JAMES 'JIMMY' STEWART | Unseen Footage Of His War | WW2

As part of the Masters Of The Air series we look at the war service of the legendary James 'Jimmy' Stewart; Hollywood leading man and wartime hero.
James Stewart served in the USAAF and was based in England. In this video I take you to the buildings and locations he would have been familiar with.
JIMMY STEWART | Unseen Footage Of Where He Served | WW2
The limited series is produced by Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg-the duo behind some of the most popular World War II TV and film productions, including Saving Private Ryan and Band of Brothers-and is based on the story of the real-life American Eighth Air Force, a unit of American bomber pilots who served during the war, primarily from 1942-1945.
Masters of Air is inspired by a book of the same name, Masters of the Air: America's Bomber Boys Who Fought the Air War Against Nazi Germany by biographer Don Miller.
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[@tallyho8841]

Who’s the 553rd Bomb Group? I’d recommend you do some more exploring to learn about the units and places you mention in your videos! For your info it was the 453rd BG, made up of the following squadrons: 732nd, 733rd, 734th and 735th.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for your feedback. I was on the ground, without notes, recalling the detail from memory. I mistakingly said 553rd instead of 453rd. If that’s the worst mistake I make today then I can live with it but I do appreciate it will be a frustrating detail to those who know this subject intimately. I’ll do better next time

[@tallyho8841]

@@thehistoryexplorer fair point although sounds like you recorded it in a studio or your home etc. It’s also on the memorial at Old Buck which was in your film

[@thehistoryexplorer]

@@tallyho8841 I’m using a new mic and software to tidy the audio. I think it sounds super clear but it almost sounds artificial. It also changes the sound of some of my pronunciation. I do appreciate the feedback though as it helps to make the videos better in the future-this is still a new channel and I’m trying to improve each time

[@raytowers7140]

@@tallyho8841 It isn't "old buck" it is called Old Buckenham.

[@steveshoemaker6347]

Thanks for the awesome video..... Old F-4 Phantom 2 fighter jet pilot Shoe🇺🇸

[@rustykilt]

I dont know any other American who garners more respect through his acting, his persona and his duty to Country. As an Aussie, to me Mr Stewart encapsulates the ideal American and patriot.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Couldn’t have said it better mate

[@maryshanley329]

Thank you for posting this, Sir Rusty Kilt. I don’t think that we are in the same salubrious position as we were in WW II. I am aghast at the behavior I see around me, constantly. Vulgarity. Pushing. Hitting. Mayhem being created everywhere. This is not the United States in which I grew up. Entitlement and aggression. This sickens me. Yes, we have millions of people who are noble. I just don’t think that we have enough of them.

[@rustykilt]

@@maryshanley329 And not just the US.

[@perien2024]

I have a channel about nomad lifestyle full of interesting videos..please watch and comment

[@perien2024]

I have a channel about nomad lifestyle full of interesting videos..please watch and comment

[@bobsteele1411]

Thanks for your work on this! My uncle, Dewey Steele, was at Old Buck in 1944. He, along with his other 10 crewmembers were all killed on Nov 2,1944 when their plane went down over Germany. They were in the 735th Bomb Squadron of the 453rd Bomb Group. It’s one of thousands of stories of duty and sacrifice. My family has visited Old Buck twice to memorialize my uncle’s crew. Thanks for remembering!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow! So sorry to hear that. I hope you got some enjoyment from the video and perhaps a better feeling of where Dewey Steele called home for a time

[@markfryer9880]

At least they knew by Nov. '44 that the writing was on the wall for Nazi Germany and Imperial Japan. They paid the Ultimate Price for serving their country. Lest We Forget Mark from Melbourne Australia 🇦🇺

[@johnwriter8234]

Brilliant! Am 65, retired US Coast Guard Aircrewman ... always loved and respected Jimmy ... great Role-Model!

[@perien2024]

I have a channel about nomad lifestyle full of interesting videos..please watch and comment

[@ChevySS1968]

A true hero.............. and a gentleman to boot. Every man should try to emulate Jimmy Stewart.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m a huge fan. Wholeheartedly agree on that basis!

[@thelastjohnwayne]

General Stewart was a true American Hero and a Great Man. We need millions more just like him.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

If only hey!

[@66Bunn]

Great stuff. Little known fact: When Jimmy returned from the war, the first movie he did was Frank Capra's "It's A Wonderful Life" (my personal all time favorite movie)...there were scenes where Jimmy's character (George Bailey), had to show lots of emotion (depression like sadness). He actually utilized the PTSD he had from the war to show that emotion in the film. When you re-watch it knowing that, you can really tell which scenes as the stress really comes through. BTW - I love that picture of Jimmy talking to his dad outside their hardware store in Indiana, PA. The hardware store was started by Jimmy's grandfather then it was run by his dad. (The originial hardware store is now a Jimmy Stewart Museum). The old time locals in Indiana, PA will tell you what an amazing man Jimmy's father was. The apple didn't fall too far away from that tree 🙂

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much for sharing that info. He’s one of my favourite actors and I also love Its a wonderful life. Brilliant movie

[@user-ge8mb6jz9b]

Nice to know, he was a true hero.

[@branlotin]

I also love "it's a wonderful life". In the movie, ironically, he can't enlist due the ear he injured jumping as a kid in a frozen lake to save his younger brother Harry, who is the one becoming a hero pilot in WWII. When George and Clarence go to the cemetery and he sees Harrry's grave, George is in denial and argues that he can't be dead as he was just awarded a medal for having saved many soldiers to what Clarence replies that those soldiers died without Harry to save them as he wasn't there to save him in the first place. Always make my eyes a bit wet. kzbin.info/www/bejne/nXmUnH6ug616pdk

[@sully4627]

On this date in 1966 BG Jimmy Stewart, USAFR, flew his last combat mission over Vietnam for an Arc Light mission. He flew a B52F as part of the 736th Bomb Squadron, 454th Bomb Wing.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

What a man. I wanted to focus on his time in Old Buckenham but I could easily make a video about his service after WW2 aswell

[@57appel]

@@thehistoryexplorer Please do! There is quite a bit of film footage about his military reserve career, and he was a great interview till old age on shows like The Johnny Carson Show.

[@marcuswardle3180]

Jimmy Stewart wasn't the only Big Time movie actor to have a combat role in WWII. David Niven came back to re-join the army the day after war was announced. He ended up in the commando's!

[@tomhaskett5161]

Clark Gable was a door gunner on a B17. Many others were in the forces, too.

[@marcuswardle3180]

@@tomhaskett5161 Gable was never a door gunner on B17’s. As a lieutenant he made a film for recruitment of gunners. He flew 5 combat missions as an observer gunner but it is said the total may have been higher as there were ‘unofficial’ flights. He was a major in the USAAF and a door gunner would not have that rank.

[@57appel]

Excellent review of Jimmy Stewart’s military flying career and one important English base the USAAF lived, trained, and worked at during WWII. Jimmy was a unique and fascinating individual, father and husband, and respected all who worked with him. You provided a rare introspection much needed in today’s “It’s all about me,” world.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m a huge fan of his. He just seems like a morally rich man

[@maryshanley329]

Many, many Americans used to be and as noble as Jimmy Stewart. They were in generous supply. I don’t know about today. That worries me.

[@57appel]

@@maryshanley329 It’s unfortunate you feel this way about Americans as a whole. There are far more honorable people in the US who support our Allies and military than don’t. Jimmy Stewart was a unique individual, a rare man. He knew he worked with quiet heroes, just as the Active Duty military force of today do around the world. The British and Americans work together daily in many countries together every single day to keep you free of harm. Jimmy was a general n the USAF Reserves and very few individuals make it to that rank.

[@proparanoid]

Thanks for this... As a kid born in 46 I was aware of Jimmy's Air Corps. experience as soon as my Dad became the first TV repairman in town, and we had an early round-tube set to watch TV on. His service, and the many films he made promoting the Air Force, are what made me know it was my destination by age 8. Best thing I ever did for myself and country. Sill enjoy those old films, watched two last Fall.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Fantastic! Thank you for sharing

[@robmisener2786]

Fantastic work Rob! Really enjoyed the video. Jimmy Stewart, a true icon.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you Rob. I always thought he was such a lovely man so it was a pleasure to go and see the locations he would have known well

[@robmisener2786]

A lovely man indeed. You can see just that on a KZbin video of him on the old Johnny Carson show where he poignantly recites a poem about his dog. Will hit you emotionally for sure.

[@benelias3556]

Jimmy Stewart was the greatest in so many ways this is the icing on the cake!!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@roberts1938]

A beautifully told story and places saved from oblivion.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much. Hope you enjoyed it

[@georgemiller151]

“Nissen hut” is a British term. The larger corrugated galvanized steel huts that were American products were inspired by the British Nissen hut. They were called “Quonset huts” because they were originally manufactured at Quonset Point, Rhode Island. “Quonset” was a Native American (Algonquin) word meaning “small, long place” which is a surprisingly fitting term for the structures that were eventually manufactured there.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you george. My mistake, I do say in the video I thought they were called something else but I couldn’t remember at the time. Much appreciated 👍

[@user-qs7gx7rp7m]

For the record, I knew and 'romanced' for all he would confess, an RCAF 429 Sqdn member. Their pilot was a 'Yank' and knew James personally. In training they were able to fly over England more or less freely. Took advantage of cheap cost of Scotch near their base and delivered it to Jimmys officer HQ (claiming engine trouble for over- night delay if necessary). Made a profit and were very well entertained & fed while there. All the crew were KIA 24/25 May 1944 - except for 'Shorty' Lapoint (MUG), my late good friend who ended up a POW. May God bless all those old Ghosts and let me thank Him for allowing me to share part of their lives when opportunity allowed. Hope somone out there reads this message . . .

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I read it 🙋‍♂️

[@truthtriumphant]

Jimmy Stewart was a great, American hero!! Thank you for this video!! May we never forget all these young men’s and women’s service, especially those who made the ultimate sacrifice with their future life!!!🇺🇸🇬🇧🙏🫡👏

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed it!

[@spartan1353]

I’m a proud relative of Jimmy Stewart! Amazing what this man did for his country.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That is fantastic! Thank you for sharing. You must be so so proud of him

[@spartan1353]

@@thehistoryexplorer yes very proud! Thank you for making this video. I will share it with the family 👍

[@scottmoody7839]

Great job on this very humble war hero Jimmy Stewart, love the way he broke down all 9 of the crew and their importance...

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes definitely! Top guy

[@CharlesTrains99]

Thanks for sharing the video. Jimmey Stewart is a favorite actor of mine too,

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome Charles

[@LadyAnna.888]

I am so happy you showed us this video! I love Jimmy Stewart, a great actor and a fine man. Where they lived was so fascinating. When that goes part of our history will go too.Don't you think they should have been preserved for posterity? Our country seems ok with tearing down parts of our history but once its gone its gone for ever. Every footprint of that time will be lost..

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I think he was the nicest man, at least as per his screen depiction! I’ve read loads of account that said he would go out and meet people who came to see his Beverly Hills home, making time for fans and passers by. Seems like such a nice guy

[@LadyAnna.888]

@@thehistoryexplorer Yes I read that too. There never was a double side to him.What you saw is what you got..

[@kimnolte237]

Beautifully done. He is my favorite actor as well.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you for the kind feedback. So glad you enjoyed it

[@user-xg1sd1gj3n]

Half a Brit Here. My mun was RAF, and my GI father was a glider guy. I grew up on Jimmy Stewart and David Niven movies. They are many actors who fought for freedom during that time. Charles Bronson was one. He flew many missions in the Pacific, and saved members of his crew aboard their burning B-29. My parents didn't star in any movies, but I'm damn happy that they found each another. RIP mom and dad. Bless all that served.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said, what a cracking comment 👍

[@phil36135]

Thanks for posting this, I never knew Jimmy Stewart was in the Army Airforce. My Dad was in there also, he was in the same unit with Deforest Kelly, Star Treks Dr. McCoy. Jimmy has always been my favorite actor.Thanks again

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Mine too. I used to love watching Its a wonderful life

[@texhaines9957]

Thank you. The pictures of the B-17 Bs (big tail, no tail gunner -9 vs 10 crew) are also good to see.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it

[@ronbunker5778]

Excellent commentary, thanks!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for the kind feedback

[@BigCarmine]

My uncle Clinton was 1st officer on a B24...5th AAF, 90th BGH, 320th BS in the Pacific (11/44 -8/45). He later became an aircraft Commander (among the first pilots) with SAC flying B36s, then B52s until he retired at the end of the Vietnam War. He was a huge fan of Jimmy Stewart and he took me to see "Strategic Air Command" at the airbase theater he was based out of in California back in about 1967 or 68. This little film brought back many great memories of both him and Jimmy. Thank you so much!!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome and thank you so much for sharing your uncles story

[@billmcfadden7488]

My father served in the U.S.A.F. during the early to late 1960's as a crew chief on B-52 bombers. According to his military records he was sent to multiple bases all over the U.S. to train other air crews on all the latest tech, tools, etc., and I have a copy of a letter of commendation to my grandfather from General Curtis LeMay, recognizing my dad's exemplary service in SAC, Strategic Air Command. Sometime after this, my dad said that Brigadier General Jimmy Stewart once inspected "his bird", which was a real thrill for my father, who grew up on a remote farm in northwest Oklahoma. Mr. Stewart was a very highly respected person, actor, pilot and military officer who personified that image of a "likeable, down-home country boy who done good", but with major charisma and a helluva lot more! He was always a favorite around our house! My dad passed in 2009 at the age of 79, and was laid to rest in the military cemetery in Riverside, California, very near March AFB, one of the last bases he served at as a reservist. I was barely a teenager then, and two of my siblings and I had all been born at Travis AFB in northern California in the early 1950's. Can you imagine the thrill of a young boy having the chance to climb up into the cockpit of the immense B-52s, C-130s, and several other iconic aircraft of the Cold War period. In the early 1980s, as an 40-something adult, I got to attend my dad's bomb wing reunion at Castle AFB, where we had once lived, and again, I got to climb up into this famous bird, that is still up and flying combat missions so many decades later. I am now 71 years old... AND, the B-52 has been flying just about as long as I have been alive... a very real testament to outstanding decades of service due to the efforts of these incredible servicemen and women of years past, and present. And, that mighty bird, or "BUFF" (aka Big Ugly Fat F*cker, as she is sometimes referred to), is projected to continue flying for at least another couple of decades, which means the aircraft will likely outlive me by a lot of years... something very rare in an aircraft's lifetime.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So you so much for sharing, what a wonderful story. You must be so proud of your fathers legacy.

[@billmcfadden7488]

Yes Sir! He and so many others have contributed to one of the most amazing feats in aviation history. And yet, seemed to make no big deal of it. @@thehistoryexplorer

[@richardgolger5808]

You are most certainly welcome! A great documentation!

[@Cardoo46]

Thank you so much for this! Looking at the site now is so haunting. It’s a shame it’s not a museum. We really need to remember these places and what had happened! This Really means a lot to me because a close family member did the same thing Jimmy Steward did and was a full-blown colonel at the end of 5 years. He stayed in the Army afterwards until the early sixties. I don’t know what his job was either bombadier or navagator (or both)… he was stationed in another part of England though. Jimmy was an amazing man from a time of amazing men.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow thank you for sharing! What a legacy to leave behind. So glad you enjoyed the video

[@joemabry9643]

Thank you.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You're welcome! I hope you enjoyed it

[@1psychofan]

This was a fantastic episode! Subscribed and sharing!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Awesome, thank you! So glad you enjoyed it

[@hotttt28]

My favorite overall actor and human being

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Lovely man

[@user-jz5el3os3v]

Excellent video. Thank you for sharing.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome my friend

[@jake1776]

most incredible video I've ever seen on KZbin. INSANE.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Wow, thanks! Glad you enjoyed it

[@paulmoore120]

Great video. Thanks.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome buddy

[@billlarrabee9436]

Thank you for this video.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

My pleasure!

[@matrox]

Jimmy rose through the ranks quickly because he was already an experience single and multi engine pilot when he enlisted.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s good to know. Many people believe it was due to his Hollywood status but in reality it was due to his competence

[@gazgf]

James Stewart narrating on “The Yukon Passage” for national geographic….perfect combo!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Couldn’t agree more

[@stephensmart7388]

My wife likes Jimmy Stuart in the black and white Christmas film l visited this nice little air field god bless them all true legends very friendly people had a nice conversation about the USAAF legend pilots and of course the ground crew best wishes to all the staff it was a pleasure talking with you

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So glad you enjoyed the video! Jimmy is a legend

[@amphilbey]

Thanks for sharing, enjoyed the video. I learned about Jimmy Stewart in East Anglia while doing a driving course at Lotus in Hethel. Their test track is a former WW2 base like a lot of race tracks in the UK and they shared a story that he had visited Hethel during a court marshal type case where some airmen had apparently mistakenly bombed Switzerland while lost in bad weather and he involved in the hearing. The old control tower was where we watched the track but think it's been taken down now as was unsafe.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for the comment and I’m so glad you enjoyed the video

[@christopherbutler7588]

Great video thanks for showing 👍 😊

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You’re very welcome Christopher. Glad you enjoyed it

[@rinalore9416]

🏆Excellent educational historical vid, Jimmy Stewart was a very humble gentleman and I'm grateful for his service. When enlisted, Jimmy must've had Clarence the Angel looking out for him. (; 💐Thanks for sharing.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it! Thank you

[@joenop3393]

Loved it!

[@daviddavies2072]

Thank you for this great video, Mr Stewart was a great American x, and to see these wartime airfields , all these years later is fascinating, well done 👍🇬🇧❤️🇺🇲

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it. You are very welcome, it was a pleasure to make a video on this hero

[@jeff88701]

Nice vlog mate very interesting but what about the actor Audie Murphy ? the most decorated American of ww2 I don’t know why people forget about him 🤔 I really enjoyed this vlog thank you 👏

[@pobinr]

I went to Highfield school in Southampton in early sixties. The school buildings were same Shape huts from the war. But on the common so a lovely location

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That’s fascinating. Many of the buildings were turned over for continued use

[@johnshepherd9676]

Jimmy Stewart remained a rated pilot through the rest of his career in the reserves. He flew his last combat mission in the right seat of B-52 in South Vietnam.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes indeed, I only wanted to cover his WW2 exploits in this video but you’re absolutely right

[@datruth9872]

Excellent Job !

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Many thanks! Glad you enjoyed it

[@kevinmayhew8738]

I live in Suffolk,im literally 20minutes away from Old Buckingham,and a tad less from Thorpe Abbots,Mendlesham,Eye,Rougham,and many more,East Anglia is littered with these old bases.Visited Thorpe Abotts a couple of weekends ago,fantastic place with so many stories.When you pause for rhought at the terrible losses they suffered its frightening.😕🇬🇧

[@thehistoryexplorer]

It’s a lovely part of the world! Still lots of buildings around to explore

[@heywoodplanes6651]

thank you for taking the time to make this video and doing the work. Jimmy Stewart was a man of great character and humility. A real hero of the war that the United States can be proud of - and not a simple propaganda tool like another 'famous actor' I wont name.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely. It’s my genuine pleasure to make this video, Jimmy is a hero of mine

[@USNveteran]

I recently finished reading masters of the air & it was EXCELLENT. I believe the larger huts are called Quonset huts, we had some where I was stationed and that's what everyone called them. When I was reading the book I always knew Jimmy flew with the 8th but never realized he flew as many combats missions as he did. I also didn't know he eventually became operations officer and also commanding officer of his squadron. However I did know he became a general and retired from the Air Force, but I never knew he flew combat in Vietnam. FLY NAVY!!!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes you’re absolutely right my friend. It is Quonset huts. I couldn’t remember the name. I hope you enjoyed the video 👍

[@John-ih2bx]

Thank you

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You're welcome

[@kingsroad2310]

Brilliant well done

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Most welcome buddy. I hope you’re doing well

[@napierlines6977]

excellent look at Jimmy Stewart's heroics. Seems like a good man. well done

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for the kind feedback

[@ColinH1973]

Very interesting piece of work indeed, thanks. I always thought that Jimmy Stewart was at Thorpe Abbots. Obviously not!

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@briancooper2112]

There was a baseball play in usmc in pacific. Ted Williams

[@briancooper2112]

Racist.

[@user-hu2jg1ww3m]

thanks for a great video about Jimmy. How many air bases was there across GB?

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Oh I’m not sure on the exact number but it’s many many dozens at least

[@edge1289]

My father was in the 453rd BG, 732nd BS, 2nd Air Division, 8th AAF, Jimmy Stewart’s unit. My dad was a flight engineer he and his crew were shot down in their 13th mission and became POWs. The narrator misspoke it was not the 553rd, it was the 453rd, Walter Matthau was also in the same unit.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

That was my mistake, I do apologise. You must be so proud of your fathers legacy he has left you. Such a fantastic generation

[@j1st633]

Very cool.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you so much. Glad you enjoyed it

[@ronalddesiderio7625]

Cool 👍🏾

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks!

[@SonnyFastSpeed]

B-24 Liberators Stewart was concerned that his celebrity status would relegate him to duties behind the lines. After spending over a year training pilots at Kirtland Army Airfield in Albuquerque, New Mexico, he appealed to his commander and in November 1943 was sent to England as part of the 703d Bomb Squadron to fly B-24 Liberators. Not B-17.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for sharing. Very interesting

[@BuzzSargent]

Great story about a Great man. As he said: he is just part of a team of guys doing a job.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

You are most welcome

[@HootOwl513]

Tyrone Power enlisted in the US Marines in 1942, at the age of 28. He was Honor Man in his Boot Camp platoon. He was then sent to OCS for officer school. After being commissioned, he went to Corpus Cristi TX for pilot training. He had a civilian private pilots license prior to enlisting. Power was assigned to fly transports [R4Ds and R5Ds (C-47s and C-46s) as he was too old for combat missions] He flew supplies and fresh troops into Iwo Jima and Okinawa - and flew the wounded and nurses out. He was Major in the USMC Reserve when he died.

[@HootOwl513]

Americans developed the Quonset Hut, a bigger version of the Nissen Hut in WWII. The USN Sea Bees [Construction Battallions] first built them at Quonset Point, RI.

[@ToddSauve]

IIRC, Jimmy Stewart flew 20 combat bomber missions in both the B-17 and the B-24. Much respect for a brave man, though he apparently suffered from PTSD for years after WW2. 👌💖

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I read that too. There is an interview where he cries while recalling his friends and colleagues who never returned

[@ToddSauve]

@@thehistoryexplorer Yes, I heard it took him a while to get himself around to acting again. "It's A Wonderful Life" was his first film after the war, IIRC again. I think it helped him get his feet underneath him again. A friend or colleague got him a chance at the role. He apparently hated dropping bombs on civilians and it took him years to get over it, if he ever did. 🤔

[@chrisw8417]

His combat missions were only in the B-24 bomber. The 445BG 703Sq was his first assignment based at Tibenham England before he was promoted to Old Buc.

[@baltojo]

​@@chrisw8417 Yes, my dad knew him there.

[@66Bunn]

Yep. An if you've ever seen "It's A Wonderful Life" (the first movie Jimmy did right after the war) you can see the PTSD. Jimmy actually used it in the very emotional (sad, depressing) scenes.

[@tonyriordan2853]

At the 2:53 mark the aircraft shown is 1 of approximately 287 liberators operated by the Australian RAAF

[@Celticcross688]

In NOV 1977, 23 at the time, I had the Priviledge of meeting Jimmy Stewart at the Hilton Hotel Wilshire Blvd at Lucille Ball's 25th anniversary do..Jimmy STEWART a Scot, and a very fine Gentleman..My Mother lived in a Nissen HUT at Stoney Cross near Lyndhurst 1949 her first home.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Very cool! Thanks for sharing

[@DrDale16]

It would have been nice if you could have gotten video of B-24s or B-17E or later versions. The aircraft you include here are the Y1B17s flown by Lt. Curtis LeMay when the 2d Bombardment Group made its "goodwill tour" of Latin America in March 1938. They were preproduction aircraft the Army Air Corps was using to evaluate the plane before deciding on full production.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Very true but the footage is associated with a recruitment video Jimmy himself was involved in

[@kenmercer8040]

Jimmy Stewart's first combat missions were flown with the 445th Bomb Group, 703rd squadron, flying from Tibenham (as noted in the video). He also returned to Tibenham after the war and flew with the Norfolk Gliding Club, which now owns the remaining portions of the base.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely, the owner of one of the sites I visited said Stewart was keen to take a look at the accommodation where the WAAF and Red Cross were located,,,I wonder why!

[@michaelgibson4705]

His operations could not be contrived to keep this famous film star out of harms way,Which makes you respect him all the more,when I’m sure he could “done his bit” in a safer way

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes exactly! He could have made recruitment movies

[@Biffo1262]

Eddie Albert too.

[@zdenekoldrichmarek2867]

I have seen Jimmy in his Role as in HARVEY in the Theater in London in the 1970's I sat in the front row where we looked at each other ,great guy.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I think he was just fantastic. Seemed like such a lovely man

[@do860]

I saw him in Harvey in London in 1975. A real treat

[@Bill23799]

Thanks for a very interesting video. Liked....Subbed....Rang Bell

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thanks for the sub! Really appreciate it

[@TheophilusPWildbeest]

Very good vid, thanks, massive respect for General Stewart but he's not the only pre-war movie star with outstanding service, remember also lieutenant colonel David Niven ("Anyone who says a bullet sings past, hums past, flies, pings, or whines past, has never heard one - they go crack!") who gave up hollywood to join the commandos and then lead a reconnaisance squadron into Normandy in June 44.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’m a big David Niven fan! Perhaps I should make a video on his exploits

[@user-bi3ww3im3s]

Brilliant about Jimmy Stewart legendary actor and legendary flyer you can understand why the men looked up to him total respect 🤝🙏🫶R.I.P Jimmy Stewart 🙏

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Absolutely. What a wonderful man

[@user-bi3ww3im3s]

@@thehistoryexplorer 🤝🫶🙏

[@bruceclarke6368]

Jensen Hut was maybe the name for the larger version.

[@DeereX748]

It should be noted that the B-17's in the first formation images were A, B, C, and D models and never used in Europe. The E model was the first used for offensive combat and had a larger tail with a gun, no "blisters" on the fuselage sides, had a top and ball turret and carried a crew of ten instead of nine, as the film Stewart narrated showed. Further, Stewart flew the B-24 during his service (some film footage is shown), not the B-17. It's great to see old footage like is shown in this video, but comment should be made as to its accuracy regarding the subject of the video, which is James Stewart and his service.

[@lewistaylor1965]

I hope you can do a couple of 'then and now' photo locations for Jimmy's visit back to Tibenham in June 1975....I've been meaning to go there myself for that reason...and I think there is speculation that that is where his iconic picture sat on the control tower railings was taken

[@thehistoryexplorer]

So they say! The only issue of the original control tower was blown up! Or so I’m told

[@lewistaylor1965]

@@thehistoryexplorer Blown up after Jimmys visit in 1975?...because it is obviously still there in 1975...Shame if it was destroyed but I have no info on that...

[@brucewood1827]

Ahh, The Man Who Shot Liberty Valance.....well, almost. John Wayne actually did the deed. Always liked Stewart as an actor, and knew he flew combat in WW2. If memory serves me correctly didn't Stewart remain in the Air Force( Reserves or National Guard) post war as a B47 Bomber Unit Commander? I believe he retired as a General. Great video Rob, thanks.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

He did indeed retire a Brigadier General and even flew in the Vietnam War. What a man

[@brucewood1827]

@@thehistoryexplorer That he was Rob, that he was. A hearty hand salute to all the actors who went in harm's way to fight for the allies. Such brave, brave people.

[@user-ig1bi8ok5h]

What is the name of the piece of music you use in the shorts?

[@sniperdiet]

I appreciate the effort but you’re a bit off. Stewart was the operations officer and later commanding officer for the 703rd squadron, 445th bomb group, based out of Tibbenham nearby. My Grandfather was a navigator in the 703rd there. I’d love to see a tour of those grounds if possible.

[@timorvet1]

"Goose Green Motors".....nice

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I was hoping people would pick up on that!

[@timorvet1]

A name your unlikely to forget when people mention 'H'. Jones VC and 2 Para in the one sentence. @@thehistoryexplorer

[@nancymarshall6014]

Bless James Stewart. As they said back in the day.( Don't give me any flack!)

[@Peter-od7op]

I love jimmy

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Me too. The man is a legend

[@matrox]

Gots to give him props as he put his acting career on the back burner and volunteered his life to get shot at while flying dangerous missions over france and germany. Getting hit with flak bursts and enemy fighters ain't no joke.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

He’s genuinely a hero of mine. A different time

[@richardgolger5808]

The bigger structures were called Quonset Hut, after the location at Quonset Point/ Rhode Island where they were first set up...

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I see! Very useful information. Thank you

[@berthalloway8182]

Always wondered what the bases looked like where the pilot and crews, plus support staff stayed at

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Hope this answered your questions!

[@spitfireboy1]

Have you considered doing a video o RAF Culmhead?

[@thehistoryexplorer]

I’d love to do more videos on the RAF in general but it doesn’t seem to generate many views

[@snowyowlz5992]

Are you thinking of Quonset Hut for the name for the Technical buildings?

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes it was thank you. I just couldn’t remember at the time while I was there

[@snowyowlz5992]

@@thehistoryexplorer I’m a history buff and grew up in the USAF. Most of my focus has been the Pacific on both sides, also having lived in Japan and Philippine islands.

[@andrewfuller8440]

The building were called quansite huts here in the states.

[@TMConstructionOntario]

its s shame to see all those old buildings just falling apart... they need to be preserved.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Sadly hundreds of these sites have already vanished

[@thelastjohnwayne]

Is that Prime Minister Churchill with Stewart at 4:11 ?

[@samharper4289]

Jimmy Stewart was a great American patriot! RIP Jimmy! 🇺🇸

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Well said

[@ArsPraestigium]

The round-roofed buildings are called quonset huts. They were used by the US Air Force well into the 21st century.

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Thank you buddy. You’re absolutely right

[@brianperry]

l lived in just such a building from my birth in 1946 to 1953. The building was on a old Anti Aircraft gun site near Rochford in Essex..

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Amazing!

[@lynnecromack4933]

Looks like a Quonset hut, based on the British Nissen hut, but wider.

[@anthonymunoz6013]

I liked the video but I do have a question about some of your footage of the YB 17 and not the B17s. It was the predecessor to the B 17. I am sure you will take some grief over this. I know the vid is about Jimmy and he is Iconic and a hero of mine. He and many of his generation will be missed. Given the contemporary role models of the "iconic" man, I will stick with my wartime heroes from WWII. They were a much different breed that what we see today. Selfless, courageous, true patriots. May they all rest in peace. On their backs and sacrifices, America became strong and a world contender. A far cry from what we see today. I, like many have done my part but at times, I wonder if it was worth it. So many weak narcissist jockeying for their time in the limelight. Although Jimmy and a few others have earned their rightful place in that limelight, so many more have not to the detriment of our country. The old breed was not a bunch of braggarts telling of their glory. Most took the full measure of their hardship stoically, silently and to the grave. This I understand and has an ordered peace to it! May they all rest in peace.

[@colintraveller]

He also went on Buffs during the Vietnam war

[@thehistoryexplorer]

Yes I saw that too. I didn’t want to make the video too long and cover the time period after WW2 but you’re absolutely right

[@nicoaradenisflorentin5528]

😢❤