The DEVIOUS mission the government tried to HIDE...

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#1 -- "Cloak and Dagger" -- 1:29 -- There are many unbelievable stories that have come from WWII, but today's story might be the single-most influential event that happened in the entire war.
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For educational, documentary and entertainment purposes only. Based on actual events. The authoritative sources used for this story include interviews, newspaper articles, and TV news reporting meant to educate and memorialize notable cases in our history.
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#wwii #war #mrballen

[@just_some_bigfoot_hacking_you]

The fact that the British acknowledged the poor homeless man as a military officer, and gave him an honorary mark on his grave as a sign of respect is so wholesome that I shed some tears.

[@Delicate_Disaster]

Right? I thought the same thing. They easily could have claimed one of their own did it, but to properly credit Glyndwr shoud how much respect they had for him.

[@savebandit1017]

The grave is in Spain, not sure the British had anything to do with it.

[@thebigdentist251]

@@savebandit1017 The Spanish buried him with full military honours as William Martin, but he was only identified as Glyndwr Michael in 1996. I'm assuming the updated headstone inscription a couple of years later was down to the UK Government.

[@Ryan1234Mansfiel]

Realy

[@dirtypawsgoldadventures]

That's the least they could do after being likely the ones to poison him. Research it more. It's sad.

[@Asteroid2050]

The amount of stuff that might have happened during the world wars but went completely unnoticed and is forgotten still baffles me… so much history and suffering 🥺

[@marvincezair5254]

Can you imagine wat some of them folks went through and had to live with after they were raped and beaten and watch their family get killed infront of them??Lived with it and never said nothing about,,,took it to their graves.

[@eileenpritchard9154]

​@@marvincezair5254 ABSOLUTELY DISGRACEFUL.

[@Asteroid2050]

@@marvincezair5254 so true , it gives me the creeps

[@Sorchia56]

Couldn’t agree more. Everyone in a government position that starts a war needs to be in active combat of what they produced, front line! That would make them think twice. Combat is HELL.

[@sticksnstonespatriot1728]

Many lies, propaganda and psychological warfare.... "We defeated the wrong enemy "

[@Housesider]

The fact that they paid Glyndwr such great respect even after his passing is easily one of the most legitimate, genuine examples of 'real love' that humans could give to one another. Rest in paradise, my brother.

[@joannewilson1162]

This was a very interesting story. The details they added…the backstory… and the honor they gave that homeless man❤ I enjoyed the story

[@thomasschwarting5108]

Love the way the operation was put into action, very cool,

[@bingefox4056]

There was a movie released a short time ago. Operation Mincemeat.

[@Crosshatch1212]

It’s not all it makes out to be .beilieve that .

[@SomeRandodude222]

MrBallen is that one guy who gathers everyone around the campfire and then tells a scary story about the forest and then makes everyone not want to go camping anymore 😂

[@chantalmegson5862]

His kids are super lucky, all the stories he will tell them

[@Dollarkat]

Haha

[@chalky_white]

I've listened to hundreds of his stories and I've never sat by a campfire with him. What am I missing?

[@f.mitchell5247]

The why files is also great

[@chiapets2594]

No cause I'll still go and nothing will happen cause his stories aren't good or scary

[@jessib2dope790]

It's crazy to think this homeless man believed his life had no purpose in his final days, yet because of him the war changed tides. Salute to him.

[@skipbaymore4418]

Salute to mrballen for stealing whyfiles content 2 days after its posted Update:whyfiles just posted a Roswell video..he should copy that one too😭😭

[@d-s_94]

@@skipbaymore4418 He didn't "steal" anything and whoever tf whyflies is was certainly not the first person to cover this story..

[@pixiecolors]

​@@skipbaymore4418you do realize WWII was over 80 years ago, yes?

[@daveantonio3701]

@@skipbaymore4418 what would you like Mr Ballen to do then? Turn himself to the authorities?? You comment like he did a serious crime.

[@mboshu5551]

@@skipbaymore4418 lolz this nigga pissed about another mans success, everything that exists now is a copy, paste and improvement of another

[@toxicity42]

As someone who has researched weird WWII history and regards Operation Mincemeat as a personal favourite, I was so excited to hear your version of the story. In fact, I knew exactly what it was by the word “fisherman.” Fantastic work, sir!

[@7owlfthr]

Likewise.

[@rmanoa7685]

Mr Ballen’s storytelling is unrivaled. I am beyond impressed.

[@scottbubb2946]

Same. There are stories I've heard before (like this one) but I will still listen to Mr.B tell them because he's so good at it. In fact, I've shared links with people to his stuff and, they said they've already heard it, I'll say, "You haven't heard HIM tell it." Then they will message me back and say, "You're right, he's a great story teller."

[@bonhamsghost6798]

Best stories on the tube.

[@KingJamesIX]

I'm glad we got more info about the fisherman that found the body. Telling the story from this angle really brings it to life.

[@jaxsonmorkis8537]

I could be wrong but it’s an assumption of mine that he kind of adds in a lot of bonus details that aren’t actually in the stories you read on the news to make it a better story but I’m not sure it’s always entirely the story

[@hetrodoxly1203]

This bit is completely mad up.

[@kristenscarlett8316]

This angler heh

[@SystemofaDowns]

Fisherman... Angle..

[@cupofsadge8359]

IMO the homeless man, if he actually was homeless, was more likely murdered.

[@stevenellerbee686]

I've read about this operation many many times. But when MrBallen tells the story out loud, it makes the story almost come to life. I've been subscribed for over 2 years now and tune in every single Sunday without missing a video even once, and still to this day I eagerly wait to hear MrBallen tell a story. At this point, it's not even about the story, it's about how he tells it. Very special talent that everyone in the world can relate to. Everyone loves to hear a good story that's told extremely well. Great job John. I'm a 34 year old man and I feel like an interested curious little boy again every Sunday for about 20-30min lol. Thank you Sir.

[@jasonstaples4364]

Same here, what a great listen

[@kimkaykae]

I agree with you totally. I understand he's very busy with other work, his podcast and charity but I still miss when he used to upload 3 to 4 times a week. Those were good times...

[@missmissy_90]

Agreed except this weekend we got the story today, Saturday. Now, 8 more days : (

[@raymondtorres-gy8uj]

@@kimkaykae Me too, wish he would do some more stories about paranormal,criptid, like he used to... My first story of him happens to be his personal story about the trip to the cabin in the mountain's ...I was hooked right there and then,that was about 4 years ago i think not sure but he had just started with this channel... Blessings to you all from Puerto Rico with lots of love

[@Evocati-Augusti]

Operation Mincemeat..I heard this a few years back..

[@Sailrjup12nh]

First time I heard this years ago I thought it was an amazing operation to trick the axis. I am also glad this man got honored for being part of something that insured the success of Invasion of Sicily.

[@YashesLP]

I got so excited when I realized what you're talking about my workout went by like a breeze! Though you left out one of my favorite detail: Because of this event the nazis didn't trust intel found on corpses anymore. When they later got their hands on legitimate information regarding D-Day thanks to Major Martin they decided "no, this is definitely fake" and continued with shoring up the wrong place. Cue surprised pikachu when the Allies landed.

[@ericd6781]

Operation Mincemeat was a masterpiece. With so many moving parts and a few wildcards that had to fall the right way, it's nothing short of a miracle that it succeeded.

[@NEngler]

Such a good movie!! Ben Kingsley was amazing.

[@ericd6781]

@@NEngler - Yeah, it was excellent. Kingsley has a lot of great work out there.

[@Yippeee5959]

Mind blowing

[@nainmayoudavich7541]

and it opened the worse era of warfare we have ever lived in, we're paying the price for this today.

[@zaphodbeebleprox5043]

Yeah, but puttin mince to meat is a crime... ;)

[@tomsbrainhurtsalot]

As soon as he started this story I wondered if it was this! One of my primary school teachers (elementary school for Americans) was the daughter or granddaughter of a member of the submarine crew that dropped the body into the water, so I learned about this at a really young age. Mr Ballen just stirred up a memory I thought I'd forgotten long ago

[@Reed_Gibby]

Wow that’s really cool I wonder why this doesn’t have more likes

[@geezerp1982]

you do relise that the term elementary school orginated in the UK and NOT IN THE USA ! once again the USA COPIED THE UK !

[@garrettbays6942]

I had the same reaction. I had seen the Ronald Neame film The Man Who Never Was (1956), so as soon as "Martin's" name was mentioned, I knew it was this story. I intend to see the 2021 version of this story (Operation Mincemeat) soon.

[@OlavUnngar]

Not be annoying, but many Americans do in fact call it primary school. Even some schools call themselves primary schools.

[@user-cd7uf7to5m]

😳😳😳🤯🤯🤯 LIKE, "WOW!!" (SMALL AND WONDROUS WORLD WE LIVE IN, HUH?!)...

[@sulyokpeter3941]

There is actually a film about this, called Operation Mincemeat. :D But you told the story better, than the film itself. Thats something. Best storyteller in the world! Love your KZbin videos!

[@LilyZerep]

As I was listening to Mrballen tell this story, I kept thinking, "Wasn't a movie made about this?" Lol 😂

[@cryptomancer2927]

As soon as you said the single most influential event of WWII I started screaming at the screen. I wasn't disappointed. My history teacher (a man who genuinely loved history) had told us this story. Was always my favorite story of the era.

[@thesteviejade]

I wish I learned about this in school! I wonder why they didn’t teach it in my school at least.

[@EveryDayArtist94]

The fact that the name of the man whose body was used is memorialized is just a small thing in the overall scope of this historical event but really touched me. This does sound like a plot that I'd roll my eyes at if they made a movie out of it but knowing it did happen just reinforces that sometimes fact really is stranger than fiction.

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

it's worthwhile reading Ben McIntyre's excellent book about this operation. the sheer minute steps that were taken to pull this off were frankly amazing. and the human aspect is touching

[@chrissywales6575]

They have made it into a movie.

[@mickymondo7463]

It was made into a movie in the 50s The Man who never was

[@duringthemeanwhilst]

@@mickymondo7463 the book goes into far more detail. even how they invented and doubled down on intricate back stories for him, along with their concerns of being rumbled. it really is an excellent read

[@jcfh19981]

It was made into a movie again recently.

[@AnyoneCanSee]

I'm English and my dad lived through the war and was only a couple of years too young to fight. My grandfather fought and my dad's sister made fighter airplanes. So I've always been interested in it as it played such a role in their generation's lives. So I know this story very well, having seen the British movie about it as a child and it was still very exciting to hear how MrBallen told the story. You have a great talent for bringing the listener along with you and unfolding the stories like a movie and not a new report. Yet you still keep it respectful to the victims. You do a better job of entertaining than many movies that cost millions.

[@patriciamurphy6559]

Yes, l agree! Very good story teller!

[@SeeDaRipper...]

What was the movie called mate?

[@AnyoneCanSee]

@@SeeDaRipper... - There is a great old black and white movie called "The Man Who Never Was" (1956) based on a great book of the same name. There is also one called "Operation Mincemeat" (2021) which I haven't seen yet. A cool fact not mentioned here is that Ian Fleming the creator of James Bond played a small part in this plan. He was the assistant to Britain's director of naval intelligence the man who greenlit this plan and who was also the real-life inspiration for M in the Bond Books.

[@christinemonte3477]

In addition I believe Mr Ballen did a much better job talking about the Cocaine Bear story than the movie

[@harleyquinn3589]

​@Christine Monte sure, for true story style. But that movie was fun af.

[@brookehinckley8030]

Such a cool story! I’ve never heard it before. My husband was an MP with the Army, and loves war history. Thank you for an incredible story, and I’m going to have my husband watch this video!

[@joro4117]

The Man Who Never Was - Clifton Webb (1956). Great story! Thanks for making it available to younger generations.

[@coltonlang3636]

😂😂

[@bryntendo]

This is such a crazy example of 'it takes all sorts'. It really does. He was the perfect man for the job. The job happened to be helping end WWII, and he happened to be an unmissed vagrant, and that's somehow exactly what the world needed at that moment. That's mind-blowing, this story is just nuts. I love that they memorialised him and his, albeit unknowing, contribution. Very touching

[@masixchell]

Right!! We never know how important we can be. Ppl prob walked over him, threw trash, laughed at him - all the things ppl do to homeless ppl today… And this man was the one who changed a whole world war 🔥🔥🔥🔥

[@keyrarodriguez5432]

I teared up when they mentioned his memorial. What an honor. I hope he's proud if beyond the grave exists.

[@Derek-Barbosa]

Are you freaking kidding me? Never heard of this before... Mr. Ballen your research and retelling is superb! No one can tell these stories quite like you. It's obvious you care deeply about them and the people involved in them and that passion comes through your videos and it makes listening to them all the more intriguing. This channel is one of a kind!

[@sammymartin7891]

I was required to read the book in high school The Man Who Never Was. there's a movie by the same name

[@peter-radiantpipes2800]

The why files just did an in depth one on it this week too.

[@juniorr2646]

lmafaoo. lay the meth pipe down!!

[@kylieknight2365]

It was made into a movie

[@bradsanders407]

Reading Wikipedia pages is superb research?

[@EddIeClark-jt7zm]

This story was absolutely great. I love military history. Especially WW2 history. John Ballen never disappoints. 👍👍

[@annreeves77]

I'm so ignorant to a lot of history that I wish I wasn't! I love that you do stories like this and I welcome more. ❤

[@7owlfthr]

At age 79, I have seen American education fail us exponentially from what it was when I was a child. DEEPLY saddening. There are many fascinating stories out there. And though not all as so interesting as this, many are. Enjoy your exploration of history!

[@CrystallizedbySparkle]

It's a good day when I get to hear the strange, dark and mysterious delivered in story format 🥰

[@LavaCreeperPeople]

The DEVIOUS mission the government tried to HIDE...

[@uno-rg6is]

Facts

[@damianmoscetti9999]

And me toooo

[@Apathetik]

The thirst is real

[@reddog6415]

Mr Ballen is the best story teller on the internet.

[@TheBaileyandashlyn]

G. Michael may have lived a lonely life, but in death he is adored and honored by all who hear his story. And the fact they made him military and buried him like one is such human compassion. They didn't just treat him like a dead prop. He was a human being whose death, unknowingly, was crucial to the war. So thank you, G. Michael. 🙏🏻

[@johncox2865]

One has to hope that, somehow, he is aware of the large role he played in the ultimate Allied victory. Thank you, Sir!

[@jwst8]

thanks for what? he was a bum who killed himself by eating rat poison, lol

[@Taydrum]

Except they did just treat him as dead prop

[@TheBaileyandashlyn]

@@jwst8 you don't know, and even if he did, that's sad, but that doesnt take away the fact that his death allowed a turning point in the war. Even if it was not his intentions, and even though he knew nothing of it, his death, and therefore his body, was still crucial to the war.. and he deserves compassion and respect for it.

[@TheBaileyandashlyn]

@@Taydrum I know. I said they didn't *just* treat him as a dead prop. They showed him compassion afterwards.

[@tracemiller1519]

My great grandfather was there on D-Day on the beach of Normandy. He was extremely lucky to have survived although an explosion left him basically deaf in one ear. He saw so many people along with most of his friends die. I could only imagine.

[@IbrahimHaddad-pq9zg]

I got to know a Canadian soldier who experienced the same as your dad. He was scarred for life, seemingly incapable of joy, but a real gentleman.

[@tracemiller1519]

@@IbrahimHaddad-pq9zg he was actually my great grandfather. He passed in 2001 and I was only 5 at the time so unfortunately I didn’t get to ever ask him a lot about it. But it truly is amazing and crazy at the same time. People don’t realize how close in history this actually was!

[@maryanncarpenter3060]

I knew this story but didn’t realize until the fisherman found the briefcase. But I listened anyway because you told it so much better than I’d heard it before.

[@bhargavipba]

Damn this operation was a work of genius! The fact that they knew exactly the steps that the Spanish and Germans would take is absolutely amazing! And I love the fact that Glyndwr Michael got credited for his role in defeating the Nazis and turning the tide for the Allies 🥺

[@troyfitzsimmons]

You did not give a warning you just told me the story in one sentience thanks bud now I don’t need to hear the rest lol

[@novamorphine]

​@@troyfitzsimmonsdon't read comments before you watch?

[@geewhiz5926]

​@Troy Fitzsimmons I'm still going to watch the entire show lol

[@garybarr2023]

​@troyfitzsimmons you should just watch the movie operation mincemeat 2021 or the original black and white movie

[@troyfitzsimmons]

@@garybarr2023 thanks

[@chrisa8415]

That was an amazing story. My grandfather was in WW2. He passed away in the early 90s. Not to long ago my aunt and uncle gave my mom personal things from my grandfather that they held on to for years. We found out he received a purple heart from that war

[@blacksaiyantrevor]

They really pulled off a "YOU ACTIVATED MY TRAP CARD!" on Germany.

[@MuslimConvertGirl]

This poor homeless man who lived a horrible life and (possibly) thought he didn't matter - only to posthumously go on to quite literally save millions of lives and generations of families, changing the course of history and of the world. This one got me.

[@elizabethdautremont]

My 10 year old daughter and i both looked up operation Mince Meat. It got her into a little bit of history about WWII. Thank you for making WWII a little more interesting to learn about. She is now on a mission to find other secrwt operations they used in WWII and looked up the Uship andnother submarines. Science, history, and math. A perfect story. 👍👍

[@andidevlin3361]

the British intelligence and counter intelligence was a masterclass in WW2. Even Hitlers most trusted spy was a british spy feeding incorrect info especially on the lead up to D-Day. even creating false battalions of men and equipment / tanks etc on the other side of the country making and using inflatable tanks, tents and atillery.

[@blackhawk3777]

Exactly how I starting becoming Hella interested in wars and their stories with my dad, that’s really wholesome to hear 👍

[@gwenoberhauser4696]

Tell her there was an unacknowledged mission by the US through Scotland that was to locate and clean up a secret Nazi spot. A friend told me of this and said they were expendable and had only 24 hours to get it done. I wonder how many more of these missions happened. ?!

[@zombieface9401]

She will only find what other men can do to each other. A lot of honorable and unnecessary death.

[@stanettiels7367]

Read a book called Agent Zigzag. It’s about a guy named Edward Arnold Chapman who was a double agent. Absolutely fascinating story that not many are aware of.

[@jasonwebb1882]

The Why Files covered this story Thursday. It's a great story and I remember Major Martin story in school. The more channels that cover this great story, the better. This is probably one of the very few times that I'm happy to hear it twice in 1 week. The best part is hearing a detail that I hadn't heard before. Thank you for covering it Mr. Ballen.

[@ballngm64]

Yeah, I was so confused like I don’t think I’ve seen this episode, yet know the details 🤔

[@ThatOneRyanGuy]

Same sponsor too.....

[@spangly_J]

Hey I watched both as well. Both were well told and unique.

[@Liam15121]

But literally 1 day after the why files upload ..

[@danielcisco]

Yeah one day after The Why Files ....

[@Lorie336]

I knew about this story because my grandpa served in WWII as a Marine in the Pacific theater, but when he got out of the war and they had those community centers for vets someone told him this story. He said at first he didn't believe it, but then he said he thought about and believed it because he saw some things in war that most people wouldn't believe either. Love this story and thank you for sharing, you gave a little more detail than my grandpa. 😊💕💕💕

[@blacktornado5212]

I love this story.

[@MimiJoys]

I LOVE THE WWII STORIES! THANK YOU THANK YOU! 💞‼️ Mr. Ballen, you definitely need an award for the GREATEST Story Teller of ALL TIME! Your efforts are APPRECIATED and your hard work is NOTICED BY ALL who are blessed to hear you! 💞 May you in return be richly blessed!

[@jordanreed9131]

It’s not mentioned in this video but the Nazis did acquire real intelligence about D day and where it was going to start later in the war. But because of the incident in Sicily they didn’t believe it and were less prepared because of it. I absolutely love Mr. Ballin’s videos.

[@rachbee8033]

I knew about Operation Mincemeat, but not this part - thanks!

[@Pscilisyoshi47]

Holy… wow imagine the bloodshed if they were fully prepared

[@peterf.229]

actually , this info was also fabricated . they let it slip that Patton was in the UK and was going to attack France in a different area further north .

[@lacylaizure6540]

Fascinating story. I always hated history as a subject in school, but if Mr Ballen was my teacher, I would have loved it!

[@Tyler45nilbog]

I totally agree. Never liked history either but now love it cause it repeats itself

[@TheChipmunk2008]

Decent teachers are ABSOLUTELY ESSENTIAL... Mr Ballen would make a good teacher

[@hazelknapp8584]

I would never miss a day if he Was my teacher

[@TheChipmunk2008]

@@hazelknapp8584 I can confirm, enthusiastic teachers made me love science and tech.... it's a pity the modern world cripples teachers' ability to actually teach, from not being allowed to discipline rowdy pupils (sorry, they're not students till college) to not being allowed to have certain chemicals/books/whatever. Idiocracy was a documentary from the future

[@lacylaizure6540]

@TheChipmunk2008 that is the truth. My middle school history teacher was awful and had a hateful aggressive personality. From then on, I HATED history.

[@bcagz9835]

Ol’ seagull lung is a once in a lifetime friend. Mr. Ballen is a lucky guy.

[@Kal-El-2134]

Hearing this story first from AJ & The Why Files yesterday, made this episode all that much better. You both told it in your own way, and it was almost like you were completing each others sentences... if that makes sense😆 You guys should collaborate on a 2 part story sometime, share your fan base 😃 It was amazing timing, that worked out so well. Thank You Mr. Ballen.

[@sarahsample4984]

This!! I'm so glad I found a comment about The Why Files with AJ and Hecklefish. Lol

[@BPMKEV]

Same!! When he mentioned the engagement ring receipt I thought "this sounds familiar" lol

[@sarahsample4984]

@Kevin Rivera as soon as he said "briefcase" I was like no waaay.

[@ashleyashley9405]

Such a good idea

[@UsmanAhmed83]

I thought I was tripping. Thanks for confirming thats where I heard this recently.

[@jasondesselles9168]

Ballen, I've spent my life scouring for the kind of stories you present. There have been a few that you've told that I have known of already but for the most part they're fascinatingly obscure. Whomever is on your staff, they are doing a phenomenal job.

[@InteriorDesignStudent]

His momma writes the stories. 😍

[@pippa3150]

No she doesn't. She writes his podcasts.

[@b-dub6865]

I often think about that. Where does he get this stuff from? Most people repeat what others are saying, but not Ballen! I’m sure Amazon has helped him find good topics. Then again, Ballen is a former Navy Seal, so I’m sure he has excellent investigative skills!

[@b-dub6865]

Ballen finds the content & his mom writes the podcast script to make it a compelling story. He doesn’t use a script for his YT videos. I’ve always wondered where he gets this stuff from. Most people repeat what others are saying, but not Ballen! I’m sure Amazon has helped him find good topics. Then again, Ballen is a former Navy Seal, so I’m sure he has stellar investigative skills!

[@RosiePosie524]

Mr. Ballen has taught me more about history than what I learned in high school ❤

[@ClassicRiki]

I love this Operation. It was listed as an option for a plan of deception and it was listed as “Suggestion 28 (and not a very nice one)” - the creator of James Bond wrote this by the way. Churchill loved what he called “corkscrew thinkers” (out of the box to the US) and he knew that “Hitler thought in a straight line”. They even wore the uniform for weeks to make it seemed used. We also placed an eyelash in the envelope seal to confirm that once it was handed back, the Spanish hadn’t placed the eyelash back in the seale and so they knew it had been opened. That’s where the eyelash technique in James Bond came from.

[@2puffs770]

Let's celebrate the joy this man has brought in to our lives, all with stories about the strange, dark, and mysterious. When you think about it, that's not really easy to do, especially when you bring stories with sadness. What makes him so successful is that he talks to us like we're a lifelong friend that is valued and appreciated, and WE LOVE IT!!!!

[@orleypowell5018]

So true. When I am eating and want to relax, I listen to Mr Ballen's stories.

[@malikhill9533]

And his attention to details

[@BBishop27]

@@malikhill9533 Yep, most Navy Seals are known for their attention to detail!

[@user-cc9vw4mo6g]

First i thought you were talking about hitler 😂

[@Dillory123]

Love him too. Wish he was nicer to the poor LIKE button though😂

[@BSJ-Unparalleled]

Mr Ballen is so expressive when he tells stories. You somehow manage to get lost in the moment, and I love that.

[@dont-touch-mepg1392]

Specially when he takes em from why files.

[@The_Modeling_Underdog]

Montagu: "Say, old boy. Can it be done?" Cholmondeley: "I have a cunning plan..."

[@LollipopXI]

0:45 you underestimate how lazy I am lmao

[@Zombie_Trooper]

I work as a Production Designer/ Art Director and one thing I've always loved about this job is that you create lived in worlds. The audience will never see half of it, or care, but when I dress sets and fill them with history it just adds a layer of realism that makes it feel so much more real and it comes across in the final films/shows. This is proof that details can really bring it all together and sell the illusion.

[@Dharzjinion]

I see those things in movies and I do care and I thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the amazing work 🤩

[@weslittlereptilefamily3418]

Thats an awesome job. The most underapretiated part of film making. My favorite art director/set designer is Ken Adam. I hope you have great success

[@spiritmatter1553]

That’s so cool. Your vision is in every frame of the film. 🎞 I’m another who acknowledges and appreciates it.

[@Zombie_Trooper]

@@weslittlereptilefamily3418 Thank you, my friend 🙂 Ken was a big inspiration to me too, I used his Bond work as a starting point for a couple projects.

[@afternoononthebeach6818]

What are some examples of projects that you have done?

[@juliesykes6121]

Being British, I knew this story, but the way Mr Ballen tells it, is so good. Really brings it to life.

[@cartooncritique6625]

15:45 Dude was literally like "Fuck This Sh1t! I'm Out!" 😂

[@damonperry8937]

This doesn't sound quite like science fiction but damn, your research & ability to find these incredible stories is phenomenal. Even the more popular stories we might've heard, you provide detail, yes, but your emotion behind all of it creates a perfect atmosphere for listening. I love your work because you do a great job. Also, everytime you tell me to smash that like button in a different way each episode makes me laugh like I just heard a Dad joke. Good stuff. ALOT of people would binge watch you on Netflix

[@melodiejohnston9528]

The Brits were, and still are brilliant at this. I love that we are still researching and learning about one of the most significant events in history, and I especially love that these contributions are being acknowledged and recognised in a respectful manner. Thank you.

[@jcreedy20]

Yep those Brits are damn sneaky. Should watch out for those hahaha.

[@user-pr5is9fe2t]

Us brits are the best always will be don't be so negative and learn from us

[@kezsovreign]

​@@user-pr5is9fe2ta few hundred years ago you were the wealthiest country on earth and now you literally ant sh*t 😂 so very greatful my grand parents left that sh*t hole.

[@lillial245]

​@@user-pr5is9fe2tbest at stealing stuff from other countries. Never gonna learn shit from thieves

[@caliciajohnson9861]

​@@user-pr5is9fe2tyou went from ruling a third of the world to being an obsolete little island. You're pretty irrelevant at this point

[@mountainmover777]

What are the odds that two of my favorite KZbin channels cover the same crazy story in the same week? Double treats! A Mr. Ballen and The Why Files collaboration would be awesome.

[@RC-tn3xo]

Odds are there's a copy cat making vids

[@DoCyberCrime]

naw this is like the 2nd time hes done this

[@daliaflanders6598]

Truly!!! Greetings fellow WTFer!!

[@BosoxPatsfan603]

Hell yeah! I love The Why Files!!!

[@charlottelambert2963]

I just came to say that these guys are also my favourite🙌- and if you have any other recommendations for this type and standard of content, I would be SO grateful - I just wait for new uploads from Mr B and AJ 😂 🤷‍♀️👏

[@kmhanratty]

The fact that the homeless mans body remained unclaimed so long, as if he had no family or friends that cared or knew he was dead, is sad. Then to have the British utilize him in death in a way to alter history so profoundly is amazing and even if the homeless guy thought he had little or no worth, to only become very much worth, is profound. They really should make a movie about this invasion of allied forces at Sicily and to include this British "Officer" and the operation he unknowingly was involved with, is actually very inspiring as his body changed the tide of the war by two real British intelligence officers. This is an epic true story that not many know of, because the schools just do not teach these things anymore. These are definitely events that should be known and remembered.

[@amberteix]

I can't believe this hasn't been made into a movie. This is awesome.

[@grungepen]

Happy early fathers day to you mr ballen !! Your kids are so lucky to have you as a dad 😊

[@MrBallen]

Thank you!!!

[@grungepen]

@@MrBallen no thank you ☺️❤️!

[@karmas_coming]

Imagine what bedtime stories are like in his house.

[@AnitaRose2212]

I am greatly IMPRESSED that you knew how to correctly pronounce Cholmondeley. Being Australian I am proud that Charles Cholmondeley was an Australian RAF officer seconded to MI5. You didn't mention the fact that one of the two officers who came up with this brilliant ruse was Ian Fleming, the author of the James Bond series of books.

[@lil_wrizzle]

Whats link

[@Galbereth]

Haha me too! Hardly anyone knows how to correctly pronounce that! 😁

[@rmhartman]

There are three names like that that are famously not pronounced as they are spelt.

[@danjagger4313]

Now if he can learn to say Shasta correctly, lol. Love listening to his stories.

[@Lame.....]

Because he saw the why files cover this a few days ago and decided to do the same story

[@RIDEreviewRELOAD]

OMG your Aura ad had me ROLLING!!! “Are you kiddin me??? WHATA DEAL” 💀💀😂

[@incrediblebulk5091]

Funfact : The driver who carried the dead body in a coffin through the roads in dark night of Britain into the submarine , was also a major inspiration for the character of James Bond. As his favourite car was Aston Martin, and he was a very fast and efficient driver.

[@Gruesome_Chuck]

Even though I've recently watched this story on Why Files, MrBallen still has a great way of telling a story. Definitely keeps me intrigued

[@dont-touch-mepg1392]

Yea it def wasn't taken. Mr ballen isn't so busy now I'm days that he finds KZbin videos to get scripts from and just does that.

[@yourname6555]

I was about 3 minutes in and came to the comments wondering if someone else noticed

[@nobody1a]

Operation Mincemeat

[@crou8040]

It's like in comics how you have the main storyline, then you have all the tie-ins. This was a perfect tie-in.

[@DouglasD7k]

I felt they compliment each other perfectly! MrBallen tells the mystery and the why files tells how they got away with it.

[@Elevendyeleven]

What were the chances you and the Why Files would both do the same story in the same week? Its cool to hear it by starting with the body and the perspective of the Spanish and revealing the story by working backwards. As a writer, I am always so impressed with your writing!

[@hallievanoutryve3109]

It was cool two hear their different takes on the event. Mr. Ballen has a way of telling familiar stories in unique ways.

[@amyglover2872]

I was looking for anyone in the comments that watched both channels as well! I agree, hearing two different types of story telling of one story by these two greats has made for an awesome week!

[@NorthernGreenEyes]

🤔 I'll have to check that out! Never heard of the why files! Ty :)

[@markmark63]

And both videos had the same sponsor! The mystery deepens...

[@electronicshaman]

My two favourite channels, I feel like I’ve entered the singularity

[@ashleymorgan219]

Him getting honorary military rank makes me wanna cry.

[@LittleAnn666]

Lol I would have never imagined Mr Ballen telling a story based on Spain. Great job doing so!

[@SECRETORDEROFTHEKNIGHTSTEMPLAR]

Why???

[@rochellejames8672]

This mom always looks forward to her weekly stories to help escape reality. Never stop telling them Mr.Ballen.

[@purnimaamin4085]

So does this mom. However i really laughed hard when in his commercials he showed a " middle aged eel" with a walker.😂

[@TheCosmicLibrarian]

You and AJ from the Why Files are so good at your jobs that even though you posted the “same story” within 24 hours of each other, it only made it come alive for me even more. Felt like Christmas today. 😌❤️

[@BBAMEG]

I knew this was that same story as soon as he started. Just watched this on Why Files, as well.

[@jjtruelove119]

Wow that’s a major spoiler right there. I won’t read comments before the story from now on

[@jayjay-71]

​@jjtruelove11 so you would rather listen to the same story twice??? Your statement makes no sense

[@Liz-cmc313]

Yep, I watched it on the Why Files.

[@fourpuma138]

me too i was looking for this comment what a shitty coincidence they are the best😊

[@michaelmortag3536]

I knew about this since for like almost 40 years. Can't remember the Author. The name of the ordeal was called "Operation Mincemeat". My grandfather served with the British and the 82nd Airborne during ww2. He gave me a book and told me it was the best part of WW2. "The Man Who Never Was".

[@2fyecookie]

brooooo that is actually so cool . those two dudes r ridiculously smart for coming up with such a brilliant plan

[@The_Atomic_Skunk]

Mr. Ballen and The Why Files doing the same story on the same week!?!. I feel like this story is complete for me. Love both channels and how they tell their stories!

[@elizabethvos1380]

I thought the same! Watched the Why Files one yesterday, which spoiled the twist in Mr.Ballen's for me, but I still thoroughly enjoyed it none the less. They also had the same sponsor 😅

[@vanillatwilight7646]

I wonder how many people watch both shows weekly lol

[@butters0u1]

I thought I was the only one who noticed. Really awesome hearing it told by 2 great story tellers in totally different ways!

[@jacopot4824]

Why files version said that Spanish informed English the found the body and took out and back in letters from inside the case without opening.. MrBallen say the case was opened Spanish did autopsy and never informed English... Im just saing that the Whyfiles story about Spanish joined autopsy with English cutting short offering launch and the MI5/007 aston martin runs total dark no lights look like fiction for the episode...i'll check

[@toddfluhr4655]

The fact both did the same story in the same week makes me wanna borrow Hecklefish's tinfoil hat.

[@Daniella_Watch_me_live_for]

Not only is he an amazing storyteller but I love that Mr Ballen incorporates hand movements that reflect what is happening in the story! So immersive

[@dswagg585x2]

THE IMMERSION 😂

[@godofmicecommenter2022]

Ong

[@spiderofthehood6127]

I'm convinced yall are fake accounts, yall never ever comment on the specific story he's doing, just that he's an AMAZING story-teller

[@jaybiddy955]

I don't think I ever thought on it but Mr Ballen is the story teller I WATCH the other guys I just LISTEN and I think that's hugely because of the immersion in the hand movement

[@laurenk6741]

Can't there be a dedicated comment where people can reply with worshipping comments, otherwise the entire comment section is just time wasting spam of no relevance to the content

[@jozefbols4386]

Hey John and sweeties. I read in a previous comment (previous video) that it would be cool if Mr.Ballen would show up at a campfire party and tell stories. Maybe an idea: Provide a campfire, goodies, some tents, a large white sheet and all accessories to play films (videos), invite family and friends (let them also bring tents, goodies, etc.) and binge watch as much as possible Mr.Ballen videos (those who you can watch with children). Once the kids have gone to bed in the respective tents, the adults can binge watch the other videos!!! So it seems like Mr.Ballen is a bit there, doesn't it? He could also organize something like this himself a few times a year (in collaboration with friends/volunteers) and charge a fee for his charity to those who want to attend. It would be a fab party do you not think so, sweeties? Lots of love from Pinkie

[@elizabethreinhardt2339]

This is one of my favorite stories Mr. Ballen tells. Bravo again sir! 👏

[@MelanieNeland-dj7pz]

By far, one of my absolute favorite stories by MrBallen. I definitely would of paid attention in my history classes back in the day if he were my teacher 🙌

[@shellyweiers121]

You and me both Melanie I would have looked forward to it 😊

[@patriciamurphy6559]

Yes, a good teacher makes all the difference!

[@bradsanders407]

Quit lying

[@Amy-qe7ti]

Wouldn’t we all?????

[@Wizzz2288]

I do love it when MrBallen let's us know if it's a real photo or not. It's all the little touches that make MrBallen's channel the best

[@laurenk6741]

Can't there be a dedicated comment where people can reply with worshipping comments, otherwise the entire comment section is just time wasting spam of no relevance to the content

[@pippa3150]

Perhaps you could skip the comment section? Or put youtube down and get outside for a bit? 🙄

[@JadeySmithers]

I literally judge all story tellers on KZbin by Ballen standards.

[@midnightmadness5307]

Wow, thanks so much John! This one was fascinating, I know quite a bit about history and the War but never had I heard of this awesome and brilliant 'set up' until now. Incredible.

[@plantfeeder6677]

I never knew this and I know quite a bit about WWII. This is a fascinating tale and the fact that they honored him choked me up at the end.

[@Truthwillprevail1477]

The hand gestures, facial expression, tone, and sound effects are phenomenal. You're a god tier in story telling!

[@freddykrueger7406]

Basically describing your photo as well lol

[@XtCxPAND3MICx]

@@freddykrueger7406m pop on

[@msm7927]

Obviously; to each their own but imo it's too much. His natural movements of 2 years ago were very comforting. Today I stopped his video for the first time due to the hand gestures. It has become distracting to me.

[@notstandingwithukraine9478]

no, too much is too much

[@CurlyQueen12386]

@msm7927 Sounds like a you problem. If that’s enough to distract you then you’re gonna have a rough time with life.

[@66Integral]

I'm from the UK and had heard this story, but your version had details I didn't know, and I loved how you started it from the POV of the fisherman - a great telling, thank you! Haven't seen anyone mention this in the comments yet, so for anyone interested, there's a musical about this story currently running in the West End, called 'Operation Mincemeat', and it's absolutely brilliant, very funny and moving - heartily recommend it if you can go!

[@all13v]

There is also a book called "Operation Mincemeat- How a dead man and a Bizarre Plan Fooled the Nazis and Assured an Allied Victory" by Ben Macintyre, its a really entertaining read

[@66Integral]

@all13v ooh that sounds great, thanks for the recommendation! I'll add it to my book pile 😊

[@theoriginalbluey]

Thank you for this, gonna book me a ticket!

[@66Integral]

@@theoriginalbluey huzzah! Hope you enjoy the show as much as I did :)

[@willow2vicky]

There's also a film starring Colin Firth, Matthew Macfadyen and Kelly Macdonald. It's really good.

[@peyotecody5387]

I know A LOT about WW2 but I NEVER heard this story before, absolutely insane.

[@sylviakidd1908]

These Military stories are my favorites. I think the Russian Undead soldiers is my favorite one so far. Thank you for sharing these.

[@bigmike8564]

My Grandfathers were both in WWII and they told a few unbelievable stories about their journeys, although not that often. I can’t remember loving these accounts of battles and missions that are a part of our countries history

[@user-ev3zn4pp1p]

Because there's nothing to love about war.....😢

[@pawwalker3492]

We never really knew that my grandfather was a Battered Bastard of Bastogne until two weeks before he died. Saw what I thought was his look-alike in an episode of G.I. Diary and said, "but it couldn't be you because you weren't there..." "The hell I wasn't! ..." And that's the only time he told us the whole story. He came home an alcoholic (PTSD?) and would talk about places like the Ardennes, and St Vith. And Malmedy. But we never realized. SO glad we talked before he passed away.

[@shanegraham2500]

Both my grandfathers were in WWII also. Maternal grandfather was a medic at Pearl Harbor. Paternal was a Marine sniper. Neither talked much about their experiences.

[@bigmike8564]

@@shanegraham2500 Yo Shane I know you’re proud of your grandfathers. There were nothing in this world comparable to those stories that they told, when they actually did tell them, which wasn’t a lot. Thanks for sharing that with us and I hope you have a blessed July 4 th

[@bigmike8564]

@@user-ev3zn4pp1p I couldn’t agree more I was just speaking on the stories. Thx for your reply! Have a great July 4

[@thehengy3232]

I’m four minutes in the video and I know EXACTLY what you’re talking about. Idk why but when you tell a story that I’ve heard before I always get excited because even if I know the information I like hearing you recount the story. Just goes to show that good storytelling is a talent.

[@Agreed255]

Mr. Ballen, the way you tell the story makes me on my toes! I’m a new subscriber and I’ve been binge watching your videos for the last 2 weeks. I sit on my bed while eating popcorn listening to you tell your stories. It’s amazing!

[@ddsplayzone1603]

The aura promo was insane 😂😂 I damn near choked to death 😂😂

[@nancymoon-rush2888]

Another great video! As a history teacher, I know this story well, and you absolutely did it justice. So many turning points in WWII, but THIS one was a battle of intelligence and wit.

[@ewoknroll]

I feel like he should do a video on unit 731 in ww2

[@lulugallo7032]

@@ewoknroll I back your awesome words up full hearted. Love your profile pic. I have on my back the Shakedown Man from the cover of one of my favorite albums of the Greatful Dead. ❤️✌️Lu

[@captainkane1984]

What an amazing story. I felt bad for G.M. But what a wonderfully wholesome thing they did for him in the end.

[@manifestwithbabs]

Crazy story!!! Love it! I’m German (as in, German citizen and growing up there and all that jazz), and I even studied German history for 2 years (Abi), and never once did we hear about this story!!!

[@ryanjeffers9534]

This is the best ad that you have ever had, PERIOD

[@dadafgf9360]

You bring an extra amount of joy into my family, sitting down together listening to you is something I won’t trade for anything in this world

[@achange999]

The world is on fire. Who cares mr b just uploaded

[@jsully8076]

Awww, that's so cute.

[@dadafgf9360]

@@achange999 🔥🔥🔥

[@dadafgf9360]

@@jsully8076 he makes our day

[@dadafgf9360]

Had always wanted a like from you and we are all glad you did 🙏🏽🥰🥰

[@leeg9292]

Glyndwr Micheal was actually welsh, he was living homeless in London at the time of his death but was originally from Bargoed in south Wales. This story has been made into two films. There was also another mastermind behind the real operation mincemeat plot. His name was Ian Fleming. Ian Fleming worked in the intelligence agency during the war and took part in helping bring major Martin into reality. After the war he went on to write a very successful spy series know famously as James Bond 007.

[@romanavolny1040]

I read a lot of books about WW2 but missed this story. You are the BEST story teller MrBallen. Keep up the great work!

[@Joe-zt7ef]

That was Incredible, I love hearing these true war stories, can you imagine how many are out there that have never been told.

[@Just8akitkat]

This story is so nice and it is probably my new favourite video by you. It's so sweet that they made Glendor an official military officer, he didn't die in vain and he saved millions of lives and generations to come

[@joalyincontroly4379]

I think they poisoned Glyndwr Michael, the homeless man, in advance while planning this operation.

[@keeranimal8]

I absolutely love these WWII stories…used to beg my grandad and his friends to tell me everything! One of my favorite stories, and one to definitely look into if you’re into this stuff, is the Norwegian raid on the Nazi held heavy water plant…just insane!!

[@mrcleanxxx]

The Man Who Never Was. Classic book, film and the ultimate true story.

[@user-qk9yh1zp4u]

Imagine dying homeless then coming back to life like, “Oh crap, I’m a highly regarded British officer with movies and documentaries about me? I helped save the world?” It’s unfortunate he wasn’t alive to see how much he helped change the world, he played a crucial role in the turning point of the war, and if I had to pick what happens to me after death that’s damn sure at the top of the list

[@FlyingElvis]

I started documenting stories my grandfather and the men that served in WW2 and Korea years ago. I didn’t want those stories to die with them. All of those men have long passed, but it is so important we get these experiences recorded so generations from not will know them. That is true generational wealth

[@kaeSummers19]

What a story.. wow! I worked at a veterans home and had the pleasure of meeting many WW2 veterans. I heard so many amazing stories. True heroes!

[@glennrishton5679]

As a kid growing up in the 50s and a teen in the 60s we boys always wanted combat stories from veterand. They wouldnt talk about it. I came to understand why, so many still dealt with the horror. I am glad that now many are talking, getting the stories of the PFC or the young Seaman on record. We can learn from the people fighting the war vs those running it.

[@kenchapman3259]

John, as an older vet (USMC '70-'78) I was very familiar with this story. I don't know if it was through military history classes, or just my generation was closer to the time of the event. On Walter Cronkite's "The 20th Century ", I think they even ran a story on it then (mie-60s). But your's was an excellent retelling of the story to a new generation. I'm a big fan... thanks, bro

[@electrifiedspam]

And this story gets even more strange. It's worth looking into.

[@chaseyoung7795]

Seeing MrBallen's account gain more and more recognition is awesome. You're my number one favorite story teller but also just come off as a great guy. Thank you for entertaining us with the strange, dark, and mysterious MrBallen and the podcasts are amazing. Anyone who hasn't checked them out yet should give them a go

[@SAMIAMFNX]

yea im a og sub 2020

[@shutupandwatch69]

🍆🚴

[@JesserDaddy]

He stole this from The Why Files who did this exact story 3 days ago with the same exact nigerian prince ad read for Aura

[@JustColleen]

Is there a person in existence that has actually heard one of MrBallen's stories that didn't go directly to his channel to binge watch everything he ever put out? It is truly unbelievable to me that a person of the sort could be real!!!

[@JustColleen]

@@JesserDaddy I don't believe he "stole" anything! How can one steal a historical fact? There are several people out there that present these types of stories and this is not the first time where their timing to tell a common story has coincided. Also, they all basically have commercials for just about all the same companies because those companies search out these platforms to run ads on and they give a basic format for the channel owner to design their ad around. I highly doubt the other channels "same Prince ad" featured good ol Lungy and a handicapped eel with a walker. Purely bad timing on both parties account.