What Troops Ate On D-Day - World War 2 Meals & Rations

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Subtitles: Jose Mendoza | IG @worldagainstjose
#tastinghistory #dday #ww2

[@TastingHistory]

For more on recipes from the World Wars and other military cuisine, I got a whole playlist right here: kzbin.info/aero/PLIkaZtzr9JDkzso7Ip6ShAyRz-PEipsKB&si=NkK1I1IhtcUnn1Ln

[@ChipmunkRapidsMadMan1869]

Try Dutch Oven Cooking from the Frontier. My wife and her sister did it and it's interesting and awesome. You can do it in the back yard. Congratulations on your new kitchen.

[@Didymus20X6]

Coincidence: I just saw Sabaton a week ago, and now we get a D-Day video. P R I M O V I C T O R I A !!

[@lordbarristertimsh8050]

Idea for a future episode, make Napoleon Bonaparte's last meal that he ate in exile on St. Helena.

[@ChipmunkRapidsMadMan1869]

@@lordbarristertimsh8050 Arsenic is poisonous.

[@adamdubin1276]

See if Josh will let you borrow one of his stoves? If memory serves the Mythical Kitchen has two.

[@flarvin8945]

My grandfather was crew member of a landing craft during WWII. He said before his first invasion, at North Africa, they were given a huge breakfast. Which he happily ate up. It was not long after the invasion started, that his breakfast come back up. After that, he did not eat much for breakfast before invasions.

[@TastingHistory]

I talk about that 😂 Most guys threw it up!

[@cv990a4]

To cold-bloodedly storm a beach knowing there's a very good chance you never get off the beach... that's bravery.

[@obsidianjane4413]

Reading accounts like your granddad's made me not eat anything before we flew into Baghdad in '05. They do a "combat landing" where they spiral down from altitude within the perimeter of the airfield to avoid anti-aircraft fire, which at this point would have just been angry Iraqis with AKs, but still. Some guys didn't, and they left a mess in the C-130 for the crew to clean up.

[@sandyhaas780]

Thank you to your Grandfather and family.

[@FrikInCasualMode]

Not to mention that empty digestive tract would increase soldier's chances of survival if he got shot in the stomach. Sepsis was a killer in field hospitals.

[@cammobunker]

I knew a Marine who made several combat landings in the Pacific. They were usually fed steak and eggs and fried potatoes for breakfast on an assault day. He told me that the first time he ate like a horse, and lost it all halfway in over the side of the Higgins Boat. He said that later he ate the eggs and kept the steak in a waterproof bag for later on. He said that steak was like a reward for surviving the landing.

[@stevekaczynski3793]

Some US Marines in Vietnam were surprised to be given steak and eggs before an operation and were told by the cook they were being fattened for the slaughter. Steak and eggs would look great when their guts were hanging out, the cook said.

[@gunnargunnarsson5963]

reminds me of the final chapter set in Tarawa in Medal of Honor: Pacific Assault, where the main character, Thomas Conlin, mentioned that they gave the Marines steak and eggs before the landing in Tarawa, the Battle of Tarawa was one of the bloodiest battles ever fought in the Pacific theater.

[@k.a1z597]

@@gunnargunnarsson5963great game!

[@samkitchen2071]

We still give Marines steak and eggs when they finish the crucible, I still remember my warriors breakfast

[@AudieHolland]

Don't know if it was mentioned by anyone or in the video, but they fed the US soldiers the same luxury food before they landed on Omaha Beach on D-Day. Steak, mashed potatoes, and icecream as 'dessert' (because who eats dessert after breakfast). One theory I dare to say out loud is that most casualties suffered on Omaha Beach were actually soldiers who jumped overboard in deep water after the landing craft got stuck, then they simply disappeared underwater and drowned. Because nearly all were seasick and went into the cold waters with an empty stomach.

[@davidtribble485]

I had K-rations in grade school. My 5th grade teacher gave us a sample and a lesson on Army life in WWII. He was a veteran of the European theater. I later became a soldier and lived on C-rations; the upgrade(?) of K-rations. Everything you needed were included, (even cigarettes for awhile). The Chocolate had a laxative, coffee had vitamins etc. I was happy when we got MRE's (meals ready to eat).

[@pilsplease7561]

Having eaten combat rations from way too many countries old school rations were better than the new stuff lol.

[@dragonflysurgeon]

Incredible

[@DAV4997.]

I like that. Kids should have a history lesson specific to WWII. My uncle served in Korea and his stories are always and appreciated.

[@Justaboywithoutasoberstreak]

@@DAV4997. they do it is on the curriculum in the uk we spend about 5 months on it

[@ironboy3245]

​@@DAV4997. Would allow for an industry to be built around old reproduction rations for reenactors and reviewers

[@Atzy]

"I decided I was unlikely to outlive my rations, so I saw no point in going hungry" Christ, that's dark. Glad he got the opportunity to write about it.

[@BTScriviner]

Those men knew what sacrifice was. During COVID, Americans were asked to "sacrifice" by wearing a mask and they whined like snowflakes.

[@plarnston]

Yeah, that line struck me as well.

[@JZsBFF]

Going green in times of war is not a long term strategy. Civilians in time of war: ...

[@Atzy]

@@JZsBFF Who are you talking to? What are you talking about?

[@flannelpillowcase6475]

@@Atzy he's saying joining the military in times of war will very likely lead to death. he then makes a comment about how civilians react to war, probably that they're awestruck by the immensity of it all.

[@alphapennsylvania9439]

My grandfather was a paratrooper in the 101st airborne, got dropped in a very wealthy couples back garden and was treated to beef stew, potatoes and bread within 10 minutes of landing and was found in the morning having wine, eggs french bread ham and cheese. He gave them a pack of candy he had brought to give children. His fellow paratroopers would send him forward to farm houses as he knew French and often could score hams and anything else the grateful French, Belgians or Dutch could spare. He said once "it wasn't strange to enter a French village and be shot and while you're in cover for some crazy old lady or young girl to run across the street from where you took fire from to hand you a bottle of wine"

[@madalinbotez2089]

damn, that's so romantic

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

That’s like a similar story to one I heard about a Para? I believe it was a para in Northern Ireland, he said he sat in a Saracen (armored car) on a street all day, and around midnight he heard a light tap on the hatch obviously he was suspicious so he opened the door with a browning hi power pistol in his hand and it greeted a little old lady who had a silver dish full of sandwiches and tea. She gave him and his driver the tea and sandwiches because she said she knew they must’ve been hungry sitting outside all day, and she would’ve brought them sandwiches earlier but she couldn’t risk being seen giving them food.

[@jcortese3300]

Was your grandfather in company D? My uncle was in 101/D. What was your grandpop's last name?

[@rosameryrojas-delcerro1059]

My great uncle turned 18 just in time to be drafted, trained and off to the Battle of the Bulge. He was not in the military too long. He got two tanks blown out from under him. The second time he ended up in a hospital in Belgium, and the Nazis bombed it. The survivors were taken to Birmingham England, he was discharged (injuries) a few months later and had PTSD the rest of his life, never talking about any of it. When I was kid, he was dying of pancreatic cancer, my dad paid him a visit and actually convinced him to chat about his experiences. My dad still has that notebook, Names, dates, deaths etc. Nothing like that though, he only spoke English. No wonder his wife had to shake him awake in the middle of the night because he was screaming in his sleep. War is ugly, ugly, ugly.

[@oldfrend]

@@jcortese3300 the division had several D companies. you'd need to specify what regiment to know for sure.

[@nancyfrankulin2513]

at 15:50, top left man looking down was my great grandpa, Robert Anderson. Mortar gunner, medic, and sniper. Also the occasional potato peeler when they were short handed because he was so fast at it. Thank you so much for sharing this video. Thank you so much.

[@MossyMozart]

Wow. I am tearing up.

[@Hedgeknight420]

Amazing history . I fear for the future , our next generations will have no sense of true right/wrong as they see these veterans as relics of the past instead of creators of our modern day luxury and comfort .

[@gartnerfan]

At 15:50 the picture shown is of a man who was a great friend of mine in the later years of his life. That is Richard L. Barber originally from Worcester, MA and passed away in Oviedo, FL. Center of picture. A true hero who eventually rose to Sergeant and won 2 Purple Hearts in WWII and a 3rd in Korea where he lost a leg. Walked on a prosthetic leg for 65 years. RIP Richard

[@nicole-uo9cd]

gartnerfan Daughter of a WW2 vet here and also a Worc. Mass. native...small world isn't it?

[@gartnerfan]

It sure is. I grew up in Worcester and met Mr. Barber when I moved to Florida. He had already lived in Florida for 20 years . We just happen to run into each other. He was the grandfather I never had.

[@nicole-uo9cd]

@@gartnerfan NICE!

[@zuzuspetals38]

So many knew it was their last day 🥺🙏🏼 Watching the men/boats ahead of them getting shot or blown up Hate war, when will EVERYONE see all the death and after affects it leaves. All the families left so bereft…

[@Bashobozo]

Prove it

[@purpleYamask]

"Utensil suitable for mixing eggs" sounds like the grandpa to the modern MRE's "Rock Or Something." Gotta love how vague you have to write when you have no clue where folks'll be when they read it.

[@jwalster9412]

Either A, you use your hands, Or B you find a nice looking rock.

[@Vean-fn9fn]

"Utensil suitable for mixing eggs" Soldiers cooking the meal in their helmet: "... The bayonet seems suitable :D"

[@00yiggdrasill00]

​@@Vean-fn9fnif it works it works, and I've rarely heard of hungry soldiers saying no to food

[@gavinjenkins899]

It's pretty useless and silly, still, though, because if you aren't going to offer any helpful hints or ideas, etc., why did you need to write it out at all? If you just say "mix the eggs" then it's already clear you need something that can mix eggs to do it, without saying that.

[@b.elzebub9252]

@@Vean-fn9fn Guy who wrote it: There ya go. The bayonet seems suitable! ^.^

[@jiyuhong5853]

I read a book that was from a marine's POV during okinawa. He says they were given a big breakfast of Sausages, steak, and eggs. While most of his buddies ate everything (and lost it) he only ate eggs, and packed his steak in between 2 bread slices for a steak sandwhich ration later on, the Sausages he packed as well for same purpose

[@MsLeenite]

My father served in the US Navy in WW2. He took part in the Normandy invasion. He was badly injured when a nearby shell's impact threw him through the air, feet first into a pile of sandbags. Both his legs were fractured. This I learned from my Mom, as he would never talk to us kids about any of his battle experiences. How long he laid on that beach in pain before he was found and taken to a hospital, no one will ever know now (he died in 1967 when I was not quite 16). But he would talk about his time in London before being deployed across the Channel. He said he liked Londoners and admired their spirit. He appreciated the way they all sang together in the pubs. He had a beautiful singing voice, so he would have been popular. He had eyes of a peculiar light yellowish green, which he said spooked a London barmaid so much she wouldn't serve him. "'E's got cat's eyes, 'e does!" He also told us how intensely green and beautiful the coast of Scotland was, where his overseas transport landed. He said it was the most beautiful place he'd ever seen. Bless them all, those who made it and those who didn't.

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

The Greatest Generation. We stand on the shoulders of giants.

[@paddington1670]

great story thank you for sharing! Yes the greatest generation for sure. What sacrifices and work ethics they had amazes me.

[@mattmerritt5541]

God bless him. And he was right about the west coast of Scotland.

[@elaineburnett5230]

Thank him for his service rip

[@idiot_city5444]

Always unfortunate to hear they won't talk whatsoever about it to their own kids. Who knows how many stories have been lost forever because of it

[@hardlyworgen71]

Years ago I saw a parody of Doctor Suess that starts: I do not like powdered eggs and ham. I do not like them Uncle Sam.

[@winterplayz-robloxmore8478]

Hilarious

[@ericisbeowulf]

This may have actually been the inspiration for Green Eggs and Ham, as the powdered eggs do indeed turn green if they are over-cooked before storage in mermite cans for transport to the troops and serving.

[@SeanBZA]

Funny enough the military by me was not a fan of powdered egg, they would use it, but the fitters and turners in the mess could royally destroy real eggs to taste equally as bad. Now, the thing they served, that I still detest, is pineapple. 3 months of everything in the mess tasting of pineapple, from the water, to the food, to the coffee, to the bread, to the plates themselves. That, and the boiled eggs from the Skinner Street Combined Mess, which were almost universally inedible. Even food from the Food Factory at the base I was on was better, unless my neighbour, who worked there, told me to avoid certain meals in a day or so, saying in the most succinct way that it was not the best. Even the frozen, defrosted and warmed up fried eggs on soggy toast were good at times, just not the canned sausage they served with it, especially when it was minced up and blended with other left overs. fish was great, just take the thin pieces of "haddock" mornay, as those would not be glassy inside, but well boiled in the milk. Grab that, and a bowl of camo crispies (no snap, crackle or pop, though they often did swim in the bowl), and swap with my friend, who in no way would eat fish.

[@OpalLeigh]

I would not like to go to war I must only go because I’m poor I would not like them, I have said I would not like them til after I’m dead.

[@RainintheBrain]

Would you like them in a Higgins boat Would like them with a screaming goat

[@SnoopSenpai]

I completely forgot this was even a cooking video. I was so engrossed in the content you shared, that when you went back to the lemonade, had me like "oh damn thats right he's cooking" Incredible episode. I remember watching the Garum video years ago.

[@Mentalrose2]

My grandfather, now passed, was an army cook during WWII in Okinawa. So while he didn't participate in D-Day, this is a lovely reminder. He stayed a cook, too, at least at home. And when I was a little girl, he would make scrambled eggs for us. They tasted amazing but always had this green tone to them. I never knew why that really was, but when we complained about green eggs as kids, he would draw himself up to his full height, put his hands on his hips and inform us that these were *not* green eggs. They were Army Eggs, thank you very much, and this is how they were cooked in the army. I am moderately disappointed to notice the lack of green in your Army Eggs. ;) Thanks for the reminder of someone I miss!

[@polarbearsaysyummy5845]

I ♥️ your Grandfather.

[@hollerinwoman]

Wow, what a memory! Your grandfather was a gem.

[@jie-yingphua7028]

Did you ever find out what the green is?

[@waterman165]

Eggs if cooked at to high a temperature, or for to long, or is being kept warm for a long time can turn a green hue due to a reaction between the sulfur and iron in eggs and protein. It's totally harmless and doesn't affect taste, but it does make it look unappetizing. Scrambled eggs are most vulnerable to this and green army eggs is still a very common complaint in armies everywhere. This is because eggs are a cheap and easy to prepare protein so it's prepared quickly in large batches, then left on a warm buffet line where they turn green. My bet is grandpa just prepared them the way he did in the army and they turned green. Delicious but green. :)

[@polarbearsaysyummy5845]

@@waterman165 Have to wonder if this is the inspiration for "Green Eggs and Ham"?

[@MoonLitChild]

"Funny" family story -- my grandfather always told the family he wasn't at *the* landing, he always said he was there for "D-Day +1", the next day. We never had any reason to question this because he was a technical sergeant, the type meant to set up radio communications and repair things-- it always made sense to us that they'd need more people like that once the beaches and everything were properly secure. Long after he died, my grandmother was succumbing to dementia and we asked her about D-Day again, she said, "No, he was there the first evening" -- which as you can imagine confused the shit out of us, but apparently she and granddad had been lying to us our entire lives about it. It scarred him so badly they both agreed to lie. That's also when she admitted that they were so committed to the lie, they destroyed a lot, if not *all* of the letters they wrote to each other during the course of the war so we'd never find out the truth.

[@BlandSpagetti]

Jesus that’s horrifying

[@amasterofone]

That's so sad. I'm glad you were able to learn the truth.

[@mokko759]

I am in no way surprised they chose to lie and I certainly do not blame them. My grandfather also served. I have no idea where he served or if he was at D-Day or not because he NEVER spoke of it. NOBODY spoke of it. I can only assume the things he saw and did scarred him so much, it was preferable to never think of it again.

[@sandyhaas780]

Respect and a debt of gratitude owed to your grandparents. Thank you

[@elenavaccaro339]

Your parents can get your grandfather's service records that will tell you every action he participated in. I think you can get them if your parents aren't interested.

[@melissacarney1824]

My grandfather was an Army cook during WWII. He was an excellent cook and always made enough to feed an army.

[@podlingspodcast551]

My grandfather was in paratrooper school training for D-Day. He had a massive asthma attack and was held from deployment. His whole company did not make landfall on D-Day. Shortly after he was medically discharged. He always felt guilty about it. I see it as a blessing because he met my grandmother a few months later.

[@upinarms79]

Survivor's guilt is hard for a lot of people to reconcile but had he been there, he'd have been another casualty and you wouldn't even exist. What matters is that he was brave enough to answer the call in the first place and was willing to fight, despite circumstances beyond his control.

[@KeepMeATec]

@@upinarms79very well said.

[@chefsaliva5317]

Sounds like a draft dodger to me

[@upinarms79]

@@chefsaliva5317 -1/10 no effort, see me after class

[@west3979]

@@chefsaliva5317how did he dodge the draft if he volunteered for jump school 😂

[@richardbeebe8398]

I wasn't prepared for my unexpectedly emotional response to today's episode that hit me amid the stories and images of the troops participating in the D-Day landing. As I watched and listened, I suddenly found myself struck by memories of wartime stories and photos of my late father, a sergeant with the U.S. Army who served in WWII in North Africa, Sicily, and Italy. There, in the midst of the stories you shared of powdered eggs, K rations, and the anecdotes of the troops' personal experiences amid this momentous battle, I could catch fleeting glimpses of my Dad and his stories of the war. He would have loved this episode! Thank you, Max ...

[@muhchung]

Many thanks to your father and his comrades for their services to the US and to the world.

[@susanbaker8023]

I agree with you. I too thought of my Dad. He was proud of his service, he told us of the funny things that happened. Never the bad times. Proud daughter of a WWII veteran.

[@jaclynkurtz9808]

Thank you to your father for his service

[@jaclynkurtz9808]

​@@susanbaker8023Thank you to your father for his service

[@yvonnefarrell1029]

Amen

[@angelaroberts2803]

I live in Gosport Hampshire uk.My late father remembers Canadian troops sitting in the streets waiting to go,eating tinned peaches which is in UK had not seen for years.We have at our beach a memorial stone plaque were the Canadians left on d day.His bless them all.We have been to the cemetery in Normandy as my French open friends live near Caen.So many men kilked.Thank you all USA ,UK and all the troops who died for me to be free.xx

[@lovebug2284]

My uncle was part of the Canadian forces that landed on Juno beach. I don’t know what he had for breakfast, but he did survive. Thank you for posting this in time for Memorial Day, so we can honor and remember those who gave everything for us.

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

In terms of beaches Juno was the “easy” beach imagine if Juno was “easy” how much worse Utah must’ve been. Glad to hear your Unc survived he’s a hero in my book

[@AveCaesar2025]

@@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606Juno and Omaha were the tough beaches though the Canadian military/British marines made the most progress once they had landed of all the landings, UTAH was the easy beach along with Gold - because the navy destroyed many of the heavy artillery defending Gold before they landed - and while Sword was a fairly easy landing they also faced the heaviest enemy defence once off the beach. From a D-Day website.

[@beerandchips2545]

My uncles were there, too. Two of them, probably with the winnipeg Rifles. That's all I know about it.

[@owensks]

⁠@@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606Juno was not an easy beach it was the second most contested beach after Omaha, the Canadian expeditionary force took the brunt of the Panzer division moving into attack the beaches the night of June 6th. Your comment is not just factually incorrect but also completely rude. Utah and Gold beach were the two least contested beaches on that day but that does not mean that those men did not make sacrifices for the greater good.

[@MossyMozart]

​@@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606 - I am sure that the "ease" or "difficulty" of a beach landing was completely relative, like whether you were among the living or not by the end of the day.

[@jakechapman3161]

I really do hope you understand how much people love this stuff. It’s a history lesson with cooking included. If you don’t love this wealth of knowledge then I don’t understand where you’re coming from. I’ve watched many of your videos and I have never been bored. Goes to show that when you put true effort into your content people appreciate it and I know I’m not alone. Thank you for making these videos max I know I really appreciate that your someone I get to watch on KZbin that isn’t wasting my time with pointless crap. You’re a legend in your own right. Please keep making videos with efforts and preparation because the quality really reflects the amount of thought you put into every video. I wish you well and hope you’re enjoying life. Have a good day y’all. I know this helps me have a good day myself.

[@TastingHistory]

Thank you for this!

[@joshkellemen5931]

Can somebody give me a hell yeah

[@Nicocoer]

All of this. Currently it’s my “having an anxiety episode” show, so I really appreciate it

[@BigT2664]

Amen... I teach American History and I also have a Culinary Arts class. So I share tidbits I learned from these shows with my students. It makes things interesting.

[@KlubMila0124]

I'm a bit late in my response but your comment is awesome ❤ I feel the same way you do with Max's videos, he puts so much care, effort and knowledge into his videos, it makes me proud to know my homeschooled kiddos can watch something that entertains them as much as it teaches them! Stay blessed, everyone! ❤❤ Oh yea, Josh, hell yea!! 😁

[@miker7233]

Years ago I had the opportunity to meet a gentleman that participated on D Day. He told me guys were getting sick. And when himself and the others exited the landing craft they just ran towards the shore. He said some guys around him were being hit and dropping down. Luckily he made it. And yes many of the soldiers did get sick from the rough ride. But they still did what they needed to do. It was an honor meeting this gentleman.

[@denisesmith505]

My grandfather was in the Navy but never learned to swim. Incredible. He saved many men who landed on sandbars, not realizing that they were not on solid ground. As they started walking, they would drop into the deeper water with 100 lbs in their backs. My Paw Paw dove in to save them. My wonderful, amazing grandfather learned how to swim that day.

[@bec9696]

What a wonderful memory to have shared with you. He must have been very brave and smart to relax enough and not to freak out.

[@lilyn7497]

this inspires me to finally learn how to swim 😢

[@bec9696]

@lilyn7497 It is never too late to learn, and once you do, you will love it as there are so many ways to enjoy water when you can swim. The hardest part of rescuing someone in the water is trying to calm them enough to not pull you under with them. I'm astounded by Denise's grandfathers ability to do what he did. I hope he received recognition for his bravery.

[@AkaAkoVT]

Huh, kind of reminds me of how I learned to swim. Granted that was a few years back when trying to figure out why the usual park I walked by had three wrecked boats, but still. Granted, with a touch of falling in the first time, and figuring out from there. Thankfully? No one seemed to have been in the boats. But it was still a surreal experience.

[@drea2280]

im crying at this comment hes so brave

[@speakerroach4015]

Respect to all , especially the cooks that kept the soldiers fed

[@dhelix85]

An army marches on its stomach. The cook is important AF.

[@AsheramK]

@@dhelix85 They were also well-respected. You don't mess with people who handle your food.

[@leedoss6905]

And a lot of them were Black folks too.

[@AppalachianTemplar]

​@@AsheramK interestingly, in today's military, cooks are some of the least respected soldiers in a unit, because no one else manages to consistently fail to do their job so often.

[@shawnpeterson3386]

I can't help wondering what they thought once their customers were gone. I think it would have been nerve-wracking, with your imagination going wild.

[@twentypdrparrott694]

Max, if you go to the Planes of Fame Museum in Chino, you will find within Planes of Fame the 475thFG Museum. Within this museum you will a complete WW2 US Army field kitchen. My brother and I collected this kitchen over several years and set it up in the 475thFG Museum in the memory of our father. He was the mess sgt. for the 432nd FS. He died exactly 45 years to the day that the group formed at Amberly Field, Australia. It ws the only reunion that he ever got to attend. He was a plank member of the 475th.

[@JosephNobles]

"Tilt your utensil while stirring" is the most Army instruction I have ever seen.

[@FireGoliath]

The most army instruction until we got, "A rock or something"

[@OrigamiMarie]

I like to think that the original recipe involved just putting all the water in at once. And then there were complaints about the difficulty of getting the powdered egg to stop floating around and get into solution, and the frequency of powder clumps that made it obvious that these were powdered eggs, and people wouldn't eat them, etc. So they had to revise the recipes to reduce the change of icky food that the troops wouldn't eat.

[@whatareyoudoingyouidiot342]

Recipes have to be written so a 17 year old kid who's never done it before can do it without making a total cock-up of it.

[@rubberwoody]

Instructions unclear. Crayons eaten

[@JosephNobles]

This does remind me of the M*A*S*H episode where Hawkeye got to run the kitchen for a day and brought his mom's recipe for French toast in, including pinching the bread for the perfect texture. The cook took a look, threw all the dry ingredients in, grabbed a spray valve to add a blast of "moisture," and then asked Hawkeye, "Do you wanna pinch or shall I?"

[@coffee5605]

My great uncle served in WW2. But I didn't find out until his funeral. He never mentioned a thing about his time. He operated the landing craft that day. Lord knows the hells he witnessed. Rest in peace, Phil.

[@isosev]

Driving people to their deaths. Its understandable he never wanted to talk about that.

[@melissalambert7615]

So many never ever wanted to talk about it. If you talk about the horrors of war, you start to memorize them.

[@rosameryrojas-delcerro1059]

My great uncle turned 18 just in time to be drafted, trained and off to the Battle of the Bulge. He was not in the military too long. He got two tanks blown out from under him. The second time he ended up in a hospital in Belgium, and the Nazis bombed it. The survivors were taken to Birmingham England, he was discharged (injuries) a few months later and had PTSD the rest of his life, never talking about any of it. When I was kid, he was dying of pancreatic cancer, my dad paid him a visit and actually convinced him to chat about his experiences. My dad still has that notebook, Names, dates, deaths etc. No wonder his wife had to shake him awake in the middle of the night because he was screaming in his sleep. War is ugly, ugly, ugly.

[@redtube8667]

​@@melissalambert7615 those memories are memorized. There are some things that get seared into your memory.

[@beantheirishsetter]

I joined right after 9/11 at 17 and left in Dec 2010. Army aviation, chinooks. Flying is desensitized enough. I can't imagine what the men saw in the wars that happened before me. We, this young generation, got really lucky all things considered

[@chrisnealis4270]

My wife's grandfather was the Executive Officer(Willard Clinton Hawkins) on the final crew of the PT 305, which is the only working PT boat remaining in the world and housed in the New Orleans WWII museum. He also served on PT 303. My mother in law got a chance to see her dad's boat just before her unexpected passing in 2019. Can't wait to show it to his great-grandsons.

[@ashlikefrompokemon4327]

My grandfather served under General Patton during WWII and was part of D-Day, the battle of the bulge, and the liberation of the Buchenwald camp. When I was growing up, he loved to tell stories from his time, and he would always end his stories with "and I'm never eating spam again" lmao. He passed several years ago, and this vid makes me feel a little closer to him

[@beatrice81]

Great job❤

[@rosameryrojas-delcerro1059]

My great uncle turned 18 just in time to be drafted, trained and off to the Battle of the Bulge. He was not in the military too long. He got two tanks blown out from under him. The second time he ended up in a hospital in Belgium, and the Nazis bombed it. The survivors were taken to Birmingham England, he was discharged (injuries) a few months later and had PTSD the rest of his life, never talking about any of it. When I was kid, he was dying of pancreatic cancer, my dad paid him a visit and actually convinced him to chat about his experiences. My dad still has that notebook, Names, dates, deaths etc. No wonder his wife had to shake him awake in the middle of the night because he was screaming in his sleep. War is ugly, ugly, ugly.

[@barbaras631]

My father served in WWII and would never eat Spam! My Mom would buy it and my dad would say "I ate Spam during the war... I won't eat it now."

[@rhijulbec1]

My uncle landed on D-Day. We didn't know until he died and my brother requested his duty roster from the Canadian government. He never said a word about that, even when I interviewed him for an essay I was doing about WWII and my family's contributions, for history in high school. On both sides maternal and paternal I had 19 aunts and uncles who went overseas. I think Uncle Jimmy was the only one who was there on D-Day though. Two uncles, my mum's brothers, were on the same ship going overseas and didn't know it! It was so crowded you stayed where you were put, so they had no idea that they were on the same ship. Hard to believe what they endured. Jenn in Canada 🇨🇦 🇨🇦 🇨🇦

[@emilejarreau6448]

10:00 That's my grandfather! My dad sent me this video saying there was a quote in it from his dad.

[@JackRabidDrag]

I had the absolute privilege of going to the WWII Museum in New Orleans with my grandfather, who was a veteran of WWII, and I definitely second your recommendation. It’s a beautifully done museum. I still tear up thinking about that day, it was very special. He has since passed away- his 100th birthday would have been next year- and he didn’t often talk about his time during the war, but the museum helped him open up about things he’d never talked about before and the staff there had a lot of extra perks for vets that made him feel very special. I’ll never forget what he told me his main motivation for signing up was: he wanted to get 3 square meals a day for free so he could send his extra ration cards back to his parents in New York! 😂

[@nebwachamp]

Academia and mainstream media and Hollywood try to paint that generation as backward and ignorant. Seems to me ur G-pa knew what was up and walked a harder line than any BLM activist could imagine. Nothing fragile about the greatest generation. What a shame excellence isn't hereditary. BOYS MADE MEN in those days. Now therapist make would be men boys. Imagine going to therapy bc if historical injustice. (especially but not exclusively as a white dude.) I digress... Men like ur G-pa inspire me but to see their legacy scoffed at and misrepresented by cowardly worms makes me so mad I blow in YT comments sections of cooking tube.

[@nebwachamp]

Happy Bday to that man and may everyone who reads ur post deliver his memory the reverence and exhalted praise he has earned.

[@Redwhiteblue-gr5em]

Truly the Greatest Generation

[@katharinemichie2178]

My father was a radar tech on board HMS Orion, a British cruiser positioned at the junction of Gold and Omaha beaches. Because his job that day was to “stand by” for repairs, he spent lots of time watching troops going ashore. His most vivid memory of the day was the smell of baking bread! Orion gave protection to one of those kitchen ship moored alongside. All day, the cooks baked bread and made cauldrons of soup and cocoa. Landing craft crew came and went , receiving picnic baskets to feed themselves, and those working on the beach.

[@stephenandersen4625]

My dad was on a USCG patrol frigate doing convoy duty in the Atlantic. He was in the engine room and they had a space under the decking that they could hide stuff in and when the ship was provisioning, it was not uncommon for an extra case or three of peaches or anything else to be whisked down below decks.

[@johnnyblue07]

I remember during an exceptionally shitty long march between our ML and barracks, we came back exhausted, bruised and hangry. Our Staff Sergeant wanted us to eat before the next mission launch, so we started pulling out our MREs from our packs. Staff Sergeant came back with a smile and told us we're getting a hot meal thanks to the newly-arrived food service group. I don't know if it was because we were hungry or we haven't had a hot meal in weeks or both, but that meal was mouth-wateringly-delicious. It's still one of the highlights of my time in the USAF. I will never forget it.

[@deniseeulert2503]

In 1974 I was in basic training at Ft; Jackson. South Carolina. In August. At one point we had to go on a long march and we were terribly hot and sweaty. What our drill sergeant didn't tell us was that about two thirds of the way through the exercise a station had been set up with ice cold sweet tea with lemon. I have eaten and drunk many wonderful things over the years, but that tea still stands out as the best thing I ever put in my body. When Facebook became a thing I finally joined with one purpose, to see if I could find my drill sergeant and thank her for that tea. I did find her, she probably wasn't that much older than we, possibly ten years. So I got to tell drill sergeant how fondly I remembered that cold drink.

[@tipsyXtwo]

Never forget he made us run up Currahee right after that spaghetti lunch

[@tipsyXtwo]

Never forget he made us run up Currahee right after that spaghetti lunch

[@brycechristensen2296]

My grandfather was a cook in Patton's 3rd Army during WW2. He opened a restaurant after the war and the stories about his cooking are family legends. He died of cancer in 1980 when I was only 2 years old, so I have no memory of his food, but I always think of him when learning about the war and about army cooking.

[@erad67]

My great-grandfather was a Navy cook. He started off with another type job, but switched to cook to have more regular hours. Or so I heard.

[@colleenuchiyama4916]

These were the men in my family, my neighborhood, my schools. They were mostly quiet, hard working men. They never told us about anything until they were very old. And only if you asked. They saved us all. Thank you uncle John, uncle Johnny, uncle Franklin, uncle Tommy, and Uncle Donald. And thank you Aunt Marj . Ran a 200 acre farm, was a nurse, was a WAC, and had 2 boys under the age of 4.

[@transcendantviewer]

Juice typically used by the military was powdered or condensed juice concentrate, that they could just mix into water to serve.

[@Crazy_Diamond_75]

Almost all pack rations these days are dehydrated or concentrated. Water is very heavy, and if you can get rid of it, it is literal weight off your back.

[@SeanBZA]

Yes, and most likely would be either apple, pear or orange juice, in big cans. By me those were supplied by the Greater Letaba Canning Cooperative, and the juice was typically orange, pear, apple, guava and mango, though we did occasionally get the odd can of Marula juice as well, though much easier instead to go outside and grab the fruit off the local trees, as there were quite a few of them planted there, as they are indigenous, hardy and bear quite a bit of fruit. Just beware if you get the liqueur distilled from it, it is smooth going down, but will also put you down as well.

[@beatrice81]

Like in jail

[@AnniCarlsson]

We can still buy juice consentrate in sweden. It's like 2 dl you mix up to a liter juice. Don't taste that bad acculy

[@generalrubbish9513]

@@AnniCarlsson In Slovakia, we have flavored syrups you're meant to mix into water. Some only contain artificial flavors, but the more expensive ones have actual juice concentrate.

[@SieraMinton]

I really appreciate the way you describe things! My brother is blind and he likes this sort of stuff but it's hard for him to enjoy videos since he lost his vision because most people don't do a good job with their descriptions of food or color and that sort of thing. You do! So thank you from the both of us!

[@joecummings1260]

Food reminds me of being a Boy Scout back in the day. Our Scoutmaster was in The Bataan Death March, so our camping trips were kinda like Infantry basic training. We used to set up a dining fly and cook our meals in there. Breakfasts were always powered eggs, meat (usually bacon) fried potatoes, and toast. I kind of remember it as being good

[@SeldimSeen1]

My Aunt Almeda's husband, Ray Woods, was a pilot for one of the landing craft. Sadly, after landing a group of troops he saw his brother killed in action. They were just a couple of West Virginia boys, serving their country. May all the brave men who landed on the beach that day Rest in Peace.

[@calebleland8390]

I remember as a very young kid, hearing powdered eggs being mentioned on MASH, and making some comment about how that seemed silly. My parents, who had both served in the Navy, assured me that they existed, and that they were terrible. Dad had actually been out in the jungle on missions, and said that they only tasted good if you had gone a few days without eating, and if you had enough Tabasco. Great video, Max!

[@danielking4416]

Max, this is an extremely good video about WWII meals. I’m writing this as in 1978 I spent the entire year at the closest base to Russia. This brought back memories of how we had fresh eggs for about a week after a supply drop, then back to powered eggs, and meat that had been frozen way too long! Thank you for the memories.

[@walmartdog1142]

And for thousands of these men, it was literally their last meal.

[@EMSpdx]

May they always be remembered and honored.

[@jujutaylor2186]

They truly tried to make their last day(s) as good as possible. Sad but God bless.

[@libertyandjustus8258]

😢

[@Rockhound6165]

Given the fact that when they ramp dropped that their life expectancy was something like 2 seconds, I can't imagine the cast iron balls these men and boys had knowing they were about to enter a literal meat grinder. I've heard that the opening scene from Saving Private Ryan was not exaggerated. So much so that when WWII combat vets saw it they had horrible flashbacks.

[@jamiechristly4773]

Walmart Dog, You are 100% correct. It literally was their last meal. Those men sacrificed their lives and now 80 years later, it's barely remembered.

[@michaelman9358]

Also a sad story. Theres a photo of the Landing at Juno with a man pushing a bicycle. His grandson was our tenant. He said his grandfather survived the landing, survived the war. But he stepped on a Landmine on Juno beach in September returning back to his ship... he died 2 weeks later in Southampton from an wound infection.

[@shadeitplease7383]

Max i live in New Orleans and the WW2 museum is incredible. It’s my favorite place in the city. They have added so much stuff since the last time I went in overdue for a visit. You definitely are gonna want the whole 2 days. I tell everyone who visits that has even a passing interest in history to visit. Also very reasonable as far as pricing. Base ticket is like $35 with a second day pass only being $11. If yall come to the city the WW2 museum is a must. Truly breathtaking.

[@Tker1970]

I LOVE that museum.

[@catherinesanchez1185]

New Orleans is in my bucket list and you just added to the things I’ll need to see when I eventually go there !!

[@jenj6489]

My husband and I celebrated one of our milestone anniversaries in New Orleans a few years back and spent a whole day at the museum. It’s truly an extraordinary experience. My grandfather had been a cook on a ship in the Pacific in WW2 so those Pacific theater exhibits had been especially interesting to me. Gave me a whole new appreciation for what the troops had endured as well as their families back home…. ❤️

[@joanhoffman3702]

Another reason for a return visit!

[@shadeitplease7383]

@@catherinesanchez1185 it’s a great city and can be a lot of fun! Definitely gonna want to plan 2 days for the museum because it’s so much to see even if you get there first thing and then rush all day you still might miss something. And they have all kinds of cool shows and experiences now that weren’t there last time I went

[@bubwal23xifan]

The unsung heroes were the drivers of the Higgins boats, the LCIs, LCTs, etc. They went in under heavy fire to drop off soldiers, supplies, and vehicles. They deserve a ton of recognition and respect.

[@biggiouschinnus7489]

Oh, certainly. Good logistics was the bedrock of the US and Commonwealth armies in WWII.

[@andersjjensen]

@@biggiouschinnus7489 There is a quote from a high ranking German officer in Africa, describing how it dawned on him that the war was already lost in (I think) '43. They had managed to ambush an American supply convoy, and among the goodies there was a birthday cake that a sergeant had procured for one of his privates. It wasn't that NCOs could get cakes for privates that sent him reeling though. It was the fact that the cake was perfectly fresh. At that moment it dawned on him that the raw logistics horse power of the Allies were under so little strain (while the German one was constantly struggling with just the basics) that they could have personalised morale novelties anywhere in the theatre in 48 hours or less.

[@KeepMeATec]

@@andersjjensenvery interesting! Thank you for sharing this

[@Dov_ben-Maccabee]

That's why everyone aboard ship went to the commissary before deployment and stocked up on Tobasco / Louisiana Hot Sauce, beef jerky / slim jims and packets of kool aid. I always volunteered to work mid-rats watch so I got my freshly baked cinnamon rolls before chow call! Also, the ship's baker made his own pickles, which were fantastic. USS St. Louis LKA-116 stationed at Sasebo, Japan.

[@jlshel42]

I had a rough day yesterday, marked one year since my cat Jimmy passed away. Seeing a new vid from Max made me smile this AM.

[@EricGranata]

“You-you alone-will have the stars as no one else has them-” “And at night you will look up at the stars. My star will just be one of the stars, for you. “In one of the stars I shall be living. In one of them I shall be laughing. And so it will be as if all the stars were laughing, when you look at the sky at night And so you will love to watch all the stars… You-only you-will have stars that can laugh. I shall not leave you” There is sweetness in the laughter of all the stars…. and in the memories of those we love.”

[@ericthompson3982]

So sorry to hear about your cat. I know the feeling. Hopefully you take some comfort knowing that your fur ball knew it was loved. Take your time with it. I know it hurts, but you, I'm sure, gave kitty plenty of love, and kitty gave it back.

[@ericthompson3982]

"You will no longer know who I am, or what I mean, but I will be good health to you nevertheless, and filter and fibre your blood." ~Walt Whitman, Leaves of Grass.

[@melissalambert7615]

First anniversary of the loss is the hardest one. Hope you are brave enough to get another fur baby soon. So much love out there looking for a home.

[@jlshel42]

@@melissalambert7615 thanks, may be a while before I get a pet. Had a lot of recent family and friend deaths including my father before my cat Jimmy passed. His passing put me over the edge for a while last year. Glad to be in a better place in life now.

[@csipawpaw7921]

You might find this story interesting. A little over a month after D-day, my father was on a scouting patrol behind German lines in the hedgerow country. His patrol stopped near a crossroads to rest while the officer in charge checked his map. Suddenly a truck came down the road from the north and the patrol ducked into the hedgerow. But the truck stopped right in front of their position and two English women stepped out and opened the side of the truck and called out to them offering them coffee and donuts. Confused the officer approached them and asked "Do you realize where you are? They answered, "Not exactly, we've been looking for our boys all day long, but you're the first we've seen." The officer then explained that they were about a mile behind enemy lines and suggested they go back the way they just came from. Just then a German barrage opened up. The men took cover in the hedgerow and the women jumped back in their truck, turned around, and drove off as fast as possible. The men in the patrol prayed the women would make it back to friendly lines, but they never found out if they did.

[@juliet3813]

I hope there are historian reading these posts.

[@madalinbotez2089]

god damn i would love a job like that: going around a giving coffe and to be onest some dreugs to people around. i would even give to the germans as well, cause why not.

[@joanhoffman3702]

That’s wild! This is the type of story I’d love to hear more of. Everyone knows the majority of WWII history, dealing with the military, but what about the everyday soldiers and civilians and their experiences? If those women made it back to friendly territory, and I hope they did, they would have a hell of a story to tell the grandkids!

[@morganalori]

@@madalinbotez2089 I recall seeing a program/something about them... Actually didn't Max do a donut or WWII episode where this was mentioned?... now I have to go back and check.

[@YesYes-xb6he]

​@@morganalori Most likely to have been WRVS (Women's Royal Voluntary Service), women civilian volunteers who'd provide refreshments etc when there was nothing else available. Would go out during air raids etc and provide tea and doughnuts or slices of cake to the firefighters, airraid wardens who'd be tackling incendiarys, fires, rescuing those bombed out. Still going today and will turn up to natural disasters, evacuations, or other times where both the civil population or emergency service personnel might need a cuppa.

[@ender_slayer3]

My Great Grandpa was in Patton's third army, from North Africa up through Italy. I wish I could have actually met him, but sadly all I have are the stories that he passed down to my grandpa, and he passes them down to me.

[@craigsawyer6453]

I have had Long Covid for over two years now, the money has long since run out, I am heartfully grateful for our local food pantry. We get a wild mix of food, after watching this D day meal, it occurred to me that perhaps someone could partner with their local pantry, using history of course, and make more "peasant" meals (loved the depression food video). At times I wish someone would have, perhaps a pamphlet of, recipes to go with the variety of food that is, at times, foreran to my my table. I know this is a strange idea, I suffer from brain fog with my MECFS, so please forgive me if this is not up your ally. As you will be out of your kitchen for the remodel, I am just trying to through out an idea that might get you out in your community and let more people know how cool your show is.

[@jaclynkurtz9808]

I'm so sorry you're dealing with this. I have fibromyalgia and chronic migraines, so I can somewhat relate. I hope you can find some relief and some help.

[@craigsawyer6453]

@@jaclynkurtz9808 👍 Best to you as well.

[@craigsawyer6453]

@@buffys3477 Thank you, great suggestion!

[@chelsea8178]

this is a great idea! and sorry to hear about your long covid. i don't have it but i am still covid cautious in hopes of avoiding developing it or passing it to anyone who might. food pantries could definitely use any extra attention as donations have been dipping and inflation keeps increasing demand

[@craigsawyer6453]

@@chelsea8178 Thank you for you comment. I would not be able to go on with out the help and generosity of others. I have always tried to help others, and it is very humbling to be on the receiving end, but it is kindness, like your words have shone, that give me hope.

[@Kwaspo]

For those of you well versed in WWII, the story of "Brand new equipment that needed to be test fired... unlimited ammo... steak and pork chops" is not only a miracle at that point in the war, but also one of the biggest flexes in history.

[@slwrabbits]

I am not up on modern history (which I consider to be any time after guns became commonplace) but I was able to flag that as an audacious flex, for sure. You don't offer unlimited anything without a darned good reason.

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

In the North African campaign a German NCO said that he knew Germany had lost when the Americans arrived and they were idling their trucks and tanks instead of shutting them off to save fuel. That of course was in 1943 and that’s when I realized how much logistical power the US had even at that point in history, in the Gulf war and the later Iraq war the British have often been quoted saying “we were stuck in a warehouse eating rations and the Americans had a flat packed Burger King delivered” Certainly makes me proud to be an American knowing we can fly in an entire fast food restaurant 😂

[@gregorystiver7198]

​@@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606 I can't remember which but one of the Japanese admirals knew the war was lost when they learned of the American ice cream barges. Every ship they had was nigh irreplaceable but America could field ice cream boats? 🍦

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

@@gregorystiver7198 yep, and the ice cream barges were HVTs to the Japanese (HVT, High Value Target) so the Japanese were more focused on sinking ice cream tubs than battleships because they knew the morale importance of such a vessel

[@shawnpeterson3386]

One German, seeing the invasion fleet, is supposed to have said, "How can we win against that?"

[@kathleenlyle281]

Thank you so much for this. My father left Weymouth and the port of Portland in England that morning and he landed D Day + 6 hours. While I am "only" 70, I haven't a memory of my father. He and my mother divorced when I was a baby. This gives me a really good idea of what he might have had before he got on that ship and I really appreciate it so much.

[@greebatic]

Had a moment of panic in the split second between "the last episode of Tasting History..." and "...that will be filmed in this kitchen"

[@pinecone01]

I love how the army cook book is a "technical manual" with it's inventory number or whatever displayed prominently on the top. TM 10-412!

[@shaventalz3092]

This one teaches Overheat.

[@cunard61]

Yep, the Army has a Tech Manual for almost every topic under the sun.

[@joanhoffman3702]

If the Army didn’t have a tech manual for it, you probably didn’t need to know. 🤣🤣🤣

[@loganbaileysfunwithtrains606]

@@joanhoffman3702which is why there isn’t one for getting a wife 😂

[@lari9768]

tm 10 being "risikotackle" in the red and blue edition and "kraftreserve" in later versions is quite fitting for a video about a d-day meal imho

[@FresericaCharley-ef1pz]

A man of ability and the desire to accomplish something can do anything.

[@funsalmon]

My grandfather was a Navy chef in the Pacific during WWII. There's a wonderful photo of him up on a ladder stirring an enormous bowl of pancake batter. This makes me feel close to him 🙂

[@user-wi9hv2pb2q]

Mine was a chef in the army. he almost always traded the canned for fresh local for his men, and since he wasn't ever in Europe the locals were thrilled as well. He''d always tell me, never eat monkeys. They'd shoot some to trade but never to eat. So don't eat monkeys and wash your socks out with lye soap or you'll die of jungle rot. The wisdom of my ancestors.

[@deathclawplum]

​@@user-wi9hv2pb2q it's not the worst advice in the world, tbh

[@GrosvnerMcaffrey]

Mine wasn't a cook but he was a runner during the wining days of the Pacific. Eating Spam and instamash always brings me to him

[@jjmarekk8093]

My father was in the US Navy, on a small patrol boat at D-Day. He told us just a few stories about that day, many sad. Later he was bitter about the planning of the attack. He felt it wasn't organized well at all. He didn't smoke, but would save the cigarettes from the ration kits and trade them for candy and other things. He would retire from the Navy and become a High School teacher. He was a great father, and he lived to be 97.

[@KeepMeATec]

Your dad sounds like an awesome man! May he rest in peace. I hope you live just as long of a life as he did, and that it be filled with joy and happiness .

[@raysegura4139]

My dad was a culinary specialist in the military in Vietnam he was the staff sergeant of a mash unit. we ate Army Food all of our life growing up I love the taste of powdered eggs. I can feel my glands swelling as you made the lemonade I've tasted that I can taste it right now and I'm not even there with you. In the movie Saving Private Ryan once they took the beach and Captain Miller was receiving his orders to go find Private Ryan he was looking at them shaving and hot water and then the camera turned to a roast beef sandwich every time I see that sandwich I tell everybody I can taste that sandwich right now

[@michaelnash2138]

I had one uncle land in Normandy (3rd wave-he was lucky), one in Italy and another served on a battleship in the South Pacific. Could never get a word about it out of any of them, even when I asked. They would ALL say, "I don't want to talk about it." Had to rely on hearsay from my aunts. RIP uncles Clifford, Fred and Lee.

[@carolmelancon]

My father was in the Navy at Iwo Jima. He would never talk about it. He only told me one story about going with a group of his buddies in the wee hours of the morning and finding some fresh-baked bread in the galley. They tore off the ends, pulled out the central bits, and filled them with jam like giant twinkies. He also told me about "shit -on-a-shingle".

[@bec9696]

It is sad we lost so many wonderful stories, both good and bad. Though I totally respect that it would behard to share.

[@bryanparkhurst17]

Max, really want to thank you for this one. My grandfather would tell me stories from the war. He was in the 1st Div Co H 18th Infantry, went in first wave on Ohmaha. He talked about those eggs 50 years after the war. Also the S.O.S you did a while back....not always FOND memories. Oh but the stories that man told. I don't think there will ever be another generation like that. My father and I are taking my son to the D-Day Anniversary ceremony in France in a few weeks, shame though, he is named for my grandfather and he never met him. I had the distinct honor to visit Normandy in 1994 with my grandfather for the 50th Anniversary....very Powerful. I hope my son reflects on the sacrifice of so many to free the world of tyranny. Again...great episode Max.

[@RubyW7944]

You are so fortunate! Thank you for sharing your story. There will not be another generation like the men of WWII regardless of theater they were in.

[@baconesdotmp4]

my grandfather was a plane technician, he was not explicitly there on D-day, but he did repair and inspect planes flying into Juno.

[@ChelseaH1]

My grandpa was a colonel and Air Force navigator. He flew B-17 bombers. Thanks for sharing this history. Wonder if Air Force had similar food. Can’t wait to see the new kitchen! You’ve come so far since your beginning during Covid times. You’ve always been so kind and deserve nothing but the best. So happy for you and José! Much love to you guys!

[@gberon]

Thank you for acknowledging The National WWII Museum in New Orleans. My late brother Larry was one of the volunteers who built that continuation Higgins boat, and also worked on the restoration of PT 305. He took great pride in being part of projects intended to keep the memory of the men and women who built and served on those boats alive. Btw, I’m thoroughly enjoying your cookbook.

[@mattt198654321]

Hey Max. I love your channel. It's obvious that you put a lot of hard work and love into making these videos. I tell all my family and friends about it. Thanks for your hard work!

[@DoloresJNurss]

While you're between kitchens, it might be interesting to cook a 1930's hobo meal at a campsite, complete with black bread baked in a can, and demonstrate how hobos used cans within cans to make a working stovetop.

[@colinburke8389]

Seconded!

[@hollerinwoman]

Yes, Max, please do this!! :)

[@karenc4544]

That would be amazing! Great idea!

[@hazelpixie56]

That sounds pretty cool!

[@electrostatic1]

Agreed, this would be amazing.

[@gregorsamsa3016]

17:10 Kris Kross WAS a hip hop duo in the early 90s. They were "the youngest hip-hop duo to gain success, with gold and platinum albums at 12 and 13 years old" according to Wikipedia. I vaguely remember them always on the radio from that time.

[@josephgoforth9722]

poor max, his age is catching up to him; becoming forgetful. there is also christopher cross, singer/songwriter from early 80s onward.

[@Kruppt808]

Wiggitty wiggity whack Jump Jump, Mac Dad will make you Jump Jump, Daddy Mac will make you Jump Jump Kris Cross will make you Jump Jump Uh huh uh huh

[@thenovicenovelist]

Thanks for verifying it. I thought I remembered a rap/hip hop duo by that name but I wasn't sure. Also, didn't they wear their jeans backwards or something? I remember hearing about them doing something weird like that with their clothing.

[@thenovicenovelist]

​@@josephgoforth9722I remember hearing about that singer too.

[@llm-reacts]

​@@thenovicenovelistI think so, and I think they also shaved patterns on their eyebrows

[@jonathann4544]

Not sure how or why these videos started popping up for me but two episodes in and I’m subscribed already haha these are good entertainment/educational videos on history man, keep it up!

[@americanviking9384]

I've been reading through the comments of people sharing stories of their family members serving in the War, and im overwhelmed with gratitude of what these brave men accomplished. Thank you for sharing a part of our history ❤️

[@sumibear]

The Germans occupying my grandparents' home in Flanders, left early in the morning on D-day. At that point in the war, there were only old men and teens left in Hitler's army. My grandfather was in hiding. An old soldier taught my aunt how to plant lettuce. The young ones played instruments and had jam sessions. Apparently they left in a hurry, I still have an army blanket they left behind. My grandmother was inconsolable doing dishes that morning and kept repeating " Food for the guns! They're all food for the guns..."

[@juliet3813]

And so they were. This is one of the saddest things I’ve read here. Please give the blanket a hug for me.😢😢😢

[@chrislastnam6822]

"In Flanders field the poppies blow through the crosses row on row".

[@Stormoak]

There are numerous statistics about the strength of the different armed forces in WW2. But as a general rule all got larger year by year. Also in Germany. Over 17 Mio men were drafted in the Wehrmacht and ca. 4.7 Mio died. The truly great casualty numbers came at the end in 1944/45 which you can see also in every local memorial here in germany. But the wehrmacht was never filled up only by boy and men about fifty at the end of the war. My grandfathers were born in 1920/1921 and wore uniforms about the whole length of the war. As in every other major war they were food for the guns to serve the purpose of their state. Therefore May 8th wa and will be also the day of liberation for the German Nation from Hitlers Regime

[@slant6mind59]

I am really pleased to have discovered your channel. As a history buff myself, I wish to thank you so much for your posts and content, and presentation. Aptly bringing in historical content and keeping it interesting is a great feature!

[@TheBrawler93]

My grandfather was a radio man in the Canadian army, he was among those thousands of brave men that landed on those beaches. He never spoke of that day. He had other war stories he would tell, but never that day in particular. I can’t even imagine what he must have seen that he wouldn’t even talk about it. I have his full uniform now, it’s my most prized possession. I miss you grandpa John. Great episode Max 👌

[@bjdefilippo447]

Thank you for this, Max. My dad was in WWI and Korea. He wouldn't talk much about it, but finally, in his 70s, he started telling the grandkids some stories. He didn't give cover the toughest stuff, but what he did share explained a lot about him that was hurtful and frustrating when I was growing up We owe our veterans so much better treatment that most of them have received, and at least as much as we have promised. Thank you for your service, veterans and for the sacrifices of you and your families.

[@Mav3ricky]

Your videos got me through two COVID episodes, which sucked even with the vaccine. Your voice is soothing yet not drowsy. I watch a video before sleep and it helps me unwind. I also like to put a playlist of your videos while I do embroidery. All said and done, Max, you are a wonderful person сand I can't wait to receive your book ❤ keep on being awesome ❤

[@MaggieTrudeau]

I used to work with a Native American Elder who was AT the D-DAY Normandy landing. He was on a boat tending the subs. I miss him and appreciate this episode as a moment to remember him. He said his boat was full of barf too. Sloshing around the upper deck and coming down to the engine room (where he worked) when people opened hatches to see what was going on.

[@mattlevault5140]

Great vid! WWII museum in New Orleans is an absolute MUST for any history buff visiting there. I live in the Washington DC area where we have some of the finest museums anywhere. That place in N.O. is the best I've ever visited. It really does take two days to see it all.

[@HeathenTrucker]

Your videos are so fun and informative. Thank you so much for making them. I absolutely LOVE the history behind it all.

[@jacquelinebates5650]

I always enjoy your videos. Thank you for posting this one. My Dad, who was in the Army Engineering Corps in WWII, loved to tell the story of when he and some pals "liberated" some bottles of wine. On a more serious note, I think we should take a moment to remember the thousands of young men who didn't survive the landing and gave their lives during that bloody battle. Thank you again for posting this video.

[@dianemayer177]

Thankyou SO MUCH for this program. I’ve been recovering for the last few months and didn’t realize this is a significant anniversary of a most significant event. D-Day, 80 years. Nearly all those brave souls men and women have passed, who fought the regime that wanted to take over the world while committing genocide. My father was proud to have served his country, being in the first wave of Battle-of the Bulge. He landed in a hospital from a grenade. But he told me so much of his experiences, editing for child appropriate. Again I thank you. Wonderful program.

[@davidholiday4494]

as usual, another fascinating video - those poor soldiers really experienced very difficult and horrific for us. may the spirits forever guard them.

[@Mariner311]

Was Navy in the 80s-2005 - we ate WELL, but often dealt with powdered eggs - if one was wise - you had your own bottle of tabasco - I also had a shaker with garlic powder, curry, cayenne, sesame seeds, and cumin.

[@jasontodd9]

My grandfather was in the 46th infantry (after D-Day). He used to tell a story about trying to get fresh eggs in a town they'd captured in Germany. The burgermeister was still acting like he was in charge and had been discouraging the townspeople from cooperating with the GIs until they pointed a Sherman tank's 75 mm gun at his house. The old man said the burgermeister went and collected the eggs personally personally after that.

[@salguodrolyat2594]

Probably a quisling.🤔

[@will53e]

Man, you have been and continue to capture history from an angle most don't, while still expanding upon and educating about history at large. You've got a great thing going, and I'm so thankful for your hard work creating this wonderful content. Best of luck in your kitchen renovations!

[@janiefox3458]

A WWII family story - my father served in WWII, but not in combat - he was a ballistics expert and trained soldiers how to use their weapons. One of his duties that he volunteered for was feeding the dogs who were being trained to travel with the troops. I am not certain where he was stationed but I think it was in Aberdeen, Maryland. He found out quickly that powdered eggs were not nearly as palatable as the real eggs that the dogs were fed. So he would take his breakfast ration to the kennels, feed the dogs and make an egg nog out of the eggs allotted the canines. For years after the war Dad would have a 2 egg - egg nog every morning except Sunday when he would make buckwheat cakes. It was a good thing that we moved from Baltimore to very large farm in Western Maryland in 1948 (on my first birthday,.

[@turdl38]

Both of my grandfather's served in WWII, Papa in communications in the Army in Europe and grandpa in the Navy on the pacific front. Neither ever talked much about it and I don't blame them, but hearing these stories makes me feel them. Thank you for doing this so well, Max

[@qwaszxpolkmncvb]

You kinda touched on something I've researched. The manuals that I've been reading for about a decade are pre and turn of the 20th century. I've found them very fascinating because of my elders lifestyles. We try so hard to figure out their kitchen work in our families. My grandmothers were all born in the mid teens 20th century. We were privileged to keep one plus a lot of other relatives with the living for a very long time. Granny and her brother both lived to be over 103 years old. She never stopped doing what she wanted to do.

[@jakobroynon-fisher9535]

Fun fact- the TM 10-412 recipes are (if I remember correctly) meant for 100 people, which was meant to be scalable, and is a small Company.

[@TastingHistory]

Yep. Pretty much all are for 100 people. It’s why I cut it down 😂

[@jakobroynon-fisher9535]

@@TastingHistory I have TM 10-412 and 10-405 (405 is about butchering). I'd also like to see you try either Texas Tacos (from the Leftovers section) or Apple Coffee Cake (from the Breakfast section).

[@TheAttacker732]

When the troops on watch or duty, who would probably be getting a C-rat instead, are taken into account, it should be pretty close to a fairly basic company's worth of food. Double it for a large company.

[@jakobroynon-fisher9535]

@@TheAttacker732 Basically, but when you look at- the 2.5 ton trucks that had mobile field kitchens in the bed of the truck, the jeeps assigned to move Marmite containers from the Battalion's assigned field kitchens (each Company originally had 6-7 people for cooking) to their Companies, and things like that- there was a lot of innovation on how to feed front line troops while keeping support troops relatively out of the line of fire. But- cooks and other support troops were and are some of the most eager fighters, because they want to prove themselves in a fight.

[@FallenPhoenix86]

​@@jakobroynon-fisher9535 Apple coffee cake? You sir, have my attention.

[@ragevsraid7703]

i am old as dirt. i was raised by my grandparents who i called mom and dad. My dad stormed the beaches of Normandy and parachuted into France and marched a lot in winter. He was shot and received 2 purple hearts. He never talked about anything except the basics. One time he was really drunk and told me about crawling over his friends on the beaches of normandy and getting shot and in france frostbite on his toes. My father was a very brave man, and i am happy to see what he might have ate.

[@YouTubeIsRunByMarxists]

I grew up on powdered eggs. Pop scrounged them up from guys he knew on Active Duty to save money. He got out of the Army afte 28 years and no one would hire him; these were the days after Viet Nam. Money was damned tight and I recall pop spending hours each day sifting newspapers for leads on anything he might get. Finally, he wound up taking a job guarding prisoners in a hospital at night. He took his old service revolver and made sure none escaped. Most were there for surgeries and in too poor a condition to get out of bed. At least pop got back on a paying basis and was able to make the bills.

[@Raycheetah]

Your pop did what a man should do. He did what it took to take care of his own. ='[.]'=

[@barrygeekler6458]

God bless your pops and your family!

[@jamesyoungquist6923]

After 28 years at least he had retirement pay and free healthcare at the VA. The military is a model of how a socialist approach takes care of their members

[@glenngriffon8032]

My dad tried to get into the army but birth defects and a metal rod in his back kept him out. But his big brother did get in and would frequently send us all kinds of stuff, especially after he was deployed to take part in Operation: Desert Storm. I grew up around fatigues, ammo belts, ammo boxes, MRE's, and i was always seeing army stuff on tv. We were also pretty poor so them ration meals and MREs kept us going occasionally. My parents have disdain for ready made food but i enjoy it more than regular food. I like powdered eggs a lot more than regular eggs and don't even think about separating me from my Spam. What's funny is that aside from health issues i inherited from my parents I'm quite healthy for my age even though so many people around me keep telling me "if you keep eating that stuff you're going to be unhealthy!" Sorry folks, I've eaten this stuff since i started solid foods, reality disagrees with you.

[@andersjjensen]

Salute to Pops! That's a stand up attitude to his responsibility.

[@phryrosebdeco23]

My Grandfather was a cook and I was told was in Normandy on D-Day. Unfortunately I was too little to ask him more about his life, really know what to ask, so this was a really lovely video to know what his day was possibly Iike. Thank you.

[@mattblom3990]

There's a little comment in the 1990 movie "Memphis Belle" at the meal before the final mission where one of the gunners says "these powder eggs would gag a buzzard." Seeing Max's face as he tasted his eggs reminded me of that quote instantly.

[@alishabohnert776]

Thank you for sharing. My great great uncle, Theodore Tanz, from Perry County, Missouri, stormed the Beaches of Normandy and lived. He was only 18.

[@thenovicenovelist]

Cool! My mom's side of the family lives near the bootheel part of SE Missouri. My step great-grandfather on that side was a French-Polish person who moved to America as a kid and fought in the Airborne division during WW2 if I remember correctly. But he was living in St Louis before he died.

[@MatrixRefugee]

My grandfather was in the 79th Infantry and landed at Utah Beach on June 6th, 1944. He mostly served as a mechanic and a driver, but he saw his share of combat which he didn't talk much about. This would have been his breakfast. Thanks for covering this bit of history!

[@madibe53]

My Irish great-aunt lived on the Isle of Jersey, one of the Channel Islands between England and France during the war. She told us about watching the planes flying over during D-Day. She was riding her bike and was so awed by what she was seeing, she wasn't paying attention to where she was going and rammed into a telephone pole. Unfortunately, because of it, she was blinded in one of her eyes. She did say it was the most incredible sight she had ever seen.

[@matthewmarting3623]

It is crazy to me that you can research, source all the ingredients, get the recipe down pat and produce a video every single week. “Ok, it’s Tuesday so by the end of the day I need to learn and be able to remember everything about food in WW2”

[@glenndouglas8822]

Maybe because it's his job? My god, how slow are you!!!!! He as a channel of over 2.4 million subscribers. It's his bloody job 🤣😂

[@khills]

It probably helps that he’s working a few scripts out - and probably on multiple scripts at a time. (Using a script means research can stay focused and he’ll know how many words the script needs to be for an average length video.)

[@Nicocoer]

⁠@@glenndouglas8822even as his job it is an impressive turn around time. He’s also working a ways ahead of time, so multiple episodes of work overlap- some of the ingredients are hard to get ahold of, and he times those so none go bad, researching the history as well as the recipes themselves, translating the recipes from old ingredient and measurement references into modern ones, contracting people to translate actual language sometimes, script writing, filming with a high quality set up, and presumably working with someone who edits the footage if he’s not editing it himself. Juggling all of that at a rate where he’s able to put out one a week is in fact impressive- not impossible, it is his job, but impressive to get done that often at the quality he does. Also: when someone talks like the commenter did, it’s meant as a compliment, not an actual declaration of disbelief. Unless you are here to be mean to the person the compliment is for, accept the hyperbole about how impressive it is and move on.

[@ArmoredXJ]

Awesome look into D-Day and the food. And awesome way to view history! Troops can’t function in the field with out rations. And rations and recipes tell you so much (hence the channel lol!!!). Now I need to find that army manual, lots of good stuff!!!! Thanks!!!!! A few thoughts on the eggs….first totally hear you, as an army soldier now I know powdered eggs are hard to make look and taste/“feel” just like real eggs. Second there are several variables like the portion cooked size - some ratios just don’t convert well, a recipe based on a specific type/variety/mfg of powdered eggs we can’t get today, powdered eggs then were likely only dehydrated - were the ones you used dehydrated or freeze dried, also I am sure any military cook making those has done many batches and has lots of tweaks.

[@Hortonscakes]

My Great Uncle Bill was on that boat! Holy crap! Omg the stories he told! This video hits me so hard! Thank you Max and best wishes to you and your new kitchen!

[@ghfdt368]

My great grandfather was a Chindit. They were British commando's that fought against the Japanese army in Burma or Myanmar today during ww2 and are often called "the forgotten army" as they are sadly often overlooked and forgotten. They were also given K rations and something called a tropical chocolate bar for emergencies. K rations were designed to be used for short term use only and during combat operations as they didn't have enough nutrition and calories to keep a soldier fed for days on end. Problem was though they were commandos meaning they were behind enemy lines so getting fresh food and cooking was extremely difficult so the Chindits ended up eating K rations for months. Many of them lost up to 60lbs in weight. There are stories after the second campaign of British soldiers after being picked up by American soldiers being given more K rations for them to eat as picking up and feeding thousands of soldiers with cooked food is really difficult. Many British soldiers ended vomiting just on the mere sight of seeing the K rations again because they were so sick and tired of eating them.

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

Exactly! I read an account of a survey done on K-rations of men in a hospital by the army. Just the sight of the things caused these wounded men to vomit.

[@jim99west46]

Well i know one 3rd Army tanker who only got mutton for. 84 days. He never ate lamb again!

[@dtaylor10chuckufarle]

@@jim99west46 I don't blame him one damn bit - that's a war crime!

[@tamlandipper29]

Definitely worth remembering. Many men who made it back were so badly affected the harsh living and lack of food that they had to be permanently invalided home.

[@sarahgilliss3503]

Hey! Jolteon! One of my favorite Eeveeloutions! Also, this made me remember my grandfather, a Captain in the Army and leader of an Engineering division. He told me stories of D-Day, how his canteen saved his life by taking a Nazi bullet, being blown sky-high and surviving, getting double pneumonia TWICE, meeting General Patton, and more! This year marks the 20th anniversary of my grandfather's passing. I inherited his uniform, mess kit, and medals. Every Veteran's Day, I continue his tradition of cleaning his uniform and medals to "parade ready" condition.

[@jonathanpanlaqui1855]

Sir Max loved Pokemon plushies when he purchased, then displayed on his kitchen.

[@juliet3813]

Cool

[@morganalori]

Please write down the stories you can remember and add them to the collection from your grandfather. It can help keep alive the memories and stories.