Christmas from Heaven: The Candy Bomber Story (Narrated by Tom Brokaw)

Tom Brokaw tells the story of Gail Halvorsen (The Candy Bomber) during the 2012 Mormon Tabernacle Choir Christmas Concert. With the Orchestra at Temple Square and the Choir providing musical accompaniment, Brokaw chronicles Halvorsen’s efforts to share candy and gum with the children of war-torn Germany.
Episode 4344B. Aired December 16, 2012

[@gerdarobinson6069]

So many kind Americans who have been generous. I wore a dress to my confirmation in Germany. It came from the Red Cross. We wore wooden clogs from Holland. When the war was over, I was seven years old in Wilhelmshaven, Germany. We followed the big American tanks and the soldiers tossed candy and chewing gum. Our first taste of gum. I am glad I saw the candy bomber. I am almost 60 years in this country and I am still grateful to be called an American.

[@user-82719a]

God Bless.

[@mannymacvela3877]

Hollywood needs to make a movie about him. His story is truly in movie making.

[@deannasandes6699]

Fabuloso, without any more words!

[@trevoradams9315]

About 15 years ago I helped a mate who was running an orphanage and school in Phnom Penh with his family and one afternoon we had a games trial, during which I was told that a 16 year old boy was having his birthday that day. He had never had a party or received a present during his 16 years so we decided he would have one. We went to an all you can eat for a price restaurant and took all the 22 kids along but we didn't have a cake so my mate scoured the bakeries and came back with a cupcake with a single candle. After the meal we presented him with the cake and we all sang happy birthday. This young bloke took the cake and cut it into many pieces so each child there could have a piece. In the west we have so much, but maybe we should have the same heart as this boy who really cared for his fellow orphans. We are in the Christmas Season now, let us not forget the Father who cared for us fellow orphans that He sent His only Son to share Him with us. Bless you all.

[@lindacarlton3154]

Beautiful! Thank you for sharing this story and reminding me of what's really important. God bless you and happy Christmas. ❤🙏

[@brigittegreen4720]

yes I remember this when I grew up as a child and soldiers used to throw gum to me when we helped trucks to find a way around the tunnel in Munich and still remember this now and am 78

[@bettiewatkins3687]

Every year I play this video for my school children and tell Mr. Halverson's story. The lessons they learn from his decency are invaluable in an age when "me first" is so common. The world lost a great man today.

[@rr7firefly]

America at its finest. The Christmas spirit (generosity and kindness toward the less fortunate) as demonstrated by Colonel Halvorsen must NEVER be extinguished. No matter what "strictly business" pragmatic people say. In our own time we see far too many instances of callous disregard for others, disharmony between people who believe different things. We can certainly do much better than that. In Christmas 2023 even more so.

[@mikewrasman5103]

I lost it. The German kids are now adults and are still so grateful to Mr. Halvorson and the other pilots.

[@Troop65TACBSA]

Sir, you think you just gave to sticks of gum. In reality you gave a lot more - no money in the world could ever buy. You, Sir, you gave hope to a nation, former enemies not that long ago! It's been a great honor to have known you for about 11 years. R.I.P. We will keep your legacy alive and keep sharing it with others. Thank you!!!

[@virginia4babies]

Babysat for Hal and Alta Halvorsen back in 1964. He helped bless my first born son. A lovely family. Got to attend church with them every week.

[@Operamoms]

Hal on his 100th birthday: “My advice to people is the same today: Don’t hate and don’t be mad at your next-door neighbor,” he said. “If you want to get the best out of life, you have to forgive.” And sharing a bit of chocolate with someone now and then can’t hurt either, he said.

[@pattibarch7618]

I believe our WW2 Veterans are Blessed for their honorable selfless compassion service.

[@sieglindeschneider307]

Hallo ich heiße Sieglinde Schneider aus Aichach Eine sehr beeindruckende Geschichte Man sollte sich das immer mal ansehen um wach zu werden und wie schon gesagt: Mit reden und anhören geht ALLES BESSER msn muss nicht immer Hassen 🤔😁🎅😍🎁🌟

[@michaelhume2858]

On my first Christmas in the Army and stationed in Berlin I volunteered to spend Christmas at a Berlin Orphanage. I was sat at a table with 8 children and at my spot was also two sticks of gum cut into 4 chunks each. We were told to hand out the chunks of gum and then the Candy Bomber story was spoken in both English and German. Now after 38 years I got to hear it again.

[@wvonmayer502]

+Michael Hume I was also stationed in Berlin. Good to see another Berliner!

[@keithfritz6280]

Only Tom Brokaw could tell this story of a member of the Greatest Generation.

[@skudaarkaat1]

Out of all that former-hate; came SO MUCH LOVE! God bless those pilots!!!!!!!!

[@paulthepsych833]

What is so astonishing is this most generous of men is alive still. In January 2021, it was reported that he had recovered from COVID-19, which he had contracted about 1 month before. God has decided this man deserves a lengthy life on this earth before he meets his maker.

[@tifiecampdirector742]

RIP Gail 2/17/22......truly a life well lived....Thank You is not a strong enough sentiment for the historic efforts you proffered to those souls that really needed it.....you were a blessing to so many!

[@hackisivananda8332]

in the name of the town berlin and in the name of every berlin citizen, in the name of whole germany i say THANK YOU. :-)

[@reezy_87]

The Candy Bomber's story just makes tear up every time, when the aircraft does the flyby and the candy starts coming down. It gives just a small feeling on how the children felt and hopefully the inspiration and hope it gave to them.

[@enricosandiego]

Very touching true story of an airman, this made me cry

[@heidihiho1]

I was just 2 years old, but lived aright there in Berlin, thank you for doing this.....Heidi Chang

[@clumsyass1]

Thank you. I am old enough to remember those days (as a boy in UK). Thank you for this heart warming (and tear jerking) story.

[@9885512]

As only the Mormon Tabernacle Choir could deliver with absolute perfection!!! My parents - Dad is 93, WW2 Naval Aviator "Pacific Theater" and Mom is 91 - a "WW2 USO Gal", was so moved to see this marvelous production it brought tears to the whole family. Thank you for remembering those who have sacrificed so much for so many. Let us not forget those serving worldwide now and in the past this 2014 holiday season.

[@huttenbar4806]

Even 72 years later the „Rosinenbomber“ aren‘t forgottten in Germany. There should be more candy bombers in the world bringing hope and confidence to the people. Trank you very much.

[@lyscottrell380]

I would have loved to meet this wonderful man. I guess someday I will meet him in heaven.

[@blenderesque708]

Came here to pay respect. I am still amazed by this video. This is where I learned about his inspiring story.

[@irenekaiser5759]

Beautiful! God Bless Gail Halvorsen, (The Candy Bomber)

[@keithfritz6280]

I still get very emotional every time I see this. Many have seen it as a result of conversations I have had with them. God Bless those who pass on the spirit of giving time and time again.

[@joselourencodossantosjr7321]

Sadly he passed way in 17Feb. My God receive his soul and confrt his family and friends. Consunmus Perficio. Rest In Peace

[@helenbatson3164]

What a wonderful country we live in little Charlie sneed a lot of people cared about the little red headed g Guy on Jones Dale court all so look at your pic brings back lots of memories back of all the kids I watched grow up there a great story allways liked Tom Brokaw good anchor great story teller love all you guys Helen Batson

[@emodrummond7893]

The best Christmas true story that I have ever heard. Thankyou.

[@karenbrecht8545]

I wish we all could live together in PEACE, what a world it could be and would be!!

[@rameshthangaraj]

Every year I religiously watch this video from My Dvd and also in youtube ! It fulfill the Christmas for me and my children ( 12-24-2019)

[@alfredpsaidl6789]

What a wonderful recap of times long past but important reminder of the struggle for peace.

[@cbfraser10]

What an incredible story! Thank you to all those pilots, especially Kernel Halverson! U made a huge difference, which is something u should be extremely proud of!

[@billbright1755]

What you sow, surly you shall reap. If you sow the seeds of kindness forgiveness and love, your harvest in the fullness of time, shall fill your heart with joys eternal.

[@billbright1755]

I have held I my hands, respectfully, the wreckage of a downed C:54 lost (with her crew of three) on a training mission on a Montana mountaintop. Training for this mission of kindness not hate.

[@LivingCrusader]

Gail Halvorsen is a true American Hero!

[@stevewright4092]

This story touch my heart so much yes I got tears in my eyes.he more then hero.he angel.

[@zacharyhurwitz1789]

God bless the people in the US military who served to save millions without you today wouldn't be as free as it is today

[@michaelkuang8615]

This mad lad is now 100 years old, amazing

[@stevewright4092]

I just wondered there was so many children in that camp.any of them might see this video of Hal story.It would be so wonderful for one of them say I was in that camp.It was a shame the children had to go through that.Hal truly a Hero.

[@woodsbakerYT]

no one can pull off spectacle and pure drama like the mormon tabernacle choir at christmas. the snow and the parachutes and the underscoring and the falling fabric screen are home runs.

[@wrightsteve3132]

What a beautiful story a great hero he is this put tears in my eyes he has heart of god

[@Nyck461]

Beautiful story, it touched my heart. What a privilege to have a history like that to share with others.

[@MontanaTrace]

What a wonderful piece of world history.

[@fate6974]

Now thats a true Hero.

[@wrightsteve3132]

Truly beautiful story he has heart of angel

[@marcelynpage8271]

Sometimes one person CAN make a difference.

[@guyservice6646]

+marcelyn page Amen to that.... and he is still alive DEC 2015

[@blindbasser]

what a great story , and puts a tear in the eye too

[@FLoW828]

I've heard of this story before but this was very touching and made me cry :') have blessed and merry Christmas season everyone!

[@hearttoheart4me]

RIP Col Halverson. You done good and will continue beyond your years.

[@franceslambert8070]

Ok, bawling my eyes out and trying to type, ain't going so well. Thank you for this program. I enjoyed learning about the gifts of candy for the children in Berlin.

[@hunterdavis2480]

he came to our school last year to talk about his big adventure back in the 40s I didn't get to meet him cause he was super busy

[@McNabbulous]

One of most beautiful stories in history.

[@judyprior9231]

Oh my Father in Heaven please help us to keep our children in our prayers. As I have cared personally for these WW11 veterans, their wisdom shared to me has been one of my greatest blessings in my life! We must all be of one mind and save our Children during this time all across the World! Who will be the brave and listen to that still small voice, Our Savior will walk with us!

[@Pianoman90power]

Truly one of the most beautiful segments of any of the Tab Choir's Christmas concerts!!!

[@graemespry5004]

Myself & my entire family over several years enjoyed the privelege of visiting the Tabernacle The Mormon Choir are sensational. The Organ at the tabernacle was built by an Australian The setting & acoustics are sensational. The message of the Candy Man is an everlasting tribute to the real spirit of Christmas Happy New Year to all

[@MariaAcosta-cp4nd]

amo la musica del Coro del Tabernaculo Mormon,me trae mucho gozo, y paz.....!!!

[@rosemaryhove8649]

This is a beautiful Story, Every one should read and listen to the words Rose Mary

[@emodrummond7893]

Such a special story

[@crespabs]

Wow... I love the Story... i was touched.

[@anglandp]

anyone else tear up when the kids rushed him?

[@randyovercash8234]

Thanks Tim McGraall wonderful recap story of Christmas

[@lauriecederstrommatson1043]

Awesome story and well told!!!

[@Budcat101]

today needs so badly moments like this story recounts mankind never learns what to do with greatness too much greed and hatered

[@joanerhard454]

I remember this talked about,in1944' twin and I was 8 years old.

[@xoannxo24]

What a very inspiring story. This is always been my favorite in the meet the mormon movie.

[@samratulevu8228]

This gets me everytime...touching production 💯😍

[@jimmywalker1568]

Story brought a tear to my class eye

[@stevewright4092]

Reading all these comments on here there lot of great history of people was there if make me feel good of Hal great heart.make all the children happy someone care this wonderful story. A lady said on here we need more Hal to change the world.hal is are hero.

[@steventaylor8785]

At the second bridge turn left, go up three blocks, turn right, drop candy by the burned out building on the left.

[@brianlefler4582]

I believe God speaks to us in a still small voice. Give them the sticks of gum Hal. I will multiply the loaves and fishes and make a miracle.

[@allansorianomorales3950]

The tears kept on coming, the most beautiful presentation I have ever seen! If everyone shares and listens to each other, there will be no more war.

[@laleska507]

Que gran historia, la estoy viendo en julio 2021. Que gran ejemplo de amor al prójimo.

[@macsoa]

Thank you! Thank you! Thank you!

[@nathanhsoa4993]

How awesome: I never heard about this story. All it ever takes is for one to start to bring change and to give from the heart. The Mormon Tabernacle Choir was also awesome. Thank you forsharing he truth of the real Christmas. Christ is the reason it is u to each of us to do as HE did for each andevery one of us if we choose to accept HIM. John 3:16 Ask Him to your heart to day. The only way to life is eternal is Jesus Christ ( Yahushus Messiah. Merry Christmas and Happy Blessed New Year

[@btrask3]

Thanks Nathan for mentioning the TRUE meaning of Christmas...

[@jenniferbaker7189]

Rest in peace, Mr. Halvorsen, who died today at age 101.

[@rubemarangelo4940]

Simply Awesome!!!!!!!!!!

[@princekcake2742]

God bless you all 🙏❤

[@lindaweaverclarke]

This is such a touching story. Thank you for sharing it with me.

[@awabob]

Rest in peace dear brother we're not likely to see your kind again

[@toddavis8603]

My dad a WWII soldier in European Theater, 5 campaigns 4th Armored Division♡☆☆☆☆Freely we give, as Christ gave all.[1916-1962]Great story of valore.

[@vintagetreasures]

A beautiful story...

[@jimelliott9486]

Wonderful story!

[@psilvakimo]

I just had cataract surgery. This story did me good!

[@aestheticsman347]

So touching!

[@janesmith3731]

Ah, made me cry.... what a good story. People are so inherently good. (The story is about the blockage of West Berlin by the communists after world war II I believe and thus about the success of our democracy over Communism. The other part of it is that never in the UK have we been as healthy as when we had no sugar or candy during WWII I am afraid and that sugar shoudl be a banned controlled substance....) however leaving the political and health background to this aside... the man done good and we should follow his example of doing good to others.

[@b1tcam46]

Beautiful story

[@DebRipAdams]

Wonderful!

[@josephloy7375]

absolutely love this

[@violetwillaman9463]

That was s wonderful !

[@mr.icecreamscooper6042]

where is a tissue box when you need one.

[@carolconaway5852]

How beautiful 🥰

[@craigbinder5560]

Wow to think what we were to what we've become

[@janfleming6045]

What one man can do!

[@hunthogs7214]

Legend!

[@firepower7654]

I'm not crying!...You're crying!!

[@dpsleeper]

Awesome!

[@syntaxerror5610]

Uncle Wiggly Wings

[@evelyntrone4015]

Inspiring!

[@randyovercash8234]

That's some sweet holy white flags. From little things like hard candy come big sweet things I'm new life. Thank youfor Jesus father God. Amen

[@ericswensen963]

That's me at 0:22!

[@jacquist7093]

heel mooi