The bravest kid in America

[@johnshirley4464]

His parachutes didn't fail they just couldn't hold up his gigantic balls of steel

[@mynameishewit]

HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHHHAHAHAHA

[@robert.m4676]

Right on

[@Killit2121]

Lol!!!…that’s right!!!…👊🏻👊🏻👊🏻

[@Icecoldeditzz]

Fax

[@XyThree]

😂😂💯💯

[@phangirl4life315]

My great grandfather was one of those 3 men Jack saved, forever greatfull

[@Bodhi.kenora]

Say waaaaaaaaaa

[@-_robitussin_-3063]

Wow cool

[@ResidentGoodV]

sure:)

[@phangirl4life315]

I just realized how fake that sounds but it is true 🤣

[@williamj.barnhartjr.3108]

Your grandfather was a very brave man, I wish I could have met him. Thank you for sharing that. God Bless you and your family ❤️

[@josephredden7280]

Now this man is the definition of a true hero God bless all who served and are currently serving.

[@BuckeyeExpat]

Veteran here - Amazing story and heroism by this brother. Thats what we do without question is defend our brothers and sisters in arms

[@lalaalaaalaaaa]

Jack survived ALL of that and his ex wife thought she was going to be the one to take him out? How cute 😂

[@prime302]

🤣🤣

[@veng3r663]

Must have been a Brunette...

[@MoonandStars477]

🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@NoodlezArtz]

@@veng3r663 Nah, blonde for sure. Naturally blonde

[@salaad_aisha019]

Lmao fr😭

[@epizzle9232]

His ex wife should’ve known better then to try and kill a man who jumped onto a live grenade!

[@nicholasrawlinson4086]

damn right

[@kdawson020279]

By marrying a woman who is crazy enough to try and have him killed, did he metaphorically jump on that grenade to save others? My grandfather was a WWII Lt. Col. with a Bronze Star for saving his convoy from German 88s, and the joke was that God himself would have to come and take him because he would not go willingly. He was active well into his 90s. Jacklyn Lucas ate death for lunch, his wife had no chance trying to kill him. His favorite breakfast cereal was Kellogg's Death Flakes.

[@based9516]

And survived skydiving off a plane with a failing parachute, Sheeeesh

[@Noodles.FreeUkraine]

This guy definitely knocked the top peg out of the bravery scale. R.I.P., Jack.

[@bigron8346]

Jack was obviously born with a lucky horseshoe somewhere in his body.

[@LittleKantBoy]

A horseshoe in his body? I’m thinking more a it’s more of a horse dick on his body…

[@zebrastrong9291]

My grandfather was actually on that ship. He was a marine and fought at Iwa Jima. He was on that second wave and made it up the ridge. That was the only thing he would only ever say. “Babygirl, I made it up there but most of my brothers didn’t. Now go help your memaw with supper.” I miss him everyday.. Semper Fi Pawpaw

[@findjenna]

So moving! My Uncle fought as well…ended up a POW, terribly sad and painful stories.

[@coyote_0056]

Suuuure

[@devinangola3458]

@@coyote_0056 What the fuk do you mean by saying that?

[@jabmahnodin4803]

Dude same here! Major Charles Wesley Campbell bomb disposal expert. I’m fucking awed by what these men did.

[@zebrastrong9291]

@@jabmahnodin4803 Bernard J Lawrence Jr.. Just a simple Private First Class. I have his card where he officially qualified as a marksman with the M-1 rifle.

[@kaelabelle4886]

"And until next time that's gonna do it, see ya" The worst words ever

[@lipshamorrissey4636]

Mr. Ballen movie! 🙂

[@t3ap0t_wr3x]

I FELT THIS

[@thomaspayne6866]

Why? Seems fine to me.

[@Jakaboy-pe6zf]

@@thomaspayne6866 because it means the video is over

[@skeboop7353]

Yea it just hurts to hear that

[@charlesclager6808]

A young man thinks he will live forever. And Jack did his very best to do just that. Great story.

[@VrCobysPlace]

He died in world war 2 and we are still talking about him, seems like mission accomplished.

[@letsgobrandon6281]

​@@VrCobysPlace he died in 2004

[@VrCobysPlace]

@@letsgobrandon6281 he died June 5th 2008 if your going to correct someone make sure you know for sure lol

[@vondahartsock-oneil3343]

My husband's father was a Surgeon stationed on Luzon. WWll was one bloody war, and the bravest generation I've ever known. That's not to put anyone else down. Not at all. I just can't imagine, whether it's the D-Day Invasion at Normandy or any of the battles of the Pacific Theater, watching wave after wave of your peers being mowed down right in front of your eyes, knowing you go next. I'm not sure I could do that. Adrenaline is pumping and I'm sure you are thinking "they won't hit me", or quite the opposite. IDK...I've studied that war for years. The endless stories of bravery and courage under fire still amaze me. (from all sides actually) Thanks for your service and thanks for the channel(s)

[@JewMoney63]

I feel like the only way that man is gonna die is when he’s sleeping, because he sure isn’t gonna let that happen while he’s awake

[@Artofficial1986]

Yeah death during sleep is pretty common.

[@KM-wf9yx]

He died from Natural Causes in 2008...

[@Upgradedtitanspeakerman3290]

I was watching the video when I realized I was born on the day he died June 5 2008

[@sushipbestdeck8995]

@@Upgradedtitanspeakerman3290 i was born on june 5th too lol but on 2001

[@catherinejohnson2235]

My uncle was on that ship and told us about treating Jack. He said he was sure, at any moment, that Jack would die, and was surprised at each hour check that Jack was still alive. It was one of the most important and memorable experiences of my uncle's long career as a doctor. He often reflected on it, but only told us children once.

[@Misssydney]

Your grandfather is every much the hero jack was. Can you imagine being the one that saved his life?

[@nicholeeddy5071]

Incredible. Thank you for sharing! It's amazing when a relative come across one of these stories.

[@hannahchastun2859]

Mr Ballen needs to see this

[@kathierouse5306]

Wow, Catherine! Your uncle was brave, too! So glad he survived the war and lived to tell about it. That is so awesome! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸👍😊

[@mkaylor121]

My uncle was there too his name is Jim Kaylor

[@jenlarge9036]

Thanks Jack. My Grandfather was a POW in Changi. The Americans saved our arse in WWII, God Bless America.

[@DingoNovember]

Not only he was the bravest but also the luckiest and toughest. I’m not American but i’ll thank him for his service. RIP hero, may your story never be forgotten and inspire generations to come

[@a.robertson730]

My granddad Arthur ran away from home to escape an abusive father at 15. Being a big lad he was able to lie about his age and join the British army. By the time he was 16 he was fighting the Nazi's back across Europe. He won a medal or two, as well, my mum still has them. I'm super proud to have met him before he died

[@lauraowen8142]

What a remarkable man & hero!

[@donvito5647]

Nobody cares

[@nakazio-9058]

@@donvito5647 i do 🤨

[@a.robertson730]

@@donvito5647 89 other people didn't have to be a prick about it. Just you. You're well cool

[@onestopgamechannel7846]

@@a.robertson730 make that 90 for the trailer park boys pfp

[@KrisVic91]

Some bloke. These men were tough as nails. R.i.p to those who gave their lives.

[@Produkt_R]

Can you imagine people now getting hurt because you call them mister or missus. Unbelievable

[@ThatKafkaMain]

@@Produkt_R Misgendering someone or using the incorrect pronouns after they correct you is disgusting. They have every right to be hurt.

[@stormhawk1625]

In other words why give yor life for a country that doesn't give a shit about yu they should've bombed the island first instead of sending men to die and say next wave

[@mathewfigueroa8]

@@Produkt_R they dont teach "sticks and stones" anymore man

[@truthseeker2321]

@@stormhawk1625 If you knew history, then you would know that Iwo Jima was bombed by air and shelled relentlessly by battleships for several weeks before the invasion.

[@Kitchin1231]

My great grandad Charlie joined the army in ww1 and he was around 14/15yrs old, absolute madness! You’ll never have another generation of badass men like these!!

[@GaellisDarling]

You are so correct! No other generation with that kind of honesty, determination and grit. So hard-working and loyal.

[@lea-anne9133]

I am so glad jack lived a long life after his service. He deserved it after everything he lived through! Rest well jack 💙

[@Ikrium]

That kid saved those other men without hesitation risking his life, that so amazing a kid that young was willing to go so far for his fellow man.

[@janepickering9410]

They saved us all.

[@paddrig2kk7]

* * * Wow sounds just like the brave young people of today with their safe places and canceling folks that hurt their feels ... Thank a vet for giving you your freedom to have hissy fits and burn Old Glory. Thank you Mr. Ballen for your service, patriotism, and love of our great country.

[@AmyLynnRiley]

🤣🤣🤣 truth

[@mathewfigueroa8]

Hey you cant say that! Some 19 yearold just crawled into a box because of that statement 🤣

[@davidmccombs6187]

It's ok for people to protect their body and their land but not their feelings. You may have missed a step.

[@mathewfigueroa8]

@@davidmccombs6187 no, what I was saying is Why would you let something that somebody says, effect your mood. People can say all kinds of things to me, but if I decide I'm having a good day, then it doesn't mean anything at all. It works pretty well actually if you try it lol

[@paddrig2kk7]

@@davidmccombs6187 Thank you for opening my eyes to a different perspective. I was "growed" up "don't cry out loud, just keep it inside" ... "hush hush voices carry" ... I appreciate your response. Unfortunately I am having the hardest time seeing most folks in these recent generations rising up to accomplish anything remotely astounding as that of the Greatest Generation. My sincere hope for this generation is that they do not need to face the true evil our forefathers and foremothers had to face.

[@phil4986]

Jack is proof you never give up and you never give in. Rest in Peace Great Man.

[@annetteybarra6969]

I am speechless...what I can say is thank you to all past,, present and future men and women for your service.

[@christy76840]

That guy had his own army of guardian angels following him around his entire life, for sure!

[@stephenc2481]

If a grenade didn't kill him, no ex-wife or falling from the sky will. He should have joined the Avengers and saved the world from all of the Dr Evils out there.

[@geraldhawkins9407]

The Bible plainly states that Fortune Favors the Bold! Jack was a Bold Brave man and the Good Lord obviously liked him very much because of his courage!

[@NorthernGreenEyes]

Oh absolutely! 🙏💜

[@witheredguy13]

nope,he was just strong.

[@theduchessofspring2395]

my grandfather too lied about his age when he enlisted in the navy for WWII. And boy, was my great grandmother furious! I remember being told that he was awarded a purple heart when a machine part he was repairing for the submarine he was on exploded next to his head. He came away from that accident with a nice little scar on his cheek & permanent hearing loss in that ear. Initially he did recover a little bit of use in that ear, but later went completely deaf over time. Rest well Paps, we love you.❤

[@diamondharper1539]

Jack was either superhuman or had someone or something powerful watching over him. Wow! He saved those men. What a hero. ♥️

[@ilovemybuddythunder]

This is why every chance i get i thank any vet i see. I truly salute and appreciate our troops for what they risk for us. God bless them!

[@LabyrinthOfEyes]

My grandfather did something similar. He used his brother's birth certificate and joined the navy. He was the navigator on a bomber in the pacific theater. He was only 15 years old.

[@anjishnulahiri9600]

Now that's a patriotic man right there

[@heyitsalannaluv]

That is absolutely amazing! The courage of these men is amazing

[@rosemadder5547]

My Papaw did too, and all his government documents still say he was born in 1935 instead if 1937 lol All his ID. He was super poor living in KY with a single mom and 12 sibling. He filled his boots up with change to pass the weight requirements and became a machine gunner. Cant remember what it was officially called. He sent all his money except $20 back home to his mom and family the entire time he was in the Navy ❤. He was shot during the Korean war and was discharged, and then somehow joined the Army.

[@Rawratchu616]

My great uncle forged his enlistment papers by stealing my grandmother's identity since she was older than him. Her name was Geraldine, so he enlisted as Gerald Dean and it worked. He gave my grandmother his dog tags when he returned.

[@bostonrailfan2427]

my father did that with his brother…it didn’t go over well. it took decades for the VA to figure out the issues and give proper credits to both

[@jessicahanley5080]

Rawratchu, that is crazy!

[@big.venom.snake.boss.]

@Sunfeld Jiramhir to the brig captain!

[@bessiewarner2617]

My grandpa did the same when he joined the navy in WW2 after pearl harbor

[@carolyng5044]

This one made me cry. What a brave young boy. Who also came back home as a man and a hero. Thank you for sharing. My dad fought in WWII also.

[@hollydavis2261]

❤as did mine at 15

[@cassaundratenerelli644]

I know that this is way off subject but I just wanted you to know that the stories you tell have really helped me. I got sober and I was on some very dangerous drugs and one of the things I had to do was find new things to enjoy other then what I was doing to keep me clean and when I’m bored I put in my ear piece and listen to your stories which are by far the best on KZbin and they are just great. Your so good at what you do keep it up.

[@avaridreemurr]

God's proud of you! And so am I! I know how hard it is to get off addictions (If it's ok to even say that!) And I've had some people with the problem. But it takes willpower and determinations, along with God's strength to keep going. So keep on going! Heck yeah!

[@MegaKat]

Heya, I just wanted to tell you good job, and that you're worth it. I'm proud of you.

[@akbarpashtun]

keep going strong

[@SuperLibertarianMan]

Hey!! Congratulations!! It's a long hard fight, but you've got people you don't even know rooting for you. I'm about 3 years sober myself. Keep finding things that you enjoy, it helps keep your mind off of "the past" and helps you keep moving forward. Good luck, and you are worth it, don't give up. And if you happen to backslide, that's fine, it happens. You just start again, and keep doing it until it sticks. You'll get there, it just takes some time. Hope to hear you are doing well in the future and I believe we will!

[@jessicabrock8800]

I suggest a Hulu account and sour candy to deal with cravings. Works amazingly.

[@gr8flyerfan]

My husband's uncle joined the Navy at 17. He was on an LST at Normandy, manning an anti-aircraft gun, trying to shoot down German planes who were strafing Americans landing on the beach. June 6th, 1944 would have been his graduation from high school. The Greatest Generation.

[@armyvet8279]

There were no German planes strafing the soldiers on the landing beaches.

[@Zuluparaszt3]

Yea, but in war there are no winners, nor heroes. Just ppl fooled by politicians to fight and die for them.

[@rondalee7704]

There are hero's. Did you not listen to this story? Both sides have hero's. And the civilians on both sides loose to much.

[@gr8flyerfan]

@@armyvet8279 I apologize if I'm wrong. I only know what his son told me. He hadn't told anyone he was at Normandy until a few years before he died.

[@Pursuedwinter]

@@armyvet8279 Thats not true, check out Josef Priller, he has the best account of straffing Allies on Juno and Sword beach

[@darkrider2976]

Even in that picture of him as an old man, he still looks like a serious badass that you wouldn't wanna mess with. God bless that boy!

[@teresah4972]

I saw a sincere man in that photo. Tough as nails but I get the feeling he was approachable! “God bless that boy” is sweet! He had a lot of angels watching over him!

[@arosefortes6507]

Doesn't he! 💯%

[@thedoctorroth]

You just know his handshakes were like a vice grip too

[@adellajimenez6609]

I've always hated the saying "they don't make them like that anymore". I mean he makes it seem true though haha

[@EmilySpiritExT]

I can’t imagine how terrified Jack’s mom was while Jack was in the military so young! She was probably scared that he gotten kidnapped and/or killed when he ran away to join the army. It must have been a great relief to her whenever she learned about where her son ran off to!

[@karenwilliams2047]

WOW, what a man. He certainly had as many lives as a cat. Love hearing stories of bravery under fire - thank you for this amazing story.

[@XyaVaernoct]

Jack was both the most unluckiest and luckiest guy ever

[@wickedsbane]

Thats called being a badass mfer , thats revoked upon suicide.

[@Charles-7]

being alive means he was very lucky

[@LaceChaser]

Jack is the hidden secret.

[@foxlandrie8816]

Oh he was definitely lucky since he put himself in those situations damm well knowing he could die at any second but just didn’t

[@DoubleAplusJ]

Soldiers are so fucking brave

[@MsDarra]

Jack said he wasn’t ready to go until he said so. Bad ass.

[@navi5158]

😂 yup!

[@dave7015]

This is what a real hero is.

[@feelinfroggy8089]

What a kid he was!...a real life Captain America! Cannot wait to read his story! Thank you for sharing this, Mr. B, and thank you for your service!

[@oledahammer8393]

Did Jack have a shopping cart to carry his balls around in? Talk about one tough hombre! SHEESH! God bless him!

[@harfangdesneiges6680]

Nope! He needed a big old marine boat to carry that!

[@pyxl666]

The fact that this dude just smashed into the ground while *skydiving* and **survived** is the most mind blowing part of all of this to me.

[@drewharper1891]

No kidding! I find it hard to believe, to be honest, I'm sure he either wasn't high at all when jumping out, or just a tale passed around and I think it's probably that. Regardless, what a amazing story!! 🤘

[@onishadow6850]

Thanks for ruining it

[@hardasnails11b15]

"Greater love hath no man than this... That a man lay down his life for his friends." You are not forgotten, Sir.

[@npzninja]

My grandfather tried to enlist at 16 and they turned him away. So he went to a tattoo shop, inked up his forearms, and at a second recruit station, successfully enlisted. His fight would end in the Pacific islands as well, when a sharpshooter managed to clip him in both legs. RIP Grandpa.

[@danielkipkoech]

I am an African but Japan’s occupation in China was the worst form of colonialism ever. It was a brother-turned-enemy scenario. They were forced to forfeit their ancestral names dating centuries and adopt the colonizers' names among other brutalities. Jack was the bravest selfless kid ever. MrBallen is the greatest storyteller ever. The Like Button is still plotting retribution.

[@happeedaze1]

I don't like to compare but the genocide of indigenous native Americans/Canadians was pretty bad too. Many similar things happened and sadly is still going on today.

[@dalriadajohannsen]

@Dan Kirui 😁💖

[@bebeveritas7306]

Yes, the Like button is a very calm and spiritual button and was raised in a loving home with lots and lots of sibling like buttons and buttonettes. The Like button, after much thought, meditation and advising with his spiritual advisor he was advised to study “The Art of War" by Sun Tzu. Sun Tzu thought that generals should be adept at the "military calculus" of taking into account anything and everything that could affect the outcome of a battle and “Make your way by unexpected routes and attack unguarded spots.” Beware Mr. Ballen, you still have time to make peace with the Like button! Bruuuhahaha!

[@Grillenheimer]

@@happeedaze1 but if it was a genocide... how do we still have native American tribes left? And based on my deep bloodline I could have Cherokee blood in me too. I'm still looking into this mysterious genocide people keep talking about as I see native Americans hopping into their sports cars after a local Indian festival... and the casinos on the rivers...and growing preserves, even in my OWN State. I'm confused, so these must just be phantom people that were affected by Cherynobyl disaster that are doing these things.

[@danielkipkoech]

@@bebeveritas7306 I like this one! the Retribution will be massive considering the persistent torture, lol.

[@jervin1640]

Death: It's time Jack: Nope, not today.

[@joysanders59]

Jack -Yes, I did survive. Death- hold my sythe Jack Yes I survived the skydiving accident Death -Hold my sythe Jack- Yes I survived the fire Death- Naw Naw Im good. Il just have a margatita. Im waiting this one out...

[@jwatson3347]

My father was a schoolmate of Jacks' in North Carolina. My dad would later fight in Korea. Jack was a scrapper, and had that reputation. Later when his book came out, I was able to get a signed copy of the book. It is cherished memento from days past.

[@franksidari1460]

My grandfather was on the USS Curtis December 7th 1941 saved his ship from going down by transferring oil to balance the ship to get out of port. RIP I miss him. Mr.Ballen great channel

[@erayburn6354]

Jack experienced & endured more in 16 years than most of us do in an entire lifetime! He is the epitome of courage & heroism. And THEN, surviving all the other near death experiences he did, I'm totally amazed! What an incredible, inspirational & awesome human being! Thank you for sharing his story with us.

[@BadassBobY]

I love how Mr. Ballen never wastes our time, he just talks for 20 seconds before beginning the actual story and he says the same stuff in every video *"Strange dark and mysterious delivered in story format" and then tortures the like button a little bit and then starts the video...*

[@spacegame4462]

Ah yes "a little bit" continues to push the like button off and almost died and apologise but you dont really meant it

[@StarlightWorkshop0z]

Bullying the like button

[@Hansgame]

@@StarlightWorkshop0z yeah thats the right word here.

[@kingcort8073]

@@spacegame4462 sometimes I'm like what the hell is he saying😂😂😂

[@mariapaulastepanian9930]

It takes so much of me to go through one of your stories… I have a serious learning challenge, so fast, narrated stories are very difficult for me to follow… but you have captivated my heart and my attention so much, that I challenge myself despite the frustration and spend two to three hours until I understand your stories! Thank you so much!

[@kspen6110]

What an amazing and brave young man. Thank you for your service Jack and I hope you are in peace.

[@jonathanthao5565]

Reporter: how many times have you came close to death Jack: yes

[@BadassBobY]

It's over 9000

[@amypieterse3706]

Jack- Me and the Grim Reaper are very close

[@royrodgersmcfreely2858]

KZbin: How lame and generic do you want your comment? You: yes.

[@jonathanthao5565]

@@royrodgersmcfreely2858 I love you

[@Akiragill]

And the verdict is in. Thats a true American Hero

[@RealLifeZatoichi]

Plot twist: He regretted it instantly and did everything off of sheer fear of dying. But aye if it works 🤷‍♂️ I'm jk lol

[@mikegrace2819]

@@RealLifeZatoichi kyle rittenhaus???

[@Enximity]

Keep it at 69 likes

[@omsonmn_inde6978]

@@mikegrace2819 yep sounds about right

[@iasknoonewithkevin]

Really appreciate you highlighting this story in Iwo Jima. My Papa Leonard Santo LoVullo was a Marine, and earned a Purple Heart there, as he took a bullet to his buttocks. He passed in 1991 from leukemia. RIP Papa Len, and the victorious dead.

[@diamondharper1539]

Thank you to all who have served. I cannot even imagine the courage and sacrifices it took to defend our country. You're all heroes!

[@jamesstuart9393]

It’s kinda crazy how much he was willing to do for his fellow Soldiers even after being rejected

[@michaelmccallum7125]

They 100% don’t make em like that these days!

[@Simonsays_Sendit]

It was a VERY different time. His fellow soldiers weren't the ones who rejected him, so there would be no ill-will toward them. He knew it wasn't personal in the first place. He was too young and understood that. Also, his sense of duty is why he was willing to do any of this. It was a very different time, and it produced very different people. We have no fear of invasion(but we've been tested as a country at this point.....they hadn't been yet) lots of factors that are usually not considered. That is just one.

[@karencahill4798]

We should all do the right and moral thing, in spite of our naysayers! Bravo Jack!

[@joysanders59]

No one could have known he wasnt dead after the grenade I think. He was anamazing person. Masculinity is not toxic. Its inspiring. Its evil thats toxic,

[@joysanders59]

@@Simonsays_Sendit plus people then were smarter.

[@lucid_god]

Mr Ballen is such a badass he is telling us stories inside a BURNING FOREST

[@simonzakeyh6515]

ima wait for the woosh

[@jennifermcguire8867]

Yeah, he’s hardcore !!!

[@carsonjewett2296]

Lol

[@brookeclark2410]

🤣🤣🤣

[@meow-mx4xy]

Its a green screen stupid!

[@AmericansWillRise]

What an absolute BEAST of a man!!! There won't be many, that do that kind of stuff. 🤜🤛💪

[@iamzuesthisisthetruth8864]

Proud Veteran of Iraq and Afghanistan!!! Made me Tear Up!!! I Always looked up to men like this!! I prayed for HALF of there Courage!!! I served in a way I hope they were Proud of!! God Bless All Vets!! And America

[@maryadams81]

My grandpa lied to get into the Navy for the war. We always celebrated both “birthdays”.

[@sistershaw760]

My Father Did The Same Thing For Vietnam... 👏👏👏

[@BooBooKittyFuzzyBritches]

My Dad also lied about his age to go into the Army. My Grandmother went along with it to "keep him out of trouble". After basic training, he spent a year in Germany, then was sent to Cambodia (unofficially) for a few months, then off to Vietnam. Less than a month before his tour in Vietnam was due to end, he was shot in the shoulder. He recovered in a hospital in Germany, but my Grandmother never forgave herself, saying "Out of the skillet & into the frying pan!" My Dad was a rebel & a free spirit, but a tough bird. He passed away 4 years ago, after dealing with decades of side effects from Agent Orange. I miss him, but he's no longer hurting & is now with my Mom, so I find peace in that. I have so much respect for all those who run towards the danger to keep everyone else safe. 🇺🇸

[@laurabentzinger200]

So did my father he was an underwater welder.

[@TheKayasto]

I'd say he earned the right to 2 birthdays after that! Thanks to your grandfather for his bravery!

[@pixystixnfairycrack]

My father did the same to get into the marines

[@MrUod]

Jack also goes to battle carrying a vibranium shield.

[@mrpizzathe3rd69yearsago8]

Captain america

[@fraze83]

He definitely could've done with it.

[@Raccon_Detective.]

He deserves the super soldier serum.

[@DaughterOfGod419]

🤣🤣 That was good

[@montgomerywolf3434]

@@Raccon_Detective. He the guy they made it from...:-)

[@BM205]

What a great story about a truly great young man.My Grandpa was a Marine and was at Iwo Jima too. He didn't talk about it much but I can't really imagine what these men endured. To all those who have served and those who serve our Nation now thank you and God bless you

[@garros]

I didn't even think about the secret, I was too absorbed in the story. What a brave human, and what a life.

[@valenzuela940]

As a vet, I laughed my ass off at the fact that an American soldier jumped into a Japanese trench... And the fact they were all so startled that he survived it. That's incredible, horrific, and hilarious at the same time. My emotions are messing with me from that one.

[@karencahill4798]

God was truly at work here with Jack. Great story. .. and a great life for Jack.

[@vicdominguez2052]

Thank you for your service

[@antidoteforlife9460]

As a war vet, I'm not that surprised, when your adrenaline is in that state, and you've already accepted your going to die but take as many enemy out as possible, these situations happened way more than you think, there were so many acts of heroism that we today cannot fathom the mindset, but war is war, once you've there you turn into a different animal

[@mildlyextreme]

What kinds of animals do you work on?

[@valenzuela940]

@@mildlyextreme usually the infidel type

[@jeffferguson5053]

That’s why they’re called the greatest generation. We all should try to live a life worth their sacrifice.

[@UltraSaltyDomer1776]

Thank you. Said perfectly. Want to show appreciation to guys like jack them live well, treat well and stfu and go work. Lol

[@matthewstufflebeam55]

100%. Well said. We are nothing without their sacrifice.

[@andyknightwarden9746]

Jack was barely a member of the Greatest Generation (1911-1928). He was born the year before the first year of the Silent Generation (1929-1946, Boomers were 1947-1964, Generation X were 1965-1982). There's a lot of folks that don't know that.

[@rebeccagable9629]

THAT is why we place our hands over our hearts when we salute our flag. When you turn your back on the flag you are spitting on all the people that have fought & died for our country. And all the medics, too.

[@UltraSaltyDomer1776]

@@rebeccagable9629 exactly that’s why I call for the banning of the women’s soccer team or at minimum get rid of the players that turned their back on the flag and the WW2 vet. How disrespectful. That guy actually fought nazis and that’s how they treat him.

[@reganfisher22]

The patriotism and passion Jack felt is humbling and inspiring! I hope it's contagious 💙

[@wleighkst1671]

Kids today - do you ever wonder if they could/would survive conditions like WWII and the time just before or just after??

[@reganfisher22]

@@wleighkst1671 no honestly I don't think they would survive let alone win. It hurts my heart to admit that.

[@wleighkst1671]

@@reganfisher22 agreed, and it hurts my heart too!!

[@bm-ww8kb]

@@reganfisher22 wait.. are you saying america won the war

[@josellers1376]

You got that right! God bless you.

[@nickf527]

My grandfather did almost exactly the same thing... He tried to enlist in the American Navy at 16 during WW2 and then just a couple weeks into boot camp they discovered his true age and sent him home... Honorably of course... Then almost right after he turned 17 (6 months later) he enlisted in the American Army... He survived the war and lived to be 82 years old... I have this awesome picture of him standing in the snow at 17 with his rifle on his shoulder right after being dropped into France to help the allied forces fight off Nazi soldiers... He certainly was an American hero!... I'm so proud of my grandfather! May he rest in peace...

[@bostonrailfan2427]

MrBallen, you missed a huge update in your story: the newest Navy destroyer, the USS Jacklyn Lucas, was named in his honor! he also laid his Medal of Honor citation on the keel of the USS Iwo Jima which sets sail with it entombed inside as a token of remembrance and for good luck in her voyages

[@MrOneAndOnlyAce]

That is really heartwarming to know the military pays tribute to a brave man like this

[@ShermanMark1]

He really deserved it

[@reptar.rex.u]

Now it's unsinkable

[@iammarauder5418]

USS Jack H. Lucas... Good to know.

[@TailoredAnna]

All the awards and tribute isny even worth it

[@pambarton7959]

Yes, I “...got something out of today’s story....” Chills. I got chills. Jack is the epitome of a patriot. And indestructible indeed! Wow! Thank you MrBallen for another great story! 👏🏼 👏🏼 👏🏼

[@kokeallen3192]

Dude was a true hero an didn’t deserve to be killed so glad he went out on his own terms much respect!!!!

[@dw69376]

What an incredible story! So grateful for people like Jack Lucas!

[@MyBearbutt]

Jack was a true American hero. Rest gently in the arms of your Lord.

[@jluchette]

Jack would punch the Lord in the FACE & walk away like a BOSS with the Lord’s girlfriend.

[@conormccormack7841]

@Ethan Gallegos Hellywood and MTV, just to name a couple

[@user-wy1yb7zj1j]

@@jluchette Reddit moment

[@omsonmn_inde6978]

@Terrapin Fritz STFU kids in those days matured faster, they had more responsibility and no one to baby them... Go back to your safe space, and let this young hero rest in peace

[@kennyronald1886]

Well said. God bless from Northern Saskatchewan Canada

[@serenitydenman4144]

The fact that jack was 16 when he was in war and he saved 3 people and layed on a grenade to save them is amazing

[@triciasomogyi5431]

People didn’t raise cry babies in those days.

[@muddyshoesgardener]

@@triciasomogyi5431 i agree wholeheartedly! My dad lied about his age so that he could serve in WWII. He grew up in a trailer, finished high school early and headed directly to war. Definitely not a crybaby kid. That generation grew up with a different mentality.

[@josephredden7280]

Thank you Mr Ballen for your service and keeping us all free

[@corinnewolfe963]

Death couldnt catch him, Jack kept on winning that race until he felt good and ready to stop. What a legend

[@Johnseiara117]

Jack is the prime example of the marines "you dont have permission to die, until I order you to!" Ooh rah

[@cathecavanaugh615]

I get it !

[@joannberkelback7647]

Ooh ra

[@WildWindSun]

😂😂😂

[@robertritter9018]

There were a lot of men who lied about their age. My grandfather was one of them. This just shows how much we use to love our country. We need more people like this.

[@flight2k5]

It’s amazing every makes this claim, yet 3 out of 4 of those that served were drafted.

[@user-wy1yb7zj1j]

Instead of running around complaining like today

[@codybumpus3607]

This man is an absolute legend. Indestructible is right. What a wild story. Thank you to all the veterans for your service.

[@missumenimsatanass]

I have family that did the EXACT same thing. The only diff is he joined the cavalry instead of the marines and the battle was the battle of lil big horn. He ended up getting the medal of honor for his part in that battle. His name was Benjamin Criswell. He took it upon himself to go out on the battlefield to get injured and dead calvary men and at the same time bring ammo has he kept firing up the soldiers who were quickly giving up. He was able to get them fighting again. Sadly most of what he did to get the medal isn't listed.

[@bethwymer76]

My grandfather was one of the many young men who also lied about his age in order to enlist ultimately becoming a lifelong Marine because "Once a Marine always a Marine!"

[@gabriellashimone6546]

Forever a Marine. No regrets, no remorse.

[@MaryP74]

My grandfather was 15 when he went in to the army, he did the same thing. He was actually featured in the book I think is named, This is your war, by Ernie Pyle, very famous reporter during the war would inbed himself with the troops. After meeting my grandfather he then months later meet my great uncle at a different battle. Amazing to think boys loved their country so much they risked their lives as little boys. ❤ thank you to all of our service men and women for all they do and have done.

[@kyates7]

Amen❤️❤️❤️

[@deannag48]

What a tremendous young man as well as later an adult!! It totally touched my heart. He was definitely a hero!!

[@vingthor13]

WOW...what an amazing story!!! Great telling too...THX!

[@lauram3115]

Jack was a dear friend of my grandfather who fought with him at Iwo Jima. My grandfather also forged his age to enter the marines. He was 16 when he and his twin brother enlisted.

[@looking4therealrepairmanjack]

*Marines ...he joined the Marines. It's ALWAYS capitalized, whether you're talking about the military branch or a person, it doesn't matter. I'm not saying it to be mean or being a grammar nut, it sounds like you really loved and respected him, so I thought you would want to know this info so that you can continue to show your love and respect for him properly. I hope I didn't offend. Semper Fi~ *Edited for a left out word.

[@lauram3115]

@@looking4therealrepairmanjack Good to know. Thanks! 😊

[@Journeyoflove13]

That's very special, Laura! It must be awesome to hear about him on the internet, knowing it was your grandfather they're talking about. 😃

[@lauram3115]

@@Journeyoflove13 My grandfather was not in this story, but it’s still cool he knew him! ❤️

[@Journeyoflove13]

@@lauram3115 oh sorry, I must have read it to quickly. But like you say, it's still cool! Very cool❣

[@jessicahanley5080]

My Dad was a Marine, he passed last Memorial day. I miss him a lot. Even though he wasn't a war hero or anything, he was my hero and I'm missing him like a piece of me went with him.

[@sebastienmccarthy1483]

That’s how I feel about my grandpa. We lost him and my grandmother to COVID. I used to love his military stories. Rest in power, Robert Hunter. I miss you every day.

[@jessicahanley5080]

My Dad's name was Robert Hanley! Lol similar :). Thanks for sharing about your Gramps and Grams with me. I appreciate it so much, Sebastien.

[@vladtheimpala5532]

@@jessicahanley5080 I’m sorry for your loss is such a cliché but I am sorry for your loss. A piece of you did go with him. But a piece of him stayed with you as long as he remains in your memory. I feel the same for my grandparents. They weren’t war heroes but they were my heroes. They were the salt of the earth. They were very kind people who would help anyone who needed it. That makes them heroes in my book and examples of how to live.

[@kierj9858]

💔 I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@reeko9781]

Your Father lives on in you.

[@shazzbutter]

If humans like this weren't so rare, the world would be a much more beautiful place for everyone.

[@cynthiac6110]

Damn that man was brave and a hero. May he rest in peace.

[@scorch418]

It’s sad to think about all the amazing stories like these that aren’t told because they didn’t make it out. Take a moment for all our fallen vets, we thank you for your sacrifice 🤍

[@charliehay1520]

☝🙏❤🇺🇸💯!!

[@user-wy1yb7zj1j]

Imagine the ones during ancient times and somewhere which isn’t a popular country

[@mvshenhon8966]

@@user-wy1yb7zj1j makes the stories they could tell even more impossible to imagine, but they certainly be something to hear...

[@m118lr]

...Amen

[@gabriellashimone6546]

I remember the last I saw of three of the Marines I served with. It's in my mind a lot. I try to think of them from before that but it doesn't usually stay there.

[@pharaohkizine1896]

That man was a hero... R.I.P to an true American hero.

[@monicacarolina6480]

RIP to ALL hero's

[@ashleydixon4613]

My grandfather was a completely self-made man who had also lied about his age (in the 1920s) when he was 15 to join the Marines and get the hell out of Philadelphia, Mississippi. He been taken out of school after the eighth grade and put to work in the sawmill to help support the family, but he obviously had bigger goals in life. He was in his mid30s when my mom was born, two days after Pearl Harbor. Him being in the Marine reserve, he ended up in the South Pacific- a sharp shooter who never owned a gun at home (at least in my mother’s lifetime.) but he had made something of his life- coming to central Arkansas and followed by his brothers, and eventually owning several businesses. He was in his third term in the Arkansas House of Representatives when he died of a massive heart attack at 49.

[@xaufo]

The fact the we are able to have our freedom and slept good at night because of the sacrifice of all these brave men and kids makes me appreciate even more how blessed we are as a country

[@MichaelNealeYT]

And then there's me who sprints up the stairs when turning off the light

[@serpentisma]

Ghost at the bottom of the stairs: Sooner or later, that dude's going to trip. Then it's my time to shine...

[@shandib1162]

Lol...NICE TO KNOW I'M NOT THE ONLY ONE😉

[@mayraburks7076]

Lol

[@ZenuxProduction]

Y’all have stairs ? I have long narrow hallway :/

[@0xxhell_destrierxx9]

Wait wha-

[@sophiawhitney8308]

Mr.ballen has the perfect story telling voice

[@rondalee7704]

I like how he explains what certain things are. He doesn't just assume everyone knows and doesn't say it in a condescending manner. Very clear in simple words.

[@sophiawhitney8308]

@@rondalee7704 agreed

[@sherryowens8251]

I have lots of family members that served. My grandfather was an air raid Sargent, which is not military per se. His job was to go out on the streets and make sure all lights were out, and anything reflected was covered or picked up. His was Army and Navy, one son was National Guard, my son in law was a marine and the other one was Army. I had another uncle in the Air Force. My nephew was in the Air Force also. My son is in the Navy. I've been an Army wife twice. This is a hard enough life without all the drama of war. Everyone on this page that has served, thank you and I will always stand with you.

[@supposedhumanmars]

My father served 25 years in the US Navy and he joined up at age 16 to escape the physical abuse he was subjected to by his father. My great uncle worked in the recruitment office and falsified my dad's paperwork to get him in. Apparently no one ever found out about the falsified documents. The only reason I found out was because, after my dad died in 2019, I noticed paperwork from the military said he was born in 1945 but his birth certificate showed he was actually born in 1947. At any rate, he did seven tours of Vietnam, was horribly injured, and retired a chief in the mid 80s, a few years after my birth. I've got nothing but the deepest respect for those who serve.

[@NikolayNikoloff]

Jack is the ultimate real life bad ass and I've never get tired of hearing his story. The guy had iron will.

[@nicolemiller1693]

IKR

[@melexanie5403]

It was very common back then for boys to do this. My dad joined the Navy when he was 14, he was born in 1946. He forged his papers too. Beds, and regular food. His mum was abusive, and got worse after his dad passed away. He will be 75 this year.

[@ashleyherrera6359]

Tell your dad thank you for everything he did.

[@maryanderson2759]

Kudos to a great man. Much thanks for his service

[@JW-vi2nh]

My dad started working at an Air Force Base when he was 15 using forged documents. He died just over 3 years ago but we (his kids) still have his ID card which shows his year of birth as 1947 instead of 1950.

[@jikajacksondeepluyka]

It makes me goosebumps. Rip Jack🙏

[@RZS_bowl]

That last picture of his exudes the fact hes one tough sob. Cheers and salute