Curious about the realities of WWI beyond the trenches? "Not So Quiet on the Western Front" dives into the complexities of the war. • Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/64bg6BvW4OlrrtbgSpBtDz • Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/not-so-quiet-on-the-western-front-a-battle-guide-production/id1716885995 • Pocket Cast: pca.st/u7806qst • Other: rephonic.com/podcasts/not-so-quiet-on-the-western-front
Actually, it was less that he blamed himself, but rather it was the families of those who had died that placed the blame on him for getting lost. HOWEVER, when General Marshall and other Army professionals looked at what Whittlesey did, they fully approved of his actions. He was SUPPOSED to advance to a certain point and that he did. And when units on his flank failed to match his actions, he did what he could to maintain the morale of his personnel. Because of his actions, and the actions of the men under his command, he drew the attention of the German Army on his unit, meaning that other American units were able to push forward and eventually relieve the "Lost Battalion".
@@JamesThomas-gg6ilMaybe or maybe it was an accident? People can fall overboard at sea, or perhaps it was someone else on board with him who did it? We'll know all these on the day of Judgment
Private Oscar Ivan Potter, Coy H, 308th Inf, 77th Div, USAEF was my maternal grandfather. He fought in the Lost Battalion in the Argonne Forest, and survived the war. He married my grandmother some time in the 1920s, went to work at Sperry Mills (flour mill) in Spokane, Washington, raised three kids, and had a very long, very happy life. He never ever spoke of the war or his part in it to any of his grandchildren or his close friends. I only learned about his WWI army tour when my mother told me about him and the Lost Battalion some time after he died in the late 1970s. 5'6" tall, never weighed more than 150 pounds, loved his family, playing the ponies and taking a nip once on a while. Sweetest man I have ever known.
My step sister's maternal great grandfather fought in Okinawa, Wake Island etc. in WW2. The entire family learned about his exploits only when the Marines arrived for the funeral. Never mentioned his service not one time for 50 plus years, but his grandma asked when she was a kid, what the USMC chest was in the attic and never to open it.
Wow, I never knew the Major took his life. The movie "The Lost Battalion" with Ricky Schroder is worth a watch. I think it captures this event quite well.
Maybe or maybe it was an accident? People can fall overboard at sea, or perhaps it was someone else on board with him who did it? We'll know all these on the day of Judgment
@@benjaminguilatcoiv He left multiple wills and even instructions for the ships captain. He had documents at his house and office as well dictating what to do with this belongings. Those who knew him said it was not surprising either.
@@pickleman40 ok, i was basing just from the content of this video but from other comments and from yours i've heard that there were other details that were not mentioned in this video's account 👍
One thing that demoralized the Germans when US troops arrived at the front is that the Americans attacked like it was still 1914. Suicidally heroic attacks that all other armies had learnt not to do.
It didn’t demoralise the Germans at all…in fact far from it..They thought the Americans lacked intelligence…the Allies had warned them and they neglected their advice, the Americans incurred huge casualties, like they did in North Africa years later…what demoralised the Germans was fresh troops and in great numbers…get your facts right, before you big up the Yanks.
untrue. the US attacked in coordinated attacks against some of the strongest positions on the western front. There was no other way to take the positions and they used tactics that later became adopted as actual doctrine in the army. The biggest problem was a lack of experience at the divisional command level - the same thing the French and British suffered from.
In Sabaton's 'Lost Battalion' piece, the lyrics include, "Suffered heavy losses through the great war they stood strong. But the memory of the fallen still lives on." If taken into context with Major Whittlesey's life after the war, it has heavy meaning. Though lauded with critical acclaim including, promotion, honorary degrees, and even serving as a pallbearer for the internment of the first Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Whittlesey suffered from PTSD. He once said to a friend, "Not a day goes by but I hear from some of my old outfit, usually about some sorrow or misfortune. I cannot bear it much more."
“I remember the Argonne, 1918. The sounds of that battle still haunt me to this day. Machine gun fire from enemy lines. The sickening sound of bayonet tearing through human flesh. Soldier next to me firing his sidearm in desperation. All of this sounds still echo through my mind and is conducted by Death himself. It all comes together as music. A rhythm of death, a symphony of war.” -Unknown
Love the story of the lost Battalion, the 1919 reconstruction film, with the survivors playing themselves, is on UA-cam. Poor Whittlesey never got over it.
This is hands down the best military history channel. Incredibly well researched, superb animations, easy to listen to narration and no overbearing music. The bravery and losses are truly hard to comprehend, there were no winners, no glory, just many brave and fine young men’s lives wasted on all sides.
My utmost admiration and gratitude for all those brave souls who fought valiantly and honorably, and gave up their lives for something greater than themselves.
Those were brave men indeed, but they died for absolutely nothing which is why they are called the Lost Generation. WWI is the reason it took the US so long to enter WWII.
Great history video, thanks! I was looking up the 2001 film and noticed they also made it with the actual living veterans in 1919. One reviewer said this, "Finally, quietly and without warning, he took passage on a steamer to Cuba at around midnight of November 26th, 1922, after being asked by yet another passenger to tell him everything about that horrible experience, quietly climbed over the rail and slipped into the sea, never to be seen again. His demons had finally been silenced." Amazing.
The 77th was actually called the "Metropolitan" Division since most of the division had been recruited from New York City and the surrounding counties. They would change their name after they had units from Montana and Wyoming were added to the division.
Like the American version of Rorkes Drift. It never ceases to amaze me how much courage a human being can display against such overwhelming odds and then go on to win the day. Another great documentary. Thank you 🙏
Good morning, very respectfully, are you related to the battalion commanding officer of the 2nd Battalion 506th Infantry Regiment 3rd Brigade U.S. 101st Airborne Division? His rank and name was Lieutenant Colonel Andre C. Lucas. The 2nd Battalion took and fought for FireSupport Base Ripcord in the Republic of VietNam, in the summer of 1970. Sadly, during the evacuation of Ripcord, Colonel Lucas was killed in action. The late Keith W. Nolan wrote a historical account of the battle and siege of Firebase Ripcord entitled: Ripcord: Screaming Eagles Under Siege, Vietnam 1970. Sorry for the long question, history recount.
Amazing Work, I visited the pocket a few times in the last few years now, the story of the 77th is incredible and it doesnt leave me alone. Thank you so much for your research. :)
As a loyal listener of the podcast, I want to say that your documentaries are equally very interesting and well delivered. I join those here who say you have a very good and pleasant voice for documentaries, Dan.
I think you have to be 45 or older I think to know who Ricky Schroeder is lol. I'm 45 lol. You're right, great movie. I love the Cher Ami story attached to the movie..
My paternal grandfather was with the AEF, I'm not sure where he was stationed on the front, but I do know he was, at the time, the supply sergent for his company. One day he went back for supplies on his horse and on the return trip the horse decided to stop and eat some grass, my grandfather took exception to this and the U.S. Army in its infinite wisdom gave my grandfather spurs. He spurred the horse, which reared up and threw him and took off making it back to the company first. His company thought that a German sniper had gotten him before he walked back to their area, otherwise unhurt. He survived the Great War, went back home where he stayed in the NCNG got commissioned and served stateside during the Second World War. And lived to be just two months shy of 101 years of age in 1990.
Excellent episode! WWI is so overlooked compared to WWII. Actually, it was the same war with a 20 year gap. That is fodder for another episode. This battle and aftermath is a prime example of PTSD and the fact no one understood it. If there was doubt between the French and British high commands if the Americans would fight, the Meuse-Argonne campaign removed all doubts. The courage of US soldiers and Marines saved the Western Allies. RIP Major Whittlesey!
Never seen WWI as overlooked. Also the US soldiers and marines did not save the entente, as the Germans were stopped before the US forces reach any significant numbers. Now US did help save the entente, by being a major supplier of them throughout the war.
Good video. I've been to this place. It isn't far from the Sargent York trail. There is a little sign on the road marking the ravine. I climbed down and explored. The Americans were surrounded by high ground they were really in a hopeless situation.
Wonderful account of this debacle, green US soldiers thrown into devastating battle just 5 weeks before the Armistice. Both my grandfathers fought in WW1. Major Whittleseys' suicide is just heartbreaking, he was a fine leader, and commanders usually suffer the most from survivor guilt.
Excellent video, Battle Guide team. Helpful maps. They really helped me visualize and better understand the battle. I didn't know much about the 77th Division. It was cool getting to learn much more about them. The pictures of the Argonne is helpful too. They complement the maps well. The LIDAR imagery was great too. I can't imagine the struggles and challenges that the American and French forces faced. Just listening about the defenses that German forces had, like the machine guns, barbed wire among trees, and terrain that is difficulty to travel through, was tough. I'd hate to have to go through that. I can't imagine how horrifying it must've been for American and French troops. Great discussion about the podcast. I love the podcast. I've listened to each episode thus far. It's wonderful! Dan, you and Dr. Spencer Jones do a great job! Kudos. Love how you often use LIDAR imagery in this video. Excellent voiceover for Lt. James Leak's words. It's sad how few members returned. Excellent summary of the battle and the struggles the Lost Battalion faced. Horrifying how they were fired on by fellow troops. I know it was due to inaccurate coordinates, but again, cannot imagine the horror of being fired upon by both sides (especially being fired on from fellow troops). The Lost Battalion faced stark odds. Yet, as Dan mentioned, they prevailed. It's sad how many men in the Lost Battalion died too. It was cool to learn about Hollingshead and Prinz's friendship. I too wonder what happened to Prinz. I had learned about Whittlesey before, but it breaks my heart each time I hear about what he went through (and the pain he felt within) and how he was never seen again after getting on deck. Excellent work! Kudos.
@@BattleGuideVT My pleasure! :) I appreciate your content and learn a lot from your podcast and videos. If I remember correctly, there will be a WWII podcast too, right? Take care.
Imagine Hollingshead being such a stud that the German officers letter requesting the battalions surrender was more about Hollingshead being a stand up man than the actual surrender.
what an honorable letter written by the Germans absolving Pte Hollingshead of any betrayal to his country! such truth and honour are sadly rare in today's wars and politics
It's called Ft. Benning. Home of the United States Infantry. I'm a graduate of that school 1979. And The Ranger School plus Airborne School. Took my boards there to get my scroll for 1stBn 75th Infantry, The Ranger Regiment. Don't care what they call it now, it will always be Ft. Benning for those that attended. Cheers from a former Ranger
when we first got into Baghdad we had to fight house to house in some sectors, which was terrible but I couldnt imagine trench warfare..War is truly hell, but that would be further down the route deeper into hell
Whittlesey had what we now called PTSD. He was rightfully lauded with medals, promotion, honorary degrees, and even served as pallbearer for the internment of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington. Sadly the mental anguish never left him. In a letter to a friend, Whittlesey wrote, "Not a day goes by but I hear from some of my old outfit, usually about some sorrow or misfortune. I cannot bear it much more."
The US Expedition Force lost 14.000 men, but Major Whittlesey lost 'only' 200 outright from his 650 men. At least he did his job, when he was surrounded... Defensive battles are 'easier' to conduct... I wonder how many of the 14.000 soldiers died in wain before they reached the enemy trenches...? Machineguns and attacking soldiers in rows crossing no-man's-land don't mix well... I recommend watching 'Blackadder goes forth'. Some comments to General Melchett are spot on.
My relative CPL Frederick fought in this battle and died in it. I have a lot of information on this due to my relatives best friend surviving the battle. and I do own a few captured medals from this battle. I'll one day get a video put together about it.
If you have time look up the video about the 77th in WW2 made by the Fat Electrician, that unit was one of the most decorated units of the war; they are most famous for the battle of Hacksaw Ridge.
The Lost Battalion engagement was in the first week of October, 1918. 2 October, when they went in and took their assigned objective to 7 October, when elements of the 82nd Division broke through German lines to relieve them. Official records record only 550 men in the battalion. You mistakenly said "the 7th of June" , and I'm sure that you meant October.
"Far from their land as they made their stand A disregarded demand It's surrender or die and the stakes are high Live or die, who cal tell there's no goodbye With weapon in hand, they made their stand Still disregarding demand They would never comply, they would rather die They stood strong and the legend still lives on"
There is a movie with Jamie Dornan about a carrier pigeon. Maybe “Coming Home” or something similar. There is a monument to honor the pigeon at one of the cemeteries.
I left an Army flag and an American flag on a tree near Whittlesley's CP. Friends say they are still there. Returning to the pocket next year to replace them
There was a movie made about that called "The Lost Battalion " it starred Richard Schroeder the starred in "Silver Spoons" in his breakout role as an adult actor. He did an excellent job of portraying the major in charge of the battalion. You can clearly tell how the major felt emotionally. I strongly recommend that if you enjoyed this video catch that movie I most certainly enjoyed both.
I often ask myself how different the world would be today if all those poor young men didn't go to war and die you had many scholars and artists and extremely smart men that just wanted to get away and go on an adventure to experience something different and so so many of them never came home
Crazy how this was never turned into a film,I’d imagine the harrowing events would be crazy to see, and the attempted plea by the German officer to have them surrender
The 9 companies of the "Statute of Liberty" Division were mostly drawn from poor immigrant communities of New York City. Fortified with replacement troops from the American West, these soldiers held their position despite being surrounded for six days and suffering over 70% casualties.
17:30. Excellent presentation but the narrator stated the “7th of June” instead of October. I was impressed by the topographic depiction- I had never understood the layout of the battle before.
@@BattleGuideVT You know, I absolutely thought that is what happened. Thanks for responding- I just subscribed. Btw I create original LEGO designs for historical tanks and military vehicles on YT if you’re interested in that sort of thing.
77th also became famous in WWII. They were known for being the "old bastards" because their average age was over 10 years greater than all other army units. They were an army unit, but fought so well in the Pacific, they get confused as a Marine unit.
The 77th didn't become famous in their time, unfortunately. Like most US Army units in the Pacific war, they've been neglected until very recently because the Pacific has traditionally been considered the Marines' theater. The only reason people are crediting the 77th now is because of the Fat Election's video. But the 77th was just one of many outstanding Army units that people don't know about.
how did i not know whittlesey died right after the war wtf. end of the vid made me cry bc that man was regarded as such a hero but in reality he probably felt horrible about himself and guilty for the men that died in his battalion. an american war hero for sure, but also a reason PTSD and other war trauma needs to be taken seriously. rest in peace, major
Curious about the realities of WWI beyond the trenches? "Not So Quiet on the Western Front" dives into the complexities of the war.
• Spotify: open.spotify.com/show/64bg6BvW4OlrrtbgSpBtDz
• Apple: podcasts.apple.com/gb/podcast/not-so-quiet-on-the-western-front-a-battle-guide-production/id1716885995
• Pocket Cast: pca.st/u7806qst
• Other: rephonic.com/podcasts/not-so-quiet-on-the-western-front
Major Whittlesey never forgave himself for the heavy casualties his unit suffered. Historians agree none of it was his fault.
Actually, it was less that he blamed himself, but rather it was the families of those who had died that placed the blame on him for getting lost. HOWEVER, when General Marshall and other Army professionals looked at what Whittlesey did, they fully approved of his actions. He was SUPPOSED to advance to a certain point and that he did. And when units on his flank failed to match his actions, he did what he could to maintain the morale of his personnel. Because of his actions, and the actions of the men under his command, he drew the attention of the German Army on his unit, meaning that other American units were able to push forward and eventually relieve the "Lost Battalion".
He was so affected by the experience, he stepped off of a boat and drowned himself.
@@JamesThomas-gg6ilyes, on the boat coming back to the States.
@@JamesThomas-gg6ilMaybe or maybe it was an accident? People can fall overboard at sea, or perhaps it was someone else on board with him who did it? We'll know all these on the day of Judgment
IIRC, they found a note in his cabin addressed to Capt. McMurtry, his former executive officer. It simply read “take care of the boys for me.”
Private Oscar Ivan Potter, Coy H, 308th Inf, 77th Div, USAEF was my maternal grandfather. He fought in the Lost Battalion in the Argonne Forest, and survived the war.
He married my grandmother some time in the 1920s, went to work at Sperry Mills (flour mill) in Spokane, Washington, raised three kids, and had a very long, very happy life.
He never ever spoke of the war or his part in it to any of his grandchildren or his close friends. I only learned about his WWI army tour when my mother told me about him and the Lost Battalion some time after he died in the late 1970s. 5'6" tall, never weighed more than 150 pounds, loved his family, playing the ponies and taking a nip once on a while. Sweetest man I have ever known.
My grandfather commanded Company G, Lt. Sherman Eager
Salute from a fellow Spokane resident
My step sister's maternal great grandfather fought in Okinawa, Wake Island etc. in WW2. The entire family learned about his exploits only when the Marines arrived for the funeral. Never mentioned his service not one time for 50 plus years, but his grandma asked when she was a kid, what the USMC chest was in the attic and never to open it.
Thank You for sharing your Story!!
Wow, I never knew the Major took his life. The movie "The Lost Battalion" with Ricky Schroder is worth a watch. I think it captures this event quite well.
Great movie, and I think Rick does a good job of playing the Major.
Maybe or maybe it was an accident? People can fall overboard at sea, or perhaps it was someone else on board with him who did it? We'll know all these on the day of Judgment
Excellent movie.
@@benjaminguilatcoiv He left multiple wills and even instructions for the ships captain. He had documents at his house and office as well dictating what to do with this belongings. Those who knew him said it was not surprising either.
@@pickleman40 ok, i was basing just from the content of this video but from other comments and from yours i've heard that there were other details that were not mentioned in this video's account 👍
One thing that demoralized the Germans when US troops arrived at the front is that the Americans attacked like it was still 1914. Suicidally heroic attacks that all other armies had learnt not to do.
It didn’t demoralise the Germans at all…in fact far from it..They thought the Americans lacked intelligence…the Allies had warned them and they neglected their advice, the Americans incurred huge casualties, like they did in North Africa years later…what demoralised the Germans was fresh troops and in great numbers…get your facts right, before you big up the Yanks.
untrue. the US attacked in coordinated attacks against some of the strongest positions on the western front. There was no other way to take the positions and they used tactics that later became adopted as actual doctrine in the army. The biggest problem was a lack of experience at the divisional command level - the same thing the French and British suffered from.
They Learnt that Tactics from Us Canadians.
@@TheJonesJunkieboth statements could be true, right? Coordinated, suicidal attack.
In Sabaton's 'Lost Battalion' piece, the lyrics include, "Suffered heavy losses through the great war they stood strong. But the memory of the fallen still lives on."
If taken into context with Major Whittlesey's life after the war, it has heavy meaning. Though lauded with critical acclaim including, promotion, honorary degrees, and even serving as a pallbearer for the internment of the first Unknown Soldier in Arlington, Whittlesey suffered from PTSD. He once said to a friend, "Not a day goes by but I hear from some of my old outfit, usually about some sorrow or misfortune. I cannot bear it much more."
🎵🎶FAR FROM THEIR LAND AS THEY MADE THEIR STAND!🎶🎵
@@LOTR22090able A DISREGARDED DEMAND, ITS SURRENDER OR DIE AND THE STAKES ARE HIGH
@@LOTR22090able🎶THEY STOOD STRONG AND THE LEGEND STILL LIVES ON🎶
I was just at the site a few months ago, so this is a really great way of visualizing what we saw there. Great work as always!
Thank you!
Good to see you here! Always puts me in a good mood clicking on one of your videos and hearing "Welcome back everybody"
Me too a couple of years ago. Great to have this overview from @BattleGuideVT
“I remember the Argonne, 1918. The sounds of that battle still haunt me to this day. Machine gun fire from enemy lines. The sickening sound of bayonet tearing through human flesh. Soldier next to me firing his sidearm in desperation. All of this sounds still echo through my mind and is conducted by Death himself. It all comes together as music. A rhythm of death, a symphony of war.” -Unknown
Love the story of the lost Battalion, the 1919 reconstruction film, with the survivors playing themselves, is on UA-cam. Poor Whittlesey never got over it.
This is hands down the best military history channel. Incredibly well researched, superb animations, easy to listen to narration and no overbearing music. The bravery and losses are truly hard to comprehend, there were no winners, no glory, just many brave and fine young men’s lives wasted on all sides.
Thank you for your kind words!
My utmost admiration and gratitude for all those brave souls who fought valiantly and honorably, and gave up their lives for something greater than themselves.
Those were brave men indeed, but they died for absolutely nothing which is why they are called the Lost Generation. WWI is the reason it took the US so long to enter WWII.
Great history video, thanks! I was looking up the 2001 film and noticed they also made it with the actual living veterans in 1919. One reviewer said this, "Finally, quietly and without warning, he took passage on a steamer to Cuba at around midnight of November 26th, 1922, after being asked by yet another passenger to tell him everything about that horrible experience, quietly climbed over the rail and slipped into the sea, never to be seen again. His demons had finally been silenced." Amazing.
"amazing"... Yeah.. a severely troubled veteran takes his own life. So amazing...
The 77th was actually called the "Metropolitan" Division since most of the division had been recruited from New York City and the surrounding counties. They would change their name after they had units from Montana and Wyoming were added to the division.
WWII they were known as the Old Bastards, and on one island they were nicknamed 77th Marines.
Like the American version of Rorkes Drift. It never ceases to amaze me how much courage a human being can display against such overwhelming odds and then go on to win the day. Another great documentary. Thank you 🙏
Good morning, very respectfully, are you related to the battalion commanding officer of the 2nd Battalion 506th Infantry Regiment 3rd Brigade U.S. 101st Airborne Division? His rank and name was Lieutenant Colonel Andre C. Lucas. The 2nd Battalion took and fought for FireSupport Base Ripcord in the Republic of VietNam, in the summer of 1970. Sadly, during the evacuation of Ripcord, Colonel Lucas was killed in action.
The late Keith W. Nolan wrote a historical account of the battle and siege of Firebase Ripcord entitled: Ripcord: Screaming Eagles Under Siege, Vietnam 1970.
Sorry for the long question, history recount.
Amazing Work, I visited the pocket a few times in the last few years now, the story of the 77th is incredible and it doesnt leave me alone. Thank you so much for your research. :)
Thank you!
As a loyal listener of the podcast, I want to say that your documentaries are equally very interesting and well delivered. I join those here who say you have a very good and pleasant voice for documentaries, Dan.
We've been visiting this location for 27 years! Thank you for such a well presented and tastefully delivered video.
Great documentary, as always. Thanks for uploading, Battle Guide!
This is maybe my favorite WWI story. Theres a fantastic movie called "The Lost Battalion". Produced by Halmark. Starring Ricky Schroeder.
I think you have to be 45 or older I think to know who Ricky Schroeder is lol. I'm 45 lol. You're right, great movie. I love the Cher Ami story attached to the movie..
My paternal grandfather was with the AEF, I'm not sure where he was stationed on the front, but I do know he was, at the time, the supply sergent for his company. One day he went back for supplies on his horse and on the return trip the horse decided to stop and eat some grass, my grandfather took exception to this and the U.S. Army in its infinite wisdom gave my grandfather spurs. He spurred the horse, which reared up and threw him and took off making it back to the company first. His company thought that a German sniper had gotten him before he walked back to their area, otherwise unhurt.
He survived the Great War, went back home where he stayed in the NCNG got commissioned and served stateside during the Second World War. And lived to be just two months shy of 101 years of age in 1990.
"FAR FROM THEIR LAND AS THEY MADE THEIR STAND
THEY STOOD STRONG AND THEIR LEGEND STILL LIVES ON!
This channel is great. The drone shots, maps, historical photographs and videos, and first-hand accounts are all remarkable
Thank you very much!
@cmn6772 Nice flag! Lt. James Leak was from Texas.
There is a very good movie of the lost battalion highly recommended
If it's the one with Ricky Schroeder, I've seen it. It's a good movie and it let me know an episode of WWI I had previously ignored.
I’ve owned The Lost Battalion movie for 21 years. It’s an excellent movie.
@Isen502 Same, pretty well done. There are a few inaccuracies, but otherwise, it's a good movie.
Great Movie
This is such a great channel … thank you!
Always look forward to new videos ❤ thanks a bunch , great job
Thank you!
Excellent episode!
WWI is so overlooked compared to WWII. Actually, it was the same war with a 20 year gap. That is fodder for another episode.
This battle and aftermath is a prime example of PTSD and the fact no one understood it.
If there was doubt between the French and British high commands if the Americans would fight, the Meuse-Argonne campaign removed all doubts. The courage of US soldiers and Marines saved the Western Allies.
RIP Major Whittlesey!
Overlooked by countries that only jumped in on the last couple months of the war. But for the rest of us it's still very much remembered.
Never seen WWI as overlooked. Also the US soldiers and marines did not save the entente, as the Germans were stopped before the US forces reach any significant numbers. Now US did help save the entente, by being a major supplier of them throughout the war.
The things they had to do and the tremendous pain of seeing your fellow soldier die next to you really makes it hard for me not to get emotional 😢
Excellent video, thank you for making it.
What a great video. Fantastic job on a truly sobering tale. Thank you for bringing this to us!
Good video. I've been to this place. It isn't far from the Sargent York trail. There is a little sign on the road marking the ravine. I climbed down and explored. The Americans were surrounded by high ground they were really in a hopeless situation.
Damn well done - strong script and narration with appropriate images
Wonderful account of this debacle, green US soldiers thrown into devastating battle just 5 weeks before the Armistice. Both my grandfathers fought in WW1. Major Whittleseys' suicide is just heartbreaking, he was a fine leader, and commanders usually suffer the most from survivor guilt.
Thanks for the comment.
Another great video! Seeing the trenches was very helpful in understanding the fighting.
Deadly video and u have a great voice for documentaries.
Thanks for the kind comments.
Thanks for another excellent episode.
Thanks for watching!
My thanks for a remarkable video and well illustrated battlefield location.
Very well researched and presented. Thank you
The Americans didn’t view it as being surrounded, rather being in a target rich environment.
Great video guys,WOW, you guys to a awesome job!!!!😊
Thank you so much.
Excellent video. Thanks, Dan.
I was just at this site on June1 8th, Capt. Nelson Holderman is a local figure here in Orange County. Fantastic video!
20 years ago they made an excellent movie about this with Rick Schroeder as Major Whittlesey.
This was AWESOME! Subbed! Great channel! Geat job! ❤❤❤❤
Excellent video, Battle Guide team.
Helpful maps. They really helped me visualize and better understand the battle.
I didn't know much about the 77th Division. It was cool getting to learn much more about them.
The pictures of the Argonne is helpful too. They complement the maps well. The LIDAR imagery was great too.
I can't imagine the struggles and challenges that the American and French forces faced.
Just listening about the defenses that German forces had, like the machine guns, barbed wire among trees, and terrain that is difficulty to travel through, was tough. I'd hate to have to go through that. I can't imagine how horrifying it must've been for American and French troops.
Great discussion about the podcast. I love the podcast. I've listened to each episode thus far. It's wonderful! Dan, you and Dr. Spencer Jones do a great job! Kudos.
Love how you often use LIDAR imagery in this video.
Excellent voiceover for Lt. James Leak's words. It's sad how few members returned.
Excellent summary of the battle and the struggles the Lost Battalion faced.
Horrifying how they were fired on by fellow troops. I know it was due to inaccurate coordinates, but again, cannot imagine the horror of being fired upon by both sides (especially being fired on from fellow troops).
The Lost Battalion faced stark odds. Yet, as Dan mentioned, they prevailed.
It's sad how many men in the Lost Battalion died too.
It was cool to learn about Hollingshead and Prinz's friendship. I too wonder what happened to Prinz.
I had learned about Whittlesey before, but it breaks my heart each time I hear about what he went through (and the pain he felt within) and how he was never seen again after getting on deck.
Excellent work! Kudos.
Thank you very much for your detailed and complimentary comment. We are glad you enjoyed the content!
@@BattleGuideVT My pleasure! :) I appreciate your content and learn a lot from your podcast and videos. If I remember correctly, there will be a WWII podcast too, right? Take care.
Imagine Hollingshead being such a stud that the German officers letter requesting the battalions surrender was more about Hollingshead being a stand up man than the actual surrender.
Was listening to Lost battalion by Sabaton the other day, had this event fresh in the memory
The movie was outstanding. Ricky Schroder did a very respectable job of portraying Major Whittlesey.
untrue. He wasn't even close.
Your videos are so engaging. Thank you so much for all the effort you put into these.
This was an excellent presentation...thank you...
it wasn't until the Vietnam war that the Military began to understand the effects of combat on the human mind.
Went there when stationed in Europe. Very moving visit.
Incredible story I live very close to mount sterling never heard of this man but I’m glad I did!
"They would never comply they would rather die, broke through the blockade till they were finally saved." Sabaton "The Lost Battalion".
I enjoyed this video. Thank you for telling plainly and factually without trying to ham it up. Good job.
And in WW2, the pacific theater, the 77th Division became legendary
Yes well worth a video on it!
Check out the Fat Electrician's presentation about the unit in WW2.
Major Whittlesey was born in my hometown, and the house he was in, is a museum for the area.
Sabaton wrote a song about this called The Lost Battalion
what an honorable letter written by the Germans absolving Pte Hollingshead of any betrayal to his country! such truth and honour are sadly rare in today's wars and politics
The movie starring Ricky Schroeder was good.
That was a Great movie! I have it on Blu-Ray
Yes it really was
That movie was pretty good. I dig it
In Columbus, Ga, home of Fort Bennington, now Fort Moore, they named a significant Blvd for Whittlesey to honour him.
It's called Ft. Benning. Home of the United States Infantry. I'm a graduate of that school 1979. And The Ranger School plus Airborne School. Took my boards there to get my scroll for 1stBn 75th Infantry, The Ranger Regiment. Don't care what they call it now, it will always be Ft. Benning for those that attended. Cheers from a former Ranger
Excellent video.
when we first got into Baghdad we had to fight house to house in some sectors, which was terrible but I couldnt imagine trench warfare..War is truly hell, but that would be further down the route deeper into hell
casting Ricky Schroeder was spot on..the movie was enjoyable to watch..well produced and directed...
Great narration!
Thank you for your comment!
Whittlesey had what we now called PTSD. He was rightfully lauded with medals, promotion, honorary degrees, and even served as pallbearer for the internment of the Unknown Soldier at Arlington.
Sadly the mental anguish never left him. In a letter to a friend, Whittlesey wrote, "Not a day goes by but I hear from some of my old outfit, usually about some sorrow or misfortune. I cannot bear it much more."
Their defense occupied alotta German troops who would otherwise have been repelling the other assaults along the line.
The US Expedition Force lost 14.000 men, but Major Whittlesey lost 'only' 200 outright from his 650 men.
At least he did his job, when he was surrounded... Defensive battles are 'easier' to conduct...
I wonder how many of the 14.000 soldiers died in wain before they reached the enemy trenches...?
Machineguns and attacking soldiers in rows crossing no-man's-land don't mix well...
I recommend watching 'Blackadder goes forth'. Some comments to General Melchett are spot on.
By all means watch it because its funny, by no means watch it as a history lesson.
Little Ricky's movie of lost battalion is probably the best ww1 movie yet . Can I get an AMEN
My relative CPL Frederick fought in this battle and died in it. I have a lot of information on this due to my relatives best friend surviving the battle. and I do own a few captured medals from this battle. I'll one day get a video put together about it.
If you have time look up the video about the 77th in WW2 made by the Fat Electrician, that unit was one of the most decorated units of the war; they are most famous for the battle of Hacksaw Ridge.
Great piece!
The Lost Battalion engagement was in the first week of October, 1918. 2 October, when they went in and took their assigned objective to 7 October, when elements of the 82nd Division broke through German lines to relieve them. Official records record only 550 men in the battalion.
You mistakenly said "the 7th of June" , and I'm sure that you meant October.
Yes absolutely, our last video was on Omaha Beach so I just made a slip (writing this from the Argonne Forest!)
WW1 content. Hell yeah!
Superb documentary on an historic event we had never heard! Thank you! 26 June 2024, 20:50 hours CST USA
Would love to see you do a video about Otto Skorzenys raid to break Mussolini out. An amazing story and one that I'd love to see you cover it.
My Great Uncle Frances Yost in the 77th Division was killed in this battle. Oct 10.
Thank you for your great uncle service
please do one about belleau wood!
If hell exists it cannot be any worse than this -- new story for me , Thank you
We are glad you enjoyed the video!
Hell is infinitely worse then that. Read the Bible for ultimate answers. Jesus Saves.
Incredible story 😊
I'm here because of Sabaton. Great video. Well explained.
i loved the movie!
Whatever did happen to Whittlesey. I hope he found peace. A legend and a hero, along with his men.
"Far from their land as they made their stand
A disregarded demand
It's surrender or die and the stakes are high
Live or die, who cal tell there's no goodbye
With weapon in hand, they made their stand
Still disregarding demand
They would never comply, they would rather die
They stood strong and the legend still lives on"
Very good report and no AI voice. Nice.
War destroys not only the body but the souls of good men. RIP 77th.
There is a movie with Jamie Dornan about a carrier pigeon.
Maybe “Coming Home” or something similar. There is a monument to honor the pigeon at one of the cemeteries.
I left an Army flag and an American flag on a tree near Whittlesley's CP. Friends say they are still there. Returning to the pocket next year to replace them
There was a movie made about that called "The Lost Battalion " it starred Richard Schroeder the starred in "Silver Spoons" in his breakout role as an adult actor. He did an excellent job of portraying the major in charge of the battalion. You can clearly tell how the major felt emotionally. I strongly recommend that if you enjoyed this video catch that movie I most certainly enjoyed both.
In 2001, Rick Schroeder stared in the movie "The Lost Battalion." Great movie.
I often ask myself how different the world would be today if all those poor young men didn't go to war and die you had many scholars and artists and extremely smart men that just wanted to get away and go on an adventure to experience something different and so so many of them never came home
Surrounded? You mean target rich environment
Capt. Charles W. Whittlesey, medal of honor recipient...
Crazy how this was never turned into a film,I’d imagine the harrowing events would be crazy to see, and the attempted plea by the German officer to have them surrender
There were at least two films. One from about 1920, a silent movie. Then another movie, I believe, from 2001.
Great video!
The 9 companies of the "Statute of Liberty" Division were mostly drawn from poor immigrant communities of New York City. Fortified with replacement troops from the American West, these soldiers held their position despite being surrounded for six days and suffering over 70% casualties.
17:30. Excellent presentation but the narrator stated the “7th of June” instead of October. I was impressed by the topographic depiction- I had never understood the layout of the battle before.
Yeah just a mistake on my part, last video was a D-Day one!
@@BattleGuideVT You know, I absolutely thought that is what happened. Thanks for responding- I just subscribed. Btw I create original LEGO designs for historical tanks and military vehicles on YT if you’re interested in that sort of thing.
Thanks Matt!
Technically neither a battalion nor lost but by god a historic stand
Here’s a fun fact: Al Capone claimed to have served in the Lost Battalion.
77th also became famous in WWII. They were known for being the "old bastards" because their average age was over 10 years greater than all other army units. They were an army unit, but fought so well in the Pacific, they get confused as a Marine unit.
arent they nicknamed "77th marines"
@@thomasscoggin5131 that they were….. ThFatElectrion has a special on the 77th in WWIII. Well worth watching.
The 77th didn't become famous in their time, unfortunately. Like most US Army units in the Pacific war, they've been neglected until very recently because the Pacific has traditionally been considered the Marines' theater. The only reason people are crediting the 77th now is because of the Fat Election's video.
But the 77th was just one of many outstanding Army units that people don't know about.
how did i not know whittlesey died right after the war wtf. end of the vid made me cry bc that man was regarded as such a hero but in reality he probably felt horrible about himself and guilty for the men that died in his battalion. an american war hero for sure, but also a reason PTSD and other war trauma needs to be taken seriously. rest in peace, major