The Secret Soldiers the US Was Afraid to Send to War

It was the night before one of the most transcendental military invasions in human history, and hundreds of C-47 Skytrains darted across the English Channel carrying thousands of brave paratroopers about to face the darkest chapter of their lives.
The warplanes carried a group of paratroopers unlike any other, with mohawk haircuts and tribal face paint. The outfit led by the rebellious and untamed Jake 'McNasty' McNiece laughed and joked even as their aircraft was engulfed by fierce German flak fire.
As the Skytrain lost altitude, McNiece ordered his men to prepare for the jump. The lights inside the cabin then turned red, and the men scrambled to their feet amid fire and thunder. As McNiece and his comrade Willy made it to the door, flak burst through the warplane's belly, hitting Willy's backpack and unraveling his parachute inside the plane.
Now significantly damaged, the C-37 continued to lose altitude as Willy desperately tried to gather his parachute and move away from the door so other paratroopers could jump. McNiece then jumped into the flak-lit skies over France, and the Skytrain exploded in midair only a few seconds later.
There was no time to mourn, as McNiece and the rest of the notorious Filthy Thirteen outfit were now behind enemy lines in Normandy, and they had a crucial mission to finish…
- As images and footage of actual events are not always available, Dark Docs sometimes utilizes similar historical images and footage for dramatic effect. I do my best to keep it as visually accurate as possible. All content on Dark Docs is researched, produced, and presented in historical context for educational purposes. We are history enthusiasts and are not always experts in some areas, so please don't hesitate to reach out to us with corrections, additional information, or new ideas. -

[@kennethpotts4341]

Years ago, I met Jake at a 101st Airborne reunion. I sat with him and we told each other war stories, him about WW2 and me about Vietnam. I told him I was honored to be able to spend that time with him. He autographed his book for me and before I left he said, "At least we got a welcome home after WW2, you guys never got the respect you deserved. But you are a part of the proud history of the 101st Airborne Division and they can never take that away from you." Amen Jake....RIP brother.

[@rp03md2]

Welcome home, Mr. Potts.

[@jeffreyroth7517]

Welcome home Mr. Potts. Thank you for your service.

[@vermin9190]

Welcome home, Mr. Potts and thank you for your service.

[@bkreed27]

101st here too. 17th Cavalry, 79-83.

[@yidy1]

We Salute you, Mr. Potts and BKR!

[@andrewmacdonald8076]

George Orwell once said, "While good people sleep, rough men do violence on their behalf." Sometimes a nation needs these rough men. Here's a toast to them! 🍻

[@andrewcanady6644]

Feckin right you are, Mac. Just found out this past year through genealogy research I’m a MacDonald, too! 🤙🏽 🏴󠁧󠁢󠁳󠁣󠁴󠁿

[@PS987654321PS]

Ok, weirdo.

[@andrewcanady6644]

@@PS987654321PS Haha I am an unusual dude

[@759NPR]

We need men like J. McNiece now more than ever, and even more so as it gets insanely stupid all around us. Those men and their mould are long gone, but their example of bravery and sacrifice endure, for those of us that recognize what real men stand for. Glad they're not around to see what's become of what they fought for... US Army combat engineers; 1981-87 stationed in Karlsruhe, W. Germany. I saw the aftermath/history with my own eyes - those boys are rollin in their graves now....

[@Robert-dp9rt]

Like his quote he is right

[@dlotton]

I met Jake and his wife Martha on a plane to Paris, heading to the 60th anniversary of the D-day invasion in 2004. I saw the Pathfinder badge on his hat while we were on the plane. I got up and introduced myself to him, telling him I had been a Pathfinder. He got a big smile on his face and proceeded to tell me his story. In talking with him I learned he lived in my mother's home town and knew my cousins. Small world. We met up again in St Mere Eglise during the D-day celebrations. Not long after, Jake attended my Pathfinder unit reunion and was the keynote speaker. Great guy.

[@filthy13er]

I also met Jack. He and Martha came from Ponca City Ok. I have a photo of him at Saint Laurent sur Mer France with his three other Filthy 13ers. Our greatest generation. He made such an impression on me, I have this mad old unit nickname.

[@user-xd9yp7yn4d]

My dream rite there

[@mdavis717]

That’s awesome

[@TommyShlong]

Very cool story, seriously. It must have been an honor to spend time speaking with such a legend.

[@jeffreyconley799]

Wow!

[@beeemm2578]

The word 'legend ' is thrown around quite a bit nowadays....this is what a legend looks and acts like.

[@Eminim97]

LOL this guy isnt a legend at all 😂😂😂 the Canadian troop thought fought for 12 hours in a german trench wuth onlu his hands is a legend. Not one american soldier is a legend cause they hid behind everyone else and didnt come into wars till they were almost over

[@derekfuller8103]

My Grandpa made all four jumps, and was at the Battle of the Bulge. He was 82nd Airborne and he to was from Oklahoma! I don't know a whole lot about him unfortunately? He passed in 1973.he"s a man that I have always been told that I remind people of. He was 3/4Cherokee and first forward scout. Staff Sergeant Rex Biby. My personal hero . Most definitely proud of him.

[@edwardsharpe6234]

My father was in the 82nd during the war and he was from Pennsylvania. He said very little about the war but in later years he would always watch the WW2 documentaries. I would tell him "It's over!" and he would chuckle and say "No it's not!".

[@dougbulldog9947]

My Grandad served with RAF Bomber Comman a Group Captain before his 25th birthday; he was awarded both OBE & CBE, I got to know him, he taught me some important life lessons, he never showed me his medals, Ithey cost him too much.

[@paulbegley1464]

They will always be legends in fact and there deeds. Thank God for every single one of them.

[@dakoderii4221]

@@edwardsharpe6234'I would tell him "It's over!" and he would chuckle and say "No it's not!"' What will be revealed in the months ahead will prove your father correct.

[@Rockhoundingcolorado]

My Grandfather Gilbert Orville Martin. 4 years in three different Nazi pow camps. A true hero. MY Family settled Virginia, NC, Tennessee, All heros At kings mountain, Until they broke our constitution, because they didnt like it's governance. They all died Traitors. Which way will you go?

[@paulw176]

My Dad was an Oklahoma/depression kid and he was one of these paratroops. Always a gentleman and a caring father - his mental and physical toughness amazed me. They came home and moved on with their lives - no drama.

[@obediahpolkinghorniii564]

Lucky.

[@locojambo]

Some men can do it. They usually have a long good life in the forces and all the benefits that come with it.

[@bf5175]

Sadly there was LOTS of undiagnosed PTSD in that generation. He probably carried horrors that he never got over. No one escapes war unscathed.

[@Spittin_Chiglets]

The greatest generation without a doubt! You must be proud of your Dad.

[@derekfuller8103]

Amen to that Brother! Unfortunately my grandpa caught shrapnel in the back from a German grenade. But physically he survived. But mentally he died there. His life was troubled due to drinking, and died at the age of 47. I do remember him. But not much . Mom told me that he would stand guard over me, and nobody would have a chance to get near me or hurt me. Lol I think to this day he's still around . God love him

[@willjones5658]

it's incredible how many people's grandfathers served personally with this dude. Wow.

[@TroubleToby3040]

I know what you mean. My grandfather told me that most of these guys are lying... And he would know, because-😂🤣😂

[@harrymills2770]

You might be surprised by how many are real stories. The Internet has a way of drawing people together. Anyone associated with or related to the individuals in the video are going to be drawn to the video like moths to flame. Sure, there are bunch of trolls out there, but I bet a lot of the people telling these stories in the comments are for real.

[@boogalo781]

That's what happens when such a large percentage are sent to war

[@bonzijones4223]

My uncle was killed in the S Pacific during WW2 we were told he was killed jumping out of a plane. He’s been a hero and legend in my family for almost 80 years. Legends never die. Respect to all those that served proudly

[@user-xd9yp7yn4d]

My grandpa's brother little Joe was shot down in Germany to. Our family was told he was killed but the mean little badtard made his way across Germany alone killing natzis until he finally found our troops. His grandson is the soldier who gave that famous speech recently..OTHER PEOPLE WILL RAIS E YOUR CHILDREN...BOLIVIA...HE DIDNT CARRY our last name due to his mother marrying but he is a badass,like my other uncle ,father and son..I was passed by military due to injuries so I became a gangster today I'm old beat down and still no hero but what eva...I'll still fight shoulder to shoulder for America soon on our soil

[@mackavelli8872]

My Dad was born in '23 and the stories he relayed about life after the crash of the market in 1929 prepared him (somewhat) for the tough times of combat in WW2. These men who served weren't ordinary in any way, they were rougher and tougher than myself and the men I've served with in the Navy and Army. I'm 58 y/o and my kids think I'm tuff because I've "served", but I'm just a powder puff compared to these real men. Respect, mad respect for keeping America safe.

[@brentblake8306]

Same with me, My Dad ( who's still kickin' 98) served through the entire war ( then the Korean Conflict) in the Canadian Navy. Actually tough, and clear on everything, working, giving, what's right and what's wrong. People think I'm tough but I'm not, I've just tried to be like my Dad and keep my chin up and not give up.

[@barryallenflash1]

Thanks for your service, from one Vet to another! I did my 14 years in the Army as a mechanic. Saw some crazy stuff, but NOTHING compared to what these guys saw! These are the guys that set the standard for what REAL soldiers were supposed to be, not the powder puffs of today's military! It's a disgrace to even call yourself an "active duty" soldier now!

[@curiousgeorge5992]

Safe for pedophiles to be placed in office fraudulently for alcoholics insider traders treasonous traitors influence peddler's salesman.,, But hey that's truly representative government isn't it aren't we all criminals too,🙄 Just looking for the payoff and to take the money in run

[@ClaudiaMitchell-jn7fw]

My Dad, born in 1922, was a fine man. He was a Sgt. In the Battle of the Bulge, a POW in a Nazi Camp, made it home alive and carried himself like a true American Man until his death in 1972, from a massive heart attack. I miss my Dad always. He was my best friend, losing my Mother at 6. ✨❤️✨🇺🇸 !

[@theo847sqn]

Wow Those similarities are uncanny to myself My father born in 1923 ran away to join the merchant navy at 15 Later he joined the Royal Navy and served for almost all of WW2 I later joined the ROYAL NAVY I'm 52

[@waynerizor6484]

I met Jake McNiece back in about 2005 at the O’Hare airport in Chicago. I was waiting for a flight and this old guy and his wife sat down across from me. He was dressed in a complete WWII paratroopers uniform. He was on his way to a Normandy D-Day anniversary reunion invited by the French Government. He talked about his book, “The filthy 13” and how it was adapted to “The Dirty Dozen” and being a technical advisor in the filming of the movie. As we parted to board our flights he pulled out his card and autographed it for me and wrote “The Filthy 13” on the back. I still have it.

[@brianbyrne3003]

That's so cool!! Right place at the right time.

[@marcrud1250]

Devils in baggy pants...

[@1DesertCop]

Great story thanks

[@michaelpatterson9119]

awesome.the fact that he was never promoted and was one of the best soldiers America has had and was a private his whole career says it all.he did not go to war he was unleashed on it.that picture is so bad ass of him in war paint.

[@AJ-jy6lb]

@@marcrud1250 - My Dad was 101st, and he told me the German phrase,.. "Teufel in weiten Hosen" Teufel = devil, weiten = baggy, hosen = trousers.

[@John-jl9de]

My dad made the jump into France with the 101st Airborne, then jumped into Holland during Market Garden, then fought in Bastogne in Belgium during the Battle of the Bulge. He then fought in Korea while I was being born in 1950. Then he served in Viet Nam in 1966 and 1967 while both of my older brothers were there as Marines. They are all my hero's and have all of my respect. Dad was highly decorated, is in the Infantry Hall of Fame and retired after 32 years of service as a full Colonel. All three have Purple Hearts for wounds received during combat.

[@Spaghetti_policy]

You father is a National Hero. Thank you for your Fathers Service. Airborne. 🙏🕉️🇺🇸

[@ulrikerudel6859]

So much wars to fight, so far from home... Hans, are we the baddies?

[@rubendelara861]

Be proud! Semper Fi

[@jor-el1298]

I'm sure your dad did what he thought was right, but the thought of US fighting so many wars and still believing they are on the right side of history is weird.

[@charliewilliams4961]

God bless your dad

[@anydaynow01]

They need to make a new movie about this unit, Any hero with a nickname like McNasty and had the reputation to back it up deserves an over the top movie!

[@TheDylls]

McNasty and Leo Majors!

[@montannaglaze9575]

The dirty dozen was inspired by them

[@smellyfinger684]

Knowing Hollywood, he'll be played by Viola Davis.

[@airborne101pathfinder7]

I met Jake McNiece, Jack Agnew Jack Wormer, and Bob Cone many years ago. Nicest guys you ever wanted to meet. As a member of the 101st Airborne Division i thanked them for the legacy they have left to us very much younger troopers. Screaming Eagles never die, We just soar higher! R.I.P. Filthy 13! AAATW!!

[@steveclark5357]

respect

[@airborne101pathfinder7]

@@steveclark5357 Thank you

[@Livi_Noelle]

I was with the 82nd. I miss All American Week and all the old timers. We looked up to the old guys who had 4 or 5 "mustard stains" on their wings. They looked up to us because we were all volunteer. It was always fun to buy another round and listen to their stories. Most of them are gone today. RIP brothers, until Valhalla.

[@johnrice6793]

How wonderful is that. Good on yuh!!

[@sailingmohican2767]

Yep rip dad

[@ek2156]

It is funny. For a guy that was hell bent on looking or causing trouble, living his life on the edge, Mr. McNiece lived a long life until the rip old age of 93! This video is a perfect example of why men and women like Mr. McNiece are called the greatest generation. The world would be a much different place without their bravery, sense of duty, and sacrifice.... RIP Mr. McNiece, I would have liked to have met you and hear some of your stories!

[@WvlfDarkfire]

Never Forget

[@lara-ce2kg]

I guess today's equivalent would be Johnny Knoxville if we put him in combat

[@-xirx-]

I remember reading in a history book that these guys had r@pd women in France. It's not a pleasant thought, however it is true.

[@DaveSCameron]

I bet today he'd be found dogging, dressed in black stockings and being turfed by a sherrif deputy and a few local yokle Yankees. Times change and its clear to anyone breathing that the end is nigh. 🙏

[@TheLegacy222]

🙏

[@dannyhigginbotham6635]

Thanks to all of you warriors for your service, may God bless you...

[@philosopher1a]

These kind of stories need to shown in our schools to show what these MEN did to save the world,, and how grateful they should be

[@DecrepitBiden]

Younger generations are NOT even being told about the holocaust, like it never happened.

[@iautonomos]

Don't matter. This is not going to make them like this Man.

[@JeremiahRC5464]

That'll just make these teachers angry, the boys cry, and give the girls hairstyle ideas

[@kitano47]

save the world... lol 94% of the usa did not want to enter WW2 and there was a strong support for nazi germany. when they finally did enter the war it was after they loaned the uk money (billions) which they did not pay off till 2006.

[@BrandonSmith-qx8jx]

These men destroyed the modern world. Now communists are turning your kids gay in public schools.

[@mac11380]

My dad was 101st 502, he passed 2 years ago at 100, he was a badass his whole life, he didn't quit working until he was 98.

[@leomarkaable1]

I believe my Uncle Norman was in the 101st. He had a Nazi flag about 5 by 10 feet in his house. I saw it as a child. My father said Norman got it at Berchtesgaden as a trophy from a hotel or restaurant. Do you know where I can find out confirmation of his service. Seems hard to find a place to look.

[@mac11380]

PS, please reply when you find out anything and tell us what you found out if you don't mind.

[@pauleliot6429]

The World owes these men a lot.

[@tylercaskey1931]

The Mohawks and face paint is completely badass. Personally, for those whom that is their heritage, they should be allowed the honor. Great story.

[@TheDylls]

New Zealand does it right! The Maori face tattoos are federally protected and can't be discriminated against

[@cahg3871]

Today’s media call any celebrity or athlete heroes.These men are what I call heroes.The media should be forced to watch these posts all day every day till they wake up and realize what true heroes are and pay the respect these men earned.

[@calebb9314]

My grandpa was part of the 101st Airborne, Screaming Eagles, in WWII. The fact that he lived to tell me stories at the kitchen table when I was a young teenager always made him a hero of mine. I have nothing but respect for any man, or woman, who will jump out of a perfectly good airpllane to go fight the enemy up close. RIP Grandpa!

[@festerbestertester1658]

The plane blew up seconds after he jumped. That wasn't a "perfectly good airplane".

[@timkeenan7419]

In the army there is no such thing as perfectly serviceable.

[@Kevin-xb8ih]

@@festerbestertester1658 the German anti aircraft flak destroyed it Einstein

[@balls433]

@@festerbestertester1658clearly you’re not a paratrooper since you don’t understand that phrase

[@festerbestertester1658]

@@balls433 No, I'm not a paratrooper, but I think that could be said of the majority of people on the planet. But if you'd seen the planes I've jumped from, you would jump, too.

[@anandmorris]

What an absolute legend. Why are we not celebrating these heroes more? All the freedoms we enjoy are because of men like him. Thank you, from a British brother 🇬🇧❤

[@RyanAustinDean]

My grandpa was a paratrooper with the 551st Airborne, AKA the “Lost Battalion.” He was shot in France, Belgium, and Germany. An absolute gem of a man until the very end. WWII paratroopers were another breed altogether. God bless them.

[@adamwatkins7517]

Great to hear old stories like this. My father and his 9 brothers all fought in WWII, only 3 of them came back. I was in the SEAL Teams for 22 years and 8 combat deployments and numerous shorter 'skirmishes' from Operation Just Cause through Operation Enduring Freedom.

[@johnbreymann4506]

I was so honored to meet Jake and get to hear many of his war stories that are not in either of his books. Incredible man.

[@cecilhiggins9907]

I had the honor of gettin to talk with Jake on three separate occasions about the war and what his unit did. This was in the early 2000’s. He lived with no regrets and knew what honor and respect was. Both giving and receiving.

[@navysararmygrunt4037]

I grew up listening to stories told by my cousin who was a 2nd Lt. at the beginning of WWII. He served as a paratrooper with the 325th Glider and 504th Parachute Infantry beginning in 1942. As a charter member of the 82nd Airborne Division, he saw action in the North African Campaign; the invasions of Sicily, Salerno, and Anzio; the invasion of France; the invasion of Holland; the Battle of the Bulge; and the final push into Germany. He was awarded the Purple Heart, the Netherlands Orange Lanyard, the Belgian Fourragere and the Bronze Star for valor.

[@MrSgh3]

My grandfather only spoke to me once about his active duty time during the theaters of WWII. He told me that he had the honor to serve side-by-side with this brave man. He was the only man, other than his own father (Great War Honorable Veteran), that he called a legend. The story my grandfather shared with me, helped inspire and shape my life.

[@jaydunbar7538]

Most of them didn’t talk about it much, I know my great grandfather didn’t. He told us a bit about landing on Normandy when my older brother signed up, but otherwise I know nothing about his service and the medals he has we have been unable to find out what they are from. Some were common and easy to figure out, but others we don’t have a clue so guessing they may have been unit specific or something.

[@MrSgh3]

@@jaydunbar7538, physically go to your local VA office and take several pieces of identification. Also, try to locate any type of paper work connected to his service time. They may give you a copy of his DD-214. That one document will give you a complete list of his awards and medals. Also, you find a detailed list of his permit duty stations and duration of all service time too on this document.

[@123mycrazygirls]

The WW11 vets were a breed all their own. Both my Grandfather's and an uncle served in battle, in WW11. Neither one of them ever complained or spoke of the war, at all. They were very different guys and had an obviously unique attitude towards everything. What I noticed, as a kid, was that they did not have much to say about anything, did not complain and had no negativity about them. If and when they did say something, you had better listen. Some people call them the greatest generation ever. Definitely, a rare breed of men! @@jaydunbar7538

[@merkury06]

An incredible life story. I was glad to see Jake McNice survived the war. Thank you for putting this together.

[@paulus12345]

DON'T JUDGE A BOOK BY IT COVER! To look at him in his older years he would pass as just being an ordinary person, not realising that he probably did more things in 6 months that other people would do in their whole lifetime! Sir I salute you!

[@carolecarr5210]

He deserved the MOH.

[@paulus12345]

@@carolecarr5210 I 100% agree with you!!!!!!

[@bunk95]

Do you think any human isn’t ordinary?

[@kennethpotts4341]

No Paratrooper is an "ordinary person." After our fifth training jump at Ft. Benning GA in April 1966, we assembled on the drop zone and an old tough looking Colonel pinned our silver wings on each of us. Afterwards he told us that we were forever changed and would always be identified as someone elite the rest of our lives. I never forgot that.

[@davidwalls9954]

The man is the human equivalent of the honey badger; I mean that in the most complimentary way possible. Men like him change the tide of battles, sometimes entire wars.

[@mda1501]

Combat missions, long days and nights, fear, compassion, loss, and the reward of knowing that you did your part. Not many will ever have that feeling. I am honored to have served with heroes.

[@ericbrenn9627]

I had the pleasure of meeting Jake McNeese back in 2012 and going to hear some of his stories directly from the source I’ve never seen a guy put a half a can of Copenhagen in his mouth at 92 years old he was truly born to do what he did

[@shawntailor5485]

Great fortune has been bestowed upon you !

[@leifl845]

What is a Can of Cobenhagen?

[@fishingismydrug1]

@@leifl845 Dip, Snuff, chew, some of the names for it. Smokeless tobacco.

[@thatdude3977]

Born to fight for rich families, yup 😂

[@gilbydeluxe8419]

This video barely scratches the surface. I was able to meet him and hear some of his stories firsthand before he died. His book is a fun read!

[@John-hq4dq]

Seriously! The doc was great but it didn't mention him stealing that train, I thought that at least would make the cut lol.

[@geodes4762]

The narrative was fine, but the video was not really in synch so to speak. He did not play football for West Point, yet the video show shots of an Army football game. Other shots are general video of the 101st participating in the Normandy battles such as Carentan. One shot talking about McNeice’s bar brawl actually shows a sailor and not an Army paratrooper!

[@clearcreek69]

I'll have to search for the book where I live.

[@geodes4762]

@@clearcreek69 Wormer’s journey to the Filthy Thirteen is an interesting read. He went from the 29th ID which was a Md/Va National Guard division that was Federalized, then to a provisional 29th ID Ranger Bn, and then to the 101st Airborne Division. Quite a story!

[@onanthebarbarian9883]

@@geodes4762 >>The narrative was fine, but the video was not really in synch

[@andrewhoward4523]

Rest in Peace, James Elbert McNiece! Men like you are why we’re a free country.

[@LFMotorhead]

I read his book years ago and still have it on my bookshelf for when my son is old enough to appreciate this mans story. I Don’t understand why no one in Hollywood hasn’t grab onto his story and made a movie.

[@ladonnaghareeb4609]

Unfortunately it didn't fit the agenda, then, or now.

[@jamesruddy9264]

He's too white.

[@presidenttrump4702]

Bullshit the dirty dozen is a movie

[@williamle8300]

It would cause Americans to well up with pride. Too much pride.

[@markwilson185]

@@ladonnaghareeb4609 they took parts of it for other movies aka saving private Ryan the whole hold the bridge part. and others movies took a bit here and their are what music hacks call sampling .

[@Irish381]

Only knew one paratrooper he was sidelined in Korea after a perilous injury to his left leg and spine. Spent the rest of the Korean War in a hospital in Tokyo before being discharged from the United States Army for medical reasons. Was a tough guy but he was very good at helping others out in their own way. RIP 23/10/1930- 8/17/2019

[@jennylee9278]

My dad was a paratrooper in ww2 101 airborne. He too ended up spending a long time in a army hospital after a bad jump. It was hard to separate fact from fiction with my pa but he had some fantastic tales. After his recovery he was assigned to a supply depot on Hokkaido; he was chosen because he knew how to work with horses--a skill learned in boy's school in Nebraska. He was a ner'do well from Ky--a hillbilly and also part native. It looks like US might have been preparing for something from China or maybe Russia. He was there for some time then was given orders to burn the warehouse, kill the horses and pretty much destroy food, lumber and all sort of kit. He told the local Japanese people to come and help themselves. There's no way a man from Appalachia is going to destroy goods that poor struggling people could use. He loved the local Japanese that he was often around, they were a lot like ppl from the hills.

[@Rockhoundingcolorado]

My Grandfather Gilbert Orville Martin. 4 years in three different Nazi pow camps. A true hero. MY Family settled Virginia, NC, Tennessee, All heros At kings mountain, Until they broke our constitution, because they didnt like it's governance. They all died Traitors. Which way will you go?

[@sydneemiller6091]

My grand dad was a paratrooper in the Korean War, he told me some hardcore stories, and strongly advised me not to join the military, He said he killed enough for this country that no one in his family should have to serve and the USA has the technology now they can win wars without sending in one person.

[@festerbestertester1658]

Assuming those are his birth and death dates, he was born on October 23, 1930 (using the day/month/year format) and died on the 8th day of some undefined month in 2019.

[@Irish381]

@@festerbestertester1658 must’ve typed that in wrong, he was born in October 1930 and died In August 2019.

[@Scoosh-lo4xr]

We'd be speaking German now if it wasn't for these legends ❤ . Fellow soldier , Hereford UK.

[@palemale2501]

Heard of many heroes from WW2, but this guy takes my breath away. Lived till almost 94.

[@zsmarine0831]

the part a lot of people don’t realize is, being combat affective doesn’t mean blindly firing and running out in the open like a dare devil. It takes a leader to bring the squad together to create the perfect symphony of controlled chaos to complete objectives.

[@votehuss4833]

And THAT is exactly what McNiece did.

[@MrGrim2u1987]

Yet sometimes it takes exactly that.

[@JulianJ58]

"Perfect symphony of controlled chaos to complete objectives" what a poetic way to describe the goal of combat

[@denjhill]

I know what kept him going: he did not fear death, but rather found amusement in facing the Reaper and walking away. He was no doubt lucky but his devil-may-dare attitude and instinct for life are what kept him alive. I'm a vet too, and have felt this strange feeling. It is only later that the adrenalin settles down and you feel like curling into a ball and crying. Why some men live like this is a mystery but for us a fortunate one.

[@treadhead]

NO CRITICAL RACE THEORY TRAINING ALONG WITH THE WOKE MOVEMENT AGENDA BACK THEN , JUST READINESS TRAINING ALONG WITH FEARLESS INDIVIDUALS FIGHTING FOR OTHERS PERSONAL FREEDOMS IN FOREIGN LANDS , FREEDOM ISN'T FREE , TO ALL BROTHERS & SISTERS WHO RAISED OUR RIGHT HAND & TOOK OUR OATH , PAST , PRESENT & FUTURE ---- THANK YOU ALL !!!!!!

[@tugonrye1984]

thanks for that comment when the adrenalin leave you it leaves a void

[@phillipsmejkal1]

You get the feeling your senses and instincts are on top.

[@patrickpalmer4691]

I'm a vet too. And McNice was an inspiration for me after my first fire fight. I relished the combat, the give and take, the utter chaos of it. I could feel McNice right there beside me during all of it. I did not relish the after battle. Curling up into a ball somewhere my men wouldn't see me bawl my eyes dry. Too young (and stupid) to realize that they also did the same thing, we would emerge with our tear streaked dirty faces and try real hard to not see those tear tracks, resorting to humor and good ole boy jokes. Many of us turned to alcohol (it was so cheap back then), some turned to drugs, and some turned to God. I did God and Booze.

[@hoofgripweightlifting6872]

I graduated jump school in 1996. The honored guest was a WWII veteran who made ALL jumps in the European theater to include D-Day and Operation Market Garden. I was proud of my silver wings. But I was nothing compared to this man and others like him. It was a humbling experience.

[@wethepeople8542]

My grandpa was born 1920 and had a 6th grade education he served in numerous campaigns during the war receiving various medals including 2 Purple Hearts. My dad and uncles were tough Marine Corps Vietnam vets that looked up to and had great respect for him. Grandpa was a tough as nails humble man but still very kind. He taught me to shoot and deer hunt. We enjoyed many hunting seasons together until his death. 🙏♥️

[@smilingdog2219]

From the simplest task under fire to the wildest scenario, it is a mind game to remain focused. Psych games are useful as much as strength & skill. There are probably hundreds of lost heroic events not recorded. Very nice to hear this one.

[@joeclay9745]

My mum's uncle flew bombers in ww2. He won a big medal for saving some Greeks. He was a very tough man. I've got some of his shirts to remember and my dad's uncles bomber maps. My grandfather was a plastic surgeon for the RAF. Whilst my mother denies he had PTSD after I think he did. The two breakdowns including the 2nd when ect was used to bring him back from death. I remember visiting him in hospital. Some things you can't forget. War is so bad. Rip veterans.

[@scallopohare9431]

PTSD was not officially recognized until 1992. However, there certainly was some notion that men could be badly affected long term. Both my parents served during WWII, and they spoke of veterans who had gotten "nervous in the service."

[@railgap]

@@scallopohare9431 It was also frequently called "shell shock", a catch-all term also used to describe warfighters with various kinds of head trauma. :( Combat medicine and post-conflict care are still growing incrementally better, while the diplomats in their ivory towers haven't got any better at preventing wars in 1,000 years.

[@scallopohare9431]

@@railgap I was in my teens at the time. Half a century later, I can still remember when Vietnam peace talks were held up over the shape of the table.

[@mrhassell]

Fantastic telling of one of the greatest stories of the US offensive, behind enemy lines in WWII. Thank you for sharing and your superb recounting of this icon of our times.

[@ardakkumerian8088]

My grandfather worked for Shell oil when WW2 broke out. He was an American from Texas. He was on Dutch controlled island near British Guiana. After the Germans over ran Netherlands all of the Dutch colonies in the Caribbean became part of the British Commonwealth. During the Battle of Britan he worked with the Royal Navy organizing convoys loaded with aviation fuel. He was at war against Germany while the US was neutral. He was first generation American. Ironically my great grandparents were from Hannover, Grmany.

[@Gronk79]

Another great video and comments by the viewers! 2 neat observations I made during the video: 1) at 1:53 the cadet (probably from USMA) standing up & clapping note towards the cuff of his Dress Gray Tunic the 3 small stripes above the larger black stripe, that marked him as a Sr. (1st Classman) & then the 2 black chevrons on his sleeve marked his rank as Cadet Sergeant. The upper chevron reached to his shoulder, that was reduced in size after WWII. 2) at 10:24 the soldier appears to be sharping a Fairbain-Sykes style fighting knife, which was based on a Chinese style stabbing knife introduced by the British during WWII. I really enjoy watching old newsreels. Thanks.

[@kaden2230]

Another well made video. Very informative. Thank you.

[@Russia-bullies]

The show proves that wars ain’t for heroes & are for warriors,only.

[@susanconstable2113]

Just another example of why these folks are called “the greatest generation”. Where would our country and world be without these people.

[@SogoTX]

...All speaking GERMAN (in the West) and Japanese (in the East). Those that were allowed to LIVE, at least... ;)

[@ryancampbell1847]

Thank God they not around to see what happened to the country they faught so hard for and gave there lives... Ashame

[@stevehammel2939]

I'm a Viet Nam era paratrooper and proud of being one; however, it is humbling to be in the company of the great men who lived through WWII be they paratroopers or RANGERS because they are my heroes.

[@weissrw1]

When I was 19 (during the Viet Nam war) I got into a scrap with someone and a bystander called the cops. A Deputy Sherriff showed up. He had gone to high school with my big brother, I knew him. He asked me "how did I feel about a career in the military?" I was in the Army the next day! Best thing that ever happened to me. Ten years later I graduated from Notre Dame Law School cum laude and had a career as a lawyer with a Fortune 500 Company. My Dad was a working class guy who never made more than ten grand a year. The Army and the G.I. Bill made all the difference.

[@licinian4322]

do you pronounce cum laude as "cum loud"?

[@Blackhoodie85]

That's nice that you made it back.

[@weissrw1]

@@Blackhoodie85 I was lucky - I ended up being stationed in West Germany! We had 100,000 troops there with NATO.

[@Blackhoodie85]

@@weissrw1 Sounds like you guys had it hard there. During the Vietnam War. That's cool that you went from a belligerent teenager to a white-collar bloodsucking lawyer, and managed to make some time in between to wage a war against yellow people from the comfort of a NATO ally.

[@johnsmith2598]

Great

[@christopherwhite8045]

Thank you for your service sir, respect from Australia.

[@Von45Rose]

Thats my kind of AMERICAN!

[@stephenskinner3851]

"People sleep peaceably in their beds at night only because rough men stand ready to do violence on their behalf" - George Orwell

[@eulaliorodriguez5325]

Thank you for sharing this story and history.

[@guillermodvl]

We paratroopers are a special breed. Airborne my comrades.

[@danielt.3152]

Medicine Crow completed all four tasks required to become a war chief: touching an enemy without killing him (counting coup), taking an enemy's weapon, leading a successful war party, and stealing an enemy's horse.[6] He touched a living enemy soldier and disarmed him after turning a corner and finding himself face to face with a young German soldier: The collision knocked the German's weapon to the ground. Mr. Crow lowered his own weapon and the two fought hand-to-hand. In the end Mr. Crow got the best of the German, grabbing him by the neck and choking him. He was going to kill the German soldier on the spot when the man screamed out 'mama.' Mr. Crow then let him go.[3] He also led a successful war party and stole fifty horses owned by the Nazi SS from a German camp, singing a traditional Crow honor song as he rode off.[7][8] Medicine Crow is the last member of the Crow tribe to become a war chief. He was interviewed and appeared in the 2007 Ken Burns PBS series The War, describing his World War II service.

[@ramakfb]

RESPECT!

[@bunk95]

Is someone labeled as an enemy actually an enemy?

[@phatmatty7572]

@@bunk95 i mean yeah that’s kinda how it works

[@bunk95]

@@phatmatty7572 not outside of fiction. You don’t confuse fact and fiction when you decide do you?!!

[@MrS22222]

@@bunk95 medication

[@nicholasmontgomery8594]

Another reason why they wore Mohawks and facepaint was a form of psychological warfare against the Germans. In Germany, stories of the wild west from the perspective of dime store novels portrayed Native Americans as sadists and great warriors. I remember reading a book about famous snipers and there was a squad of Native American snipers in Italy during WWII. As a form of psychological warfare, they would stalk German patrols, capture a straggler, kill him then scalp them. They would then leave the body on German patrol routes.

[@Mattology1]

When those mind games come in handy

[@simonvance8054]

Reminds me of the Gurkhas who were the most feared soldiers by the Germans and Japanese as they had a reputation for hacking enemies heads off with their knives and being completely fearless of their own death or injury… one Gurkha was still charging the japs on his own after his arm was blown off.

[@futzalfan]

Great story told!! So grateful - many personal ties to this story, thank you!

[@DaveWoods-ku5em]

I met quite a few of these old boys as old men they were very surprised for someone to visit them from Britain and what I told them soon brought smiles to their sunburnt faces

[@OnzStorm]

The rebellious spirit of American men is a wonderful gift. These men never give up. Thank you for these men.

[@moonpig16]

Every nation can attest to having a rebellious spirit

[@tomwolfe6063]

Outstanding. I would love to see more videos like this concerning individual units, divisions, regiments, battalions etc. Your writing and narration strikes exactly the right tone and is sorely needed.

[@Ronin1628]

God bless and Thank You for your service, Sir!!!

[@thomashenley2980]

I had the honor to know Jake personally and he was a great and humble man as were the rest of his generation, thank God for them all.

[@MonumentToSin]

My grandfather did two tours in Korea and three tours in Vietnam. Each time he went out searching for his death, only for death to evade him. He's still alive today, too stubborn to die. I swear he'll outlive every person in our family at this point haha.

[@biggys481]

Very Brave Men all the Soldiers who fought for our freedom.

[@andrewharper1609]

My grandparents were in WW2, one grandfather was a flight engineer in the RAF., the other a supplies officer. Even my maternal grandmother was an army Secretary. My 2nd cousin is in army intel. Thank you to all who serve and keep our nations safe.

[@thurin84]

prime example of how training, physical condition, mindset, and audacity of action can combine to create a formidable force greater then the sum of its parts.

[@bunk95]

Umm…winners are always preplanned.

[@krispymac11]

4 successful jumps, and lived to tell the tale. Man, I wish they had GoPro cameras and drone footage from these heroic people. But, it doesn’t matter. What they were able to accomplish can’t be put into video or even into words. It is probably one of the most remarkable military feats in history. That entire generation has always had the upmost respect for me.

[@MARTINespartano1]

I love these stories. Very engaging and super nicely narrated. Keep them coming my friends.

[@marysibayan1]

Jake McNiece' Fearless character is very impressive!

[@AJ-jy6lb]

Dad was 101st, D-day Omaha, Market Garden (A Bridge Too Far), Belgium, Battle of the Bulge and all the way to Germany. Would NEVER talk about any battles, but talked about these fellas. The mohawks, the face paint, the attitude(s). Even how later on in the war, my dad was assigned to the Recon Division, and many of these fellas came along. Many times they were sent to recon for Patton's 3rd Army, only to find out the 3rd had already passed the area they were to recon.

[@adriaanboogaard8571]

I was raised to appreciate and go the extra mile in what I can do for others. It can and not always but too often get taken for granted. It's a shame. He did it with pride and so did the rest . Especially those that gave there lives. Much thanks to them.

[@bunk95]

What if the extra mile you were taught to look for was two steps backwards?

[@davefellhoelter1343]

RIP Greatest Generation! Thanks Pops, and Grand Pops! Uncles, Cousins, and Our Friends! I wish I could have Asked More Question! thank You for Telling me things never spoken of before.

[@sergiodanielvalenciamadrid4488]

Thanks only took me less than a minute to subscribe! awesome channel glad i found it!

[@captainamerica6525]

These types of gruff, hardened, trouble making paratroops were uniquely American. From one Screaming Eagle to the spirit of another...RIP.

[@chrisstopher2277]

FIRST STRIKE!!!

[@Robrulz666icloud]

With respect I totally disagree. With the greatest respect to all soldiers who have served their respective countries RIP.

[@chrisstopher2277]

@@Robrulz666icloud I believe when he said “uniquely American” he was saying they were all very different.

[@moonpig16]

Uniquely American - lol give me a break. You're drunk on your own propaganda

[@chrisstopher2277]

@@moonpig16 propaganda can be no bueno

[@stevehammond9156]

I have (actually had, he died a number of years ago) a second cousin named Walter K. Bennett. He retired as a full bird COL in the 82 ABD. He presented me with my commission back in 1981. At the party afterwards I was talking to Walter and this other COL came up to us and saw the "mustard stain" on Walter's jump wings. He asked my cousin how many combat jumps did you have? My cousin replied "only one". The COL asked him "only one?" to which my cousin replied, "yes, June 6, 1944, maybe you have heard of it". Without saying a word, the COL just walked away. We both got a laugh out of it.

[@georgeszaslavsky]

excellent documentary, thanks for sharing👍

[@studio7063]

Before he passed, I met Jake ,shook his hand and thanked him. He and everyone in his crew are hero's. This was in 2008 at a paintball event in Oklahoma.

[@johnrudy9404]

Wow! One of the unintended benefits of the confusion of the para-troop drops in different locations than planned, was that the Germans were confused as to where the front line was developing. Our guys were good at making do and getting squad together to complete the mission. The Great Depression hardened them mentally AND physically. My uncle Mike(who in never met because KIA), was one of those men. He was CCCs out west and did Tree topping...with a hand saw. He was lean and wiry. PFC, 466th PFAB. Never made it to the ground. Shot by German civilians. I like to think, he had a Thompson, racked the slide and let of a burst, at least injuring his attacker. He died during Operation Varsity, a daylight jump.

[@tremaynewilliams4091]

My grandfather was the toughest man you’ll ever meet through and through, he was 101 airborne in Korea. He had many wild tough sayings , but my current favorite 1 is “ my favorite weapon is my knife “ r.I.p. youngblood

[@rongerman6992]

Awesome!!! Thank you!

[@Noob-Splaining]

My Grandfather was personally responsible for downing 47 Luftwaffe planes in WW2, he still holds the record to this day of worst Luftwaffe mechanic ever.

[@OldJoe212]

Always glad to hear stories of my Screaming Eagle brothers. I was Sgt. Joe, 3/506. 101st ABN, 11 Bravo, '69-'70 in Vietnam. I was told I may have done more than what was required, but I didn't want to insult the memories of the brothers that came before me. And yes, the reputation of the 101st preceded us to 'Nam.

[@billgonzales8978]

welcome home Joe, thanks for your service in the Nam. my brother made it home from Nam.

[@OldJoe212]

@@billgonzales8978 Glad that you got your brother back.

[@petermashak3341]

Almost 50 years ago, I was a Paratrooper in the 509th Airborne, stationed in Italy. We had such a reputation for trouble, that when we trained in Germany, they wouldn’t let us on the base. They told us, just to stay out there in our tents, and they’d bring us whatever we needed. The 509th is credited with making the first combat jump of WWII. Our nickname was the “Nickel O’ Nasty.”

[@jackdundon2261]

I would love to buy you a coffee and listen to your stories! From the bottom of my heart, THANK YOU FOR MY FREESOME.

[@aaronkidd9450]

Oh heaven yes. Awesome.

[@timprescott4634]

Must have been in Vicenza VERY soon after the 09th left the Kaserne where I was stationed from 85-88. Lee Barracks in Mainz Gonsenheim (where I currently live BTW). The reputation of the 09th is INTACT in this town!🤣There was a placard in the ground outside my barracks door which read: Dedicated to the Airborne LT! I wonder if you know THAT story?😂 AATW

[@aaronkidd9450]

Total awsomeness

[@Rockhoundingcolorado]

My Grandfather Gilbert Orville Martin. 4 years in three different Nazi pow camps. A true hero. MY Family settled Virginia, NC, Tennessee, All heros At kings mountain, Until they broke our constitution, because they didnt like it's governance. They all died Traitors. Which way will you go?

[@ovalattitudefromouterspace8106]

nice to know we have rather non sediment heroes out their that just completely take the cake good video . we are proud of your service

[@sisleymichael]

Excellent video! This man was an outstanding warrior. I only have honor and praises for him. My Dad was also from similar circumstances in Texas. He served in the Navy Seabees in the Pacific supporting the Marines. My grandmother said that the war changed my father a great deal. He came back quiet, reserved, and became a Pastor. She said he always seemed to have a chip on his shoulder and never minded a good fight but after the war, all of that was gone. That generation was something else.

[@siseley1]

It is said that; " there are no atheists in foxholes" !!

[@krob8547]

My grandfather was also a seabee construction battalion he was a deep dive welder the old heavy what looked to be a copper helmet with the round window doors on it and the shoulder harness and the weighted feet

[@erict3032]

Very interesting. My great uncle just passed 2 January’s ago and also received the French Legion of Honor medal for his actions in WW2 . He was in the 5th ID and got shot several times by Germans . It was a big ceremony in Washington DC for him with French generals and ambassador. He was a good guy. Not a bad bone in his body

[@angelahungate3437]

RIP Jack, Jake and Jack. I will never forget you.

[@hughbo52]

Really do enjoy your work, great commentary.

[@mochaholic3039]

The movie The Dirty Dozen is based on the Filthy Thirteen. That said Jake McNiece and the Filthy Thirteen deserves a movie or tv series equal to the Band of Brothers's quality.

[@wayneantoniazzi2706]

VERY loosely based!

[@larrycole1991]

I couldn't agree more!

[@jayboley9683]

Exactly what I said. Email Hanks and his team and tell him

[@TheGlobalTravelr]

Excellent overview! RIP Jake McNiece. You are a true Legend.

[@olivias.3071]

Saluting the braves and their sacrifices. Thank you and God bless!

[@fondawilliam8371]

Thank you all for your service.

[@bluecordprecisiongrading2504]

I'm proud to be a Paratrooper and many of the "Band of Brothers" men were my friends. Major Winters, Bill Guarnere and I even went to the same VA Hospitals in Lebanon and Philadelphia

[@moonpig16]

If you say so

[@bluecordprecisiongrading2504]

@@moonpig16 riiiight....I'm just another loser that plays too much Call of Duty in his mom's basement 🤣 I served over a decade in the Army as 11B1C2P, 11H1P, 11M and 11B2P and combat deployed 3 times. I did some cool stuff and once in a while I'll comment about it

[@bluecordprecisiongrading2504]

@@moonpig16 I also see that you're that guy with NO videos of his own, and ONLY leaves snarky, condescending remarks. Let's sit down and have a coffee together

[@moonpig16]

@@bluecordprecisiongrading2504 lol

[@richardclary6267]

@@bluecordprecisiongrading2504 Eoin wants you to be his pappy... reach out for the young man he's always asking ALL those strange men coming in and going out of his mother's room all hours of the night and day if they are! He's desperate for attention and questions everything BlueCord!! and sometimes late at night with the Gargling,plopping,and slapping sounds and the smell of clabbered milk filling the Single wide he puts on his SpongeBob SquarePants pajamas and thinks if he's the only little 41yr old boy who wants a Daddy!!!! Merry Christmas 🤶

[@bhall4996]

The world once produced such real men. Fearless. Honorable. Tough as nails. Wish they were here- we need them more than ever

[@ayugoslav5554]

Now they're in Russia and Chechnya

[@crayyzgames]

There are still such men, and the world will see.

[@crayyzgames]

@@bhall4996 Me as well.

[@douglasfitzovich3366]

I think calling them fearless somewhat dishonors them. They knew fear, but they conquered it by doing their duty despite also fighting fear.

[@douglasfitzovich3366]

@@bhall4996 That’s basically a restatement of my comment. Many writers with combat experience have described courage as the ability to overcome fear, not the absence of fear.

[@LeafsIn2024]

From the child of a British army mother, a Canadian Army D-Day and Holland liberator Dad as well as the niece and sister-in-law of Canadian Air Force Paratroopers, this was really interesting! Thank you!

[@Kiamichi-Okie]

OH - WOW incredible. Thank-you for sharing this Biography with us. I will definitely share this with others.