The Cactus Air Force on Guadalcanal with John Bruning - Episode 403

This week Seth and Bill welcome back pal John Bruning to the show to talk about his new book, and always a fascinating subject, the Cactus Air Force. John's new book, 53 Days on Starvation Island is an absorbing look into the first two United States Marine Corps squadrons to land on Henderson Field in August 1942, VMF-223 and VMSB-232. The guys get deep into the personalities of the main figures of the two squadrons including legends such as Medal of Honor recipient John L. Smith, Marion Carl and Richard Mangrum among others. The guys talk about the complete lack of preparedness that the two squadrons faced from daily life, training, the ground echelon, disease, and of course, aerial combat. Tune in to hear a fascinating discussion on one of our favorite topics, the Guadalcanal campaign.
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[@bigtoe333333]

Great show as ever, but Jon Parshall has to take huge credit for naming his cat family the Kitty Butai!

[@geoffmarr7526]

Her satanic majesty, supreme empress of all she surveys, graciously gives that awesome moniker a disdainful tailflick. High praise indeed!

[@douglaskillock3537]

@@geoffmarr7526 As a cat person I am loving all of it. No disrespect to the legendary Gunther, the silent patrol partner keeping Seth safe

[@Jakal-pw8yq]

I'm just here man! It's 2:09 a.m. PST, couldn't sleep and realized holy hell is torpedo Tuesday! Fire up the Mr coffee, get a pack of smokes sitting off the coffee table, and prepare to get schooled! Love the work you do and the chemistry regardless of who is, is always fantastic and enlightening! From the son of a World War II veteran, US Navy South Pacific, I salute you guys!🇺🇲⚓️💖🙏💯☕️🏝📸🍻

[@williampockets]

Torpedo Tuesday. Love it. Saratoga wants in

[@Jakal-pw8yq]

​@williampockets Damn, poor Sarah! Sucking up Torpedoes like there's no tomorrow. If ever there was a ship that had a cloud over it it had to have been Saratoga. I know that what-ifs are pointless, but I just wonder had she not sucked up those Torpedoes what would her battle record have been? You can't fault her crew. Because the US Navy had the best damage control in the world. When your hit with a long lance or whatever Torpedoes the Japanese Subs had its kind of a death bell when you get nailed with one of them. Respect to the crew of the Saratoga, you did your jobs and you did them well!🙏🇺🇲⚓️💯💖☕️🏝🍻👍

[@SKILLED_two]

This is an essential channel! Pairs well with cigarettes and cold coffee.

[@toroon]

History is necessary. The truth is necessary. This is your best episode yet. Keep the candle burning.

[@flparkermdpc]

I agree wholeheartedly! I've watched the episode four or five times, and it grips me harder each time. 😢

[@Not_So_Weird_in_Austin]

Thanks my dad Harry Brooks was on the Enterprise CV-6, a Ham Radio operator before the war, was "volunteered" to go to Henderson Field because he could scratch build and maintain the radios to vector attack aircraft from Guadalcanal from spare parts as the navy was short of radios. He was there after the fleet pulled out and during the bombardment of Henderson Field by the Japanese fleet. My aunt told me he was put in for a commendation which was not awarded due to his contribution being for brain power rather than fighting in action. He did get jumped a grade in promotion.

[@GrahamCStrouse]

I’ve heard active duty guys talked about being “volun-told” for missions/positions they weren’t real keen on. Military guys have a droll sense of humor…😉

[@michaelcoe9824]

The Coast Watchers, set up pre-war, by the Australian Navy, saved many lives of seamen and airmen during the campaign. Also, the early warning of the coastwatchers allowed the Cactus airforce to get up to altitude to gain some advantage. The entire campaign, with all involved deserves our study and utmost respect.

[@GrahamCStrouse]

I wish more people knew about The Coast Watchers. If I may borrow a line from The History Guy, this is history that deserves to be remembered.

[@lurking0death]

John Bruning is brilliant. He opens a window into the personalities and problems of the war on Guadalcanal. Simply superb. All three of you showed a great sensitivity and awareness of what it means for a combat soldier to come home from an intense war. Well done.

[@flparkermdpc]

Insightful comment!

[@ThePlebicide]

Unauthorized Cats of the pacific war!

[@garymackey850]

lol

[@auscolpyrtosspott9175]

I usually listen to the podcast but rewatch if there's visual reference. I did want to see the cat.

[@longlat39]

I'm a 2x Vietnam vet and hearing about the disconnect between combat vets and civilians. It was only by the grace of God and His intervention during my suicide attempt in 1976 that I've been able to spend 20 yrs working with my brother vets, and live a full and meaningful life. Thank you so much for bringing this disconnect between the vets and civilians to the forefront. Thank you very much!

[@TerryNelson-k6t]

I glad you turned it around. Stay safe!

[@jackoleary8002]

Sir, thank you for your service - you're a better man than I am

[@barrygeekler6458]

Thank you brother, struggle every day. Stay Solid!

[@hektor6766]

Denying Vietnam its self-determination after French colonialism wasn't defending freedom or the United States. That was the disconnect. Politicians and industrialists in their richly-appointed offices authored that disconnect as they manipulated toward the debacle for their own self-interest. As they did with the false testimony of Nayirah, the Kuwaiti ambassador's daughter, the stowed away white paper and ignored August 8 PDB on Al Qaeda's plans, and the dubious reports of yellow cake. Because 9/11 couldn't have been foreseen, the Saudi Royals were generous with their oil and their money in return for weapons, and Saddam couldn't have been alarmed about Kuwaiti lateral oil drilling under the border, or US imperialism in the post-Cold War era. He was just a bad man, same as Ho Chi Min, Mossadegh or Allende, and that's all the American troops or public needed to know.

[@flparkermdpc]

John Bruning writes with his heart on his sleeve. He really loves those men and wants their story, stories out here with us who are ignorant of what was done on our behalf. These are extraordinary stories and men. I had the great fortune of attending the same church as Joe Foss in the early 90's. What a Handshake! A crusher. Great man.

[@josephairoso8013]

This is one of the most important episodes, for many reasons, that you have done, thank you!

[@democracy_GER]

Thanks so much. What a great episode. John is a brilliant guest. I could listen the whole day.

[@TheBruceGday]

Love John Bruning. He is fantastic! To be fair I have loved pretty much all your guests, from Jon, to Tony, Dave Holland, John McManus, to John Bruning. I really love Bruning’s addition of our need for patriotism and love for our military heroes. We need constant reminding as a nation of the debt we owe. Too many, especially in the media and politics take us on tangents away from what is important!

[@flparkermdpc]

You hit some big nails on the head.

[@richardanderson2042]

After 12 years in the Navy i went through something that left me suicidal. (Nothing like these men went through) When the Navy found out they removed me from my ship, sent me for a psych eval, and discharged me with no kind of treatment. I firmly believe they were more concerned about the image of an active duty suicide vs a vet suicide since those happened regularly. It took me over ten years just to get over the anger, bitterness, and sense of abandonment i felt. Now almost 30 years later i still have occasional nightmares about it. Never went to th VA because the thought of dealing with anything military would make me physically ill. Your discussion of John L and his treatment by the Navy really hit home.

[@joebombero1]

I hope you find peace in your heart. You stepped up, ready to defend our nation when many did not. Your personal sacrifices were real and obviously still weigh on you. I hope you find a resource to help you find peace. God bless you.

[@richardanderson2042]

@@joebombero1 thank you. I am lucky to have a wonderful supportive wife throughout, and the good Lord has watched over me.

[@UnauthorizedHistoryPacificWar]

God bless. Hope you've found the answer, and sorry for your experience. The Navy is comprised of flawed human beings, just like every other organization on the planet.

[@ronbyers9912]

My father was a gunner in a TBM. He won the DFC and 3 air metals. He refused to talk about his war experience until just before he died, but he told me that only 8 people in his unit survived. I know he suffered PTSD. He wasn't alone among the WWII veterans I met.

[@douglaskillock3537]

It was great to see Seth across the viritual pond for WWII TV. Give it a spin guys

[@jmullner76]

Agreed.

[@MartinMcAvoy]

Paul Woodadge is a terrible historian and a horrible person.

[@effewe2]

Watching right now. Seth is amazing!

[@gregorymarten3111]

One of the best episodes I've yet seen. Seth, Bill, John, Thank You.

[@robertdendooven7258]

It is stunning to me that this author is on this show today. I just finished his great book, "53 Days on Starvation Island late last night. I just bought it after seeing John's appearance on the WW2TV channel here on YT almost two weeks ago. Waiting for Seth's return appearance on the WW2TV channel tomorrow.

[@davidk7324]

Me too, robertdenhooven7258. Although I haven't started it yet as I'm finishing James Fenelon's remarkable Angels Against the Sun. "Starvation Island" is next on my list.

[@Eric-rb7rg]

So, I am listening to another great episode of UHPW and then their guest starts talking about the Marine who suffered from PTSD after war and what happened to him. There are many parallels to my father and his trying to deal with his PTSD after the Korean war. He was in the Corps but not a pilot. Seeing Mr John Bruning so moved and empathetic to those who suffer the experience of such war profoundly moved me. I won't go into details about my father's story nor did it end like the Marine he described. His life was deeply affected and I don't think that he really knew how much. Thanks to Seth and the Captain for having Mr Bruning on and dealing with an important subject that affects all of us.

[@TerryNelson-k6t]

The difference between the shoestring operation of landing on Guadalcanal and the godzilla that shows up at Saipan a little less than 2 years later is amazing. God bless all veterans and especially ww2 vets.

[@flparkermdpc]

Truly amazing,the transformation of the US effort between the time being discussed today, and the second half of 1944 that occupied most of season three. Buckle up.

[@jimlauerman5642]

Gentlemen, I have immensely appreciated every episode of this channel, but this one definitely is the best (so far).

[@TheBruceGday]

Agreed, and that is a tall compliment! Every episode has been magnificent. Not a dog (no offense to dogs) in the entire series. I rated the Surigao Strait series with Jon and Tony, and Samar series with Jon as the best, but then, and then… This is fantastic!

[@michaeladams2575]

Just ordered my copy. Thanks all three! Emotional episode towards the end.... Thanks for the appropriate balance of humanity, sensitivity, historicity, and entertainment. My favorite channel on KZbin. Please keep up the much needed good work all!

[@richardbennett1856]

Several Cactus pilots were saved by native people who were treated horribly by the Japanese. We owe them much gratitude. The parallel would be the German treatment of the Baltic, Belarus and Ukrainian civilians.

[@Albemarle7]

The coast watchers were heavily dependent on the natives in everything they did, as well.

[@Canadian_Skeptical]

yes, including JFK!!

[@scottpeters8640]

Great point. Those natives put their lives in peril every time they helped the coastwatchers of downed pilots or drifting sailors.

[@jamessimmer725]

This is one of the best episodes!

[@gustaloni3107]

My favorite night used to be Saturday. Now it’s Tuesday. What a great show. Thanks guys. Regards from Down Under.

[@richardbennett1856]

Good day, Just. At the time, with the ANZAC armies in North Africa and a killer Scrap Iron fleet punching way above their weight in the Mediterranean, still able to hang in to Port Moseby with the second team, Crace's small but intimidating navy, and a few fighters proved the Australian cupboard wasn't bare. US history does not give much credit to our heroes from down under, but it's obvious to anyone who studies this . Don't forget the NZ Sheep Boys either...

[@richardbennett1856]

I said Gus, but the evil autocorrect bot changed it to Just. Hey Ya'll, from humid Arkansas. Keep up the posts, eh? Oy! G'day!!

[@williampockets]

Some of the baddest dudes on the stick. At least land based. Fearless and talented. Thanks for the great content. 44 and 45 are impressive feats of American power. 42 and 43 are to me, more interesting since it was not a done deal yet. Thanks boys

[@TheBruceGday]

42 and 43 were impressive feats of American courage and determination.

[@jeffreymartin8448]

This channel is such an enjoyable part of my life. Thanks a million times again Seth and Capt. Toti.

[@TheNinjaGumball]

Really appreciated his little rant/tangent on how these guys are models to look up to for the younger generations. Being a Gen-Zer myself, these men and their forefathers are my role models for that scrappy, can-do, independent, liberty-loving, and God-fearing American spirit that conquered a continent and built this nation atop it. Cheers! :)

[@LeeScott-k2y]

As usual spot on. Thank you for sharing and talking about difficult subjects in the last part of your podcast, well done, your sincerity and tact is welcomed and appreciated. Thank you.

[@glennedgar5057]

Another topic for the show was the fight for Port Moresby before 1942. The British and Dutch cared about the colonial powers. After the battle of Java sea, the British diverted all resources to India. Australia requested planes for defense but only got around 20 P 40s. A resource that they got were two veterans who fought German 109s in Africa. Bottom line for a month or two before the Battle of Coral Sea they held off an elite Japanese Naval fighter group to protect Port Moresby. Just before the Battle of the Coral Sea, the fighter group ceased to exist. The Australians evacuated all air resources out of Port Moresby. At this point the entire North coast of Australia was bare. The Australian author makes the case, that the Port Moresby could have been seize if the invasion force continued. Also their is political battles as Churchill was trying to divert the 7 th Australian infantry to India. With out the 7th, Port Moresby and the Battle of Miline Bay would have been lost. Coral Sea battle and action have a bigger impact than is committed nly recognized.

[@richardbennett1856]

With limited resources, Asia was a backwater for all the Allies. Logistics were strained, and distances were daunting. Even holding India was problematic. You can't do everything everywhere all the time. Something has to give.

[@alganhar1]

@@richardbennett1856 Indeed. People these days also have very little idea of what trying to sustain an army in Northern India on the border with Burma (now Myanmar) was like. Even today road and rail infrastructure is poor, and it was *worse* then. Hell when they were driving into Burma in 1945 one of the flanks literally had to build the road it was advancing on AS IT ADVANCED.... And it had to be done and their objective taken before the monsoon hit because the monsoon would just wash away the road they had just built.... Show me where in the ETO advancing troops had to build a road according to a strict timetable to their objective?

[@flparkermdpc]

Great information addition to the episode! Thanks.

[@WilliamClodius]

@@alganhar1what the ETO had to do was (re)build railroads to a schedule. The transport plan destroyed the railroads so that the Germans couldn’t reinforce. In order to supply the allied advance they, primarily the Americans, had to be rebuilt.

[@aaronwright6058]

This is why I watch your documentaries every time & watch them again. To listen, and try to understand. This is so very important!

[@billoliver1206]

Great podcast! My father was in VMF 224 commanded by Major Bob Galer. Greatest respect & admiration for every member of the Cactus Air Force (and all those who were on the "Canal") Pls keep up the outstanding work. Semper Fi 👍

[@larserickson2862]

Great episode, thanks for this. My dad served 33 months in the S. Pacific on Guadalcanal and Bougainville with the Americal Div. He never wanted to talk about it. It was a different time, the vets just wanted to come back and get back to life. He was affected greatly by his experience both physically and emotionally. He dealt with it with alcohol and anger outbursts but always provided for his family! I never understood him as a youngster but as I matured started to understand in my own way. Again, Thanks for this episode and I hope more people come to appreciate what all the veterans of all services and all conflicts have given to our nation!

[@flparkermdpc]

As I read through the comments a few weeks after it's posting, John Bruning clearly struck deeply with us who follow Seth and Bill's work.

[@dave3156]

Outstanding program. The more I read and learn about Guadalcanal, the more I discover just how tenuous our situation was in 1942. Thx

[@annrn6148]

You have been producing exceptionally informative/educational podcasts. And whenever I have down time, I find myself replaying the entire series. I feel this latest episode just set the bar that much higher. The insights offered by the 3 of you, while discussing the men involved in this conflict, were so moving. I feel it reflects on how strong the emotional dedication you have to the histories of these men, the sacrifices they made, & to getting their true stories told, are. I can't wait to read the book.

[@flparkermdpc]

I made a similar comment above. John Bruning writes with his heart on his sleeve. He loves those men, and wants us aware of all this sacrifice.

[@morganhale3434]

This is one of the best episodes on this channel. I learned more about the beginnings of the Cactus Air Force than I have ever had. At it's height in the Guadalcanal Campaign there were USMC, USAAF, USN, RAAF, and RNZAF squadrons operating out of the Henderson Field complex, so not only was the Cactus Air Force a true Joint Forces Command but also a multi-national command as well. We need to remember the contribution of the Aussies and Kiwi's on the land, air, and sea during the Solomons Campaign plus their vital efforts in the New Guinea Campaign as well.

[@billechols7136]

Great show gentlemen.

[@buzzml8123]

This is one of the best episodes you guys have ever produced! Love your guest, whose heart is obviously in the right place. You all are bringing the truth to light whether full of greatness or regrettable. Thank you for the good work you are doing!

[@josephstrubhar8697]

I grew up and still live just a couple miles from the farm that Marion Carl grew up on, and knew his brother, Manton Carl, personally. I was also a good friend of Jack Lenhardt, who as a young boy, watched Marion Carl fly over his hometown in his F4F Wildcat, and was inspired to become a pilot. So this narrative has a very real personal interest to me!

[@flparkermdpc]

You are fortunate, indeed.

[@JamesRDeSoto]

Top 10 episode. This was some of your best work, guys.

[@おだいふく-x6t]

僕は英語はよく分かりませんけれど、不思議とこちらのパネラーの野太い低い声を聴いてると落ち着いてリラックスした気分になれます。 一種の環境音楽みたいな感じで聴いてます。 入眠用にいいです。 ある意味、佛教のお経を読経するお坊さんやグレゴリアン聖歌のごとく、意味は分からなくてもリラックスできる感じに似てますね。　変わった拝見の仕方をしていてすみません。

[@richardbennett1856]

Brave and tough to the end. Imperial Japan pushed the Allies to the limits with very limited resources. We respect all the Brave warriors on this podcast.

[@Brock-vs3xg]

Translation: “Although I don't understand English very well, listening to the deep, deep voices of the panelists makes me feel calm and relaxed. I listen to it like a kind of environmental music. Good for falling asleep. In a sense, it's similar to Buddhist monks reciting sutras or Gregorian chants, which can help you relax even if you don't understand the meaning. I'm sorry for the strange way I'm viewing this page.” So guys, content is OK but your voice are great for putting people to sleep. Hey, a compliment is a compliment right? Another great episode - keep ‘em coming. LOVE the podcast!

[@johnrudy9404]

You are welcome here. All are welcome.

[@おだいふく-x6t]

ご返信ありがとうございます。　アメリカという強敵と戦った時点で日本の負けは確定していたとしか思えないですけれど、太平洋上で行われた数々の闘いは何百年何千年と世界史の劇的闘いとして語り継がれていくものだと思います。

[@おだいふく-x6t]

ご返信ありがとうございます。　やはり冷静かつ平静に割合淡々と対談されてるところと低音ボイスがリラックスできるポイントではないのかなと撲は思います。

[@thomasmitchell7645]

You guys need to have Bruning on as a guest more often! John should write a book about the "race of aces" among Naval and Marine Corps aviators from 1942 to 1945.

[@johnkleinhorsman9740]

Out standing I have been joying this for over a year now keep up the great work remember history is so important

[@timothybrady2749]

WOW! Another outstanding and informative presentation. The Unauthorized Broadcast just keeps getting better! I really appreciate the time spent addressing and exploring the struggles some of these men had following their Guadalcanal experiences. PTSD seems entirely ignored for WWII and Korean War vets.

[@nkgoodal]

Great episode. Coming home from Iraq and Afghanistan after a year there was difficult. The disconnect between combat and life at home is real. I don't expect (or even want) civilians to relate to a combat zone. We are really lucky that children and civilians don't have to experince that. But, it doesn't make the transition back easy. My hat is off to the (largely) WWII and Vietnam vets and their family members who welcomed us home at the airport. They were wonderful at making the first moments back a little easier.

[@kidhammer2567]

This is one of the finest, if not the finest of your videos. OMG, how it has touched me as a 26-year US military vet. This story breaks my heart while it has me standing up with pride and saluting. My head is in a swim with this dichotomy of our "Grateful Nation's" attitude. My children ask me to talk about my military years and my heart just isn't there. Enough of me, thanks to you all. This show was over the top, honestly. Blessings always!

[@garymackey850]

Had to smile....during the introduction of John...I look over and see his book Race of Aces on my unread shelf....Still two away from its turn....Of course, I'll be on Amazon before the episode finishes ordering his new book!

[@richardbennett1856]

John is on the Mt. Rushmore of great history writers. Both background books are must-read.

[@frankbodenschatz173]

This just keeps getting better and better every week! Thanks, Seth, for assuring us your fine team will continue after the wars end with whatever plan you have for us. Surely it will entertain and enrich our lives!

[@jetdriver]

This is one of your best and possibly the most important episodes you’ve done yet. Covering the history of these men many of whom are largely ignored and yet were so crucial to our victory. BZ to all of you especially John for doing the research to tell these stories.

[@mikeat2637]

Seth and Bill, this is one of the best podcasts you have done. John Bruning is not just an author and historian, he's one of the true "good guys" around and I'm proud to call him a friend. I'm so happy that I saw your podcast in my suggestions on YT 2 years ago and it's been a singular pleasure. I've always considered myself pretty knowledgeable about the PTO, but even after 60 years of devouring everything I could find you guys have broadened my overall and specific knowledge greatly. Can't wait for John to come back and finish with the "Race of Aces" discussion. I think another interesting topic for a podcast is his book "Indestructible", the true story of Pappy Gunn and his exploits in the PTO. Just keep them coming.

[@HeatherRaasch]

I enjoy hearing John Bruning speak.

[@HowShouldIKnow6543]

Great episode, the individual stories of the leadership cadres and unique personalities is what brings history to life

[@zedoktor979]

Yesssss more aviation content is always welcome!!!!

[@terryemery7839]

Very poignant and revealing episode. John is a very well spoken, humble, and knowledgeable guest. The two hours flew (no pun intended, as Seth would say) by, could listen to him for many more hours. As I have said a few times now, there is NOT a podcast coverage of the Pacific theatre like this anywhere. Kudos to you!

[@playsblueswolf]

Great episode. Thank you advocating for our veterans. We owe them our freedom.

[@SamAlley-l9j]

Thank you Bill Seth and John.

[@bufatutuagonistes8876]

Great show, great guest and very interesting topic. One of your best! Shocking how little equipment and support--and training--they initially had. Genuine heroes all. Thanks for all you do Seth and Bill.

[@73Trident]

As always Seth and Bill great topic and job on a subject that many don't or do not go into in depth like you do. John thank you for your great presence on this subject. Your book is now on my must read list. My family was a big part of the greatest generation. Both theaters and you show the best and the saddest parts of the aftermath of the conflict that affected the entire world. You are always on my must watch on Tuesday. Thank you very much gentlemen. Ready for next week. Now off to watch Seth and Woody on WWII Battle of Phil Sea.

[@TheBruceGday]

I am only 20 minutes in, and this is marvelous! The more depth, the more detail, the more I love it! The long form, like the multi-part episodes you have had, are the best! I am glad you are doing the time warp back to the Cactus Air Force! Great guest in Mr. Bruning! Thank you gentlemen!

[@jammininthepast]

Thanks Seth, Captain Toti and Mr. Buning. I just ordered his book, I liked the Aces book. I enjoyed your show. I appreciate it very much. Thanks, you're appreciated.

[@kylecarmichael5890]

THe story that VFM-223 basically had so many pilots shot down but who were able to return to duty says a lot about the USN/USMC resilience and acquisition and retention of pilot skill that helped doom the Japanese pilots. OK, flying a circle so the rear gunner can sink boats?!?! Truly inspired application of 'Use what you got'!!!! And John L's reaction to the tail gunner really is going to mess with me. This whole episode will, which is among several shifts understanding 1v1 conflict. I was a paramedic, understand 1v1, what they pilots went thru was NOT 1v1 on any scale. Thank you SO MUCH!!!

[@SGeorge-ed8lw]

I'm 70 years old, and I grew up reading about these heroes, in books like Great American Fighter pilots of WWII; however, since reading Race of Aces I now know the men behind the names and scores. Thank you John for introducing me to men like Gerald Johnson and his wife Barbara.

[@wkbigfish]

I never knew the complete story of the Cactus Air Force. Very informative adding more to my understanding of the Guadalcanal battles. Did have to go and re-listen to some of Mr. Bruning,s commentary as I kept laughing at how he kept his composure and not missing a beat talking all the while dealing with his cat. Great episode again with some funny animal interference thrown in.

[@joseclemente7199]

This is probably one of my favorite episodes. John Bruning gave really fantastic insights on the Cactus Air Force and the people in it. I'll order his book. Keep it up, Seth and Capt. Bill! By the way, I was so relieved to hear you guys say that the show won't go away after Sept. 1945 is discussed. I love this podcast so much and can't imagine you guys ending it. 👍

[@democracy_GER]

Hi Seth, hi Bill. A small sugestion. It is PTS. In my eyes it would be honoring the Vets not calling it a disorder, because it is no disorder. It is a wound sustained in battle. Thanks so much.

[@KennanKlein]

I watched this video when it first came out and as I re-watched I appreciate it's value even more. Thank you guys!!

[@charlesmarino2027]

My grandfather's friend and neighbor earned a Legion of Merit at Henderson as an airplane mechanic. The citation basically says he was there from day one at Henderson until the end of the battle. He never talked about it, but he was on the field for every bombardment. Was the casualty rate among mechanics so high that you got a Legion of Merit if you didn't earn a Purple Heart?

[@lesmoore6443]

Amazing episode. Marine aviation on the Canal will always be a special topic for me thanks to a friendship with a veteran, now passed, who was an 18-yr old ordnance man (who *volunteered* to go to Guadalcanal from the Hebrides as a replacement after the "night of the battleships"!). Bruning is a fantastic guest, and this episode is a special one in these several seasons of excellence.

[@gregcollins7602]

John Bruning on Torpedo Tuesday is awesome. His book Indestructible is one of my favorites. After reading 53 days in May I can say it is now one of my favorites. Great book. Keep up the great work guys. Btw, incredible focus while his cat does amazing acrobatics.

[@daveholekamp1069]

I’ve watched a number of your episodes, and I really like you guys. You also present everything quite well. This podcast is without a doubt one of the best I’ve ever had the pleasure of experiencing. There was a lot of heart and soul evident. Truth as regards what those men went through, and the ongoing issues that influenced their lives is sobering. Thank you for the excellent work you’re doing. Take Care and Be Well!

[@bobnewby9129]

I have Race of Aces and am looking forward to getting this one as well! And the timing is excellent as I just finished Neptune's Inferno: The U.S. Navy at Guadalcanal by James Hornfischer. Edit - and I was turned on to all of these books due to UH of the Pacific War Podcast.

[@kemarisite]

I watched John yesterday from an interview with Paul Woodedge about two weeks ago. As I mentioned there, I have manhandled 500 pound bombs, and there is simply no kind of handhold to get a grip on. Four guys means two on each side linking arms under the bomb with the guys on the opposite side, then lifting and holding it in place while someone else fastens the shackles. That was bad enough when I was healthy, I can't imagine doing that while sick. Regarding Smith and Edson and their fate, I follow another content created called Habitual Line Crosser, a current air defender NCO. He closes out most of his videos with "Do not give in to the 22 a day", referencing the suicide rate among service members and his advocacy/concern about it.

[@joeywheelerii9136]

I hope you guys go back and cover more of the Aussie campaigns.

[@SKILLED_two]

It's impossible to have too much coverage of New Guinea and Guadalcanal. Period. And the guest was excellent!

[@SKILLED_two]

And I miss Jon.

[@learningone7786]

I hope Steven Spielberg is paying attention to all your episodes, there are at least 50 years of movies that could be made from them, and a lot of them would make great The Best Years of Our Lives.

[@alarson2195]

Thanks for bringing to life the struggles and determination the WWII vets went through. They didn’t talk about ot

[@user-johnleecpa]

Very good Episode. Liked discussion at end about what it was like at home during WW2 and for the vets returning.

[@ronauvil5118]

While the entire episode was excellent, the section on John L Smith was both moving and put a spotlight on PTSD and mental health challenges for our veterans.

[@jonrettich-ff4gj]

Very very glad you are talking about the damage these good people go through. I am not one of those but we all need to be able to understand what is really going on rather than live on blind

[@halflifeapc8777]

Thank you sirs for your extraordinary efforts in presenting the history of the Pacific War, are there any plans for you to present an episode on the soviet liberation of Manchuria and Korea during your final season?

[@flparkermdpc]

Gotta get my opening remarks up before Tuesday gets too old. This is a GREAT episode. John Bruning writes and picks his subject with his heart on his sleeve, and Seth and Bill are enthusiastic accomplices. We're back at the beginning when the outcome is very much in doubt, and the lack of preparation and readiness is frightening. The Marianas Turkey Shoot is way in the future, and the path forward is not clear, to say the least. This is a grounding discussion.

[@JohnCorrUK]

What a compelling podcast, thank you gentlemen

[@PeteBarrett]

This John guy is great. He even has books I own in his bookcase. Bring him back. I’m getting his books.

[@oldtipper15]

Sorry to disagree with you, but our family did not forget what was going on by 1943 ! My father was not able to serve in the armed services { medical } ; he served as air raid warden and part of the San Francisco Police Department. My brothers and I were all in support of our part in the war, we had our garden in the back yard, used black out window shades, and hid under our desks at school. Proud of the job my dad set up for the ship loads of returning sailors and troops, he set up the dock side telephone multi-booths so they could call their loved ones right away. I joined the Air Force in my senior year of high school (1956) My brother also joined the Air Force for 4 years then went into to the Navy for another 4 years ! My daughter also served 4 years in the Air Force, My Grandson is now stationed in South Korea as a member of the US Air Force, We don't forget how we got here!! Thanks for your great program, look forward to next week !!!

[@annrn6148]

Sounds like your family is similar to mine. But it's unfortunately true that we are just a small percentile. The vast majority of the populace have quickly become self-absorbed, complacent, & even superficial. They feel history is irrelevant to them, as they're the centers of their own little worlds. Such a huge disconnect.

[@Thumpalumpacus]

I always love Mr Bruning's presentations. Regarding the discussion about Col Smith's suicide, I was reminded of Gen Bradley's quote in his memoirs about relieving Gens Allen and Roosevelt of commanding the First ID: "They committed the sin of loving their men too much." It's so harsh and wrong in so many ways, but what else do we feel when watching a buddy die? "The Good War" by Studs Terkel is a fantastic oral history documenting that disconnect between the troops on the front and the civilians back home. The modern fetishizing of veterans is in many ways mere lip-service. "Thank you for your service"? I hear that on those occasions when I do mention my own service. My answer is always "The best thanks is the vigorous exercise of your rights." The complacency of modern Americans is both stunning and disheartening.

[@MartinMcAvoy]

For some reason I did not think this episode would be interesting... how wrong I was. The Americans were really in a tough spot and it created some exceptional people and amazing stories. Thank you for uploading this.

[@therectorkid9708]

Excellent episode, thanks.

[@williamharvey8895]

❤❤❤❤ thank you, from a cold war/OIF vet.❤❤❤

[@lancewallace3680]

Outstanding episode as usual...but I could have listened to another 2 hours of this conversation. Just Outstanding. And as sad as I was to hear of the suicide of John L, as well as of Red Mike, I am glad that y'all brought it up on this episode. Too many of our men and women who served our Country have taken their own lives. We as a country must do better by these men and women. We owe them too much that we have not delivered on. When this season is complete, I am curious to see what comes next. But what ever it is, I know it will be good.

[@FaithfulObjectivist]

These stories of commitment and heroism need to be popularized into contemporary culture. Nice work!

[@karinschultz5409]

Great interview and excellent podcast. However painful, there's a cost to war that no country should ever forget. Hope you have John Bruning back, as his humane narratives of the Pacific War paints a far different picture. I find it difficult to believe that these rookie pilots were thrown onto combat with so little training.

[@glennedgar5057]

An additional topic for the show. The whakiest ship in the navy was a TV show in the 60s. The show closely matched the navy that was used during the battle for Buna. Heavy equipment was transfered by ratty civilian ships using the byous along the New Guinea northern coast. They were hunted by Japanese destroyers. No Allied escorts ships were allowed past Miline Bay. The were responsible for delivering the M3 Stuart tanks to the front. They did this with no port facilities. Any cargo that the DC 3 could not deliver went through these guys. Got the information from the book be American General that took over command for the American division in early November 1942.

[@KennanKlein]

I have visited the memorial to Marion Carl in Hubbard Oregon where Marion grew up on a local farm.is cool to see him talked about so highly in your talk today. I love my Tuesdays thanks to you guys.as Bill says"I'll see you next week!"

[@jollyjohnthepirate3168]

Sleep is far over ratted, especially when The Unauthorized History of the Pacific War is on.

[@bughunter1766]

Very true, today. But I bet the guys on Guadalcanal would not agree!

[@johnhorency3791]

One of your best episodes. Great work as always.

[@ChevelleSS-yr3gb]

You guys are awesome speaking from your hearts. Thank you so much for sharing all this.

[@douglaskillock3537]

Thank you all once again. Another great episode. Some interesting observations on the war at home for the USA. Plenty of shysters to go around. You might think that in the UK we had a tighter spirit as we were being bombed and the war was not a distant thing. But I am not sure we did much better, there was a great deal of heroism while some notable celebrity gangsters made a start in crime by looting the homes of bombed out families before they returned to their properties. If they ever did as they may have been killed or wounded

[@m.r.donovan8743]

Gentlemen, glad you ended this episode with a discussion about the disconnect between the public and those who serve. Hopefully this podcast will help to bridge that gap. People really do need to be told of the sacrifices that were made for our freedom.

[@iainharding1992]

Outstanding! 👏👏👏👏

[@obitime1994]

Woo, I love tuesday mornings.

[@davidk7324]

"Lug nut personality." Excellent show gentlemen. I thoroughly enjoyed the ebb and flow of information that has left me much better informed about the Canal. I appreciate John's pacing and communication skills and can't wait to sample his writing. Starvation Island is up next for me. Regarding your closing conversation: "You know, a DEAL deal. Maybe the guy's a republican."

[@johnferguson1455]

Great episode, fascinating discussion.

[@helenel4126]

Thanks for making the point about the home front's disconnect with the warfighters. I think awareness of this might help us otherwise clueless (if well-meaning) civilians help returning warfighters.

[@effewe2]

This was one of the best so far.