The 'Good German' - Marlene Dietrich vs. The Nazis

German-born screen icon Marlene Dietrich fought her own battle against the Nazis before and during WWII, by helping fleeing Jewish refugees and then serving overseas with the USO, entertaining the troops often very dangerously close to enemy lines. She received high honours for this work and she always said it was her proudest achievement. Find out the full story here.
Dr. Mark Felton FRHistS, FRSA, is a well-known British historian, the author of 22 non-fiction books, including bestsellers 'Zero Night' and 'Castle of the Eagles', both currently being developed into movies in Hollywood. In addition to writing, Mark also appears regularly in television documentaries around the world, including on The History Channel, Netflix, National Geographic, Quest, American Heroes Channel and RMC Decouverte. His books have formed the background to several TV and radio documentaries. More information about Mark can be found at: en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mark_Fe...
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Disclaimer: All opinions and comments expressed in the 'Comments' section do not reflect the opinions of Mark Felton Productions. All opinions and comments should contribute to the dialogue. Mark Felton Productions does not condone written attacks, insults, racism, sexism, extremism, violence or otherwise questionable comments or material in the 'Comments' section, and reserves the right to delete any comment violating this rule or to block any poster from the channel.
Primary source: 'Marlene Dietrich' by Maria Riva, (Bloomsbury: 1992)
Credits: US National Archives; Bundesarchiv; Library of Congress; Deutsche Kinemathek; Guns and Ammo; Jonathunder
Thumbnail by Klimbim

[@WickedScott]

She deserved all the medals if you ask me. Never underestimate the importance of entertaining troops. When I was in Iraq, we weren't getting any USO tours at our FOB as it was too hot for helicopters usually, except for one, the Oakland Raiderettes Cheerleaders. There were 5 of them and I've never seen a more beautiful sight. Those girls looked like angels after 5 months in that muddy fly infested sewer. I can't imagine what we smelled like to them, but they were so gracious and sweet. Ever since I have had the highest respect for cheerleaders. They were the only ones brave enough to visit us Joes in that sh*thole.

[@MbartM96]

So no film or music stars bothered to visit you? That’s very bad form

[@Smudgeroon74]

Saddam Hussein never had any weapons of mass destruction. What were US soldiers doing in Iraq?

[@gandalainsley6467]

@@Smudgeroon74 You think soldiers are told why exactly they are there?

[@cjb8010]

@@Smudgeroon74heckling is not polite. Hussein was a vicious dictator and killer of his own people. He had the bad judgment to ACT as if he had weapons and played cat and mouse with the inspectors. If you don’t want to get invaded, don’t act like someone that needs to be invaded. Now, heckler, where’s your outrage about actual tyranny. Taliban, PRC, Putin, etc.

[@milferdjones2573]

@@Smudgeroon74 Removing Saddam so the crippling sanctions which were killing huge number of people to end and end the threat of more invasions from Saddam who also did his best to pretend to have those weapons if Saddam had opened everything up, not harrased the inspectors and provided documentation as requested quickly to inspectors the WMD claim would have fallen apart. The invasion was massively popular by huge demonstrations spontaneous for it and the fall of Saddam. (yes not the reason the incompetent Bush intended) The Corrupt horribly done occupation is where the US and allies blew it except the Kurds were the invasion has always been considered a wonderful thing. Arab League had offered to do occupation and should have been let do it save the Kurds. Same in Afghanistan but even more popular after all the tribes did most of the fighting and winning vs the Taliban. Again corrupt Repug's set up a corrupt government and blew the start of the occupation.

[@rabidspatula1013]

My mom met her as a room maid at a hotel in Colorado Springs in the 60s. Said she was quite polite and had undeniable presence.

[@dougearnest7590]

We all have good days and bad, and it must have been a real challenge to always be polite and charming every second they were in the public eye, or even meeting people one on one.

[@stevenyoung3288]

She was a lady who talked the talk, and walked the walk. A true icon. A source of inspiration to all. She was someone to aspire to be. Not so much because of her looks, or fame ,or Hollywood career, but because of her actions that belies the heart that beats within. There are not to many people like that in any century or generation. Most are posers. But she was the real deal!

[@cdd4248]

Great Points and a little bit louder for those sitting in the back! ;)

[@marionapoleoni4502]

@@cdd4248those in the front, just “rattle your jeWelry” - John Lenin.

[@marionapoleoni4502]

@@cdd4248see what I did x2😅 lol

[@lepetitchat123]

you mean she walked the talk, right?

[@user-kn5hh5pb9r]

I am in tears. Her story was so inspiring. She was do much more than just a celebrity. ❤️

[@shannonsullivan1968]

So very glad you posted this story. I knew Marlena Dietrich was involved in the USO stateside but had no idea she served so much time in Europe. Many times people tend to focus on the more salacious aspects (real or imagined) of a person’s life and fail to give enormous credit to the good in a person’s life. She was truly a strong and remarkable woman, most worthy of our admiration.

[@annalisavajda252]

Yes likely since she was Cabernet and film star many would dismiss her other qualities just think her a pretty face. Marilyn Monroe used to entertain troops too but wasn't nearly as involved as Dietrich was.

[@krmccarrell]

I always thought that her name was Marlena, but here they are saying, Marlene. What do you think, please?

[@rogerjenkinson7979]

​. It depends entirely on where you are from how you pronounce Marlene. Germans pronounce the final 'e'. Brits do too as a mark of respect to her nationality though as our interpretation is much looser it can sound like an 'a'. People from Birmingham have been known tp pronounce it as Marleen. Not me, I hasten to add . It's whatever you're comfortable with.

[@rumplestilskin5776]

Maria Riva, Dietrich's daughter is still alive at 98. To anyone interested in more about her fabulous life I highly recommend her comprehensive no holds barred book about her mother.

[@tanks1945]

I second that. The book.😊

[@sprague49]

9:28 That's Maria on the right.

[@resipsaloquitur5562]

Came here to say the same thing. Her daughter's book is a great read and details more of Dietrich's work during the war. Maria Riva, Dietrich's daughter, also performed for the troops in the USO and went to great lengths to get her grandparents (her father's family) food and rations after the war.

[@tonylirette8988]

Thanks…just bought the book. Looking forward to an interesting read.

[@Gooey1000]

Fascinating content. Being a 61 year old German I learn a lot about this era from you. Thank you Dr Felton.

[@chrisbelvedere6653]

You're only hearing one side of the story and it's the wrong side. Brought to you by the synagogue of Satan. You should embrace your ancestors. They were the most honorable moral people to walk the earth, Caesar.

[@barrydysert2974]

Being a 61 year old American i agree with You 💯%!

[@danquaylesitsspeltpotatoe8307]

@@barrydysert2974 The fact is the whole of Europe hated the Js and they where against them more than the Germans! Also you never hear about Hitlers letter talking about making Js part of German society! When they provide no evidence he knew about what was going on!

[@chiefslinginbeef3641]

Sad your country has such poor freedom of speech that you cannot learn more about it. (No I'm not saying Hitler WUZ right)

[@stevewhite3424]

​@@SaveTheKidsD2PWell, no need to ask if you are an idiot.

[@SimonSNB]

This is the kind of woman who should be celebrated and put up as an example for people to follow today. Someone with a backbone and a desire to help other in any way she could not someone who goes on Love Island or posts something befitting the popular narrative on social media. What a fantastic woman and humanitarian.

[@winstonwolf5706]

Lesbian

[@clayerkwiltee2315]

By all accounts, notwithstanding her public persona, she was a dreadful woman. She really wasn't someone you'd want your children to be like.

[@masonasher9689]

​@@winstonwolf5706huh?

[@harridan.]

​@@winstonwolf5706bi

[@harridan.]

​@@clayerkwiltee2315i would absolutely want my children to have the kind of courage it took to entertain troops at the front knowing the nazis wanted wanted her badly.

[@RobinSmith20]

Please do a piece on actress Hedy Lamarr, during WW2 she perfected spread-spectrum frequency-hopping as a means to control torpedoes for the US. This was later incorporated into radios to counter eavesdropping and laid the ground for modern communication systems. Her work went unrecognised for decades and she died in obscurity until she was inducted posthumously into the National Inventors Hall Of Fame.

[@howellwong11]

Hedy Lamarr is the most beautiful woman I have ever seen and also a WWII heroine. What a combination.

[@rogerjenkinson7979]

She purposely did not patent the device (so no royalties) so that it could be produced quickly in large numbers.

[@jacquelinecallejas1390]

@@howellwong11 Joan Crawford once told a reporter that if she ever had any doubts about her sexual preferences they died when she met Hedy Lamarr because Hedy was THE most beautiful woman she ever saw in her life but she didn't feel attracted to her. Hedy OTOH I'm pretty sure was bi, as was Marlena Dietrich.

[@maryblushes7189]

She was an actual genius.

[@msa565]

To add to your comment: she was Jewish too (most of the times people let her ethnicity out and regarding the WW2 acknowledging her jewish heritage is crucial)

[@wingy200]

I had no idea how important she was to the war effort. You do her a great honor, Dr. Felton. Thank you.

[@wayneantoniazzi2706]

Quite a woman, one HELL of a woman! I can add a bit more. When Marlene met General Patton she told him to watch out, there were those in the press out to get him and to be careful and watch what he said and did. Considering the circles she moved in she'd overheard as much. In gratitude and knowing where she was heading Patton gave her the revolver. After Patton said "Get a few of the bastards before you're captured!" she replied "Don't worry, they'll never take me alive!" Years later Marlene's daughter said her mother loved being in uniform, even if it was the USO uniform, and loved living rough at the front, and CLOSE to the front. It gave her the closest opportunity to be what she always really wanted to be, a Prussian soldier like her father and stepfather. Great video of a story that should be told! Thanks Doctor Felton!

[@Finglesham]

@@idonuttylikezenorship4547 What pills are you on? No on prescription for sure.

[@flynnjupp]

@@idonuttylikezenorship4547 what bollox

[@alainarchambault2331]

@@idonuttylikezenorship4547 Cite the book next time, if you want to be believed.

[@archstanton6102]

@idonuttylikezenorship4547 Just because Churchill wrote a book on Zion makes him zionist? Is that what you are suggesting? What book? Robert Cohen funded Churchill to do what? And again ant fact checked evidence or source? Yes, facts matter so back up your claims with some fact checked evidence?

[@stevewhite3424]

​@idonuttylikezenorship4547 And what in the 7 circles of hell does your comment have to do with the OP? Go away boy, you bother me

[@ClarenceCochran-ne7du]

I had known a few of Ms. Dietrich's efforts, but not the total extent to which she had gone in her efforts to fight the Nazis. Excellent biography and anecdotes Dr. Felton.

[@RuedigerDrischel]

Marlene Dietrich was born in Berlin Schöneberg where I lived for many years, often remembered by her that Germany had few but excellent heroes in these darkest years. Dr. Felton, one of Dietrich’s best roles as actress in “Witness of the prosecution” 1957 deserves to be mentioned in your outstanding film documentary about this remarkable woman. Thanks for your great contribution.

[@BasementEngineer]

ru: All Germans were heroes because they did their very best to stop the communist USSR from overrunning western Europe.

[@procrastinator41]

My grandfather served in the USO in Korea. He told me, that sometimes, when their music started, the shelling stopped. The North Koreans and Chinese were so close, they could hear the music and wanted to listen. Thanks to all who served in the USO, then and now.

[@nozecone]

There's something both sad and glorious about that ....

[@catholicdad]

@@nozecone slorious

[@jameshall4385]

That was probably one of the best stories you have put out on this channel.

[@stevewhite3424]

​@thedude5449 Why should anybody "go on" just to satisfy your.short attention span?

[@villageintheshire]

Yes, I concur

[@hlitharland]

Absolutely

[@deepred6041]

Agreed

[@jimfillingim1523]

​@@stevewhite3424❤❤❤❤

[@KeithWilson-ch3cf]

Saw her movie Blue Angel in highschool film class. Already familiar with her music, due to my German mother. I became a life long fan. What a woman.

[@PhilipReeder]

This video should be required viewing at all public schools.

[@rickyleeincali5375]

My great-aunt went to school with Ms. Dietrich in Berlin, beginning with kindergarten. My relative told me that she began kindergarten late, arriving after classes were already underway. She remembered seeing the future actress for the first time, dressed in black (according to my great-aunt) and told me that her personality stood out even at an early age. Ms Dietrich kept in touch with my great-aunt after the war, along with other students from her Berlin school days, who like my relative, barely escaped from their former homeland.

[@savelysavely2483]

WOW! I'm Dietrich fan, thank you for sharing! Do you have any other personal accounts of her from your great-aunt ? Maybe even school album photos ?

[@BW-og1vu]

What year have you been born?

[@rickyleeincali5375]

@@savelysavely2483 Thanks - my great-aunt talked a lot about growing up in Berlin - and I regret not asking about photos or more about Ms Dietrich. She always lit up when she mentioned MD, but I didn’t ask more as I didn't understand her significance at the time (the early-90’s). My relative had some incredible stories to tell about her life in Germany during WWI and after - and I taped some of these, although I wish I asked more about her going to school with -- and her friendship with Ms Dietrich.

[@savelysavely2483]

@@rickyleeincali5375 That's amazing! Thank you very much for taping it! Could we hear somewhere those stories ?

[@stephenhosking7384]

I've heard of other great performers whose personalities stood out even in childhood. A very interesting story - thanks!

[@marcusjohnson6412]

Dr Felton is a national treasure. This man deserves a tv show and or movie. Thank you for all you do for us!

[@mtnvortex]

Oh, you're so right! Dr Felton *does* deserve to be under the thumb of producers and executives who control his every word and subject, seeing to it that he shoe horns every modern political and social narrative they desire into each and every production. If only he had someone to force a bit of "native advertising", for popular consumer products, into each video. It truly is a shame that he has personal creative control of each topic he covers. I mean, he currently does let them control his words to some degree, as he knows what he's not allowed to talk about. It would be so much better, and far more professional, if they actually controlled each and every word of his scripts, and required their prior approval by special interest groups. Television is so much better. Just think of the pharmaceutical ads they could interrupt each episode with. If only his ship could come in. Big bags of money and relentless micromanagement improve everything. Cross your fingers, and one day we may get lucky!

[@andreasmakarewitsch1978]

@@mtnvortex Lol!

[@NormAppleton]

Stop kissing his ass, it's culty and creepy Meanwhile Marlene Dietrich was one the most serious and brave of movie stars. She wanted to rescue Germany from it's idiocy and risked her life many times.

[@TheBucketSkill]

@@NormAppleton Dude thank god someone else said this... Why do they do this? His channel is full of people throating him.

[@doggle2928]

@@mtnvortex Are you not aware of the time this speaks to ! This is of heros, that snowflakes will ever understand ! They have no knowledge of their own F***king history....

[@michaelfrost4584]

What an amazing lady, as an ex Australian Military man, Thank you for your service. R.I.P

[@oskney3329]

Thank you Mark Felton!! I remember my dad (a WWII veteran who passed in 2014) talking about her and how much she helped him and so many others get through the terrible times in Europe. He never ever talked about the war until I took him to see Saving Private Ryan and then he told me everything. He was so young over there and the things he saw were incredibly heartbreaking. I’m glad he was able to see her. She truly was a great lady. RIP…

[@tomawen5916]

"For you Lili Marlene, For you Lili Marlene!" I had read historial materials documenting Marlene's WW2 performance in the USO as well as her pre-war anti-Nazi position. However, seeing it formatted the way that Dr. Felton has provided to us youtubers, it brought tears to my eyes. Thank you Dr. Felton!

[@Edgel-in6bs]

Lili Marlene one of the all time great pieces of music!

[@tonylirette8988]

100 percent agree…she was a great lady!

[@chiefslinginbeef3641]

I wonder if it's like "la resistance" now with cringe leftists that call anyone who is a milquetoast conservative "FAR-RIGHT" (no I'm not a right winger or republican...I'm a libertarian.) Which also many left wing people I've seen lately calling libertarianism "fascism adjacent" smh

[@tomawen5916]

@chiefslinginbeef3641 it is hard to say these days. Libertarianism stood for important things on the idea of minimal government but labels keep changing as politics become more and more volatile. I am one of those who "lean left from center" but recognize there is or used to be a difference between conservatives and "conservatives". Not that anyone seems to be listening these days amidst the hype.

[@frodo322]

I always prefer the original German version. In the 1980s I believe there was a German film made based on the sorry behind the song.

[@jonathanljohnson]

You've elevated my regard for this selfless star immeasurably! I never knew that she had dedicated herself so fully to the morale of the troops; what a wonderful woman!

[@cohort075]

If more of today’s “stars” were as selfless as Marlene, what a difference it would make.

[@roderickcampbell2105]

@@cohort075 Well I won't go along with exactly with that cohort as many "stars" today are actually quite selfless. But she was one hellauva woman.

[@winstonwolf5706]

Does publicly cuckolding your husband with both men and women over decades count as being "selfless?"

[@Smudgeroon74]

She was getting plenty of acclaim and praise out of it herself, don't you worry about that...

[@carolecarr5210]

As a USAF Nurse in Japan during the VietNam war I had a friend, first generation American occasionally sing LiliMarlane in German to me. I knew a little about Marlena's WW2 entertaining our troops but nothing like he life shown here. Thank you Mark for highlighting an incredible lady. Sad to hear of her last 13 years. My respect to her is high here.

[@jeremiahlyleseditor437]

This was very moving. None of the stars today are that motivated about their careers, country and humanity.

[@jaytrace1006]

I’ve never been particularly enthralled with Dietrich, and have never understood public fascination with her. However, this piece has given me a newfound respect for her.

[@Richard-lh8jq]

It's a good man (Jay) who admits the 'error' of his ways!👍

[@snapmalloy5556]

I'm right there with you Jay. Besides Judgement at Nuremberg I really hadn't seen her in much and never understood the draw. I knew she had done some entertaining of the troops, but had no idea just how much she did. Now I have so much respect for her

[@patrickfreeman8257]

I've known her name all my life but never knew the real woman. What a class act. I'd be willing to be that there aren't 3 people in Hollywood today who could measure up to that kind of character.

[@inaleyen2737]

She could hold her own with the worst of Hollywood if she were alive today.

[@tonylirette8988]

Patrick. No one in hollywood EVER measures up to this lady. She was one of a kind. Be thankful you know her story…GREAT lady!

[@Richard-lh8jq]

Patrick, I knew of Mme Marlene as a USArmyBrat in Germany 1955/57. By the age of 13, learning German, I sang along on recordings. Let's see : "Vor der Kaserne, vor dem grossen Tor, stand eine Laterne und steht sie noch davor ... " Outside the barracks, at the main gate, there was a streetlamp, and it's still there. " How many liaisons started on that note! 😇 In my time in NYCity in the 70s/80s, I had a mentor (a 'Man Friday' to a Broadway producer) who had numerous long Sunday calls from Madame M from the apt. in Paris, when they'd discuss 'the business.' AND, I noted in this film, post-WW2, that she stood before Hotel Bayerischer Hof in Muenchen. That's now the site of the annual Munich Security Conference. It's a Small World After All. Yes. the Good German indeed.

[@patrickfreeman8257]

@@Richard-lh8jq "It's a Small World After All."??? If you get that song stuck in my head I'll never forgive you

[@Richard-lh8jq]

@@patrickfreeman8257 Wait a sec. Cleanin out my LSR (bomb shelter). OK. Ready for iNCOMING!

[@graemer3657]

In the Cravat Hotel in Luxembourg there is a letter on the wall thanking them for serving a very nice dinner during the battle of the Bulge, with the fighting approximately 20 km away. The attendees were Generals Patton and Bradley, Marlene Dietrich, and Martha Gellhorn. What I would pay to have been a fly on the wall that night!

[@lukeskywalker1840]

I’ve known she was a star since I was in college. I’ve seen many of her films. I had no idea she did what she did for this country. Truly amazing and I’m sure that no Hollywood star today would do what she did. Stories like this are what make your channel so special.

[@marijuasher]

How are you so sure? Did Fox News Entertainment tell you? Many Hollywood stars go on USO tours, but keep bashing away. This is KZbin, afterall. Big Tech only cares about the ad revenue you generate.

[@lukeskywalker1840]

@@marijuasher Please go away. Next you will say Bob Hope was a Russian Spy.

[@stuartjames1200]

During the war she made anti-Nazi recordings, in German, for the Office of Strategic Services, to be broadcast into Germany. In 1945 the U.S. government awarded Dietrich with the Medal of Freedom, a high civilian award for contribution to the allied victory. Dietrich said that this was the honor of which she was most proud of in her life.

[@bloodgrss]

Um, we just heard most of this in the video. Glad you needed to let us know you already knew it...

[@tomhenry897]

Being an ass

[@Adonnus100]

Any link to the recordings?

[@BasementEngineer]

st: A real traitor to the German people indeed!

[@grandpajoneshomestead6903]

One of your best videos. I never new how much she personally put into the war effort. What an incredible person. Thank you Marlene. And thank you Mark Felton.

[@dc1397]

I waa thinking the same thing about this being one of his best videos. It's hard to explain why but i think it is the contrast of Felton's matter of fact narration opposing Dietrich's will and charisma. Dietrich doing everything she could with her skill set to help the troops. Thank you Marlene Dietrich

[@akhil999in]

not to forget the haunting song in saving private ryan.

[@billlombard9911]

Wow , just wow , I remember the time she was in Paris . The articles written about her . Why hasn’t some big producer from the Spielberg type made a film about her ? Her life and her accomplishments and her sheer bravery would make a blockbuster. She lived by her beliefs . God bless her

[@Eckoolt]

Becouse she was pretty bad person in her personal life apart things in this video

[@holgere.]

She was amazing - an enormously courageous person with solid principles! After the war most Germans never forgave her for having done the right thing while most of them followed the Nazis to the bitter end! She was widely considered a traitor. I admire her very much! Thanks for the video!

[@anitapodsudek8041]

Makes perfect sense that she was considered a trraitor

[@nightwish1000]

it was neither that "most Germans" never forgave her nor that "most" followed the Nazis to the bitter end. where did you debunk that crap?

[@nickbovi]

My grandfather who was at the Normandy landing and was later party of the Army of Occupation, saw Marlene at a show with many other GI's. The GI's at this particular show were given a record of her singing Lily Marlene, which he brought home and even though the sound was pretty bad on it was still a cherished memento of his.

[@georgettewolf6743]

Mark, I think an episode about the song Lili Marlene needs to be made. Among other things, the original German words are much more poignantly anti-war than any of the watered down English or other translations. Joseph Göbbels tried to have it banned. Written as poetry during World War I, it wouldn’t be set to music until the late 1930’s.

[@thechurch5000]

Yet the German soldiers still sang the song too.

[@mjspice100]

It was popular on both sides..

[@edwinsalau150]

Many people do not realize that it was a poem written during World War I. Set the music many years later! Right on! Panzer Lied had modern lyrics, but the music was from a German colony in Africa. The national anthem of that colony!

[@tamaliaalisjahbana6849]

Yes, please do a vlog about the song Lili Marlene.

[@koenven7012]

There are also some different lyrics made on the same music (probably by the soldiers themselves). I know that there was a U-boot version but there most likely are others as well.

[@cfa61]

Thank you. Born in 1944 I grew up listening to Dietrich's post-war singing and performance tours, and her early trail-blazing films. She was proud of having done what she could to aid the Allies overcome Hitler and the Nazi madness. Who among us could say more?

[@BasementEngineer]

cf: It was the allies who were the madmen. Look around you, are you happy with what they left behind???

[@ThirzaLynetteClarke-ku9dq]

Outstanding woman. Used her God given gifts and talent for all. Thank you

[@lapurta22]

I always respected her as an actress but now I have far more respect for her as a human being. Truly a heroine.

[@inaleyen2737]

Read her daughter's biography. Dietrich was a despicable degenerate who, among other acts of perfersion, arranged the Lesbian rape of her only daughter.

[@frankgesuele6298]

They don't make her like this anymore.

[@markkozlowski9019]

A small correction: the 34th Division was not a Texas division. The 34th was from Iowa, Minnesota, and the Dakotas. It was the *36th Division* that was from Texas. Both divisions served in Italy in pretty close proximity to each other, but it was the 36th that was the Texas Division. My Granddad was in the 36th.

[@Cokehead_Drug_Addict_Zelensky]

My great uncle from Bastrop, Texas was actually in *BOTH* the 34th Infantry Division "Red Bull" *AND* the 36th Infantry Division "T Patchers", as well as the 1st Infantry Division "Big Red 1". He enlisted pre-Pearl Harbor and didn't get out until the war was over. He took part in operations in North Africa/Tunisia, Italy, and Sicily. He also spent some time in France and Germany according to the pictures and letters I have. I don't know why he kept getting moved around to so many different ID's, but the only thing I can think of is maybe he was assigned to a different division each time he recovered from being wounded. He received two purple hearts due to wounds suffered in North Africa and Italy.

[@Richard-lh8jq]

I visited the combined Tex/Okla Thunderbird Division Museum in OKCity in 1986. It's near MLK Blvd. Very impressive indeed ...

[@hatuletoh]

My great uncle, who invaded France via Utah Beach and fought in the Buldge among other places, never talked about anything war-related except the stars he saw perform. I wish I'd written down all the names he'd rattle off, because as a kid the only ones I recognized Marlene Dietrich and Bob Hope.

[@TheRealFamespear]

Truly one of the most amazing women to ever grace us with her presence. 🙏

[@ericchristopher1687]

This is amazing! My father was in N. Africa and Italy at the same time as Marlene Dietrich! She performed for the troops in Algiers in April 1944, then went on to do the same in Italy in June of 1944. Woody was in N. Africa in early 1944, then went to Italy and was shipped home, wounded, in August of that year. He may never have seen her perform, but it is a thrill just knowing they were in the same countries at the same time during WW2! He was a US military policeman charged with securing Mediterranean harbors as the Allies pushed the Germans and Italians out of Tunisia and Algeria, then did the same as far as Naples, where he was wounded in an artillery strikes that killed 4 other soldiers. Thank you for this wonderful video.

[@F40PH-2CAT]

Man Madeleine Kahn nailed her in Blazing Saddles

[@robertthiry9712]

It's twu! She did 😆

[@nancyM1313]

​@@robertthiry9712 Haha! Was going to write Same ... its twu! 👍🏼😃

[@smokejaguarsix7757]

Thanks. That made me smile.

[@MarcBrewer]

Yeah, but Gary Cooper nailed her first

[@dannycalley7777]

F40 ..............don't forget Cleavon Little ????

[@brucewarren3562]

Professor Felton, you’re primed to write the screenplay when this is made into a movie! Wonderful!

[@wernervanderwalt8541]

An icon to be looked up to. Despite fame still humble enough to entertain men who like her had not seen loved ones very a long time. May she rest in peace. Thank you for your service.

[@91Redmist]

Gosh, what a real woman she was, willing to give up her comforts and luxuries to entertain homesick GIs in dangerous circumstances. Just a wonderful soul.

[@aidanacebo9529]

it's unfortunate that stories like these, themselves numbering in the hundreds of thousands, are becoming the stuff of legend. everyone involved in that war had a tale of heroism to tell, even if they weren't on the front lines. even if they were just children. a friend of mine's grandfather, too young to fight in the war, donated his prized bicycle that he had saved his nickels and dimes for more than a couple years to afford, to one of the various scrap metal drives that was running near him. he was 11 years old. he loved that bike. I know it's not some grand tale of triumph in battle, but I dare any of you to find an 11 year old today who'd be willing to part with his most prized possession to help fight a war.

[@captainnima]

Sad ending for someone so true and dedicated and someone who put so much of herself. Great story and thank you.

[@TheGlobalfrog12]

A friend of mine was a massive fan of hers and he was so over the moon when she sent a personalized signed photo to him in the late 1980's ... A true true human being ❤

[@Kain_Mercer]

Quite special to be able to hear her sing, in 2023. Another fantastic upload, thanks mate

[@tzufbb]

She also undertook a tour of Israel around the same time, which was well-received; she sang some songs in German during her concerts, including, from 1962, a German version of Pete Seeger's anti-war anthem "Where Have All the Flowers Gone", thus breaking the unofficial taboo against the use of German in Israel.[66] She would become the first woman and German to receive the Israeli Medallion of Valor in 1965, "in recognition for her courageous adherence to principle and consistent record of friendship for the Jewish people". Dietrich in London, a concert album, was recorded during the run of her 1964 engagement at the Queen's Theatre.[69]

[@chrisbelvedere6653]

You know there was a very large German population in Palestine before WWII.

[@MrTibbs12]

There was never a taboo about speaking german,for many jewish people it was their first language.

[@RussianFederation.gov.]

@@MrTibbs12yeah I’m not sure what this person is on about

[@thechurch5000]

The tour was in Palestine get the name correct.

[@patrickmiano7901]

@@thechurch5000It is. You’re the one who has it wrong.

[@snapmalloy5556]

I obviously knew she was active in her support of the troops but had no idea just how involved. I have the utmost respect for her

[@ross-smithfamily6317]

What a lovely, inspiring woman of character and purpose!

[@thunderbird1921]

Finally, I was wondering when Dr. Felton was going to make a video on her! As an American, I will say from everything I've read and heard Dietrich got wild cheers at most public events she attended even several years after the war.

[@stephenle-surf9893]

For the love of God! Can we make this man responsible for teaching history in our country 🙏. Thank you sir.

[@marciavox8105]

I read about her relationship with her daughter and how neglectful she was as a mother, so this provides a different perspective! It just goes to show how nuanced individuals truly are, how they can excel in one area of their lives but fail in another. Thank you!

[@tsz5868]

character assassination perhaps?

[@PiperTMTotalWar]

A courageous woman who did what she could in the face of adversity. No doubt she saved many lives. A true inspiration.

[@anitapodsudek8041]

How did she save lives?

[@Volundur9567]

She didn't save anyone

[@anitapodsudek8041]

@@Volundur9567 She contributed enthusiastically to the anti-German propaganda in full swing to demonize what had been the most civilized nation in Europe. A traitor to her own people

[@aryebognar6663]

​@@anitapodsudek8041 Morale

[@sem3479]

​@@Volundur9567when the only thing you hear are bomshells going off friends dying around you seeing the destruction it's a blessing to forgot that for just one moment

[@davidallen8611]

How I will we had stars like this today. I could not think of one current celebrity that has this class!

[@josephr9930]

Many modern celebrities support the troops but it is not publicized like back then. Gary Sinese and others came to our base when I was in the military in the middle east in the 2000's. Tom Hanks Steven Spileberg have both done a lot for the troops including building museums like the WW2 museum in New Orleans. Many women too like Cher and Scarlett Johansson have done so much.

[@Asger21]

What a woman. So courageous. Popular all over the world during a world war even, says it all.

[@Asger21]

@@idonuttylikezenorship4547 What about giving all your wealth to the poor people?

[@stevewhite3424]

​@Asger21 Like you? Your pointless and.irrelevant virtue signal has been noted and round filed

[@tricivenola8164]

Wow. Thank you. I was born in Los Angeles in 1950 and grew up in the long shadow of WWII. My parents and all their friends greatly admired Marlene Dietrich, for all the reasons you've given. Not to mention that she was a true star: When she's onscreen, you can't take your eyes off her. Somewhere we read what she said when asked how she stayed so beautiful -- at the time she was almost 60. "For the past forty years," she said, "I have not eaten one thing that I liked." I hope this video reaches people too young to know of her. She should be remembered. And watched.

[@cgross82]

Wow! I had no idea about her wartime service! What a great lady!

[@OleJoe]

My dad was in Patton's Third Army as part of the 4th Armored Division. He attended one of Dietrich 's shows in France in 1944.

[@fload46d]

Thank you, Doctor. I did not know this. My grandparents were both German descent and my mom's dad was Austrian descent. They were totally against Hitler who destroyed Germany. Many in the Wehrmacht fought because it was their country and also many would have been shot if they didn't. Nice to know Dietrich fought against Nazism with all her might. She belongs alongside those like Baron Von Stauffenberg who gave their lives to defeat Nazism.

[@chrisbelvedere6653]

Do you think your parents would enjoy Germany the way it is today? How about France? Or England? Germany prevailed the world wouldn't be in the situation that it is today, because he was trying to fight back against the same people who are destroying the world today. You're a fool to think any differently.

[@inaleyen2737]

Stauffenberg was a count!

[@Occident.]

Traitors and cowards ALL!

[@tetrahedron1000]

Yes, and also the Edelweiss Pirates.

[@phildicks4721]

I read a book of Ernie Pyle's WWII columns and one of them was about Ms Deitrich visiting the soldiers on the front with a jeep, driver, a record player with records, and a few nice dresses. She would stop, talk and sign autographs. Then she would dress up and sing songs for the sokdiers before packing up and moving on to the next group of soldiers. Her driver would play the records that she would sing to.

[@einarbolstad8150]

I was surprisingly moved by this story. I of course knew of her already, but this added many details to my spotty knowledge of her effort. I'm always impressed by people that have a certain skill that would appear to not be of much use in a dramatic situation, such as war, but they still find a way to use that skill for good (such as we see in Ukraine today). She certainly did just that. An amazing person worthy of much respect.

[@jamiejmasters4818]

Utterly unique entertainer, and a damn courageous woman, good job, Mark.

[@user-rt9ur6tp9d]

Marlene Dietrich visited Israel and perfomed in Tel Aviv. At that time German languege was a big No No in Israel and singing in German was out of a quetion. Nevever the less Dietrich asked the audience permition, many of them holocost survivors and sang in german. The shaw was a hit full off tears and emotions. She wellcomed with love and respect.

[@mithunkartha]

Many of the Jews probably had German as their mother tongue. Memories of better times.

[@user-rt9ur6tp9d]

@@mithunkartha True. Many in the audience came from german speaking cuontries such as Germany and Austria. During her visit in Israel Dietrich traveled the country and wellcomed with love, the oposite the her prevoius visit to Munich few month before where she was recived with animosity.

[@robferguson9800]

Yes she lived her life her way.

[@John-ko3rm]

Stories that need to be told and you are the man to tell them. Thank you.

[@peterrandall9523]

Thanks for re-shining the light on this legend.

[@michaelmorse7627]

A deeply moving story, felicitously titled and, as always with Dr. Felton, sensitively told. Thank you!

[@robert-trading-as-Bob69]

Most USO-type shows were held further back from the front lines, so Marlene and her troupe showed true commitment to the cause. Her contribution to Allied morale as a German-born star was priceless. Her selflessness in donating money to the plight of European Jewry was phenomenal in it's day.

[@scottcharney1091]

*its

[@robert-trading-as-Bob69]

@@scottcharney1091 Hits also works for me. Don't be a grammar nazi.

[@yohannbiimu]

There has always been a keen place in my heart for Marlene Dietrich for her brave and sacrificial service during the Second World War. Thank you for this insightful and caring documentation of this service.

[@frisk151]

I love this woman... You'd likely not find a finer actor or singer anywhere near Hollywood.. Talk about taking the RIGHT stand regardless of her popularity back home in Germany...

[@stefanschleps8758]

Thank you Professor Felton. I have often wondered what Ms. Dietrich's connection was to Germany, France, and the USA. Your presentation was concise and clear. We are again in your debt for bringing such notable figures as this one back into the public spotlight. I have no doubt that Ms. Dietrich's life is still inspiring the lives of others seeking an avenue of selfless service. All the best to you and yours!

[@StevenKeery]

An exceptional woman, I've always loved that song Lili Marlene. It can't have been easy for her, knowing that her Mother and family might be subject to reprisals from the Nazis. Still she followed her conscience. I think my favourite film of hers was with Jimmy Stewart, in 'Destrey Rides Again'. I'm glad penicillin was able to save her life, at least once. Such a colourful life deserved saving. With such a large phone bill every month, I imagine she would have loved the Internet as a lifeline in her lonelier years. Thanks for uploading, I enjoyed this bit of nostalgia.

[@brandonburr4900]

I think an entire series of videos could be done on the uso performers/actors/celebrities/singers during ww2. I'm guessing their were many. With so many close to the front lines it would be fascinating to see how many close calls they had and the stories of each of the entertainers and the different front lines they were performing at. I was surprised she donated away her entire $400k from a film she did. That's huge $$$ back than and didn't realize they made that kind of $$$. Thank you mark for the best history channel out period! Thank you for all the research you do putting these together.

[@davidstair9657]

Had many tears in my eyes on this one! What a lady!!!

[@aroyaliota]

Marlene Dietrich was a woman of valour. Thank you very much for your sterling work with this video. 👏👏

[@bobschenkel7921]

When listing Marlene's film credits you omitted one of her best performances in the Alfred Hitchcock directed classic "Witness For The Prosecution", where she played two roles, opposite Tyrorne Power, Charles Laughton.and Elsa Lanchester.

[@Rokkitohtori]

Your documentaries are of incredible interest to us out here, thank you for your work! Greetings from Finland.

[@7Steveski]

What a wonderful woman. Today's stars (and the rest of us) could learn quite a bit from her. But her last decade or so was very sad.

[@ogstopper]

That was a terrific video, Dr Felton. Thank you. Among others, Vera Lynn and George Formby - two highly successful British entertainers - gave their time to ENSA during WW2, also lifting the morale of service personnel (near the front lines) and civilians (in tube stations during air raids). Formby was awarded the OBE in 1946 for his efforts in this regard.

[@simongee8928]

And what did Gracie Fields do - ? Being married to an Italian, rather than him being interned, the pair of them took off to Capri and lived out WW2 in splendid isolation.

[@MrTibbs12]

George formby was a very funny man,his songs still hold up well today..he also refused to abide by the ‘rules’ in apartheid south africa

[@skylongskylong1982]

A unknown fact Stalin awarded George Formby the medal Star Of Lenin for his films. Look it up.

[@MrTibbs12]

@@skylongskylong1982 that i didn’t know..formby was a favourite of my grandparents,i think he was loved by all brits of that generation

[@winstonwolf5706]

Jewish

[@elvenkind6072]

A rare, but very welcome "feel good" episode. So glad to hear about this. Thank you Dr. Felton for cheering me up this weekend, and I wish a nice weekend back to you and yours, from me and the cat here in Norway. 🙂

[@vincebooth7296]

Another quite interesting episode. A point on usage. Dr. Felton states that Dietrich was “Inordinately proud” of her decorations for wartime service. Based upon the context I suggest that it might be more accurate to state that she was “extraordinarily proud”.

[@roygardiner2229]

I found the story to be very moving. What a hero she was. I don't think I would have been as dutiful as she was. The guys at the front would have been immensely cheered by her presence. The narcissism of many prominent persons in modern life is shamed by her example.

[@vince9761]

Truly a special person was Marlene Dietrich, helping Jewish refugees escape the hate and then later using her talent to boost the all important morale of the combat troops at the front, thank you so much!

[@kelrogers8480]

They weren't escaping "hate". That's an emotion. It's not a crime. They were fleeing physical abuse, torture and murder - that is a crime.

[@BasementEngineer]

@@kelrogers8480 Bullshit! In 1933 "Judea Declares War on Germany"! Who was the enemy? Who did their utmost to harm Germans?

[@netanelreed4699]

Thank you for this. I had a very wrong impression about her and knew nothing about her wartime service. In the 90s, I worked on Stubenrauchstrasse in Steglitz-Berlin, near her final resting place. I occasionally took walks there with friends. I suppose my impressions of her were tainted by Berliners who disliked her and by fans who had coopted her memory for their own agendas. Watching your video was upsetting for me, as I realized how wrong I was and could be about a person. She was a real hero and one of few Germans to get it right. I wish I had known then and all these years.

[@user-qt4qp6bj1q]

Respect to Marlene. Handed a difficult role, and nailed it.

[@prabirmehta1089]

Thanks for sharing Mark. Brought a tear to my eye. Her name was always known to me but I had no idea of her exploits and sacrifice.

[@asheland_numismatics]

Best WWII channel on KZbin…. Period!

[@tripwire3992]

If lazerpig didnt take 8 years between uploads he'd be a close competitor

[@specom]

​@@tripwire3992😂😂😂

[@chrisbelvedere6653]

It's the best if you only want to hear the side of the synagogue of Satan.

[@fredfarnackle5455]

What a woman, I had no idea of her wartime work. Those medals were well deserved.

[@afterburner94]

Dietrich and Josephine Baker have a similar path in WWII. Both of these women went to extraordinary measures to serve their country of adoption and fight for freedom and for what is just. Thought provoking life stories. They deserve to be remembered forever

[@mjstbnsn6294]

I hope Dr. Felton does one on Josephine Baker and other Hollywood stars also.

[@sharonnoble3877]

YES! Both were amazing, courageous women.

[@waverider8549]

Yes please. I admire Josephine so much.

[@noName-kn1lx]

Why would you say she inordinately took pride in her medals? She sacrificed a career traveled the world and busted her butt for others. She was rightfully proud and deserved them…

[@Ekatjam]

On March 14th, 1945 she was invited to watch a practice jump, being told it was in her honor of the 508th PIR in Reims, France. Disaster struck when as the troopers were descending a C-47 lost a propeller. The plane plummeted into six troopers, snagging their parachutes on the wings and one on the tail. All except the trooper on the tail died, including the crew. Marlene Dietrich after witnessing the crash became hysterical and remained severely distressed.

[@jamesdellaneve9005]

$450,000 in 1937! That was a crap ton of money. Good for her. Approximately $10M today.

[@timhuggins7519]

As others have commented this is an excellent piece of work Mark. So much of what you relate was a revelation to me despite my having thought I knew a fair bit about Marlene Dietrich.

[@silentblackhole]

The world needs people like her.

[@ML-dl1cp]

Such class and integrity. Jean Gabin, too. Not many present-day celebs would take such risks. By the way, the Hollywood Canteen is long gone, but the USO, of course, soldiers-on. As a Canadian serviceman traveling the through the United States on occasion, I was always welcomed at any of the USO lounges across the US, particularly at the "Bob Hope Lounge" at LAX. The kindness and hospitality of the volunteers is boundless, and it is open to American and Commonwealth service members on active duty status. It's a fine organization which receives no public funding, so donations are always welcome.

[@georgebrown8312]

What a brave and caring woman Marlene Dietrich was to oppose the Nazis and to try to aid the Allied war effort. Rest in peace, Marlene Dietrich.

[@dunexapa1016]

Just within the last few days or weeks ... I have come to appreciate the meaning of the word 'coward' and have all the more come to appreciate it's opposite quality ... Courage ... If you look at the definition of the word 'coward' you will see it encompasses a wide range of being in a 'cowardly state'. From not being able to withstand even a few minutes of discomfort , to a soldier running away in a crucial battle .. of the two .... the 'small cowardice' is the most harmful. My perfect example is asking my brother-in-law to look at a five minute video of a young lady who had come under the influence of transgender ideology. The young lady, by the nickname of KC , is now working on going back as much as she can to the natural state she was before. She has tremendous courage and has made good progress ... My brother-in-law, and I even do not like thinking of him at this time, would not look at this five minute video. He is a bigot and a coward. I like to keep it light too, so maybe pick up later. Dune

[@theswede5402]

A traitor plain and simple.

[@dunexapa1016]

@@theswede5402 , Was Sophie Scholl a traitor? How so Marlene? Explain yourself

[@theswede5402]

@@dunexapa1016 Entertaining and singing for the enemy fighting and bombing her nation, nothing to explain here.

[@dunexapa1016]

@@theswede5402 , What about Sophie Scholl?

[@adamb50]

Thanks for another awesome video! I like watching these from back then my ancestors were from Bavaria.

[@hamlltonhope8123]

This was the first time I have actually cried watching one of your productions, nearly makes one miss the war years, bravo.. a tremendous tribute.

[@zachhoward9099]

What an amazing woman and human being. Thank You Dr. Felton for sharing her incredible story and May she always Rest In Peace