An ‘Old Breed’ Marine Describes Leading Men into Combat on Peleliu and Okinawa | Louis Schott

[@RedFreeAlpha]

I'll likely cry the day it's announced that no more of these men are around... beyond greatful to hear their experiences, thoughts, and emotions. T(he)y landed on Okinawa on Easter Sunday, decades later (a few weeks ago), I was at MEPS on Easter Sunday swearing into the Marine Corps. I want(ed) to go infantry but there are no spots open so I'll be going into artillery. So happy and proud to have these guys precede me. I want to and will carry on their legacy

[@outdooroutpost6061]

Only about 200,000 left

[@markself5133]

I was Army artillery. I wanted tanks. It’s not a bad job! Best of luck.

[@cooldaddy232]

Cannon cocker? Lol. Just fuckin with ya,, us grunts LOVE our artillery,, we protect you all with our lives,, we like killing enemy,, and survival

[@codyhilton1750]

No spots for a 0311, Boy that a good one. The new Corps I guess.

[@trevor_mounts_music]

Have fun fighting wars for bankers/the tribe. Just know what you are getting into.....

[@Rzr543]

Every time I watch one of these interviews, I tear up and I’m a 55 year-old retired naval officer. We are all alive a free because of that generation. Half the world is alive a free become of those men. For decades, I’ve read hundreds of personal accounts and watched video interviews of these men (including those from the Korean and Vietnam wars). Since the first POW book I read 40 years ago, I’ve never had a tough day since.

[@nostracobb4814]

Do you mind sharing what book you are talking about? Would love to read it.

[@sgtmajtrapp3391]

God bless this hero and sir we stand in absolute awe at your courage and service to this nation and the United States Marine Corps. Your generation and my dad's saved the WORLD. ( MY DAD WAS USN PHARM.MATE Corpsman in WW2)

[@pmccoy8924]

Going on 102 years old. Sharp as a tack. Still looks tough as nails. We can never thank you enough. God bless, you Colonel.

[@sbkate10]

Talks better then joe Biden lol

[@emau2459]

He is more with it than my 71 year old father who hasn't taken care of himself. Amazing to see really

[@famouslyterrible3830]

I think I could take em. And his boys, Allah ackbar ect

[@Bennycanofbeans]

A Marine and a hockey goalie. Guaranteed to be tougher than you, me, and everyone else watching combined.

[@mcjtls7]

Hope you have a blessed year 😊 John 3:16-21

[@sliderule5891]

My father was there; Guadalcanal, Cape Gloucester, and Peleliu; Wounded on D+4 but survived the battle. He was in Company B, First Battalion (Davis), First Regiment (Puller). (1,1,1). Never made it to Okinawa. He never talked to us kids in any detail about the war. He is buried at Quantico (1984). I’m pleased he is there with his fellow servicemen. Thanks to all of the Old Breed for your service. RIP.

[@andyrandall]

Hi, I would love to know more about your father.... my grandpa served with B/1/1 on Peleliu and Okinawa. He was wounded on both islands. Sept 18th on Peleliu. I never met him as he passed away when my mom was young. I've searched for years to find someone who may have known him during his war years. Unfortunately the 1st took alot of casualties on Peleliu and today most of our ww2 vets have passed on. Thanks, Andy R.

[@ritaschultz6859]

My dad a marine also served on Peleliu and Okinawa he was wounded on both Islands He passed away at 90 in 2010 RIP dad I miss you 🇺🇲🌹✝️

[@maryfrederickson2526]

"The surf was pink with blood--our blood." One of the most chilling statements I have ever heard! Bless you sir.

[@fbigburg]

My Marine Uncle slept in blood (that had pooled) in one of his assaults on a beach.

[@whiskeymonk4085]

RIP to my grandfather who fought in Okinawa. He was awarded the bronze star. I never met him because he died before I was born.... he drank a lot, but he was a sweet man I'm told. My grandmother said he was her one love and couldn't bring herself to marry again even though she was in a loving relationship with one of their mutual friends. Our grandparents were a different breed. Steeped in integrity and moral grounding. I'm so proud to have their blood soaring through my veins. I hope with all my heart that they are proud of the man I've become. May we all glean an understanding of who they were. The greatest generation.

[@ewmhop]

MY LATE FATHER IN LAW WAS A 18YRS, 1ST. MARINE DIV. FLAMETHROWER ON OKINAWA.YES HE DRINK A LOT TO FORGET WHAT THEY HAD TO DO IN COMBAT.HE TOLD ME THE EXPERIENCES HE WENT THOUGH.I STILL HAVE HIS PICTURES OF THE BATTLE AND AFTER. HE DIED FROM CANCER IN 83.MAY HE AND ALL THE OTHERS BRAVE YOUNG MENS WHO FOUGHT IN THAT AND ALL OTHER BATTLES REST IN HEAVEN.

[@mickryan2450]

Yes integrity is a strong word

[@uscgmom9796]

My Uncle Bill was 20 when he survived Iwo Jima.. went on to all the islands except Tarawa.

[@lawrencemartin24]

My father: Born in 1921 Called up in May 1942. Drafted for the duration plus 1 year. Served in the Army Air Corps. Struck by lightning on the tarmac in England suffered leg burns. Retrained as an aircraft mechanic. Discharged in February of 1946. Died April 1991. Never spoke an unkind word.

[@72442conv]

What was your father name?

[@TheTylerMT]

Sounds like you had a great father.

[@bubsterjohnson7438]

what a badass lol did he ever tell you how it felt to be struck by lightning?

[@lawrencemartin24]

He suffered 2nd and 3rd degree burns from his knees down. Skin mostly was scar tissue. He said that it saved his life as he had finished flight school and flunked his last physical due to mild blue/green color blindness. He never knew he had it. I think he was slated to be a navigator before he was injured. Odds are he wouldn't have completed his allotted number of missions. I was his youngest son. Spent my early years hooking salmon in Puget Sound and local rivers next to him. growing up knowing he was my biggest supporter and teacher, and as I matured into adulthood we were best friends. Quiet courage. An honorable man.

[@georgeb.wolffsohn30]

My dad was an aircraft mechanic with the RCAF at Gander, Newfoundland.

[@ek2156]

Mr. Schott, words can't describe the respect I have for you and the young men and women of your generation. Thank you for documenting your story for future generations. Semper Fi!

[@jaymcallen9180]

Op

[@Yakomoe]

@( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) coward

[@randyweber2275]

@( ͡° ͜ʖ ͡°) you can have your qualms with Iraq and Afghanistan.....but your delusional to put blood on this man's hands he didn't put there himself....good luck to you sir.

[@andrewcarpenter9222]

This old man saved you from speaking on German socal whatever!??

[@richardsiegfried9423]

I concur sir. My father is a Vietnam vet. They will be the next to one's I'm sure who will be heading out towards the far reaching sunset. Our freedom isn't free gentleman! Never forget from where we came and where we are heading! Our military fought to protect us and our freedoms and most importantly for our United States Constitution 🇺🇸

[@bobmeier958]

My late Great Uncle, Roscoe Mills, USMC , Platoon Sargent , KIA 9-16-1944 Peliliu. Buried at sea. RIP🇺🇸

[@kkrb1212]

Was buried at sea a common thing? 😭

[@dg7708]

@@kkrb1212 Yea, rather uncomfortable to transport decomposing corpses back to the US, in the tropical heat of the pacific, especially considering how many men were dying every day, and the distance they traveled.

[@kkrb1212]

@@dg7708 that makes sense. 😭❤️

[@twistdidmind69]

@@kkrb1212 yes for every soldier that fought at sea including the Navy were i think

[@johngannett7373]

Semper FI

[@collegedad8656]

It has been said before, but bears repeating. The stories of these men of WWII should be mandatory listening/viewing by today's youth. Listen and learn. They were grateful to return, but we owe them an immense amount of gratitude. Semper Fi

[@Kendro311]

I agree. This recent generation or 2 seems very ignorant and ungrateful to men like this who went through a hell most of us can't conceive so the rest of us can sit on our asses and live free to do as we please. We can never repay these men for what they endured and sacrificed.

[@estebanmiguel6019]

Agreed. The best we can do is for guys like us to teach our sons, grandsons, and others in our sphere of influence about these men.

[@denisegibson53]

It was because of men like you and all who fought, that two of my uncles were freed from Japanese POW prisons. My most humble and heart feltThank You.

[@bobbygetsbanned6049]

Damn they were both lucky to make it out alive, those Japanese POW camps had horrible conditions!

[@robertwalker-smith2739]

My father was on Peleliu with the 81st Infantry. I remember as a boy seeing the small scar on his chest where the bullet went in and the much larger scar on his back. I think knowing what he'd been through was part of why I spent my entire career in the VA hospital prosthetics department. Providing health care to disabled veterans was something I could take pride in.

[@spideyschaf9489]

Thank you brotha for your work

[@codyhilton1750]

The Marines could have used the 81st help earlier if the CG of the 1st MarDiv didn't want it to be strickly a Marine operation. Finally, Corps Command overruled him and sent in the 81st to replace the 1st Marine Regt as it had suffered over 50% casulities. As a Marine veteran, my hat is off to your Father for his service in WWII. The end results is that Peleliu didn't need to be taken afterall.

[@danahettrick2378]

Awesome how his dad trotted him around so proud. My dad prior Navy ill never forget. Asked me "why you do that?" When i finished boot camp i dont think he was ever more proud of me.

[@earlyriser8998]

thank you for your service

[@abreakmusic4653]

Thank you Colonel Schott. Because of your bravery and the sacrifice of your fellow Marines I had the opportunity to attend my Junior prom at MSJ in 1975. I still have a picture from that night - my girlfriend is in a light green gown and my best friend Bruce's date your daughter (Lauri) wore a light blue gown. We didn't have a care in the world thanks to you. Dan Kreis

[@rickybobby1055]

Thank you for your service. Both my dad and i served in our beloved Corps. He was with 1/4 late 70’s early 80’s, and i was with 1MEF 06-10 with a deployment to Fallujah in 08. Your story means a lot to me and thank you for sharing it.

[@5Minuteman]

Thank you too

[@johnspizziri1919]

Thank you for your service, Marine!

[@markadkins9290]

Semper Fi my brother!

[@garysmith5781]

Semper Fi Devil Dog!!!

[@gabrielpollard3400]

Semper fidelis

[@EsoxAC]

What an incredible testimony. My grandfather was 1st marine division and had 4 battle stars to his credit. It’s unbelievable he survived, Guadalcanal, Pelilu, new Gloucester, and Iwo. Thank you for ur service, sir. Semper Fi.

[@dave3156]

What a hero!. Thanks for sharing your story so it is not lost--it is to be remembered for all your sacrifices.

[@thomasmackwilliams2038]

One of my most-prized possessions is my uncle's copy of the "Old Breed" (History of the 1st Mar Div, WWII). He was a PFC, Peleliu and Okinawa, wounded on each. His older brother was KIA as a Navy fighter pilot, 08 Nov 42, Torch. Destroyer named in his owner. I have their 3 Purple Hearts. The day I die I shall remember them and their impact on my life. Americans. Real men. Patriots. I hope to meet them again. God bless America.

[@davemc162]

What a heartfelt story from a fine Marine and a brave American. Thank you for posting this.

[@jimrutherford2773]

A hero and national treasure. We mustn't ever forget their service.

[@mackdyegames3035]

The country already did.

[@Dr.KarlowTheOctoling]

@@mackdyegames3035 Some of the people haven’t forgotten.

[@mgunny05]

THIS….is the Marines I talked constantly to my young Marines about and why they were represented these MEN…STUDS….HEROES….in my service of 30 years in the Corps. Semper Fi Sir!

[@dlogan3004]

Aye Sir!

[@huntclanhunt9697]

There is yet to be a generation of marines who didn't live up to the legacy. From boarding the enemy vessels in the Revolution, to holding the line outside D.C. in 1812, to the seizing of Rebel coastal forts in the Civil War, the capture of Guantanamo on 1898, Beleua Woods in 1914, the islands of the Pacific, Chosin, Khe Sahn, Hue, Fallujah, and beyond. The Marines are marines. Always have been, and hopefully always will be.

[@bobbygetsbanned6049]

Thanks for your service!

[@sgta7143]

@@huntclanhunt9697 OOOORAH! SemperFi

[@minnesotamarine9861]

And now look what they are doing to the Marine Corps. They are tearing it down and turning it into a laughing stock for other nations to humor on. It is truly sad the direction this nation has gone. When you witness these men talk about their experiences their sacrifices and losses and realize we're just throwing it away.

[@evanbenjamin4578]

Colonel Scott, My Salute to you on this day Sir for your Gallantry, Bravery, and Leadership as a US Marine Officer that fought to Liberate the Island of Pelileu. As USN Corpsman serving aboard The USS Pelileu/LHA5 in Sept 91 , Our CO, conducted a ceremony on Pelileu Island to honor the Men Like you that Fought. My utmost appreciation and respect for you Sir and the lives lost during that Battle. Semper Fi 🇺🇲

[@bpotts97]

I truly wish I could take his pain away….. so much respect for you sir …. Thank you for everything you have done from my family and myself….

[@AAA-0]

It is so good to hear this man’s voice, his story and see his image. Thank you for recording his story for history.

[@maxnos8250]

God bless this man. All the WW2 era Marines in my family have passed away. Semper Fi

[@insuster9914]

rest in piss

[@maureenorourke3292]

I would love to shake his hand. God Bless him and all of the men he fought with under him.

[@drbrown300]

Thank you, Mr. Schott, for your service. You are part of the Greatest Generation, and the world thanks you for saving us from tyranny. God bless you! Your Marine buddies are waiting for you on the “other side.”

[@SSgt-]

As a young Marine I had the pleasure to know some of the Marines we refer to as The Old Breed, there are very few left. Semper Fi

[@ShmokeyBandit]

Just when you think you wont see these kinds of videos this pops up. Absolutely incredible. Its so sad to see whats happening in the US now especially knowing some of these people are still around.

[@ServantOfTheSouth]

The US is a joke now and it’s sad to see.

[@invisibletosociety8338]

It's a damn shame what is going on. I'm glad my grandfather didn't see this.

[@kevinanderson2575]

Mr Scott ! it's great to see a first Marine division hero still alive. my father served on palalu in the first Marine division. He went over on the USS President Polk to Guadalcanal.. I have pictures he took in September 15th through the 19th 1943 on the island of palalu,the block House and pictures facing bloody nose! where he lost a lot of his buddies.... God bless you.

[@josephaulisio9281]

*1944.

[@kevinanderson2575]

@@josephaulisio9281 I just looked at the pictures.. September 15th through the 19th 1944.. I stand corrected.

[@troubadour1562]

What a hero. Thank you for your service Colonel Scott 🇬🇧

[@TRIChuckles]

God bless you. I lost an uncle in Okinawa. Army. Changed my family so much. Men like this Cannot be thanked enough. So many stories never told. It is a very good thing to hear all of these stories. Up to and including today. What a good man.

[@maxdelozier5752]

Thank you for your service from a fellow vet...the greatest generation

[@Mike-xn4vl]

"The surf was pink with blood... our blood" ... the pain in those words is beyond compare...

[@thomasfoss9963]

My dad fought in both battles-- Joining the Marines in March of 1940, a full 11/2 years before Pearl, he joined just after turning 19 to become a man, not to fight the Japanese!!!! He fought in 7 major campaigns including Wake is, Wotje, Guadalcanal, Midway, he spent 30 days fighting on Peleliu, and fought in the Battle of Okinawa----- During the Battle for the retake of Wake is, after the Army couldn't hold it, he said there were No prisoners taken--- He always said he shoulda bit the dust on Peleliu, with the hell that he experienced there, but he re-enlisted in 1944, fought in the Battle for Okinawa, and then went on to China for 3 years, protecting Chiang Kai Shek from the Communists---- He was a ham radio operator for 50 years, and was "On the Air" with the jarhead network religiously every morning at 9:30 talking with old Marines like John Glenn, etc--- His fishing boat was called Jarhead--- S-Sgt J.D Foss 1921-- 2003

[@josephaulisio9281]

Ummmmm.... the us never “retook” wake island, japan surrendered it in ‘45.

[@Thataintnothing]

Great respect for Your Father!!!!

[@thomasfoss9963]

@@josephaulisio9281 You are correct sir--- After Wake was taken over by the Japanese, there WAS a plan in place to retake the island--- Task Force-14 was assigned the job-- My dad was on the Enterprise at that time under Halsey, which was in that Task Force 14---- She was there to support the main invasion force---- Apparently, 2 enemy aircraft carriers and some heavy cruisers were moving in the area, so, outgunned, Vice Admiral Pye aborted the mission on Dec 22nd, and sent the fleet back to Pearl--- In my dad's heavily censored letter, which I have, he stated that they were being sent to re-take Wake island, but it didn't come to fruition!!! So, after some R+R on Pearl or Pavuvu island, he and his outfit were sent to Guadalcanal--------

[@rvillgaming6306]

Nothing but respect. There from the beginning at Guadalcanal all the way to Okinawa. My great grandfather was in the 1st Marine Division and fought at Guadalcanal where he got wounded. I never got to meet him as he passed before I was born but my dad (retired Navy) said whenever he did open up about his experiences he let him know he watched his friends die and that he seen enough war to last him a lifetime, and then some.

[@jarmstrong2843]

Thank you for your service, Colonel. Semper Fi

[@ronaldwarren5220]

Dad was on his way to Okinawa after serving under Patton as a tank mechanic/engineer. The bomb was dropped when his ship was days out. His troop ship was in the harbor when the Japanese surrendered. I asked about the celebration on board but he told me that the only thing they had to celebrate with was water.

[@GeorgiaBoy1961]

@ Ronald Warren - Thanks for your dad's story. I'm glad he survived the war and made it home. My father was in somewhat similar straits. He was an enlisted man aboard the U.S.S. Charles Carroll, an attack transport slated to participate in the invasion of Japan, code-named Operation Downfall, conducted in two main parts or stages, which were code-named Coronet and Olympic. During the invasion of Okinawa and subsequent campaign, U.S. Navy personnel offshore suffered a higher percentage of casualties than Army and Marine forces ashore. This was primarily due to relentless kamikaze attacks upon the U.S. fleet. My father always said that he was relieved when Harry Truman elected to drop the atomic bombs on Japan, because he knew that it meant he would survive the war. Military planners of the invasion of Japan proper had forecast half a million American casualties in the operation, and some as many as a million, a figure which did not include Japanese losses. If you have the interest in the ETO, consider reading the book "Death Traps" by the late Belton Cooper, then a 2nd lieutenant in the 3nd Armored Division and an army ordnance officer. The 3rd Armored, nicknamed "Spearhead" was one of two heavy armored divisions in the ETO at the time, along with the 2nd AD, and consequently saw nearly continuous action from June 1944 to the end of the war in Europe in May 1945. Cooper's job was to assess battle damaged tanks and vehicles, and then recover them from the battlefield to be repaired or stripped of spare parts. A professional engineer by training, Cooper was ideally suited to the job and his memoirs make fascinating reading. The ability of the U.S. Army to recover, repair and get back into action so many battle-damaged tanks and other vehicles, as well as provide the normal maintenance and repair of a mechanized army at war, was - in my opinion - one of the "secret weapons" in our arsenal. Our men with the wrenches in their hands - officer, NCO and enlisted alike - performed miraculous feats under the most-trying conditions imaginable. You can have the bravest fighting men anywhere, but if their weapons and equipment won't work, they likely aren't going to be able to fulfill their missions. Same with the fighter pilots and bomber crews; they owed their mechanics and ground crews a huge debt.

[@akulkis]

Just as well. The military lost a lot of guys during drunken victory celebrations.

[@tank5062]

I was an 11m in the 1st Infantry division big red one only spent two weeks in AIT learning about the Bradley other than that we went through the same training of the Airborne just didn't get to jump I was suppose to be Airborne but they changed my paperwork I didn't know going in the bullshit they do at meps

[@andrewsmith3257]

​@@akulkis😅😅

[@FreeAmericanUSA]

I worked as an RN for over 30 years. I had the honor of meeting men like him. They are the greatest generation. My grandfather was a pilot during the war.

[@yotefan6909]

Respect to all these heroes.

[@codyhilton1750]

Once a Marine Always a Marine. Semper Fi Colonel. My three years in the Corps was in the First Marine Division.

[@rogerferrell8696]

These men endured unimaginable horror, yet they persisted. They are all beyond heroes. Their sacrifices made it possible for those of us today to never experience such terror and to live in peace. Their memories are eternal. It is impossible to honor them and those who died enough. We must also honor all the young men and women who serve today.

[@johneynon7121]

Talk about PTSD, it's written all through this man's story. I can relate, served with 1/1 in 1966/67 as a Hospital Corpsman .

[@a.w.3772]

Thank you for your Service, Sir! 🎉

[@deanpapadopoulos3314]

Thank you for celebrating these good men.

[@buddydean6637]

Thee hell these heroes went through is unimaginable. Boys, mere boys fighting to give us the freedom we enjoy today. Youngsters now days could not fathom what these men saw and went through. I salute them all and considered it a privilege to shake the hands of the ones I have met during my wanderings.

[@briangoldy8784]

Dad was born in 1925,,,passed in 2010,,,Philadelphia Pa,, ,,,US, Navy,,,,Hunting U-Boats in the Atlantic,, The GREATEST GENERATION, Love you, Colonel Schott......

[@evanlosh7120]

Wow legend. Thank God you’re catching these heroes!

[@luiscalcano4359]

My grandfather was in the USAs 82nd Airborne Division, as as medic with rank of capt. He was in DDay, Operation Market Garden , and wounded in The Battle of The Bulge! He didn't talk about much, for it brought back bad memories in the ETO!

[@Geologynut37]

True heroes. It is such a shame that the Pacific war is largely forgotten. The hell these men had to go through. They deserve better.

[@coolhand66]

I had a special friend it was a gunnery sergeant in Peleliu he was in a Higgins boat he had a rifle company in his command as the boat came into Peleliu machine guns opened up on his boat John immediately boys to get over the side. by the time he got to the beach there's only two other Marines with him. 4 years and we talked about Guadalcanal ,Gloucester, Peleliu and Okinawa. he talks and talks how bad war is to me. he said to me many times the most scary ever was was at Peleliu. until I saw Saving Private Ryan the opening scene ware the men were machine gun on the beach. I cried 4/10 minutes. the man of the 1st Marine division are the toughest ever find. coolhand

[@thomasfoss9963]

You so hit it on the head!!!! My old man was on Peleliu for almost 30 days--- He said that's where he shoulda bit the dust with the hell and carnage of some hand to hand combat with an enemy that was determined to die!!! He only told me the details when I turned 18... I've tried to tell some of these stories on the net, only to get silenced due to the graphic nature of some of these battles---- His outfit was sent to the retake of Wake is, where No prisoners were taken--- He said he knew Sledge, but didn't really hang out with him-- I've got photos of the aftermath of various island battles, that he or his buddies Bert Gillis or Machak took, where all you see are some palm trees riddled with bullets, and with no branches, or palm fronds left--- He re-enlisted after Peleliu and went to China for almost 3 years protecting Chiang Kai Shek from the Communists!!! SSgt J.D Foss US Marines 1940--1948

[@Manuel-Anthony]

@@thomasfoss9963 say the details then!

[@Scrooks1]

My dad volunteered in the U.S. Army and went to France in 1944, he was a junior in high school. We lost him in 2020, he was 97. I love these brave Americans.

[@f4tweet]

It was an honor to wear the same uniform as this man. Semper Fi.

[@gunnyski6304]

My dad was in 1stMar div 5th Mar reg , fought in Guadalcanal , cape Gloster, Peleliu where he was severely wounded, I never got to talk to him about it , he died when i was 11 , I was in nam 1966/67 also a Marine , God Bless our Corps , Semper Fi

[@jorgegutierrez3348]

Wow how are you

[@andrewfox1755]

My dad was in the 1st on Okinawa. Most of what he saw and experienced he never talked about. When I enlisted in the Army I didn’t understand why he was so mad about it. I was in my forties when he finally told me a little bit about Okinawa, that’s when I understood why he didn’t want me in the army. He passed last year. Semper Fi

[@mtlbstrd]

God bless these brave Marines. My son is active Corps, serving on ground these men fought so valiantly and some paid the ultimate price for, at Camp Hanson Okinawa. As much as I’m proud of him and know he would meet the challenge bravely, I pray to God he never has to endure what these great American warriors did. Mere words can’t express our gratitude for the service and sacrifice of our warriors and their families, but Thank You.

[@mtnride4930]

My Dad was with the Old Breed was first at Perris Island also. He fought at Guadalcanal, Tulagi, Russell Islands, Rendova and Munda. RIP Dad, Semper Fi.

[@philbrown9764]

This was a great story to hear. I could just imagine what he was saying and seeing it in my mind. My dad was a Marine, 38-46 and served in the South Pacific but he passed before I turned 17 and never really talked about it. And he never got to see me join the Marines, 68-70. I was at Chu Lai 68-69 1st MAW MAG 12. I know he would’ve been proud.

[@daved.8673]

Thank You Sir!!,And those young men who will never grow old!.God Bless America!!!!

[@timothyogden9761]

Sir. My Dad was with the 1st Marines on Okinawa. I have his Green Blouse and much love for him. Thank you for sharing.

[@thebeldam5823]

What a story. We can't thank you enough for your sacrifice sir🙏

[@eldritchpalmerable]

These narrations are extremely important for the shared memory of mankind. Thank you for giving us the opportunity to hear this man recounting his experience

[@thomashenley2980]

You Sir are one of the reasons this is the greatest Country the world has ever known, I had the honor of being a 1st Marine as I served in Delta Battery 2nd Battalion 11th Regiment First Mar Div. God Bless and Semper Fi..

[@konradcurze1278]

They are all dead now. And no, sorry to say, but America is by far not the greatest Country in the World. In nearly no aspect. Im glad im not living there.

[@Dr.KarlowTheOctoling]

@@konradcurze1278 Such a strange comment. Yes, the US is not “the greatest country in the world” because there is no such concept. The US is just FAR better off than a lot of countries.

[@isaacoliver9055]

My hat's of too all of ya'll thank for all ya'll done ur the tuffest bunch of raggedy ass marines this world will ever see God bless you all

[@rce59]

Great to hear your story sir. My father was on the uss gatling probably shelling the island before your landing.

[@mgray4254]

I wish I grew up in this generation. These are real Americans and real heroes. They're sick to their stomach with what's happening in America. This hero deserves everything his heart desires.

[@andrewwebb-trezzi2422]

Lol no you don’t. You have no idea what it means to be part of that generation, respectfully.

[@UserBeenBanned]

@@andrewwebb-trezzi2422 i think OP means that about the culture and not 🤡 bs we have today. You would be crazy or stupid , maybe deranged to want to experience what these men did. The Pacific theater was a bit different from Europe and had its own special horrors to witness. The stories my grandfather told about the atrocities he saw. A great example was the game of catch which involved the japanese using bayonets and philipeno babies. Things you dont hear in any history books, that ive seen anyway.

[@spudtaterson6281]

@5 Bags of Popcorn i bet you think of yourself as educated don't you?

[@chevychase3103]

I totally agree! I see there's some soy boys here!

[@mgray4254]

@5 Bags of Popcorn yeah i made the choice to be born....You're an idiot. I'd kill to fight in these wars. Enjoy your almond milk

[@HawgNutz]

I have gotten the chill bumps like 15 times listening to this Man talk, I feel like he's a National Treasure and his memories and stories are also, Did you hear him describing his regiment of 17/18 year old young men, he said with great pride and at the same time a heavy heart from the memories of the one's lost, "They we're MAGNIFICENT" And by God he meant that with the utmost respect love and admiration of his men.... This gentleman should be able to get anything from anywhere

[@ottoso7044]

Crazy how he’s right… some young kids with a rifle was the deadliest weapon they had smh I couldn’t imagine going into combat when I was 17/18.. I just turned 27 😂

[@chopperchopper1418]

I didn't smell maturity till 34, an got a wiff of wisdom at 45, be patient n learn, I did. Amazed ! ✌💯

[@WokeEarth]

Marines cutoff age is 28! Go for it!

[@WokeEarth]

@@chopperchopper1418 great advice , thank you ! :)

[@ottoso7044]

@@WokeEarth I have a hand tattoo smh my dreams of goin infantry & SF were shot down when I was like 19 I salute ya tho

[@earlyriser8998]

easier to kid a 17 yr old about the risks than a 27 yr old with a wife and kids. Most men in mid 20's were married or looking to marry. My uncle died with a wife and small child. Other uncles and father were married before mobilization.

[@povnw8985]

I love how you can see him wake up and come back the more he talks. You can see the light come back into his eyes.

[@dusty7264]

Thank you sir for telling this. My grandpa was with the 82 ABN on D-Day I can’t thank you enough

[@stevefromwork6136]

I can feel the grit on this guy.

[@nichmiller4251]

I wish I'd been old enough to actually just sit down with 6 beers and 2 ears and truly talk with the WW2 Vets I knew.

[@tempemarine87]

The whole time we're in, you hear stores about " the old breed"... But hearing the stories from their own words...Hits differently

[@earlyriser8998]

had uncles and one of my first bosses fight in ww2. Some lived some didn't. Father fought to build a pipeline to bring oil across Canada from the arctic (Canol Pipeline ...look it up). This was the greatest generation as they rebuilt Europe and Japan and invented all of the technology we enjoy today.

[@stephene.robbins6273]

These men always glide over the sheer intensity, the details, the nearness of death. So much more deep - the actual experience. Nothing truly conveys it. USMC, 1/9, 3rd Recon Bn, 1968-69.

[@LBGirl1988]

Hero!!!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 Our youth should not have had to go through that. He’s a reminder to countries to not allow despots and fascism to grow.

[@akulkis]

We've been stoking it in Ukraine since 2014, with Zelinsky being only the latest one.

[@wildcatmahone-md6me]

@@akulkis russian apologist.

[@ALaughingWolf2188]

“The guys who talked the good game didn’t play the game they talked about” what a great quote on how war affects men.

[@williamdavis3345]

As a Vietnam Marine, I admire this WW II Marine..Semper Fi

[@a.w.3772]

Thank you for your Service, Sir! 🎉

[@manomonkekingdom9427]

Having a positive attitude and a clear head is probably what saved him and a lot of his men instead of crumbling he faced the facts and continued in the face of death words can’t describe the respect I feel for this man and the few like him that are still left

[@XHollisWood]

Thank You for your service, sacrifice and courage for freedom 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸❤️

[@cyrilculton1181]

Col. Schott I salute you sir. You are one tough marine. A shining example of The Greatest Generation. Thank you for your service & the great example you were to you men & are still today. Semper Fi 🇺🇸

[@stephenmeyer3056]

This man most likely fought in close proximity to my grandfather on The island. He drove a tank in that battle. I could listen to him talk for days

[@roderickstockdale1678]

Good you got to hear his stories, you were lucky!

[@insuster9914]

well now hes dead LOL 😂😂😂

[@roderickstockdale1678]

1st tank battalion?

[@insuster9914]

@@roderickstockdale1678 please

[@roderickstockdale1678]

@@insuster9914 mind your business

[@cj_m2477]

This Marine is something! His recall is clear and lucid. I’m so proud of these wonderful men, of which my father was one. A grateful nation honors your service and sacrifice sir. Slow hand salute and of course, Semper Fidelis.

[@madmanmechanic8847]

God bless those guys they were so tough ! I have such admiration for all of them and a soft spot,. They dont make men like that anymore . Honor and Integrity those are two traits that are dead and gone now.

[@NintenDub]

No.theyre not. Honor and integrity still exist among some of us. It's just not easily found. But than again we're faced with much different times and haven't had to be put in the same scenarios. It's easy to romanticize, but no honor and integrity still exist. Stand proud even if silently, and prove that it isn't the case...

[@madmanmechanic8847]

@@NintenDub I disagree all I experience is liars and back stabbers and users I havent met anybody with Honor or Integrity in years. Now days you better get 2 inch steel plating to keep the swords and daggers from getting thrust through your back . Everybody lies nobody keeps their word anymore.

[@insuster9914]

grandpa crying? they all died and i laughed 😂😂😂 rest in piss

[@earlunderwoodjr.6766]

My father fought on Peleliu, and Okinawa. He was wounded in each campaign.

[@jamiecalder5459]

Thank you sir for your service 🇺🇸

[@paullittle9187]

God bless this man.

[@rhapsody5876]

Awesome man ,Semper Fidelis ..

[@jarhead4801]

Thank you sir, for your service during your tenure. Because of your service Marines like me had the opportunity to serve as well. Listening to your experience caused me to reflect on an experience my father in law shared with me. He was a Navy Sailor aboard a ship at Iwo Jima landing. Short version, he glad to be a Sailor and was extremely proud to see how brave the Marines were prior to going ashore. Thank you for sharing. USMC Ret. 77-07

[@petepan9696]

Real hero, my hats off to all y’all.

[@bradthebrewer5732]

From the bottom of my heart, thank you for your service

[@jeremyperala839]

Wow, a badass Marine Officer. Semper Fidelis, Sir.

[@bulkbogan4320]

Pride is a lost word... all those men lived it and gained it...

[@garymckee448]

Another outstanding interview. Thanks 👍

[@joycedollar1198]

My father staff Sargent Vernon James Plummer served 1st division marine WWII and again Korea wounded Sept 1950 A generation of very tough men.

[@juniorberns]

Outstanding Marine. -Airborne

[@kevinpowers9024]

Absolutely incredible. I could listen to these men talk all day.

[@Oldguy1900]

Did 22 years in the Army most of that on deployments from Mogadishu,Somalia to Afghanistan every time I felt I had enough or life would weigh heavy I would think about men like this in WW2, from the soldier's,sailors and Marines and what they did and had to endure and I would tell myself to stop being a pussy,pull my pants up,Charlie Mike. Men this this is what I would measure myself against in all I did not to bring shame or embarrassment on there sacrifice. Even in the civilian world dealing with the issues that come with military service I think how these Men fought in a war under conditions I could not even begin to understand and after it was over they did not whine or cry about it they delt,they returned to there civilian lives and carried on,got jobs raised familys helped rebuild a nation. Each and every one of these Men are heros to me.

[@johnwaddell4107]

Semper Fi! I feel the same as you, well said.

[@insuster9914]

thank you for killing all those kids for oil!! smoking the dead afghan kid pack

[@allikep]

What a true gem these men are. Their stories and hearing them actually tell it are worth so so much

[@chocolatefrenzieya]

10 left. My heart. :(

[@mikevaughn2074]

Absolutely awesome to hear these warriors talk about the horrors of combat and leading men into combat. A true leader think more for his men than himself….

[@rikijett310]

God bless you sir!!! Thank you endlessly for your service!!!! ✝️🇺🇸👍