We Were Soldiers (2002) | First Time Watching | Movie Reaction

[@lw3918]

Thank you. My father participated in this battle. He wouldn't watch the movie because he said he didn't need to. It's also a better depiction of the Vietnam War than other movies.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Please thank your father for his service! I can't even imagine how hard it must have been for him!

[@lw3918]

@@popculturallychallenged You're getting ready to see.

[@popculturallychallenged]

@@lw3918 This was the most intense movie we've ever seen. Most of the movie felt like a long version of the beach scene from Saving Private Ryan in intensity. 😭

[@lw3918]

@popculturallychallenged Funny you say that. My grandfather ( father's father) was on Omaha Beach that morning too, My dad watched that and cried. Literally 3rd time he did that. The first two being when his parents died.

[@vincecommando7575]

Your father and those who served in the Vietnam War. Deserved way more honor and respect than they recieved from our society and our government. Far more disgraceful was our government's failure to defeat an enemy that was very defeatable.

[@raythornton8578]

As a two tour combat veteran of Vietnam I appreciate your heartfelt emotions watching this movie. I know that so many people still don’t understand what the soldiers went through in Vietnam. Always remember that all scars are not visible.

[@TheEfvan]

Thank you for your service, sir.

[@mattconner6416]

Thank you for your service and welcome home

[@Cherokee9898]

Hal Moore’s wife, Julia, was a major figure, during and following Vietnam, in setting up the system the army now has in place where a chaplain and an officer personally deliver the news of every fallen soldier. She also helped set up army family support groups for families who had a member on deployment or who lost a family member.

[@jfel1432]

There's an award in the army named for her. It's for civilian contribution to the army.

[@michealwolf4295]

Um no they was already doing it in Germany long before this war.

[@MySkybreaker]

@@michealwolf4295 Um yes you can literally google it. The US had no system in place for casualty notification until her complaints to the pentagon following the Battle of La Drang.

[@McBrannon1000]

​@@michealwolf4295just a slight correction, What Mrs. Moore did was create a special department dedicated to notifying the family with compassion. Up until then the military just sent a telegram. The idea of a priest/minister coming with the notification is a myth perpetuated by films and novels. There were no dedicated Notification Teams pre-1965.

[@Robert-mq5jx]

Bullshit. That policy was in ww2

[@hoshinoutaite]

Hal Moore's wife, Julia, pushed the Army extremely hard to create a better system for casualty notification. She's one of the big reasons that the Army has survivor support networks and casualty notification teams, that consist of actual Army officers, and that whole support network is still used today. Hal Moore himself retired from the Army as a Lt. General (three stars). They are both synonymous with what "Army Strong" means. Fort Benning was renamed Fort Moore in their honor, one they truly deserved.

[@zurnie]

As soon as Toni started tearing up when the baby was born I knew it was going to be a rough time. I am a 59 year old man. This movie gets me tearing up every time. But I still rewatch it a few times a year. Hal Moore was a genius tactician. He learned from historical battle accounts. Including Little Bighorn.

[@popculturallychallenged]

It was such a hard movie to watch. I did need to take a break. Thank you for watching with us. - Toni 😢

[@jhilal2385]

I am surprised that no one explained "Broken Arrow" in the comments so here goes: "Broken Arrow" was a code phrase meaning that the unit was in danger of being overrun and massacred. In response, they received top priority for all aircraft in the Vietnam area (Air Force, Navy, and Marine), including those flying in from bases in Thailand, Korea, and aircraft carriers, and all artillery within range. In this case, the air traffic controllers stacked ground attack aircraft and fighters in a holding pattern and handed them off one flight at a time to the radio man on the ground to direct their bombing and strafing attacks. There were flights (of 2-4 airplanes each) stacked in the holding pattern every 1000 ft from 7000 ft altitude to 37,000 ft (so 60-100+ airplanes waiting their tun at any one time). As a flight came off the bottom to make their attacks, everyone else descended 1000 ft to a new holding altitude, while newly arriving flights were added at the top.

[@mikearmstrong8483]

Pure Bullshit! This is a myth that was created by this movie, and it has become so popularized that some fool entered it in wikipedia without anyone doing any fact checking. Broken Arrow refers to a particular type of nuclear weapon accident ONLY. It does NOT, and NEVER has referred to a unit being overrun. I served in a nuclear capable unit and learned the procedure. One does not declare Broken Arrow by just yelling 2 words into a radio. There is a very specific reporting procedure to a very specific level of command.

[@terryv2006]

Everyone needs to see a movie like this before they say it’s ok to go to war. The horror is unimaginable. The people that live through it can never leave it behind. Bless you Toni for showing us your heart.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you for watching with us! 🥰

[@andygossard4293]

99% of Congress and presidential candidates would approve of these elective wars and 99% would neither serve or have family members serve in them.

[@Styxswimmer]

I've been there. Deployed twice but only once to combat. No matter how much they train you for it, you aren't prepared for the real thing. So far, I've lost 2 friends to combat and 6 to suicide. Since then I've become vehemently anti war

[@Jetz316]

Nobody “wins” a war except for the leaders that vote for war. I’m looking at the current administration. Ukraine, Israel. Stop the war machine. Regular people get chewed up and spit out. 🤬

[@tonyhaynes9080]

Try telling that to the politicians of all nations. But unfortunately, terrorist organisations like Hamas Hezbollah won't listen or care, because the first rule and objective of terrorism is to terrorise.

[@rtm27]

One of my high school classmates father was one of the medics during this battle. He was awarded a Silver Star for what he did.

[@popculturallychallenged]

WOW!! I wish I could meet one of these brave men just to give them a hug and thank them! - Toni 🥰

[@misterRDF]

I saw this in the movie theater, and I will never forget, there was a man in the row before me. He was obviously a Vietnam veteran there with his family and his children. In the end, this large man started gently shaking and crying in his seat. Although it was barely audible, the row he sat in, the row before him, and my row waited an unspoken amount of time before we shuffled past him in his row, and the adjacent ones. It was not my place to, but I could not help myself and put a hand on his shoulder. I will always associate, this memory, with this movie for as long as I am here.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow! I can only imagine how hard it is for Vets to watch stuff like this. 😢

[@steveg5933]

I am 5th generation, 10 year US Navy veteran. I was born just 12 days after this battle. One of my most cherished items is an old photo. On the left a Sergeant in the Army, on the right, his brother, A Marine Lance Corporal. They met in the Buffalo NY Airport. The soldier leaving for Nam, the Marine just got home from Nam. My uncles. In between them, 18 month old your's truly. A future Navy Hospital Corpsman. Every person has their personal limits when watching movies like these. There is no right or wrong way to watch, or not watch them more than once. I watch to remember, but Toni I'll let you know this. At 58, I cry every time, no shame in tears. Hold your head up, those tears ensure you will never forget those who've given so much to all of us.

[@popculturallychallenged]

😢🤗, I would love to see that picture, I'm sure it's so meaningful. Thank you for your service and all the sacrifices your family made for all of us. Lots of hugs -Toni 😊

[@formatique_arschloch]

Ability to cry because of empathy is a sign of a decent and good hearted person. Nothing to be ashamed of. Greetings from Finland.

[@steveg5933]

​@@popculturallychallengedI just realized, I left a detail out about the picture. The Soldier & Marine? My dad's little brothers.

[@Smokeater4444]

Don't feel too bad , I am a Vietnam Veteran , it took me 23 times watching this video to be able too see it all the way through ,Too Real You could smell the enemy before you could see them & it was the same for them on us, Food , Cigs some Fluids are different for each of us , So that helped a lot at night , Remember the War doesn't end after the War is over !! Freedom isn't free , All gave some !! Some gave it all , Great Pod cast Folks Hand Salute from an Old Tired Nam Veteran

[@mattconner6416]

Same for my dad... Thank you for your service, and welcome home.

[@chada7094]

I have this movie. To all those who have served you r life has meaning , your sacrifice does not go unseen. Thank you s aren't enough to convey appreciation for all you have done. Looking forward to this and your reaction.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Very well said! - Toni 🥰

[@edgarcia4794]

Colonel. Moore tracked down the girl in the North Vietnamese soldiers red note book and sent it back to her with a note mentioning that war was regretable but know that he died bravely doing his duty as a soldier. Without fear nor pain.

[@popculturallychallenged]

That was amazing to me that he would go and do that. Amazing man!! -Toni 😢

[@hayther4590]

ARVN? Isn't ARVN the South Vietnamese forces?

[@edgarcia4794]

Correct I'll change it.@@hayther4590

[@douggaijin]

⁠@@hayther4590ARVN, Army of the Republic of Việt Nam, was the army of miền Nam Việt Nam (South Việt Nam). The army of North Việt Nam was referred to as NVA (North Vietnamese Army) also known as PAVN (People’s Army of Việt Nam).

[@rabbitsox]

@@popculturallychallenged In reality, there was no address nor name associated with the notebook, so it was never returned. Additionally, the final battle in this movie (the hill assault) never occurred. The actual end of Ia Drang was fairly "anticlimatic" and was changed into something more "victorious" for the movie.

[@poiny91]

My father served in the 82nd Airborne during the Vietnam War... A few weeks before his division was set to deploy, he injured his back, which kept him state side. While he was in the hospital recovering, his best friend came to visit and before he left, he told my father "I'll see you when I get back." His friend died over there, sacrificed himself to save his brothers in arms... My father felt guilty over his friend dying and not himself and has lived with it for over 50 years, growing up I never understood why he was always so angry until we found out about what happened to his friend. Before I left for bootcamp, we visited the Vietnam Memorial...he had never been there...and as we walked to the spot that had all the names in a book to find out where everyone was at he asked me to find his friend's name and where it was in Memorial... After I found it and told him, he just stayed still while looking at the whole Memorial. As we walked up to it, he was holding back tears, and slowly started to shake as we got closer and closer to the spot. When we found his name, my father put his hand over it and started crying. He said "Thank you for saying bye before you left. I love you brother." Then he saluted the Memorial and we left. I'll never forget that day. God Bless the Vietnam Veterans!!!

[@jamiemcadams7816]

Thank you for showing those names and for your dear wife. Thank you. All I can say is thank you.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you for watching with us. - Toni ☺️

[@steveflores820]

My brother was in this battle. He survived but would pass of Lou Gerhrigs disease 20 years later. I do watch every year to honor him. As a veteran myself I get so emotional watching it. I have a very soft spot for Vietnam vets. RIP

[@jhilal2385]

Toni's Hallmark movie guy, Marc Blucas, is better known from his time as a regular on the "Buffy the Vampire Slayer" TV series. His sergeant who called in the illumination rounds at night is played by Ryan Hurst; Opie from "Sons of Anarchy" and the deafened 506th PIR paratrooper from "Saving Private Ryan"

[@popculturallychallenged]

I've never seen Buffy the Vampire Slayer so will need to go take a look. 😉 I'll have to add Sons of Anarchy to our list. Thank you, Toni 😊

[@jhilal2385]

@@popculturallychallenged For something lighter, Ryan Hurst was also in the 2004 remake of the comedy "The Ladykillers" with Tom Hanks

[@UNC030]

Ryan Hurst is also Gary Bertier in Remember the Titans (2000)

[@johnstrickler2238]

Just wanted to say thank you for doing this reaction. My uncle fought through this battle, and wouldn't say anything until he was nearly passed. It's always a personal one for me.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you for joining us! 🥰

[@acdragonrider]

🫡 A heartfelt salute and lots of love and appreciation to him, you and your family. Which company was he with? I read the We Were Soldiers Once and Young book many years ago.

[@johnstrickler2238]

@@acdragonrider I believe he said Bravo, but at the time I was more concerned with trying to help ease him through his final days.

[@rushwingate]

I didnt cry when I saw the movie...but I would have cried watching with her. The fact it touched her so....shes a patriot.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Really, you didn't cry even a little bit? did you feel like your heart was pounding in your chest? I'm sure it did.... Hugs your way either way. - Toni 😊

[@jimmyc3755]

Sgt. Mackenzie playing on the last charge is the perfect music for this attack. Gut wrenching. The Vietnam memorial is worth the visit if you are ever in DC. This is a hard film to watch for anyone, without tears.

[@popculturallychallenged]

We have seen the Vietnam Memorial about 21 years ago but would love to take a our girls to see that as well. - Toni 🥰

[@mitchbutterfinger2367]

My wife always said ... hardest Job in the military is being a military spouse. Toni , your reactions reminded me of that.. The look on her face when I would leave was very hard. Thanx for the video ..and your reaction ... Happy vets day to all my brothers and sisters out there !

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you so much for your service. Please hug your wife a little harder for us. I don't know that I could ever do it. I would be a complete wreck daily. - Toni 🥹

[@armynurseboy]

As a retired Army officer, the hardest scenes for me to watch were not the combat scenes, but the scenes of the family members getting their telegrams.

[@or10nsharkfin]

Years later Joe Galloway recalled the moment he put Nakayama on the helicopter and it was just as heart-wrenching as it was depicted in the movie. Jimmy unfortunately died from his wounds. This was such a tremendous movie. Even Lt. Col Moore remarked that it was the first time he saw Hollywood ever depict Vietnam with any sense of reality and respect for the men who died in the battles while offering a fair perspective to both sides, depicting neither as truly good or evil. Where Vietnam movies of the 70's and the 80's portrayed the more psychological effects of the conflict on a service member's psyche, this was one of the few that actually portrayed the human side of it.

[@757optim]

Thes air cav guys were first and developed the tactics those of us who followed would use, though it varied with the terrain. A lot of single ship and hover holes (or small LZs) in the central highlands. Larger formation combat assaults in the delta.

[@christopherwolfe4692]

This is why, whenever I see a Vietnam Veteran I tell them “welcome home”.

[@FuzzyMarineVet]

Tell Toni there is no shame in tears. I too cry when I watch the carnage in this movie. A toast to absent comrades and fallen friends, "Fair winds and following seas until we stand that watch together again on the streets paved with gold."

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you for your service and your kind words. - Toni 😊☺️

[@jabronidave3612]

I'm a navy vet and glad you chose this one

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you so much for your service!! We appreciate your courage and all the sacrifices you and your family made. - Toni 🥰

[@katsucafe1406]

My Dad served in Vietnam he would go to that same area in the central highlands later on in the war. He told me the feel of the area and just the overall depiction of the terrain and the sounds reminded him of those times. I still dont know how me and him watched that movie, but it was truly something I appreciated and respected. truly an accurate depiction of how the Vietnam war was.

[@jeremyorthman1873]

When this came out, there was a story in the paper when PVT Nakayama's wife and daughter saw it in the theatre. I can't imagine being a family member and watching the story of their loved one's death.

[@blueeyedcowboy8291]

"I wasn't mentally prepared for this" @ 8:30. I knew at that moment, this was going to be a hard ride for Toni. Not even just the war scenes. The delivering of the telegrams makes this different from a lot of war movies. Such an amazing movie, though.

[@popculturallychallenged]

This was definitely the hardest movie we've watched for the channel so far but it was an amazing movie!

[@chada7094]

Thank s to your dad for his service David. Having someone as empathetic and sensitive as you Toni makes this reaction more powerful and genuine. There's no denying Mel Gibson directed some powerful movies. If you want to understand combat this and Saving Private Ryan are among the best films to watch.

[@popculturallychallenged]

They were definitely great movies. I know it was hard to watch but I am so thankful that I have watched it. - Toni 🥰

[@chada7094]

@popculturallychallenged thank you for the reply. And maybe someday if you decide to venture into TV or maybe on your own you could check out Band of Brothers.

[@popculturallychallenged]

@@chada7094 We actually checked that series out a while back on the channel. Go check it out! 😃👍

[@chada7094]

@popculturallychallenged I will definitely go back and have a look. Awesome . Such a great series. Thanks

[@BigGator5]

"I wonder what was going through Custer's mind when he realized that he'd led his men into a slaughter?" "Sir, Custer was a pussy. You ain't." Fun Fact: Breakout role of Jon Hamm. Fort Moore Fact: On 11 May 2023, Fort Moore, previously named Fort Benning, in Georgia, was named in honor of Hal Moore and his wife Action Star Fact: Jon Hamm later said, in tribute to Sam Elliott, that the fifty-eight year old actor participated in the boot camp training of the cast, without exemption. Hell Week Fact: According to American Sniper Chris Kyle (RIP), this film is shown to the U.S. Navy special forces recruits to inspire them before they begin the "Hell Week" stage of their SEAL training. Historical Fact: Although many of the names are never really seen, or said, throughout the movie, very careful attention was paid to ensure every member of the company was represented properly in the film. For every person that was a member of the company in real life, there was an actor on-screen, most of whom resembled the actual soldiers themselves. A total of three soldiers were awarded the Medal of Honor for the battle represented in this film. Joseph Marm, Jr. received his shortly after the battle, Ed Freeman on July 16, 2001, and Bruce P. Crandall on February 26, 2007. Freeman and Crandall were helicopter pilots who flew frequent relief and resupply missions into the heart of the battle when medevac choppers could not approach. Joseph Galloway was awarded a Bronze Star for gallantry for carrying wounded men to safety at the Battle of Ia Drang in 1965. He was the only civilian awarded the Bronze Star during the Vietnam War. The real Joseph D. Galloway stepped out of the movie theater during a scene, but still approved the film. His explanation was: "That was my nightmare for 36 years. I don't want to see it again."

[@BigGator5]

Unfortunately I will have to miss the premiere. I tried to work on it, but I am watching something else. I will watch the reaction tomorrow. Go in Peace and Walk with God. 😎 👍

[@popculturallychallenged]

@@BigGator5 No worries Gator! We'll see you next time! 😃

[@romansOneSixteen]

I've only seen my old man cry twice in my life. One was when my grandmother passed. The other was this movie. It shed some light as to why he never opened up about this time of his life.

[@popculturallychallenged]

A huge Thank you to your father for all his sacrifices. Give him an extra hug from us when you see him next time. - Toni 🥰

[@ChuckFinley-f2v]

Fort Benning, GA (Home of the Infantry) is where they do Basic Training for the Infantry. The entire base was recently renamed Fort Moore after Hal Moore and his wife for what they did. I'm a proud infantry veteran. I trained on that base. This movie is one of my favorites. You guys are awesome! Big fan.

[@fn111557]

As a veteran I am proud to see today’s interest in the military genre of movies. The advances in special effects have presented such an immersive visual effect, those without military experience can get a little idea of the “HARSH REALITY” our military can face. I had the honor to attend a special showing of “Saving Private Ryan” the second week of its theatrical release. The first two rows (floor level and one up) were reserved for WWII veterans & family. Just before the coming attractions showed, approximately 20 people were ushered to their seats. At the end only subdued sniffles and sobs could be herd with NOONE moving to leave. After a brief pause the first of the veterans got up to leave, while the rest of us in attendance gave them ALL a standing ovation as they left. There seems to be a flow-over effect of people watching some older movies; “Full Metal Jacket”, “Platoon”, “M*A*S*H”, “Apocalypse Now” etc. I think these movies are great but need to be viewed with the filter of social commentary for the time they were made. I would like to see reactions to two older movies, based on two of the most decorated war heroes. These movies, though not posing the fantastic special effects of today’s movies, contain just as much interest by the simple act of storytelling. The first is the story of one of the most decorated soldiers of WWI. The main character of the story (Alvin C York) chose actor Gary Cooper to portray him. Released in September 1941, just before America entered WWII, “Sergeant York”. The second story is about the MOST DECORATED soldier of WWII. The movie not only adapted from his autobiography (Audie Murphy) but starred him as well. From October 1955, just over ten years after the end of the war “To Hell and Back”.

[@adammuncy8475]

I've watched the movie a couple dozen times, the first time in the theater. I never found the first quarter of it to be that emotional, until now when I watched and heard her reaction. The final scene with Mel coming home, and he's uncomfortable about what to do, that had me bad in the theater. It really got me. This movie is one for the ages. And don't forget that one of the men in this battle, also saved countless lives in the World Trades, Rick Rescorla. He went back in for more, and died in the collapse. He was the security officer, and was singing to his employees all the way down the steps, just as he had during this battle. He was a great man, lost too soon, but his heroism and sacrifice for those he led will live on. GARRYOWEN!

[@garyfuller8687]

Seventh First!

[@cjs1045]

I'm an Iraqi war veteran. This is my favorite war movie, because it shows more than just our soldiers. It shows the impact on the wives and families. It also shows the human side of our opposition. They too were either fighting for what they believed in or what they were ordered to do. Thank you for your reaction.

[@getlikeaddy]

As a veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan and seeing your mom watch this movie, it gave me a whole new appreciation for my mom and what it must have been like for her living day in and day out not knowing what news she would get. Mom’s really are a special breed. Give your mom a hug for me.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Complete agree, Mom’s are truly a special breed. Make sure to show your appreciation everyday but especially on Mother’s Day that is coming up next weekend. Thank you for your service!! - Toni 😘

[@chuckhilleshiem6596]

I ama combat veteran ( Vietnam ) you can not possible know the good you have just done. Thank you for this and God bless you both.

[@Reardonsteel236]

Happy Veterans Day. A Toni tissue record. Yeah, the sending of a cap driver to report the death of ones husband is on par for the Vets and the fallen in Vietnam. The spitting on them at airports, the lack of support, the disrespect. Moreover, the government did not allow those boys to win. No one can tell me that our boys didn't kick the shit out of them in Vietnam ten to one. I'm a vet. The sort that went places I never went and did things I never did. Thank you, you are worth it. Whenever I meet someone who served in Vietnam I always tell them, "welcome home".

[@popculturallychallenged]

Well said! 🥰

[@MrBlake14]

Saw this movie when it came out, was deeply moved. Watched it again later as a father, member of the military, and religious man, and I broke down so much. Truly an amazing an inspiring story of courage and love, and yet heartbreaking at the same time.

[@denniswyrick1697]

My father was a 20 year man served in Korean war in Vietnam war. I saw the devastation of not just a wartime, but the peace time military had on my mother military spouses are the unsung heroes. This movie brings out some things but there’s a lot of other things they deal with on a day-to-day basis That most civilian spouses can’t comprehend. When I enlisted , I made a solemn vow I would not get married as long as I was in the military, and when I found a woman I wanted to marry I got out I would not put her through that. On a sidenote, I’m glad that y’all paused the movie I was getting worried for Toni at one point her face was extremely red

[@tom-vr1zb]

After watching this movie 20 times, I wanted to re-enlist in the Army. I was at Fort Benning in the early 70's. I was attached to the Army Rangers and we were put on alert for Vietnam. That was cancelled. I tried re-enlisting this month. I told the recruiter I wanted to be a door gunner on the huey. He laughed. At 72, I am too old.

[@randyobrien2836]

The way the soldiers were treated when they returned from Vietnam is a disgrace, I get fighting mad when ever I think about it. Spitting on them calling them baby killers. All these years later I still get pissed.

[@waterbeauty85]

17:09 Tom Metsker was fatally shot right after he gave up his spot on the helicopter to his friend Ray Lefebvre. Ray's wounds were so serious that he now believes that if Tom hadn't gotten him onto that helicopter and to medical aid when he did, he would not have survived. He believes that he owes his life to Tom's selfless act. Tom's daughter, Karen, only a year and a half old when Tom died. It was too painful for her mother to talk about in detail, so Karen grew up only knowing that her father died because he had traded places with another soldier, and she blamed that unnamed soldier for her father's death. In 1990, U.S. News & World Report published an article about the Battle of the Ia Drang Valley which described her father's death and named Ray Lefebvre. Karen arranged to meet with Ray at a reunion of vets of 7th Air Cav (BTW they're one of the few units from the Vietnam war that hold regular reunions, and veterans believe the the support system this created has help give this group a lower than average rate of PTSD related tragedies). Talking with Ray and the other vets, Karen learned how much they all loved and respected her dad. She learned what close friends Tom and Ray had been, and she realized that Ray would have given up his life to save Tom if he could have. The meeting gave her answers and closure, and, moreover, the vets gave her a second family that could understand and help her deal with her pain and loss like no one else could. On her way to the reunion, Karen was initially afraid that she was going to meet a bunch of cold blooded killers, but instead, she said afterwards, they were like "a bunch of teddy bears" to her.

[@kinser11x]

This movie is historically known as the most accurate war movie there is. It also kind of shows just how arrogant the leaders were throwing these guys into unknown area against unknown numbers. Thanks to people like Hal Moore for studying the terrain and tactics for helping save many lives. Also the way the death news was delivered is also how a lot of the veterans who lived came home. Without a welcome or a thank you for your service

[@mikearmstrong8483]

You better look up the definition of "accurate" before you post any more comments, to save yourself some embarrassment. 1) There was no bayonet charge during this battle. 2) The M-16 was not the rifle in use at the time of this battle. 3) The Huey hovering and pivoting over the enemy camp while firing miniguns is pure fantasy. 4) Broken Arrow does NOT and NEVER HAS meant a unit being overrun and all aircraft must respond. It is used to report a particular class of nuclear weapon accident ONLY, and one cannot declare Broken Arrow by just yelling the words into a radio.

[@kinser11x]

@@mikearmstrong8483 an interview quote “In November 1965, the 1st Cavalry Division turned back North Vietnamese regulars in a savage battle in the Ia Drang Valley. LTC Harold G. Moore lauded the new M16 rifle his troops had used. "Brave soldiers and the M16 brought this victory," he declared.” No one said it is 100% factual but it is far more accurate than any other movie you can find that information anywhere or ask any old war vet who was there.

[@mikearmstrong8483]

@@kinser11x OK, I'll grant you 1 out of 4 for the M-16. But the other 3 really shoot it down. If you are going to make a war movie "based on actual events", I think The Iron Triangle is more realistic, even though it presents a purely speculative situation.

[@mikearmstrong8483]

For that matter, Star Wars is probably more historically accurate than most Mel Gibson movies.

[@patrickevans9604]

Hal Moore studied every inch of the terrain and everything he could find of his enemies' previous tactics against the French. He was exactly the type of officer that should be leading troops into battle because he did everything possible to make sure his men would stay alive as long as possible

[@duanetelesha]

Buckle up Toni, you're in for a rough ride. This a rough movie.

[@popculturallychallenged]

You were 100% correct. - Toni 🥰

[@Reshtarc]

I worked as a Janitor for 6 months with a man that was at LZ XRAY He was a Medic in this unit. He landed in the first wave. Was wounded 3 times. He was an Immigrant from Belize. Joined the Army for citizenship. Survived the war. I met him 1998.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow, that's so cool. Did he share his stories with you? Did you thank him often? - Toni 😊

[@LukeLovesRose]

To me, We Were Soldiers is the greatest Vietnam War movie ever made

[@acdragonrider]

I prefer this, Deer Hunter and Casualties of War to The Platoon and Apocalypse Now

[@jcrhdd]

People need to understand this was the first real battle of the war. These guys were just learning hoe to fight the VC. I have watched several of these reaction videos to war movies. I can tell people who have never served or been in combat have no idea what it's about. Our military wax the greatest on earth. Right now with Biden in charge its more like the end days of the %own army. They did exactly what we are doing. Let men dressed as women join then other people that had been cong😅uered basically bidens idea of the military is lets let drag queens run the show. 😅🎉 The men in this battle are all heros in my eyes!

[@williambranch4283]

Most realistic movie of a recent war. My older brother etc were in this war. 'Murica!

[@tonymoll6265]

This is a great movie. It shows not only the toll it takes on the soldier, but also on the families. This is why we need to give all the thanks and gratitude to all our military hero's and the families. This is what they do for our nation. Thank you for doing this reaction.

[@johnwjr7]

Me being retired Air Force myself, I think it's a great speech to make in front of the family. They already know that their loved ones could be killed, but now they know, either way, he will be back. No seat belts or tie downs in the helicopter for the troops. They were firing into the woods in case someone was there planning to trap them, just like they did later while in the creek bed. They blew down the trees to make a new landing zone for the helicopters. The Vietnam War was the first war that they let the media in in massive numbers. They did more harm than good in my opinion. Another Mel Gibson directed movie you might like is "Apocalypto" (2006). I'm sure Toni will cry in this one also, but not near as much.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you! And thanks for the suggestion!

[@bad-people6510]

They're firing off rounds just to keep the enemy nervous. Even if they don't know where they are they want to keep them second guessing so maybe they'll keep their heads down while they're offloading troops. If you saw Saving Private Ryan there a scene where a tank crew is doing the same thing while the infantry is passing through a village.

[@KGardner01010]

When it comes to showing realism in films, Mel along with a few others, can often do it very well indeed, as he also did with the film, "Apocalypto" . . . Back when this film first came out and after being shown in cinemas - I think in an interview, Mel said, it needed to be done, but told in the right way so as to show what it was exactly like for those who would never see, or be a part of such a thing in their own lives . . . So not only did he talk to the real Hal Moore and the journalist to get any of their memories, but also to as many of the men from it who were still alive - and who wished to contribute their own thoughts for it (but only if they felt they could!) . . . Needless to say that to those who took part in this battle, they all really appreciated the dedication Mel took in bringing it to life in film for them all as a bittersweet memory . . .

[@rayvanhorn1534]

As a multi-generation veteran I appreciate y'all watching this. Its a tough watch, especially considering the accuracy taken from the book. (Next film give "Unbroken" a watch; it's a true story about Louie Zamporini...a WWII vet). David, tell your dad I salute him for his service. I did 24 years in the USAF, was a flight mechanic on C130s. Miss Toni, thank you for the sensitivity & good heart...we could use more people like you these days. God bless you both.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you so much! 🥰

[@josepho7083]

Im so ready for this in 19hrs, Awesome Movie!

[@popculturallychallenged]

Hope you enjoyed the reaction! 😃

[@douggaijin]

Imagine graduating high school early, 2 months before your 17th birthday, 2 days after turning 17 being inducted into the army knowing that this would help pay for college. Then at 17 1/2 having to make out your will because you were being deployed but not told where to until your flight lands in Okinawa (where your Marine father fought in WWII) then being told your next stop was Tân Sơn Nhất airbase, Sài Gòn, Việt Nam.

[@jamesrolfe9400]

Not even halfway through the mvie and already she crying buckets!

[@scalisque5403]

My grandpa served in the central highlands in 69 and this is his and mine favorite war movie. We watch all the time. The charge scene gets us going

[@paulharrold]

Let's hope America still has Men Such as Hal Moore ! In the coming years We are going to need these Men !

[@flyflorida2001]

Now this is a react I cant wait to see. Such a great movie

[@popculturallychallenged]

It was a great movie but hard to watch. :) - Toni

[@upmostanimal8265]

Oh I love this movie! My grsndfather served in the war and regards it quite highly.

[@antonioramirez4763]

One of the reasons and goals why I wanted to join the marines is bcuz this movie and black hawk down. Took the test and failed, maybe it was a sign of god telling me not to go. Good fucking movie.

[@xwhogafx815]

Well I hope you found something just as honorable to kickass at

[@antonioramirez4763]

@@xwhogafx815 I have my son, that’s my blessing.

[@antonioramirez4763]

@@xwhogafx815 I’m an operation manager and security for a club and CHANNEL 2 CHICAGO CBS NEWS. IM BLESSED WITH MY FAMILY. ❤️

[@ElectrikNYCfunK]

o0o0o this one is really going to test just how tough Miss Toni's skin has gotten from Band of Brothers, The Patriot etc etc...After this she will be a 4-Star General though lol

[@popculturallychallenged]

This was a rough one! But a movie that we both are glad to have seen! 👍

[@Cherokee9898]

Y’all need to watch Gettysburg. One of the most historically accurate movies ever made. They had over 5000 extras from civil war reenactors who volunteered their time and equipment.

[@jfel1432]

"Snake" Cranall was awarded the medal of honor for this battle. He was one of the only pilots that would go in the battlefield.

[@cherokeekid9491]

"Too tall" Freeman was also awarded the congregational medal of honor for his actions in this battle.

[@qwaurk985]

I haven't seen the movie, but from this review I think it should be shown to junior high kids and up nationwide and really explained that kind of sacrifice is what is being disrespected with unpatriotic behaviors.

[@clutchpedalreturnsprg7710]

Hello, this was the First Battle of the Ia Drang Valley. " Hey! " KZbin video: "Vietnam: The Soldier's Story" Doc. Vol. 1 - "Ambush! Battle of Ia Drang"

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you for sharing, we will take a look. - Toni 🥰

[@clutchpedalreturnsprg7710]

@@popculturallychallenged Hello, I first learned of the battle through the son of Howard K. Smith (a television news anchor ). His son was in the battle and produced the documentary. About 10-15 years later the book and movie " We Were Soldiers Once...and Young " was released. I've seen the movie several times. A south Texan too. As is often shouted in unison upon the streets of Kyoto, Japan and elsewhere: " Hey! " KZbin video: 2017.3.26京都橘高校吹奏楽部京都さくらパレード交款コンサートパーカッション

[@clutchpedalreturnsprg7710]

@@popculturallychallenged Hello, this video arrived in my Recommendations List today: KZbin video: Medal of Honor Pilot Bruce Crandall, 1st Cavalry Veteran of Ia Drang (Full Interview)

[@boki1693]

How can you not like Toni. LOL. And David is an excellent provoker that gets the best reactions out of her. These comments were made during the prechat stuff.

[@popculturallychallenged]

😂 - Toni

[@davecsa7286]

I have watched this full movie so many times, yes it played hard on my ptsd, but Toni you actually made me cry watching you watching this movie. This battle was historic and brutal, yes the taxi part was madness. Huge respect to Joe Galloway for covering the battle and making it out uninjured.

[@lorigooch5811]

Hello, I really enjoy watching videos with you. Toni I feel for you, I want you to know I'm a crier also. I have come home from movies and cry every time I think about it. My children have moved seats at the theater due to my crying.

[@popculturallychallenged]

I’m glad I’m not alone…. My girls laugh at me all the time and try to guess when I’ll be crying and looking at me instead of the movie…. - Toni 🙂

[@davemumbach7350]

Hearing the "dead or alive, we will all come home together..." is loyalty inspiring. You follow a leader like that straight into hell. Because he means what he says and he will be right next to you while it all happens. That speech was a brilliant example of military honor.

[@dallinn9164]

I really love this movie. It’s incredibly sad, and by the time the scene where Hal finds Jack, wearing the bracelet with his newborn daughter’s name, among the dead I just can’t hold it in. And I usually never cry over movies. I think it’s because of how it portrays the soldiers as everyday folk, husbands, and fathers before the war, so their deaths are more impactful. I grew up a military brat too. For that, this movie really sticks with me. When I was in DC I made sure to get a good look at panel 3E on the Vietnam veterans memorial.

[@YoureMrLebowski]

6:30 +1 you get more points when you know their names. Kerri Russell

[@popculturallychallenged]

I think I watched Felicity with Toni back when it was on TV. 😂

[@armynurseboy]

Bit of trivia: Rick Rescorla was a captain and one of Hal Moore's company commanders during this battle. He was the soldier pictured on the cover of the book this movie was based on. After the war, he got into corporate security and was the security officer for Morgan Stanley in the WTC in NYC. He died on 9/11 trying to get people out of the south tower when it collapsed.

[@popculturallychallenged]

That's so sad but what a hero!! - Toni 🤗

[@paulfeist]

This movie resonates with me because... well.. the Colonels kids? That was me. My dad was an F-8 Crusader pilot, and spent 10 to 14 months at a stretch off Vietnam. My mom waited for "that telegram" from the Navy that his plane had gone down. Thank god it never came.... This movie is a hard watch... I think the cheesecake better be a damn GOOD cheesecake!

[@aurobinson9309]

My grandfather got to fly Hal Moore a few times in his Huey before the war ended

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow! The stories he must have shared…. - Toni

[@gamergirl5317]

that's one strong woman to take on the role of delivering those telegrams

[@gamergirl5317]

as we Australians say about our fallen in battle, the full Quote goes " They shall grow not old, as we that are left grow old: Age shall not weary them, nor the years condemn; At the going down of the sun, and in the morning, We will remember them." that is the quote spoken aloud to the audience, after the speaker recites the Ode of Remembrance, the audience repeats the last words, 'We will remember them' followed by a short pause and then 'Lest we forget'.,which has also been broken down further to just Lest we forget,even that,is considered respectful

[@k17reactions]

I know that the real Hal Moore was on set to help with the realism of the movie. I have heard it said by some veterans that this is the most accurate war movie that's been made.

[@popculturallychallenged]

❤️ - Toni

[@xwhogafx815]

This is going to be a good one! It has highs and lows. But overall a fantastic classic. Definitely a must watch. I really like Sam Elliot in this one he reminds me of how i feel on Mondays lol

[@popculturallychallenged]

This was an incredible movie!

[@maxine-x4x]

Elliott is a buffoon

[@charleshays5407]

In 2002 and 2004, I did reserve duty at Ft Benning (now Ft Moore). The second time I was around the corner from the Ranger School. The movie We Were Soldiers was mainly filmed there and there is a cast photo at the lobby of the Ranger School.

[@YoureMrLebowski]

1:00 "i'm 90% certain it's Vietnam." that 90% certain sounded more like 70% certain. 😆

[@popculturallychallenged]

50% of the time I'm right all the time. 😂

[@gregzaffuto4507]

There is a KZbin video on Seargant Major Plumley and his long military career and all the awards he received. The man is a certified hero and badass... served in WW2, Korea, and Vietnam.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow, will need to go on a search. - Toni 🤓

[@veetwotls]

KOKODA movie was about my grandfather in WW2 based on actual event at Mission Ridge , he came home one the lucky ones

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow, So much to be proud of. Thank you to your family for service and sacrifices. - Toni 😊

[@marvinpetty731]

Hacksaw ridge is another great movie, and based on a true story !

[@gratefuldeadly7899]

They sacrificed their lives to defend American freedom and democracy ❤❤❤

[@chriso5374]

As mentioned by lw3918 my father was there as well. He NEVER said a word about it. I was one of those 7 year old kids at Ft. Benning similar to what was depicted. Everything I've seen or read this movie was 75/80% accurate which is awesome. My dad was a rare breed. Quiet yet a WW2, Korea and Vietnam Nam vet yet G.D. cancer took him at 62... God Bless our troops.

[@popculturallychallenged]

I'm so sorry for your loss. Thank you to you and your family for your sacrifices and thank you for your Dad. - Toni 😊

[@d-ranged1]

Dude, that's exactly the speech to give in front of the family.

[@stevengordon2145]

These how sit at home and condemn soldiers at war... have never seen it first hand. Death sits on your shoulder the second the first round lands...on both sides all we want to do is go home.. The ghosts of war are the most brutal of all. noone that's lived through it will call for it

[@SharonS-fn2ym]

These were the very first troops sent to Viet Nam. This is a true story. The Army was not prepared for any of this. Remember, Viet Nam was way before Technology. This battle lasted 3 days so the intensity is pretty realistic.

[@popculturallychallenged]

Wow, I don’t think we will ever be able to thank our troops enough for all that they endured. - Toni 😔

[@fasttruckman]

I believe that was the first major battle for the U.S. army during the Vietnam war.

[@YoureMrLebowski]

0:04 proper use of a disclaimer. 👍🏼

[@popculturallychallenged]

Compared to other movies that I have pulled something..... 😂 - Toni

[@kregmaffews]

I want to give Toni the biggest hug omg its not even to Vietnam yet shes so adorable 😅🥰🥰🥰

[@popculturallychallenged]

Thank you!

[@terryv2006]

Can I make a suggestion for a fun movie. It’s from 1971 and it’s called The Sting. It’s an old time caper flick and stars Paul Newman and Robert Redford. It won 7 Academy awards.

[@ChicagoDB]

“Taking Chance” ~ starring Kevin Bacon. An absolutely superb movie for Veterans Day/Remembrance Day or Memorial Day…and no blood and gore. I think you will love it. It’s only about 90 minutes long and I personally think it’s Kevin Bacon’s best film.

[@kevinerose]

That is either the roughest to watch or one of the top ones. But it is important to watch so we don't forget about reality in the world. Nobody should have to see this. And yet we send our young people out there to see it first hand.

[@dastemplar9681]

Jimmy Nakayama died two days later from his wounds. His wife and daughter would attend the movie’s premiere with the real Joe Galloway. When the scene of Joe carrying Jimmy to chopper came on. Jimmy’s daughter and Joe quietly embraced and wept together. Joe Galloway actually came to my military school as a guest and gave us a moving speech during chapel service. When he brought up about Nakayama, he started to rub and massage his hands profusely as he spoke. That man never forgot about him. We all sensed he was in pain about it. Great guy, it was truly a privilege and honor to have seen and spoke with him in person.

[@richardlong3745]

The battle of Ia Trang Valley was not only notable for using helicopters for large air assault combat mission it also was the first time that the B-52 bombers were used for tactical support against a direct enemy assault when Lt. Colonel Hal Moore called in the Broken Arrow message to headquarters for all available combat aircraft to help rescue a American unit that was endanger of being overrun by enemy forces. The battle took place from Nov. 14 - 18 1965. Lt. Col. Hal Moore live from 2/13/1922 to 2/10/2017 almost a century and he's a WW2, Korean War and Vietnam War veteran and a true American Hero.

[@scottdarden3091]

The regiment that relieved them at LZ Xray, got ambushed on their way out and took massive casualties. So while the battle of La Drang is considered a victory. He came with heavy loss.