the peace accords? The NVA and Viet Cong were decimated. It took years to rebuild their army.

  • @joeldavis5546
    @joeldavis5546 Рік тому +5

    It was a pleasure to serve with you Sir. Sempre Fi General!!!

  • @stevenstrother7129
    @stevenstrother7129 Рік тому +43

    I wish everyone in this country could hear those closing statements. Thank you for your service.

  • @danielreichert2025
    @danielreichert2025 Рік тому +17

    Men like this are far and few between. This marine is a human tank to withstand a hit from a.50 . Bravery asks him for advice.

  • @mgunny05
    @mgunny05 Рік тому +89

    I was a SSgt in 1984-April 1985 I served with Colonel Vargas at the 7th Marines, the other MOH awardee of the battle of Dai Do. Down to earth superb leader of Marines he was. And I heard about General Livingston from Marines who had served with him. Another superb leader of Marines they all said..”he cared about his Marines”. Listening to Colonel Vargas at the “Mess Night” we had Dai Do WAS a ferocious close quarter battle. And General Livingston was right, the military did NOT lose that war. The POLITICIANS/POLITICS did. The Vietnam Vets are STUDS, answered the call to their country whether voluntarily or drafted, they fought like the MEN and WOMEN they were. They all were HONORABLE and HEROES. 🫡🫡🫡👏👏👏🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺🍺!

    • @runtoth3abyss
      @runtoth3abyss Рік тому

      Look man ignoring the politics of a situation is a key way militaries have started wars with failing strategy from the beginning. Same thing happened with Bush starting the war on terror. We learned nothing from Vietnam

    • @clarencelafuentes5331
      @clarencelafuentes5331 Рік тому +3

      Just as with the Rhodesian Light Infantry.
      Similarities are numerous.

    • @augieb4610
      @augieb4610 Рік тому

      Semper Fi Staff Sargeant !! I was a Corporal Bravo Co. 1/7 .....

  • @laurenced2916
    @laurenced2916 Рік тому +16

    E. Michael Helms was a Marine in the battle of Dai Do his book is called Proud Bastards

    • @KenHelms-uu6vv
      @KenHelms-uu6vv 4 місяці тому +4

      My brother E. Michael Helms was one of the Marines there, wasn’t one of the 35 Marines to walk away. He did survive but was very seriously injured.

  • @aighti
    @aighti Рік тому +7

    A few thing the enemy were afraid of: napalm, tigers, and this man's low voice in the distance

  • @2dAnglicoSix
    @2dAnglicoSix Рік тому +5

    Greetings General Livingston! Among his few staff assignments, Gen Livingston was the Deputy Director of the Joint Staff , the Pentagon , J-3 (Operations) within the National Military Command Center (NMCC). I had the unique honor of serving with him and having him promote me to to the rank of Lieutenant Colonel of Marines. Gen Livingston is ‘spot-on’ in being the best Marine you can be on a daily basis. Semper Fi, General! LtCol Regan, USMC(Ret)

  • @dootybop9750
    @dootybop9750 Рік тому +26

    This is a true American patriot. Proud and grateful to be from the best country in the world. Thank you for your service James E. Livingston you will be in my and my families prayers.

  • @Ripper0352
    @Ripper0352 Рік тому +9

    Oooh-rahh Sir, you're a great inspiration

  • @seancronin4010
    @seancronin4010 Рік тому +12

    He's a reminder of how great we can be.

  • @radamson1
    @radamson1 Рік тому +7

    I was in Fox company 2/4 at Dia Do. We had been pinned down and had NVA on us from the start. When the story of Dia Do is told they leave us out. But we were there and we fought every second of the time.

    • @ernestoherrera2755
      @ernestoherrera2755 Рік тому

      Why do you think they leave y’all out?

    • @radamson1
      @radamson1 Рік тому +1

      @@ernestoherrera2755 I think it is two-fold first we were pinned down away from any reporters or cameras. For the most part, we fought alone. Second, our CO is the only CO who received no medal. Tho he did a fantastic job.

  • @wb6162
    @wb6162 Рік тому +6

    Medal of honor winner. That's hard core man. Respect.

  • @rrussell9731
    @rrussell9731 Рік тому +18

    16:17 To be a Marine means to improve yourself every day.

  • @aaaht3810
    @aaaht3810 Рік тому +12

    "I wasn't worried about myself". Great leadership exhibited by this man.

  • @toddwheeler1526
    @toddwheeler1526 Рік тому +14

    Dear sir, your closing statement was so well put. Thank you sir for your leadership and the staunch support and care of all of the troops on and off of the battlefield. God bless you all.

  • @rsa9082
    @rsa9082 Рік тому +2

    To whom ever is responsible for capturing the stories from these men.
    Thank you from the bottom of my heart
    I during my life took care of some of our “boys” as a home health aid. I got to hear snippets of their experiences from a different world.
    Thank you to all the men and women that hold the pride of our flag 🇺🇸 dear. Thank you for ALL you did and went through. Most of all thank you for sharing your experiences. I pray for all of you and I thank God you were where you were when you were needed. ❤❤
    From ; a grateful American lady 🇺🇸

  • @fancyultrafresh3264
    @fancyultrafresh3264 Рік тому +17

    What a sharp man. It was like being debriefed by him in the 70s.

  • @patrickfurlong9169
    @patrickfurlong9169 Рік тому +20

    The tactical decision this guy had to make on the fly were remarkable.

  • @janlindtner305
    @janlindtner305 Рік тому +8

    Nothing like hearing the story from the horse's own mouth. Semper fidelis. Well done, keep documenting.

  • @richwicklund9001
    @richwicklund9001 Рік тому +5

    General Livingston should have finished as the Commandant of The Marine Corps. He was that good of a leader. That said, he also didn't want to deal with the politics.

  • @Gunsandfun1961
    @Gunsandfun1961 Рік тому +5

    Balls of steel..... thanks for your service....

  • @allenjones2450
    @allenjones2450 Рік тому +10

    Every time guys like this tell their stories, they are seeing the whole event in their head. It must take a lot to tell it over and over, and you can't blame the guys that avoid the subject.

  • @xvsj5833
    @xvsj5833 Рік тому +58

    Thank you for sharing this experience along with your courage, bravery, sacrifices and service to answer the call to serve. 🇺🇸

  • @harleyshoaf4916
    @harleyshoaf4916 Рік тому +14

    Semper Fi,if we keep our tradition of training our recruits tough and well , we will always be respected .

  • @DarylW426
    @DarylW426 Рік тому +12

    "I always wanted to be a Marine." You certainly achieved your goal General, and then some. American Hero and forever a Marine. God bless you sir. Thank you for your sacrifice. Thank you to Americans Veterans Center for this interview.

  • @bobgrewe988
    @bobgrewe988 Рік тому +10

    Good for him. I love his closing words. We lost the war because of Washington. How true.

    • @georgemcadoo8546
      @georgemcadoo8546 Рік тому

      Gives you an inkling of how long ago Democrats climbed into the pockets of Communists. Every Marine, Sailor, Airman, and Soldier in Viet Nam was a Hero. I know, because I was there, from 20 December, 1966, to 10 August, 1968, and I sent medevac birds to recover the wounded and the remains of the dead. Dai Do was just one of the horrific battles that pitched outnumbered Marines or Soldiers against what some might think overwhelming odds. Semper fidelis General. Welcome Home Brother.

  • @westxranchin
    @westxranchin Рік тому +3

    Now he’s the definition of a “Tough old cod”

  • @markrowley8073
    @markrowley8073 Рік тому +9

    As a Marine myself I can’t feel any more pride for our Corps this is once again a testament as to why there will always be a USMC 💪

  • @jojoemcgeejoe457
    @jojoemcgeejoe457 Рік тому +5

    You start out in a company of 180 Marines. You overrun a bunker complex in brutal fighting and only 35 Marines left standing. So, what do you do? See another fight and go join it.
    That right there. That's Uuhraa! to the Semper Fi!

  • @pedromunozdones7869
    @pedromunozdones7869 Рік тому +24

    Courage and Strength in the person, and character of this Gentleman Warrior. A true Professional Officer, and Leader of US Marines. An example worthy of emulation. Thanks for sharing your experience, Sir.

  • @stevepeppers560
    @stevepeppers560 Рік тому +3

    My battalion commander, 3rd battalion indigo company. Shook my hand during our graduation. I hadn't a clue at the time. Semper Fi sir.

  • @anlerden4851
    @anlerden4851 Рік тому +17

    Thank you so much for your service and lovely dedications to Our Beautiful USA Dear American Sir. Semper Fi usususususus......🙏❤🤍💙🇺🇲💪🏻👍

    • @globaladdict
      @globaladdict Рік тому +1

      So why do you support a draft dodger?

    • @georgemcadoo8546
      @georgemcadoo8546 Рік тому +1

      Rusty Megowan Which one, Clinton, Bush, or Biden.

  • @Bill-yy3ck
    @Bill-yy3ck Рік тому +3

    I can't say any words that haven't already been said. I wish all our officers had the focus that this man had. Welcome home brother.

  • @colleenmonfross4283
    @colleenmonfross4283 Рік тому +8

    Love this man, totally exemplifies the best of the Marine Corps and the best of America!

  • @cep2311
    @cep2311 Рік тому +2

    I wish Dakota Meyer would take his advice about not having it define him as a Marine.
    Dude is a straight tool. This is what made us want to join. This man is a Marine through and through.

  • @thebeachguy6697
    @thebeachguy6697 Рік тому +1

    This man is a USMC legend. When I joined in 1995 we heard a lot about him. When I retired in 2015 he was still referred to. The leadership that I had in the Marine Corps was top notch and you really do not realize it until your gone. I had the privilege of being under the command of General Mattis another USMC legend. The times I had I wouldnt trade for anything in this world

  • @nathanashley5260
    @nathanashley5260 Рік тому +11

    Hell yeah sir. I’m sick the narrative that Vietnam was lost. Like Sir said” we never lost a major battle…” Thank you Sir!

    • @MrBUBBAKY
      @MrBUBBAKY Рік тому +1

      It was lost before we got involved, strategic misconceptions, political corruption in South Vietnam, and then a Failure by our Presidents and Generals to Follow the Science and Basic Principles of War.

    • @brunogingras798
      @brunogingras798 Рік тому

      Major battles or not, we lost the war even if we kill more with momentum. We call that history facts. And if you're sick with that, just consult a good psychiatrist.

    • @nathanashley5260
      @nathanashley5260 Рік тому

      @@brunogingras798 OK let’s use another metric then. What was the purpose of the war?

    • @brunogingras798
      @brunogingras798 Рік тому +1

      Conquering and submitting, killing and sometimes: defending things that have value. But we fight more for corporate interests. G. Smedley Butler: war is a racket, told us about that. Rarely are we fighting for any rights or justice. And the biggest battle is not abroad, look at our level of violence here and our degree of inequity in that nation...

    • @brunogingras798
      @brunogingras798 Рік тому

      Why do we have such a hard-on in front of our military? Are they the truth incarnated over everything else? This guy is surely courageous like no one, but that doesn't make him a genius or a guide. Only a man with a point of view

  • @burkejones8277
    @burkejones8277 Рік тому +6

    I met this man back on the 1990’s at a Mardi Gras ball in New Orleans. I didn’t know who he was, but I saw the Medal of Honor and went up and said hello and probably something stupid after that. But I was starstruck, being a former Marine myself.

  • @michaelshanahan4042
    @michaelshanahan4042 Рік тому +2

    I love listening to the old veterans. I am watching from the UK i hope you are proud of this gentleman because I am proud of them for you

  • @rjust2297
    @rjust2297 Рік тому +2

    Thank you for your service sir 😘 outstanding work.

  • @Me2Lancer
    @Me2Lancer Рік тому +5

    Thank you General for your honorable service and the sacrifices you made. Your dedication to duty could not be clearer. Our nation owes you a debt of gratitude.

  • @theallseeingmaster
    @theallseeingmaster Рік тому +7

    Wow! What a wonderfully capable man to have on 'your side'.

  • @maxannis9277
    @maxannis9277 Рік тому +1

    The selfless sacrifice of themselves to protect their brothers against overwhelming odds drives me to tears.
    Thank you for your service marine.

  • @skimmer8774
    @skimmer8774 Рік тому +4

    Talk about overwhelming odds. God almighty. Thank you for your service sir.

  • @brianpauley4831
    @brianpauley4831 Рік тому +22

    If I'd have sunk the Bismarck with a slingshot, I'd still feel inadequate compared to you. You were, and probably still are the embodiment of one outstanding U.S. MARINE ! Thank you sir, and I'd like to say welcome home, I'm glad you're back home.

  • @donaldsmith6814
    @donaldsmith6814 Рік тому +4

    Semper Fi! My salute to you, from a Sgt. E-5 who was there (Vietnam) a little earlier ( April 66 to Dec. 67). God Bless you & all the Marines who were with you in that terrible battle.

  • @PhD777
    @PhD777 Рік тому +4

    General Livingston, thank you for all you have done for our Country. God bless and keep you and yours.

  • @thesnapperlapper2559
    @thesnapperlapper2559 Рік тому +5

    Holy Cow, what a Leader!

  • @mojo6524
    @mojo6524 Рік тому +2

    if you ever need an example of a BADASS this dude is the poster child! SEMPER FI!

  • @ceemiselrooy889
    @ceemiselrooy889 3 місяці тому +1

    Made me cry like a baby. Praise God for our brave heroes.

  • @dimasgarcia-ut8fy
    @dimasgarcia-ut8fy Рік тому +1

    Proud to have served with (at that time) Col. Livingston, 6th Marine Regiment.
    Heck of a Marine!!!!

  • @Anon-greyman
    @Anon-greyman 8 місяців тому +1

    I will forever skip the Intro, NO SPOILERS! thank you guys for the important content.

  • @ColonelEmpire
    @ColonelEmpire 15 днів тому

    Major General Livingston was my Regimental CO as a Colonel in 1986. He is an outstanding Marine. He ran many miles for PT Sgt-Major Wade was our Regt Sgt-Major at the time. Both outstanding Marines. Oh the memories.

  • @marceaton3128
    @marceaton3128 Рік тому +14

    He should be in every high school telling that story. What a Devil Dawg. He’s right, damn politicians should stay out of it and let our Warriors do their jobs. Please tell him I said thanks for his service!

  • @garybraswell6571
    @garybraswell6571 Рік тому +1

    Thank you General, pray for our modern Corp

    • @MrBUBBAKY
      @MrBUBBAKY Рік тому

      He needs to talk to the Modern Commandant.

  • @wovfm
    @wovfm Рік тому +2

    "Oh, I was right in the middle of it," he said matter of factly after fixing bayonets and going hand to hand. There is little more admirable in this world than the steel eyed courage of this man. His measured telling is mesmerizing. One brutal heroic story. Thank you sir for your service above and beyond.

  • @truthwarrior4412
    @truthwarrior4412 Рік тому +3

    My father was a sergeant and squad leader in the 1st Marine division in the Korean War. I read an article about a North Korean colonel who had surrendered to the 1st Marine division who stated the following when interrogated: My men would tremble at the prospect of facing the UNITED STATES MARINES!

  • @mwhitelaw8569
    @mwhitelaw8569 Рік тому +6

    An absolutely inspirational generation of men to be trained by.
    The depth of first hand knowledge passed down was intense.
    Thank you general for your accounts of battle.

  • @mitchellculberson9336
    @mitchellculberson9336 Рік тому +3

    Thank tou for tour service to a FREE and grateful nation!

  • @parttysetzer6247
    @parttysetzer6247 Рік тому +2

    Each and every one of you ARE HEROES

  • @matthewpaul2216
    @matthewpaul2216 Рік тому +3

    My father was involved in this battle. HH company 2nd Battalion 4th marines.

  • @bessie1854
    @bessie1854 Рік тому +4

    I served with Jim Livingston on two occasions. At Parris Island (he was a LtCol) and again when he was Colonel assigned as the G1, 2nd MarDiv.

    • @daviddixon1611
      @daviddixon1611 Рік тому

      I was a recruit in I Company 3rd Battalion (3092) while LtCol Livingston was the Battalion Co. (I recounted a quick story here if you care to read it.) I didn't "know" him as I was only a lowly recruit and most of my attention was diverted elsewhere; (sand fleas and The Pit - LOL). But did get to see his leadership in action. And he made an impression. I envy you that you served with him twice. Thank you for your service!

  • @xipingpooh5783
    @xipingpooh5783 Рік тому +1

    I had the privilege of attending a speech delivered by Brigadier General Livingston in the fall of 1988. He is and always will be one of the finest leaders this country and the Marine Corps ever produced. Semper Fidelis 🇺🇸 1983-1989

  • @tq7884
    @tq7884 Рік тому +2

    Worked for this American Hero at Marine Barracks London - @16:18 you hear the mantra that he lives by.

  • @christopherparker2710
    @christopherparker2710 Рік тому +1

    Thank God for men like these!

  • @seanpadgett3053
    @seanpadgett3053 Рік тому +4

    So glad these are still getting uploaded. We need their stories documented and even more so in their own words. These are examples to follow.

  • @johnforr8883
    @johnforr8883 Рік тому +2

    Great Marine that was a leader by example. I served under him.

  • @richardpittman5291
    @richardpittman5291 Рік тому +1

    Sir Thank you for your service to our country General.

  • @AZ417G
    @AZ417G Рік тому +3

    His ending comments are excellent.

  • @ecleveland1
    @ecleveland1 Рік тому +1

    You can still see the metal in his eyes, and hear it in his voice.

  • @johngrogan7585
    @johngrogan7585 Рік тому +1

    Love this man.
    Thank you for everything.
    I really like his last comments

  • @Mtlmshr
    @Mtlmshr Рік тому +3

    Hardcore Marine through & through!

  • @Onlyusemesuede
    @Onlyusemesuede 5 місяців тому

    Every day this channel gives me a brand new account of a battle ID never heard of. Never stop doing what you’re doing and please continue to display the greatness of these men. God bless the American Veterans Center!!!

  • @bradr2142
    @bradr2142 Рік тому +5

    Thanks General. All your experience in the marines is what makes our country and marines so great. A b ig thank you.

  • @aaronjohn6586
    @aaronjohn6586 Рік тому +2

    His last words say so much and are so eloquent.