“Surviving the Battle of Okinawa” | Memoirs Of WWII #23

[@wandadarson9633]

Ted Estridge was my father and was under hospice care when this interview took place in May 2019. We were worried he might not have enough strength to complete this and answer the questions but he surprised us (as he often did). Sadly he passed away 3 months after this memoir was done, at age 93. Ironically this video was released 2 days ago, on the same day we held my mother's funeral. They were married for 72 years and had a great love story! Thank you Joshua for your patience and skill during the interview process and for the high quality videos you are producing.

[@Grainexpress]

Wanda Darson God Bless your mom & dad!

[@crazyoilfieldmechanic3195]

Thank you for your loving support of your father telling about his experiences in ww2 and afterwards. Your dad was a wonderful man and a blessing to man kind as well as an exemplary example of what a true American is. His willingness to forgive and do good is something that blesses me and helps me to do the same. I wish I could have met your dad and told him. My dad was a sailer in the South Pacific theater in ww2 and he was a minister later as well. May God bless your family.

[@alonzomedina9028]

Really sorry for your parents passing away, your father was truly a brave man, and did something that most men these days cannot bear to do.

[@jwilsonhandmadeknives2760]

I’m very sorry to hear that you lost both Father and Mother, Wanda. I pray for you and I rejoice that your parents are in Heaven.

[@ricklopez8431]

God bless your amazing father. One of the greatest & bravest men to serve our nation. As a young 21 year old lad, I thank your father for doing his part to save the world.

[@73green66]

They truly were the greatest generation...

[@rednek666]

Why?

[@gtfanatic]

@@rednek666 Are you that dumb

[@RISKStudioProduction]

Random Rednek my grandfathers brother worked during the Great Depression for a CCC camp and then immediately went into WW2. He never batted an eye and made pennies for what he did and never questioned it and worked his ass off. He became a successful businessman. He never looked back or blamed anyone, he did what he needed to do for his family and fellow citizens.

[@rednek666]

@@gtfanatic I just want an explanation, why that generation was the best?

[@gtfanatic]

@@rednek666 They are the greatest generation because they went through The Great depression and World War 2

[@jakebooth658]

“I think I’ll be the first one killed” He was one of the last men standing.

[@yousslessboi4377]

the IRONY

[@dksaquatics8932]

SALOOOOT

[@davidsonusen3057]

HE THAT LOSES HIS life will gain it

[@imrubbish8182]

I don’t realy think u three should be talking in caps joking around he is a dead man respect him

[@imrubbish8182]

@@dksaquatics8932 at least spell salute proper and not in caps

[@captainnogrip7333]

My grandpa was in WW2. His name is Pinkley Fletcher. He served in the navy. Much older family members told me later on that. He didn’t like to talk about the service. He died when I was around six years old. He was 76. I remember enough to know that he was a awesome grandparent. He used to take my cousins and I to the water park. Drive us around and go get ice cream. He taught us how to play go fish and checkers. Its memories I will never forget.

[@casperthorup5493]

When he came home, met his parents and said “that was the greatest moment of my life” I broke down in tears

[@clutchcargo2419]

Me too !

[@polishpat95]

"Met" his parents? So he never met his parents before? Lol...

[@joeneighbor]

@@polishpat95 The word has a 2nd definition: "to come upon; come into the presence of; encounter:"

[@joeblow8643]

Joe Neighbor how many comments on KZbin does it take to correct a pollack? Lol

[@jerrytee2688]

Same here.

[@Platikum]

We’re the last generation to have our ww2 heroes still alive

[@mikeneufield5499]

Yes we are .. and we're so fortunate we still have them ,can still hear their stories , 1st hand . Not to mention a man like Captain,( Honorary) Col . Tom Moore .. God bless him .

[@jebbus8387]

And we are the second to last generation to have Vietnam Veterans

[@princeofrance]

dude it'll be so sad when the last ww2 vet dies feels like we're losing a big part of our history...

[@wafflepack0199]

@@princeofrance yeah so do i and, so do all with nam veterans will gone2 and there's a part in this world has gone something gonna going missing sooner or later

[@tree3910]

Yea you're right.....

[@dorivaldojunior2254]

"There's thousands buried at the sea" That line gave me chills... So much pain. I think about the parents back home who just receive the news about their son died. No body, no last chance to see. They just vanish...

[@queencerseilannister3519]

More than 1,000s. Think about all the shipwrecks throughout humankind. :(

[@papillon3986]

you missed the biggest part! like he said on the resurrection the sea will give them up and God will have the final judgment. Takes a real man to follow Jesus Christ. much respect to Ted God bless him and his growing family.

[@usethetools]

The Scripture gave me great comfort: ... King James Bible Revelation 20:13 And the sea gave up the dead which were in it; and death and hell delivered up the dead which were in them: and they were judged every man according to their WORKS. New King James Version 6:29 Jesus answered and said to them, “This is the WORK of God, that you BELIEVE in Him whom He sent.”

[@ruok3351]

Papillon irrelevant

[@MCAmericaFree]

@@papillon3986 Yes! Thank you!

[@louiskantawala9704]

"Old men declare war, but it's the youth who fight and die." -Herbert Hoover

[@cpt-cheese3489]

Louis Kantawala thanks mario

[@FrankHorigan]

That’s true

[@wiriamurequiem5124]

-Bertholdt Hoover

[@freelingsrolle]

Just true

[@munta1967]

maybe its time for the politicians to fight the wars..they want it, go sort it!!

[@selena6739]

Japanese teen here. Today my grade had an orientation about that battle of Okinawa from General Mitsuru Ushijima(last General in command of the battle of Okinawa) ’s grandson. I never knew how devastating this war was until today. The majority of people that passed away (who were Japanese) were civilians. They were actually terrified of their own country’s soldiers, because of how strict they were. The soldiers were determined to fight until their last breath. Mr. Ushijima talked about a story of a certain woman, during her days of the battle of Okinawa. She watched 11 people die in her family out of the 18 that she fled with. Her 4 year old son and 9 month old daughter were among them. They had nothing to protect themselves, and just wanted to survive. They were taught that being caught by American soldiers was the worse thing that could happen. Because of this, many Okinawan civilians committed suicide, or fled. They didn’t know that American soldiers would save them, instead of torturing them. 1/4 Okinawans died during this battle. Today made me realize how lucky I am to be living in this time and that we should cherish every single moment of our lives. Listening to Mr. Estridge’s story and Mr. Ushijima’s makes my heart wrench. the footage in this video makes me cry. I can’t even imagine how many people’s courageous stories there are that were never heard. This war should forever be remembered for how many people it wounded both mentally and physically, and it should be a reminder to us that we should never, ever repeat something like this again. I am truly sorry to everyone who was effected by this war. I really hope we won’t have to see anything like this again.

[@rph5351]

Not knowing what part of Japan you are in, if you have never been there and if you get a chance, visit the Peace Prayer Park on Okinawa. One of the worst attributes of humanity is that sometimes peace can only be achieved through war. Once there are no living survivors to tell us their stories, people tend to dismiss history as something that is abstract rather than a precautionary tale of things to come if we forget the past. The best way that we can honor the sacrifices of all who perished is to keep their memory alive. Especially the stories of the best that humanity has to offer in the worst of times. Have you read "The Girl With The White Flag"? It is an extremely emotional book to read. It is not very long or a hard read but it should be required reading for all teens in my opinion. Peace!

[@fabiohenriqueelorza7095]

グーグルトランスレータによる翻訳に失敗してすみません 何千人もの日本人女性と子供たちがアメリカの焼夷弾によって燃やされたのかを調べてください 原子攻撃が必要だったのか、それともスターリンを威嚇する方法だったのか、そして人間に対して新しい武器をテストしたのかを自問してみてください。 米国はドイツに対して経済戦争を行った。 日本に対して、それは人種的憎悪の戦争、その海軍基地、100％の軍事目標を攻撃することを敢えてする黄色い国の怒りのための絶滅の戦争でした... 1945年に自殺したあなたの先祖のすべてを今私は理解します：彼らは曾孫が彼らを火で殺した人々を救世主と呼ぶのを見て不名誉になりたくありませんでした

[@AChunkyDog]

Thank you for your comment. All wars should be remembered. Moreso because of the men and women that served on either side. Their memories should not be erased from history.

[@asoru5573]

Thank you for your story mr. japan.

[@stormtrooper4]

I highly doubt prisoners of war receive any humane treatment.. It's a lot.. Looking at someone whose family killed yours.. Emotions take over sometimes.. The lust for revenge.. The must to avenge.. I want to write something but the music is playing and im writing completely different🤦‍♂️dramatic much 🤦‍♂️but you get the point

[@terrencemiller6228]

Please tell me I’m not the only grown man who broke down in tears when he talked about coming home and seeing his mom. R.I.P. Mr. Estridge, today’s generation will never understand the horrors you had to witness and endure.

[@xuzpt4756]

Even tho I am 13 years old I understand his feeling seeing his family war is not a joke and not something to be excited from it’s something to hate fear and destroy from the rest of your life and humanities life

[@connerconklin9539]

It took strength not to cry, I was on the verge of it though the entire time.

[@terrencemiller6228]

Obvious typos on my part.... will NEVER understand, the the horrors YOU had to..

[@srswit]

You're not alone.

[@soggybrownbread3320]

No generation but his and the one who went to war and died will know the ture horrors that war can be

[@nuttybangerz]

"The real heroes, are those that gave their life, for their country." - WW2 Marine Veteran, Theodore Estridge (1926-2019)

[@CharikarpJX]

that's pathetic, they have no choice

[@crazybeast629]

@@CharikarpJX having had a choice or not doesnt change the fact that they died young fighting a war that they did not start, and even when death was knocking on the door they didnt stop fighting and to me that makes them heroes.

[@Japinoyboi2004]

Japan is an enemy. But they fight for their country.

[@michaelbatarick9617]

Not one protester has seen this

[@ohnoitsgoms4462]

nah thats bs

[@winstonwright8374]

This is the most underrated KZbin channel and program.

[@MemoirsofWWII]

thank you so much for your support and for watching!

[@winstonwright8374]

​@@MemoirsofWWII Thank you for preserving the perspectives of our veterans. I encourage you to contact someone with your pitch, and with your amazing work so far. Netflix even. Seriously.

[@JackSparrow-pm7oo]

I just keep crying all the time thank you guys so much for your service

[@RivetGardener]

Do some volunteer time at your local VA hospital or Veterans retirement home. It is an eye opener. No better place to help others and add happiness to their lives. Even just playing checkers. These men appreciate you.

[@abiebarraca5873]

Yes but thank God I found this.

[@Historybuffm8]

This gave me goosebumps when he talked about how he was wounded and the invasion. Truly an unbelievable story. Rest In Peace Ted.

[@67CAROW]

My Dad, my Hero......I was in the room when this interview took place and so amazed at all the details my precious dad remembered. I had not heard the whole story and was in awe holding back tears as I was so proud of him! I realized how much he had gone through and survived as had many and many who did not survive this war. There are very few left of this Great generation and it is sad! Let's keep their stories alive for our grandchildren and those to come ! Thank you so much Joshua for making this memorable video of my Dad and for all the great veterans you have helped to tell their stories....may God richly Bless You!

[@muhammadumair3442]

😂😂😂

[@detectivedouche2790]

Muhammad umair what?

[@Pw614]

God bless your father. It's amazing to hear him share his stories and wisdom. A true, American hero.

[@henri_smidth]

Terribly sorry about your loss, your dad is a true hero.

[@schloany4479]

@@detectivedouche2790 i think he chose the wrong tear emoji, or maybe he just doesnt like americans

[@krok_zilla6448]

My Grandpa fought in D-Day. I didn’t really get to know him, because he passed in 2009, but all I remember is that he was an awesome guy. When he arrived on the beaches, he was shot 6 times in the leg. He recovered, and he got to keep half of the bullets. It’s amazing to think that he survived these conditions and obstacles and lived on to tell the tales. This is why I want to enter the Air Force as a Fighter Pilot. Thanks, Pop.

[@im_just_a_gawd1573]

I want to join the navy as a fighter pilot there but still cool tho 👍

[@Schutzist]

Lies

[@timecrashv5wu709]

@@Schutzist dude wtf?

[@dksaquatics8932]

Beautiful

[@bigroo9566]

Did you get to root him ?

[@Adam-fo1bs]

I'm part Japanese and German so I've had relatives that fought for the Japanese, Germans, and the Americans. The military has always been a strong part of my family and so I appreciate all these veterans for what they did and do. In a couple years I will be old enough to join the US Army armoured corps and fully plan to do so. These veterans will always have my full and upmost respect and so I want to thank any veterans reading this for your service. I love what you guys are doing and I wish my grandpapa was still alive so he could see this channel. Rest in peace Theodore. Rest in peace Norton.

[@Dave-zh2ow]

IED has entered the chat

[@Adam-fo1bs]

@@Dave-zh2ow Adam has been removed from chat by IED

[@cheekybreeky2534]

I’m half Japanese and American and my Japanese grate grandfather fought in Papua New Guinea and came back home but his younger brother died in Okinawa... R.I.P for all those people who fought for there country and died

[@PanM8]

@MoJean your family did their part. They grew the food, for the people of this country. Farmers do more for our country, than the average citizen. Be proud of your family. No farmers, no food!

[@dukeman7595]

@MoJean The farmers are heroes too, they provided food for the soldiers as well as the people of the U.S.A. and staving nations during and after the war..

[@aaronhancock9864]

It's too early in the morning for me to be crying. Now my coffee is all salty.

[@andyZ3500s]

I actually forgot about my coffee as I was watching this. Now I have to dry my face and get some warm coffee.

[@bo12white34]

Yep

[@dukeman7595]

You all have tender hearts and that's good, God bless...

[@jmo5087]

Same bro.

[@thetexastickler5698]

Cheer up hommies

[@timtebowrocks12]

Needs a netflix show.

[@jonathanpowdrell828]

Definetly needs a netflix show

[@BomChickyBowWow]

Check out The Pacific on HBO. Best series ever made about WW2 imo.

[@patrickbordelon3654]

Check out medal of honor on Netflix. Its MOH recipients retelling how they were awarded the MOH

[@thenidokingkid5816]

Netflix would ruin it

[@timothyhomans1037]

Creepy Dingus I think the best series is band of brothers, but they’re made by the same people and I love them both

[@davidreinhart2508]

I enjoyed that he went back to Okinawa as a missionary.

[@Bktsn]

I’m Okinawan and have heard how terrible that war was from the survivors since I was a little kid. It is interesting to listen to the different side even though it brings me complicated emotions. Thank you for sharing your story.

[@jemmawaters3751]

Hello I am also Okinawan but haven't learned much about my heritage or about this war from that point of view as many remaining family members have died before I was born. If you see this I would love to reach out to you and learn more if I can.

[@usmc-veteran73-77]

You live on a beautiful island. I served at Camp Foster Aug74 to Sep75. The Okinawans were great people. It was an honor to serve there. Greetings from Charleston, West Virginia.

[@sterling557]

@@jemmawaters3751 The movie HACKSAW RIDGE shows a tiny bit of the war there. "One of the battles that took place in Okinawa over the three-month period was the Battle of Hacksaw Ridge. During this battle, then- Army Pfc. Desmond T. Doss, a medic, rescued 75 of his wounded comrades and later received the Medal of Honor for his actions." -Google

[@Pihu09]

@@jemmawaters3751 @chanrin08 Could you tell us more about pacific or as you guys call it Greater East Asia War? There is very little to no informations about this war from the japan perpective.

[@Halogod437]

I'm American but I live in Okinawa on Kadena AFB even though my dads a Marine.

[@chadanderson8692]

I lost my grandfather who fought in the Pacific when I was 23. How ashamed I am for not showing more interest in his experiences during World War II. All I cared about was girls and alcohol. Thank you for this channel, for the young and ignorant.

[@DanJM14]

Don’t beat yourself up. Chances are he wouldn’t have wanted to speak about it.

[@timhawkins4844]

My Dad was also in the Army in Okinawa during the same time. He would never talk to me about the war. He died when I was only 25.

[@ohio72213]

To be fair he probably wouldnt have wanted to speak about it. He wouldve been happy you were thinking about him but most these guys dont wanna talk about it. And if they do they avoid the bad stuff

[@jimrogers9253]

he represents the best of America. my father was a navy corpsman on Okinawa.

[@jimrogers9253]

@Fxkllr perhaps. pop would seldom if ever talk about it. father-in-law was a tail gunner on a b-29 out of saipan. DFC. same thing.

[@spencerjohnston2079]

thats awsome he saved a lot of lives i bet my great uncle was in the army aircorps and was shot down in 1943 and killed and they didnt find for 70+ years until they found him a couple years ago

[@gabekezele992]

The whole world should see these videos .

[@ProudMarineVet0311]

It’s heroes like this that make me proud to be a Marine and to carry on their traditions.

[@balllikemike8760]

Respect brother

[@usmc-veteran73-77]

To the Theo Family. I was a Marine on Okinawa Aug74-Sep75. I was saved on 18 January 1975, and attended Keystone Church of the Nazarene. Thank you for your Missionary work on Okinawa to the native Okinawans and the American Military.

[@paulstan9828]

What a good man. I was stationed in Okinawa during the 70’s some of the remnants of battle are still there. War truly is hell.

[@MemoirsofWWII]

thank you for your service Paul, and thanks for watching!

[@paulstan9828]

Memoirs of WWII Thank you!

[@moon_raven0495]

@@paulstan9828 anyone one who served in military are the bravest people known to exsist i thank you for your service

[@MichaelPalmateerPhotography]

I'm so glad you were able to share his story before he passed. What a Great man!

[@rachelcruz6649]

Noobsie me too! My precious grandfather!!

[@Jelsick]

When he told the story about his mother greeting him when he returned home from the war, I teared up. I salute all those who sacrificed everything for their fellow Americans, both then and those that came after.

[@jmo5087]

I did at that moment too. Rip Theo and all who’ve paid the ultimate sacrifice!

[@MoreTrenMoreMen69]

Jelsick Guys who didn’t even know what they wanted to do in life , just sucked up into the war and despite the fear and danger they faced put themselves forward for their brothers and loved ones .

[@MSL_24DeadShot]

This video is sick 🔥 m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6CuaaWNbL2igrM

[@lukep.5957]

This is one of the memoirs that made me cry. He went back to okinawa, the place that was utter hell for him and he made friends with his once enemies, he went to the hill where he thought he was going to die...that's incredible courage..I cannot thank these men enough for their service.

[@patriciasalazar3712]

I'm a veteran, but this touched my heart. War is a terrible, terrible thing. I'm in complete tears, rest in peace Theo.

[@MemoirsofWWII]

Patricia Salazar thank you for your service!

[@stephenbrianvalencia4592]

RIP. You also saved our country, Philippines. Thank you US veterans :'(

[@MSL_24DeadShot]

U could save this video m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6CuaaWNbL2igrM

[@Mrafael52]

These men, the thoughest sobs ever to walk the face of the earth.

[@buckeye392]

Rafael Lepri Gonçalves Nothing can really compare to the grit and fight that these men had. Their sacrifices will not be forgotten, and their legacies will last forever. Want to know why? They kept the world a free and peaceful place for us... by facing the evil themselves. I’m only in HS but God, I feel these stories in my soul and I’ll forever respect our veterans.

Actually young men. Most of them fighting weren't even 21 years old yet. More guts than the pathetic SJWs who think voting for Socialist Democrats would make this country better. Put them in the boots of these heroes, they'd be having their parents write letters to their Reps & Senators getting them called back home. I can talk because when I was still in high school, my dad who served in the Army during the Korean War asked me what I wanted after graduating. I told him I wanted a career in the Navy. The look in his eyes welled up with pride for my answer. But I failed the physical. Too nearsighted.

[@boxingbull523]

@ you didn't have glasses.

[@watzio1206]

@ Well if you look at the Nordic countries for example. They are social democratic and have much better socieities than the US If you look at the stats.

[@Daniel-kq4bx]

@ But isnt this what they fought for? Isnt out world better now? A world where we have freedom and democracy, a world where the young generations wont ever have to pick up arms and fight? And whats the matter with Social Democrats? We have proven that we are able to run countrys and lead them to a higher standard of living.

[@robertechols9094]

It’s great you got his story recorded before he passed...what a Great Role model and a Great man of God.

[@rachelcruz6649]

Robert Echols That was my grandfather... ❤️❤️

[@rubenlopez3364]

I love how many of them found their peace with the lord after everything and died as men happy with their lives

[@bruhgus2557]

These men were the Greatest Generation that ever lived, It will be a sad and emotional day when all these Brave Souls pass away..

[@brakaponter]

Civil war veterans and WWI veterans too were great. All men who have lived through these kind of experiences, and later live a more or less normal life (in this case an extraordinary life as missionary) were great men. God bless all of them along the US history,

[@bruhgus2557]

@@brakaponter Yep

[@TheSixStringGuy]

So sad

[@Jimmy-qb3kr]

Man that Norton Larson story hit me deep. You never know how much of an impact it has on you until a causality had a family and loved ones, and that life was just taken away from them. This generation will never understand the struggle of WW2

[@ВелиславПерчемлиев]

Personally, this was the hardest memoir I had to watch.

[@Michael-tn2pr]

Same. When he was talking about how his friend couldn't experience what he was experiencing, that made me want to cry.

[@chrisdolmeth3736]

Yes indeed.

[@richardrybarczyk5522]

The stories of these brave young men is not being taught in many schools. All of the men and women who served in WW2 gave so much and our children should taught what they have done.

[@williamm374]

I think a lot of old timers hit the thumbs down by mistake. This man, he must have a special place in Heaven, or we are all lost.

[@stevep5408]

The sacrifices these people made to defeat evil. Yes that old fashioned notion of good and evil. Death camps, death marches, horrific medical experiments, orgies of rape, pillage, and murder. As good a war as there is possible!

[@trevorslinkard31]

I saw “Surviving” and “Okinawa” when I first opened the video. Hair on the back of my neck stood up instantly.

[@rachelcruz6649]

Trevor Slinkard ageeed! This was my grandfather. So incredibly proud of him

[@trevorslinkard31]

Rachel Cruz he seems like such a gentle and sweet old man. Wouldn’t think he had endured such a thing when first looking at him. Bless him.

[@curiousercuriouser9888]

I am honored to have listened to your words. I am so grateful for Marines like you. Thank you so much for everything you did for us. Have a wonderful day!

[@OARYX]

When he said “it was the greatest moment of my life” you can see he looks away and remembers his mom. This man is a hero. It’s unreal any of this took place.

[@semperfidelis6235]

I some tears...... as a former combat US Marine, all these brothers before me are the real heroes........Amen! RIP Theo!

[@MSL_24DeadShot]

What about this m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6CuaaWNbL2igrM

[@kengrantham4176]

There is no such person as a “former combat US Marine”. Once a Marine, always a Marine

[@polishpat95]

@@kengrantham4176 well if he's not in active duty. That would be considered "former" .... Lmao

[@detectivedouche2790]

patrick gorski ever heard of satire

[@knutdergroe9757]

It is called Prior service Never former, unless by choice. Once that title is earned, Only God or Dishonor can remove it. That is why, a MARINERS actions/behavior is so important. A MARINE is accountable(A MARINES actions and behavior effects all of us) to his Brother and Sister MARINES. SEMPER FI ! Cpl. Taylor D. U.S.M.C. France WWI, my Great uncle. SSgt Seaberg O.C. U.S.M.C. 1938-1945, 1st Mar Div 42-45, my Father. Sgt Lofstrom N.R. U.S.M.C. KIA Battle for Okinawa, my cousin. Cpl Seaberg K.A. U.S.M.C. 1943-1947 my uncle. Cpl Seaberg K.A. U.S.M.C. 1982-1986, 1989-1993 Myself.

[@_OpFor]

"Well done, good and faithful servant" Go and be with the Lord Theo. I'm sure all of heaven rejoiced at your arrival.

[@HuLou]

His buddy he mentioned at 5:27 was PFC Gordon Larsen who was KIA on May 2nd 1945.

[@driesulrichts9756]

The voice of this man contains a thousand stories.

[@HandsIntoHistory]

My father, Melvin Canby (1922-1990) was in the 1St Bn, 7Thmar, 1Stmardiv and was at Okinawa 1Apr45-30Jun45. He could barely tell us about it later in life, and when he did, it was a few stories at a time, then he'd declare "That's it!" And it would be a month or so before he'd tell a few more stories again. I always felt as if he realized he needed to tell us so that we'd understand him, so we'd have that history. I'm grateful he told us, even though I know it was so incredibly painful to relive it ❤😢

[@broheim3348]

I got teary eyed. Hard not to...especially when he talked about the happiest moment in his life.

[@danielsonfire55]

I love these videos, the memories and experiances they share are unreal.

[@MSL_24DeadShot]

U will probably love this too m.kzbin.info/www/bejne/n6CuaaWNbL2igrM

[@poke6013]

Gamer Paivex wtf does that have to do with ww2 you are disgusting to self promote on a KZbin video

[@SumthomShii]

I'm so happy I didn't go to sleep tonight, cause now I have this inspiration to watch and listen too

[@v1ncent111]

Your picture makes your comment even better

[@d.b.cooper8379]

Men I admire! I grew up on Okinawa. We lived first in Machinato Heights and later Machinato Housing Area. What a wonderful childhood! It was only 20-25 years after the war so we were still finding a lot of war relics as well as live munitions.

[@hyetension6595]

Just imagine landing on the island without having any sight of the enemy, gives me the chills, that's scary AS hell. God bless

[@kimsawatdee8720]

Yes it would be very very scary. A lot of young people died and when I say young I mean young like 18. Still a teen going to war

[@KCODacey]

We are blessed to hear these stories of true stress & tribulation. They should always speak to us from that quiet corner in our minds, reminding us that pain, sorrow, a sense of loss, is all relative. Only with that realization can we grow stronger & more focused on the task at hand. Thank you, Theo, for showing us the way.

[@nik240]

I just want to express how grateful I am as a junior marine to have these memoirs. I am very proud of the legacy I have to uphold, and knowing that there are people out there trying to keep it alive is amazing. I cant explain how important it is to me, and future generations to have these. Thank you so much, and semper fi

[@MemoirsofWWII]

Thank you for your service; and thanks for watching!

[@Tyler-md3wv]

Nik thank you for your service.

[@thegeneralist7527]

Young men and women like you keep the tradition alive. Always hold your head high with pride. Our freedom is only as strong as your resolve.

[@-recommended1289]

My grandfather whom served in WW2 US Army Air Corps was laid to rest yesterday. Watching these helps my grief because I never asked him about the war and I regret not. But there’s always heaven to ask🙏

[@gilwhitmore9682]

"Thank God for Ted Estridge" could not be a more appropriate statement. I feel blessed to have heard his words. Thank you.

[@lalaluxxx3]

I’m an American living in Okinawa for the last two years. I love the locals and I love it here. Much respect for this man, God Bless.

[@CaleMcGowan]

This one brought a tear to my eye.

[@rachelcruz6649]

Same. This was my grandfather. So incredibly proud of him.

[@TheDeepState2001]

@@rachelcruz6649 why do you have a different name then?

[@rachelcruz6649]

Numbskullz that’s my maternal grandfather. I am married. Why would you question that and not think before you speak. If you send me your email. I’ll show you a picture of us from our wedding.

[@shibainu6027]

The moment he met his mom again brought tears to my eyes

[@madmodder123]

7:58 Man, absolutely everyone in this picture looks like they just went through absolute hell

[@jeffn.918]

Good eye, man. They look so old, and the oldest was probably 21!

[@knutdergroe9757]

They have gone through HELL.

[@KaidenAT]

hell is just a distorted version of war

[@mrglass9569]

Such a badass picture

[@tommypetraglia4688]

The Thousand Yard Stare

[@VinceVinou]

As of January 2021 Ted has passed away let his life always be remembered

[@wyattbarnes9641]

These men died so we can enjoy the freedom we have today. Without that sacrifice the world would look a lot different, thank you to anyone that fought and served.

[@Kenorak66]

My great grandfather Jimmy was stationed in the pacific. He was a radio operator. One time General McArthur met them for their good work. He was a good guy. RIP Jimmy... And every soldier who fought for their country

[@KikiRevenge]

Each of these episodes is such a treasure. God bless you, Josh, for the amazing work you do.

[@dj_efk]

“The real heroes are those who gave their lives for their country” - That’s exactly what my Grandad (Royal Engineers, France, Tunisia, Italy campaigns) used to say before his dementia and eventual death. He never forgot about those that didn’t come back either and it haunted him until the end (which the dementia unfortunately brought out)

[@knutdergroe9757]

God Blees and Keep your Father. My was dealing with dementia, And a Combat veteran, a WWII MARINE.

[@teresacontreras4999]

I thank him for his service. True American hero.

[@NolaGB]

My father was retired Navy. After he retired, he worked for the Navy (ONI) and in 1960, we moved from the West coast to Okinawa and remained there until 1963. My mother and I had to attend "meetings" where we learned about the Habu snake and not to go through certain areas and that we were not allowed to go into the caves, where they seemed to be everywhere. We were told about "Naha Charlie" and "Nature Boy". Our 2nd day in our house, I was outside kicking around some dirt when I uncovered an object. Knowing what is was (hand grenade). I ran in and told my Dad. Never saw him move so fast! He made me go to the other side of the house and in a short time, he came and told me it was "empty", That was my welcome to Okinawa. When we left the island in 1963, the miliary was still unearthing bombs and such. I'm an old woman now, but remember our 3 years there very well.

[@mainzat409]

God bless you Theo. R.I.P to a amazing American.

[@eddielombera5862]

It’d be a privilege to sit down with one of these men and hear their stories first hand..... there will never be a generation more courageous, and badass as them. RIP Theo, you can rest now.

[@DirtyRobot]

Awesome that we went back and made his peace with the people he was sent to kill. That is truly an enlightened man.

[@leerussel2033]

Thank You for sharing the story of our America heros. I grew up with heros all around me. My father and mother both served during THE WAR. They never talked about it. But we all knew they were the greatest generation, for they saved the world.

[@jcoats150]

God Bless you, and God Bless America.

[@ojgirgiefjbfsjidyfgsuslugq6708]

Thanks Josh Keep it up ! 🇵🇭 When I was a kid, I've always dreamt of being a soldier. Maybe because of videogames and movies I watched. Growing up, (I'm now 16) I thought I want a job that has higher pay, I become interested in money. But the dream of being a soldier will always remain in my heart. I'm planning to enlist in the reserves when I grow up. I've always thought being a soldier is just Killing and shooting, explosions and stuff but your videos made me realize it's not just that, it made me see the bravery of the soldiers at war. "It's not just shooting and killing and blowing up things makes you a soldier" I've realized. Fighting and killing and blowing things up is war in a general perspective, you kill enemies and invade/liberate their land because you're told to. But looking at war in the soldiers own perspective, it's not like that, It's so much than that, having seen the horrors of humanity and evil at it's finest, you fight not only because you were told to, it's because you want to survive, you want this horror and evilness to stop. It's like you're fighting to stop the fighting. You've seen so much and you just want it to end. It's about what you fight for and what you think is right for everyone and having the courage, determination and will to do and achieve what you fight for, because, it's not that easy. Thanks again Josh for sharing this to the world if you'll get to read this and if you're still reading this, keep it up. Like the soldiers, the reason you fight for is hard to achieve, whatever you want, if you want it, and you think it is right, you need to have that courage and determination. Keep it up, I see your courage and determination thanks for doing this. You're an inspiration not just to me, but for the whole world and the next generation.

[@intendedchaos6724]

Markus 015 I am the same age as you and this is rare for people in gen z to say.

[@kurama8036]

TheBlackDragon670 Same age too and now it’s just people who hate on our country and ppl don’t love our country like they used to and I’m a minority but I’m very patriotic

[@intendedchaos6724]

Kurama I’m also very patriotic. It’s sad that this has been what we have become. I wish this generation was much better than it is right now.

[@macdale4741]

Go for it kid,

[@carterwood7277]

I still can’t believe how brave these men were, and I’m so great full that we had true heroes like them, not a fake hero like we have today

[@Kevin-689]

Grateful

[@Kevin-689]

Grateful

[@CDN1975]

What an amazing man of God. The horrors he has seen but still giving glory to the Lord. Amazing.

[@THE-HammerMan]

My dad was a Navy Corpsman, and was at quite a few Pacific battles... He said Okinawa was the nastiest of them all, hands down.

[@richardmurphy594]

Semper FI Marine! Marines don't die the get reassigned a mission in Heaven. WW2 is truly the greatest generation ever to live. Being a combat Veteran myself in this current war and serving in the same branch and Mr. Estridge his words resonate heavy with me. We might be generations apart's in age but I feel like I can relate to every single word spoken by Mr. Estridge. You sir are truly a Hero and the US owes you a gratitude that can never be repaid along with the many other Veterans that have served and given there life's for there country. Once you see war it will never leave you emotionally and physically but we owe it to our lost brothers and sisters to move forward and continue to strive for greatness. It's honor which brings all Veteran's together and sacrifices which creates the lifelong bonds. Thank You Memoirs of WWII for bringing these stories to life so they won't be lost in future generations and the Memories of Mr. Estridge will live on forever. Semper FI!

[@MemoirsofWWII]

Thank you for your service and for watching!

[@rhysmark4118]

Whoever disliked this, you’re a disgrace, without them. You wouldn’t be where you are today.

[@CMKESKIN]

Damn right

[@ilimes]

i hate this communist dystopia

[@FinFett]

@@ilimes communist dystopia??? wtf is that even supposed to mean

[@mariolofaro8330]

Rhys Mark I couldn't agree more with you and your statement! Who ever can't find blessings and thanks for their freedom in this and other stories needs to not be in America...

[@scl1332]

@Rhys Mark ok pal get off tour high horse I dont know why u would dislike an important video like this either but there’s no reason to start shouting disgrace to our country if there even from here u have no inclination who did it

[@johnlorenz2855]

My ex-wife's Grandfather never talked about his time in WWII. He was an ambulance driver. He did tell my son, once, "I hope when I die, I see heaven. Because I've already seen hell with my own eyes." I never asked again, and he volunteered no more information. He took his memories to his death. RIP, Albert.......😪😪😪

[@imrudd826]

All these videos are hitting me so hard emotionally. These men all tell such amazing stories and I’m devastated that my grandfather wasn’t alive long enough for me to hear his stories like this. All I know is what my dad can tell me and from what I’ve heard, my grandfather was an amazing man and incredible soldier. He commanded field hospitals in both North Africa and Italy and I know, if he were alive today, he’d be more than willing to take part in one of these memoirs. Thank you for doing this. It’s something I didn’t know I needed but I’m happy I found.

[@mikehurricane5767]

Thank you . Lest we forget . My Hero , My Dad , 25th Infantry Division Pacific Theater . Guadalcanal to Tokyo . Rest in peace Dad . I will see you again soon . God Bless the Greatest Generation.

[@rexbeach9914]

It would be a honor meeting men like Ted....true hero for sure!!!!

[@job4184]

Thank you very much for archiving their stories. I am from The Netherlands, my family suffered from the ww2 too. My great grandfather was shot dead by an Nazi officer, and other familymembers survived the deathcamps. Is there any way I can donate to you guys? You really are doing great work!!

[@MemoirsofWWII]

Yes thank you! There are two ways you can support our mission financially, and both options can be found on our website at www.memoirsofwwii.com/contribute . Option 1; you can make a donation via our website donation button. Option 2; you can support us through Patreon and select a tier level of support ranging from $1 to $30 a month. Each tier comes with rewards as our way to thank you for your support. Again, thank you for watching and for considering supporting us!

[@tree3910]

@@MemoirsofWWII his daughter commented on here

[@hugovilag]

The ones that did survive continued battling even without knowing it, they battling against the loss of history so we dont have to suffer such things, rest in peace a true hero

[@j0nnyism]

Probably the hardest battle for the western allies. I’m a Brit and believe that absolutely. Thankyou USA

[@dreamsofsnow6521]

And thank you Britain 🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@dreamsofsnow6521]

And thank you Britain 🇺🇸🇬🇧

[@kylomyers8692]

@@dreamsofsnow6521 allies forever 🇬🇧🇺🇸

[@booter-tw7gd]

Horatio Nelson i was reading to fast. Sorry

[@johndoe-od6ge]

my father was drafted following pearl harbor. I miss my father so much !!!

[@darwinbruce59]

Ted thank you from a man born in New Zealand, as without you i would not have been born. Thanks to all the service men and women for my life.

[@Hevynly1]

Wow! What a story and what a man. His life was a fine, proud journey.

[@ivandelosreyes1400]

I almost cried at the end of the video when I found out that he passed away in 2019 but then I thought, he must be happy right now. He lived a long life and he is now reunited with his buddy Norton.

[@sfb7884]

i will never get tired of saying thank you and much much respect. carry on

[@derek2339]

Why would anyone dislike this he served for your country and is a hero to all of Us

[@williamm374]

This interview needs to be shown in every High School in America. If you are a lover of liberty and of human dignity, here you have why you can enjoy those rights.

[@crusaderclarkplays5466]

God has mercy on us... I got tears hearing from him. "Why me Lord?" 😢

[@SoggySlopster08]

I have nothing but respect for our troops. I don’t know this brave man but he seems like the guy you’d be happy to just sit and talk with for hours. Very gentle, very caring. It pains me to know that men like this had to experience the worst of the world yet they still managed to emerge stronger that before. God bless every soldier and there families.

[@mdlyonn0035]

It’s amazing that after all those years he still remembered his dead comrades. RIP Theo.

[@NotLRK]

Thanks to all the troops that went hell and back just for us

[@ktm42080]

I loved the part about going back to Okinawa. My grandfather was in the Philippines, a Sergeant under MacArthur and CO of his men. One of the many left behind. He stayed enlisted for the occupation of Japan and the only thing he ever said about the war was how much helping to rebuild Japan helped him heal.

[@user-nk1yu9cw8o]

God bless Ted “Theo” Estridge and Norton Larson. R.I.P. U.S. Marines we will not forget you.

[@Stopsign32v]

May this man and his wife for ever be in the warmth and light of God. Rest in eternal peace soldier and thank you for all you gave the world.

[@user-nc5wi3cw9k]

I have so much respect for these legendary men.

[@gordonritchie665]

I met a WWII veteran and his name is Kenneth “Scooter” Barclay and he was with the 27th Infantry Division. He was in battles for Makin,Saipan,and Okinawa. He is 96 years of age.

[@anibalcesarnishizk2205]

I never heard a story from a 27th inf division's g.i.; i read that on Okinawa they had a terrible fight at Kakazu.

[@gordonritchie665]

Mr.Scooter told me that all of his commanding officers were killed in all of the 3 battles that he was in. He also told me that his division commander got into an argument with a Marine General called Howlin Mad Smith.

[@dewaynemiguel3349]

My favorite uncle survived Okinawa just to die of cancer at 94 hell of a man I named one of my sons after him.all his brothers served and survived WWII except his baby brother who was killed in Korea on Pork Chop hill. He always told me nobody realy wins in a war