D-Day Ranger Assaults Nazi Artillery Batteries, VERY Intense Combat

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Part II of our interview with General Raaen, the last living D-Day Ranger Officer who was amongst the first to hit the beaches on June 6, 1944 and break into Fortress Europe.
After successfully landing on Omaha and establishing a beachhead, then Captain Raaen begins his mission to push inland into the Norman hedgerows and flush out the remaining Germans.
Raaen's fighting would continue from D+1 until December of 1944, when a Jeep accident would leave him wounded and unable to return to combat.
Interview recorded on February 15, 2023
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[@americanveteranscenter]

See General Raaen's PART ONE interview here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/i4qqmWhnj8yIa80

[@frankbisceglia2958]

Plain to see why this man was a General ! Cream of the crop!

[@Blimpie1000]

This was the best narrative I have ever seen by a participant in the war. It is hard to believe that this man is so sharp at his age. We are fortunate to get this first hand narrative.

[@sellyshootsandscores9300]

A Major General at that!

[@markpaul-ym5wg]

You are so correct.I didn't make my comment because you stated your comment so well.😊

[@miketwomey4923]

He is a hero with a photographic memory and he took me back to 1944. It is an amazing slice of history...

[@larryb982]

In just a few years they will all be gone very sad to think about it. Wish I could do more to preserve there stories and these videos are so important to keep there stories of the greatest generation living on so much wisdom and knowledge will be lost once there all gone from this earthly life. God bless!

[@dmihm7295]

I totally agree. This guy is sharp as a whip. It's rare to find an officer from ww2. It would be interesting to see how many officers are left. I could listen to him all day. 😊

[@michaelkneale3825]

One of the best D-Day interviews I have seen. The Generals mind is still sharp as a razor.

[@jeffk1482]

And the strength in his voice yet…just amazing!

[@threadripper979]

Encyclopedic level of recall. What an impressive man.

[@jshepard152]

What a fantastic American, soldier, and man. Respect to General Raaen.

[@keithbusick6859]

Men like this man is why we prevailed in World War 2. And they truly are our greatest generation God bless you Sir

[@davidfrisch773]

🎉looking oolongs to pliu

[@davidfrisch773]

😂

[@davidfrisch773]

🎉

[@stevecastro1325]

General Raaen somehow reminds me of my grandfather, Colonel Arthur LaSalle Smith, who served in both World Wars. What a wonderful storyteller!

[@marciewright9670]

Wow! My niece is stationed in Germany and she with her husband took us to Bastion, Versailles, Omaha beach, Point de Hoc and Utah beach last April. We were there in the places he talks about! It’s so easy to visualize and see what they experienced. We also took the Band of Brothers tour, amazing!

[@stuartellison6895]

This account is incredible. His memory is impeccable. Thank you for all you’ve done 🇬🇧

[@MYU214]

Such a sharp memory. Salute sir!

[@Soulreaper8181]

Thank you for your service🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@dotell3359]

This is one remarkable man who went through hell and took care of all of his men. From one veteran to another I salute you sir with the highest respect. 25:54

[@jjwegs6412]

Defi ately shows he was a MG. Very Sharp and well spoken man from the greatest generation

[@atamagashock]

Absolutely amazing how sharp this man is. From the min he started speaking, he had me locked in until his last words about band of brothers.

[@maxpayne9988]

It's a privilege to hear this man speak. We're incredibly lucky to have these accounts preserved on film for future generations. What an absolute legend. I am humbled.

[@damotherFNman]

My grandfather was an African American veteran and drove on the Redball Express. They saw a lot of action as well. Unfortunately, their stories have gone into the grave with them. He drunk himself to death

[@patricklarkin9666]

God bless him sir

[@andrewrivera4029]

RIP grandpa.

[@miketwomey4923]

I'm sorry how he passed but anyone who knows how the war was won it was supplied by the RedBall Express. I'm an old fat white guy but I know about this and it was amazing what they did, they wouldn't let them fight but they delivered everything that the white dudes needed to stay alive and fight and they never got proper recognition for what they did. There was a cool movie that I think was called the RED Ball Express...

[@larryb982]

Yes there needs to be more of there stories told. They did so much for there fellow man. I'd love to see some interviews from those guys.

[@leearensdorf1393]

God bless your grandfather

[@jonmajarucon51]

This was a great interview. God bless General Raen!!

[@anlerden4851]

Thank You so much for your service and lovely dedications to Our Beautiful America Dear American Sir, Semper Fi!!!!🥰😍🤗🙏❤🤍💙💪👍

[@hongo3870]

These guys are just the cream of the crop. I wonder if we have the strength in us today that these fellows did? Courageous, brave men.

[@turtlesarecool1488]

hell no, this isn't the same country. The next big US war will be fought by LGBT, women and minorities. Descendants of white men like Raaen have been ideologically alienated in their own homeland. The culture that built men like this Ranger does not exist. If you aren't gay or black, your opinion means less.

[@larryb982]

Few and far between. I'll go forth!

[@geraldmiller3383]

Believe me they thought the same way before WW 2. I would advise everyone to read DDAY by Steve Ambrose . Don’t ever believe Americans wont defend their country.

[@CoreyJason]

I think a world war is what turned these folks into the cream of the crop. We would need something similar to create comparable hardship which had developed this kind of widespread character in their generation.

[@MindfulMaterialism]

@@CoreyJason I agree. They also learned to work hard through the depression though, so they had the "perfect" upbringing and environmental factors to make them into what we know.

[@sethfrazier7327]

I could listen to him all day long

[@tommychew6544]

Loved this one! His description of the three different movies hit it on the nose. Anyone who has been in the military knows there is a lot of hurry up wait moments, it's not always all out action like the movies show. There is a lot I would like to say but it would include too much personal information, thank you very much for showing this part of this man's experience in WWII!

[@gideonevans9717]

Immediately starts off with a Bouncing Betty. Oi! Wow, this man's man is an un believable badass.

[@xvsj5833]

God Bless you Sir along with a heart felt gratitude for you’re service,sacrifice and courage to fight for freedom ❤🇺🇸

[@johnchildress6112]

who wouldn’t love this man?! i’ve been in the military for 30 yrs, and i’ve had a lot of commanders, i can say i would have followed this man to hell and back! We are truly blessed to have had such men and women!

[@danschneider9921]

Wow. He reminds me of my grandfather who was a TSgt with the 17th Tank Battalion in 44-45. Spoke clearly, sharply and passed away with a cigar in his hand in his garden at age 97 in 2017. He wanted to speak and share his experiences. God bless this generation. It's so heartbreaking to know this breed is almost gone.

[@dong7474]

It’s crazy how recognizable Greg’s voice is, I’ve been watching American veteran center for years and to hear him in his interviews brings back memories.

[@krautyvonlederhosen]

This gentleman’s recall and ability to convey exactly what happened then is likened to watching a movie. He understandably earned and deserved his rank. The world was rid of tyranny because of individuals such as this. Thank you sir and thanks to AVC keeping these stories alive. Now we must compel new generations to know those who came before and appreciate what was handed them.

[@jayfrank1913]

This shows how luck plays a huge role in survival in war. The number of close calls and duds this man encountered and survived is incredible!

[@AnthonyOMulligan-yv9cg]

Only the dead know the end of War

[@dwaynekoblitz6032]

God bless this true American hero. Thank you sir. I'm left speechless. I simply cannot imagine. And I've been through my war. But I didn't do that. I'm so glad you survived. When so many didn't. Thank you, sir! 💯💯💯🇺🇸

[@ianlast6722]

Thanks for sharing this video. I could listen to him talking about his experiences all day. It’s a honour to listen to him. Another representative of the greatest generation

[@Chiller01]

That was a great account. He was such an accomplished storyteller. One of the best on KZbin.

[@jimburnsjr.]

Excellent interview... did not interrupt the war hero... did not make it about the interviewer or satisfy some personal desire.. . just let the Hero tell his magnificent story... this is what this type of thing should be.

[@AJohnSmith]

Thank you, MEN. We need your courage more than ever.

[@rickyal9810]

I'm just in awe of this man and his brothers in arms. He describes combat like it was yesterday in the most humble, matter of fact way. I feel we must spend everyday earning what they did for us. Being humble, decent, genuine and tough as nails in the hope that we are even worthy enough to hold these guy's beer is the least we can do.

[@joewhitley7437]

Salute

[@rudymikula7129]

Great memory! He is an excellent narrator. He is so matter of fact talking about combat that was in the thick of the action.

[@emcarn8187]

What an astounding memory! Thanks for being part of the Greatest Generation.

[@lerch122]

an excellent interview,i have not seen better

[@PurposePlastics]

Would love to listen to many hours of his tales! God bless you

[@charlessaint7926]

Reminds me of my grandfather. He served as a supply sergeant. Don't know how he did it, but he was able to get his hands on virtually anything you needed.

[@aaronmorrison7716]

In the military steal means Strategic Transfer of Equipment to Alternate Locations.

[@rictaracing2736]

Thanks for all your hard work bringing these men to light again

[@warskye5686]

OUTSTANDING. What memory. I'm sure there is more to this interview. Hope you make PT 2

[@edadams1693]

This is part 2. There is a previous interview.

[@asullivan4047]

Interesting and informative. Special thanks to the major veteran ranger. Sharing personal information/combat experiences making this documentary more authentic and possible. Fighting/perishing/surviving knowing certain death/debilitating wounds were often possible. Yet still advanced forward regardless of the consequences. That's true grit style determination to succeed. Another shout out to the French resistance underground.

[@funsmasher7018]

Amazing story.

[@petergreenwald9639]

This guy was a bloody soldier and an academic. I mean, what the hell did he learn in H.S. and the Academy that he just popped into Nuke school John Hopkins... That sort of mind is why his is still intact at the age he was when this was filmed. I will never envy these sort of people, but I sure as hell will admire them.

[@adriansolomon6805]

My father served in 1944 in the DCLI and said little of his experience but he told me that " without the "yanks" we would have been in trouble. At one stage he was assigned an amphibian vehicle for a short time which he used as a taxi/ supply vehicle until it broke down and was pushed off the road and abandoned. So...thanks for your service Sir.

[@laurenced2916]

Ammunition is heavy but you'll be glad you're carrying it when a firefight starts

[@chillis28]

Much respect Sir!!

[@rikijett310]

Sir, I would be proud and honored to shake your hand. Thank you endlessly for your service and may God bless you always!!!!! ✝️🇺🇲

[@daviswall3319]

Crazy what these men went through. At some point we will have to understand how to stop fighting ourselves. I know it won’t happen anytime soon. The warlike nature of man has always been there. We evolved in the hunter gatherer society afterall. Is what it is. I am very glad you were there good sir to fight against the oppression that was upon us in this time. As a child of the 80’s I can only say that you are Rad and Bad and worthy of recognition. ☮️

[@johnshields9110]

This man is not only brave, but intellgent! From my hometown/rural County, those from the Southern end were sent to Europe, and the Northern end sent to the Pacific. My future FIL and his brother fought in the Phillipenes (MIL built F6F's). My own Uncle was captured at the Buldge. All these brave men passed on the definition of service to your country. I have two brothers retired from the military, one an E9 Master Chief (a true deep ocean sailer) and the other a Captain directing Nuke missle silos. It is people like this all, who kept us, and most of the world -free.

[@vppnbrent]

Bless you buddy. You are my hero.

[@easyyog1185]

Forever Grateful to the Greatest Generation, and Families, for their Service, Courage and Sacrifice. and endless Generosity as able- to share their Awe inspiring, Amazing Stories. With Gratitude and Respect, Thank You General.

[@louislochner5713]

Great content 👌🏼

[@Koldeman]

"The GREATEST Generation." Without a doubt, anyone who values freedom & liberty owes a debt of gratitude that cannot be paid. The best we can do is live our lives to the fullest & stand up against oppression in every way, large or small. God bless you, Sir. It can't be overstated how important & precious it is to document & preserve these stories for generations to come. Those who fail to acknowledge history are doomed to repeat it.

[@lucas82]

As hard as it would be to be an infantryman in WW2 I can't possibly imagine what it must have been like to command dozens or hundreds of 18-20 year old fighting men, knowing full well that they could die obeying your orders.

[@Mag_Aoidh]

Very sharp gentleman.

[@Stew357]

Fantastic interview, ty Gen. Raaen and AVC!

[@oregonosha3676]

This man is a living, breathing, walking piece of history. Glad his story could be recorded for us to see.

[@jscho8674]

Well said!!

[@jshepard152]

37:25 General Raaen weighs in on Band of Brothers.

[@davelane4055]

The man is why WE THE PEOPLE citizen soldiers take the oath

[@adriansolomon6805]

This is a real man who fought for the freedom that is being eroded. This is why all people here in the UK and US need to stand up for these heroes.

[@Cody_Buck]

Absolutely astonishing that he is still able to tell the story so clearly and vividly. Thank you for your service, Major General Raaen. You are a hero.

[@boydingo8658]

Just a wildly bright man. Thank god for men like him

[@judywilliams1928]

THAT WAS A Warning FROM GOD#! Thank you for your service. It's so hard to see the beginnings AGAIN #!

[@scarletred8888]

Such precise details! Amazing account from a great man with his memory 100% intact!

[@tysonvanwagoner57]

This mans recall is second to none. An incredible interview!

[@danielerickson5175]

What an amazing man! 100 years old with such amazing recall for such historical details. a treasure trove of information for historians to notate. I’m trying to remember all the details from corporate directives from last week !

[@thesaneparty4079]

The cold-fish meeting with Rudder is a great story.

[@olivias.3071]

Bless you!

[@hawk1548]

Thank you for your service and sacrifice. God bless you Sir

[@tnreprasentog7769]

For those who don't know, this guy was pretty much the equivalent of Tom Hanks Character in Saving Private Ryan... Except wayy more badass and the real deal

[@seanmurry6903]

Was Tom hanks an officer? I thought he was an NCO?

[@tnreprasentog7769]

@@seanmurry6903 nah Tom Hanks character was a captain in the rangers like this guy

[@tnreprasentog7769]

@@seanmurry6903 Tom Sizemore's character on the other hand was an NCO.. He was a Staff SGT

[@thophunter614]

God Bless all of you Veterans. Thank you for your service

[@2North0Star6]

This has to be one of the better war stories I’ve ever heard

[@KevinLee-hu1lj]

When I listened to his stories, I wish someone out there could recreate a few of the "Holy Cow!"combat incidences he described, maybe in the soon to be released WWII mod to Arma III. Salute!

[@davidkimmel4216]

Reading the General’s after action reports would be some of the most interesting reading. Thanks Again General.

[@saschayufer2474]

ty for your service in ww2 General Raaen merry Christmas and happy new year to you and your family sir.

[@louismarucci9056]

I just wish a date would come added to these interviews

[@aegontargaryen9322]

Full respect to this true American hero from the UK

[@bensmitt7088]

I could listen to this forever

[@tbird3685]

Wish I coulda met my great grandfather. He was ran over by a friendly tank while he was in his tent..

[@jonnyref3475]

Absolutely superb stories and a great overview of the challenges the Rangers faced. Great work by AVC for bringing these important interviews to new audiences.

[@davidkimmel4216]

What a great clear mind. Wonderful interview. Another of the Greatest Generation Men.

[@jeffk1482]

How sharp his mind is yet, how strong and confident his voice! Gen. Raaen today: barks orders Today’s troops: “Sir, yes sir!!!”

[@Dougie1350]

Sharper than people half his age. An amazing gentleman.

[@yossarianmnichols9641]

wow, the detail this guy can recall is incredible. I forget what I had for lunch yesterday.

[@kosmokritikos9299]

This is amazing, especially if you have some familiarity with the geography of that part of France.

[@Convoycrazy]

Gotta add this to my favorites, this was amazing

[@shafur3]

Great Vidieo ! Thank you

[@squint04]

Thank you for your service sir!!!

[@EricD-ve4cx]

Thank you for your service sir

[@masterkraft4746]

wow, I'm truly enjoying this channel and hearing these heroes explain their truly bad-ass stories ! These were THE MEN

[@kilcar]

Don't " bleep" or censor in any way this man's testimony. I weary at the censorship. We are supposed to have a free society, which includes the Freedom of Speech. EXACTLY why this man fought for our Freedom! His testimony is too valuable and , we are all adults here.

[@donlaity4801]

Unbelievable recall of detail ! Incredible !!!

[@pattysoucie24]

Awesome video !!

[@weschaffin]

Just the organizational detail is amazing…

[@jscho8674]

It was an honor to listen to this amazing man tell his story. Thank you so much.

[@outlaw_203]

Never heard if this brand before, thanks for sharing!

[@erinallport1]

Thank you for your service!!! The craziest part is when you realize that most of the guys fighting in these wars are 15-25 😕. So much trauma to endure while still practically a child

[@tfred2129]

You set the standard, sir! Thankyou! I'd love to shake your hand and buy you a beer and swap shit hit the fan stories. Rltw!

[@kevbrix9686]

Sir, thank you!!!

[@robertbandusky9565]

Another American hero from the “Greatest Generation “ 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

[@TheNextGoogification]

Quite a bit turns up when you Google this interesting fellow General Raaen, the last living D-Day Ranger Officer

[@cortezp410]

I watched Band of Brothers a couple of times and this man just made me want to go and watch it again. One of my favorites. I wonder how accurate the scenes are from Thin Red Line.