This story may just save your life

[@elizabethsullivan7176]

Just finished listening to Redacted: Operation Paperclip. It makes so much sense now. I won't post any spoilers, but people really should listen to the podcast. It's definitely thought provoking

[@d1user]

What about if people don't have time to listen to it?

[@elizabethsullivan7176]

@@d1user If you have time to listen to/watch Mr Ballen you have time to listen to the podcast.

[@d1user]

@@elizabethsullivan7176 only got time to listen to one or the other. Just give me a quick run down so my thoughts can be provoked.

[@comradewolf4901]

@@d1user you don’t take an hour long dump at work like the rest of us?

[@mcco2162]

@@d1user if you have time to read and actually comment ..... u got time .....

[@truepatriot8947]

Man I wouldn't count on a family member picking me up from the airport with a "let me check my scedule?" Let alone a friend 5 months later by plane.

[@jessicagutierrez3001]

Literally, the funniest but most accurate comment.

[@shazhanaieril9881]

A drunk friend at that lmao

[@prasantabehera7461]

True true. Carl was too naive to trust his friend who will come back after five months.

[@JSCB-365]

I travel for a living. I'm supposed to go home on paid time off every 6 weeks. My wife recently informed me she thought it had been almost 6 months since I had been home. My chiropractor had better records 4.5 months

[@johnjeffreys6440]

Still, a bad signal idea with the 1 arm in the air. That's a common response to being rescued.

[@carlacook5181]

Always always always tell somebody where you will be and when to expect you to come back.

[@JACKIElovesBLUE]

This. Exactly!!

[@vaskylark]

I'd say tell more than one somebody as a backup.

[@nickangelo16]

I don't talk to anyone whatsoever. Not anymore.

[@mycroftsanchez901]

Also why dump ammo? He could have left it in case someone else needed it.

[@HumanPerson_final]

He made so many mistakes before leaving. It’s sort of surprising given he was so experienced.

[@crystallaws7050]

Ya know... His friend dropped him off. You would think that would have be an excellent time to discuss the pickup

[@martys9972]

"A plane dropped him off in early spring... ." The story did not say that it was Carl's friend who dropped him off. Probably not, by the sounds of it.

[@dylancobalt7807]

Darwin award winners

[@kurtstrider3311]

He hired a different service to drop him off. His friend kinda knew where he was but it obviously wasn't clear that he needed to be picked up. Also, before his trip McCunn was made aware of a hunting cabin 5mi from his camp that he never visited.

[@shamrock241r8]

I think it was a different plane. Remember the reason he said he was tossing the ammo, was because his friends plane was small. I'm sure his supplies were heavier at the start of his journey, than at the end.

[@dylancobalt7807]

@kurtstrider3311 darwin award winnner

[@Rothbard_is_God8082]

The guy was cartoonishly dumb, lol. -Makes drunken pick up plans. -Tells Dad to never call in missing person report. -Throws ammo into the water (why?). -Doesn't know basic survival hand signals. Darwin award of the century.

[@karimecolettadominguez]

Literally

[@arizonabeaver3760]

His son was the bear whisperer, 'Grizzly Man,' Tim Treadwell.

[@shadowballen6463]

I think the ammo thing is due to the weight restriction on a small puddle jumper plane. You try to be as light as possible, but yeah tossing it in the lake was moronic, hell I would leave some other crap behind, no way am I throwing one of my greatest survival tools in a lake...

[@silverstar1178]

@@shadowballen6463 even still..wait until you're actually leaving? but again. this guy was missing some brain cells.

[@OneCash]

Also, (even though I get the whole photographer thing) why does an Alaskan feel the urge to get away from people? Maybe you're the problem if you get annoyed in what's basically an empty state. I don't wanna come to conclusions about his character but it seems like Carl was quite a jerk.

[@TheEdgeLord]

As soon as you said "chucking his ammo in the lake" I immediately thought "Oh he fkd up"

[@CSDonohue11]

Yea. I immediately thought Carl is dumb af

[@hyrsk1552]

Facts, it would have been better for him to just leave it rather than toss it in the lake

[@Rememberthatyt]

It wouldn't have helped him anyway, what was he going to do? Shoot the snow?

[@Don.M.]

@@Rememberthatyt Shoot...game?

[@conniejensen7555]

I had the same exact thought.😁

[@happytrails699]

no way I would feel comfortable relying on someone picking me up after 5 months in a deserted area.... nope

[@stephenh4177]

I barely feel comfortable relying on somebody to pick me up the next day in populated areas with a car...

[@dfernandez3482]

So, you would rather be stuck out there? 🤔🙂

[@davidbordwell8346]

Ill confirm a pickup from an airport like 50x with a friend bc i know life happens and people forget. But to have no radio or way of communicating is crazy. What if he got injured or sick out there? Hed be done anyway

[@Osamabintardin]

​@dfernandez3482 I think he means he'd never go somewhere that long relying on someone else to get him out

[@Xxmystic_shadowxX]

What if it was bear grills?

[@miss_darkrai]

This story actually did save my life. I came across Carl’s story on a subreddit I was a part of and read about it. A few years later, I had injured myself badly while solo hiking/camping in miles of national forest. Fell down a cliff and broke both my legs and fucked up my back. Satellite phone was busted in the fall so I couldn’t call for help. I wasn’t scheduled to come back from my trip for another 2 weeks, so no help would be coming for me anytime soon. With my injuries, surviving for 2 weeks was highly unlikely. Still, I refused to give up. I managed to crawl to an open area. I still had my pack, which was great, though crawling with it on was hell. I was grateful I had it though, because I think that pack was the only thing that saved my spine from breaking in the fall. 2 days later, a plane was flying low over where I was. I signaled it by waving my neon green vest. I was in a sitting position, covered by a blanket to protect me from the cold. For some reason, I remembered Carl’s story. I raised up both my arms. The pilot saw this, and I was rescued. Since my legs were covered by the blanket, the pilot couldn’t see from his vantage point that I was injured. To them, it probably looked like I was just a hiker taking a break. The hand signals were definitely what saved my life.

[@Tobelia]

That’s amazing. Thanks for sharing!

[@vikkitaylor5469]

Thank goodness you were saved! I respect people that do what you do! You MUST be intelligent to do this! Be safe!!

[@Paulaclint76]

Mr Ballen needs to do a story about you!

[@Gawlakman]

That’s pretty amazing

[@freebird3348]

Mate, I’m in absolute awe.

[@bighoss8793]

When the story started by saying the guy was throwing his ammo in the lake. I knew the guy was an absolute moron and was about to win a Darwin award.

[@Strawberry.Letter23]

Exactly. He could have just left the ammo at his camp site since he was planning to return one day anyway. I’m surprised he lasted that first 5 months on his own given how dumb he was.

[@BeardJitsu]

Same. Smh haha

[@OldWomanfromtheMountains]

I was raised in the high mountains - about 9,700 feet - just below tree line (10,000) where the air is too thin for trees to grow. The person Mr. Ballen is talking about made so many mistakes to assist in his survival. Never ever throw out anything that can be used to save your life. Anything that you can eat, protect yourself from animals, keep yourself warm, or keep yourself out of bad weather. Always have a contingency plan because anything that can go wrong, will go on. A backup for the backup for the backup. Be ready to walk yourself out.

[@snteevveetns]

You can store it for others to possibly use in the future as well.

[@kayleigh3648]

Seriously! It’s like he WANTED this to happen…

[@josephrome1183]

You would think those pilots would have come back to check on this guy. They didn't find it strange to see one guy camping in the middle of nowhere. It would have cost them nothing to land and verbally talk to Carl just to make sure he was okay.

[@Allantitan]

@@josephrome1183would have cost what an hour at most? To land, have a quick conversation and then take off again

[@klipklapklop3359]

​@josephrome1183 you have to realise this deep into the wilderness people who are there are by default considered experienced outdoors people and the fact that an "experienced" outdoors man gave a ALL OK sign sealed his fate

[@knutelindstrom3716]

I can’t imagine throwing ammo into a lake. What a waste in such a place. If anything, just stash it, you never know when someone might come across it by chance & it’s desperately needed!

[@raidredemption3327]

Like bro, it won't even take 05 minutes to throw it away after the plane arrives 🤦

[@theresa_s]

​@@raidredemption3327 and honestly it probably weighs 2 or 3 lbs lol

[@grant7059]

There are so many stories of people being “stuck in the wild” that would have died if they didn’t happen upon nearly any item of survival gear coupled by using their knowledge, imagination and ingenuity to make it out to talk about it. Even if it is an extremely small percent- don’t deny them by being an azz.

[@ShannonGarcia-zs6yd]

It's also just bad best practices. "Carry in, carry out." Not "hurl all your junk into pristine waters." I'm not even a tree hugger and that part enrages me.

[@vladimirmonteiro1845]

Me too! I don’t even throw my ammo away in videogames imagine in real life in the middle of nowhere, terrible decision

[@SteadyPeakin]

Throwing ammo into the lake? That’s pretty unbelievable. Also, going without making sure he was getting picked up is just careless and dumb.

[@CaptainHavfun-lp4ok]

Yeah. How could you just throw ammo in a lake? I mean, even if the weather was good, and he was getting picked up, that's polluting a pristine Alaskan lake!

[@defaulted9485]

Im not a gun owner nor knew to operate one, but I thought NOT dumping ammo into lakes is common sense? Like... you gonna break a frozen lake to get that ammo? You're poisoning water supplies for... ammo storage?

[@goldie5111]

EXTREMELY CARELESS AND SOOOOOOO DUMB!!

[@CaptainHavfun-lp4ok]

@@defaulted9485 Yes. Littering is stupid.

[@Benz_inc]

It’s about weight and space since the plane was small the more room the better

[@susancarlisle]

Why on earth would you tell your father to never, ever report you as missing if you missed your return date? That is beyond foolish! And throwing your ammo in the lake instead of burying it in case you need it later? And then to not evwn bother confirming whether your friend could pick you up or not??? This man made several terrible mistakes

[@mj2672]

I would not honor such a ridiculous request of never reporting my child missing. I'd tell them if they don't want me to report them missing then keep in contact

[@bodhixxx1]

He should of tied the extra ammo in a tree in case he needed it later I never threw ammo away also I always use the rule when at the local range make sure you keep one full mag for the ride home.

[@あおいねこBlueCat]

If it was so cold and getting colder I don't know if burying would be of use. I would keep my ammo safe with me until I knew for sure someone was coming for me and not stopped by accident or weather. But you make good point about not bothering to confirm.

[@GreezEweezel]

Nobody who has purchased ammo or shot a gun would throw ammo into the lake. Absolutely unbelievable.

[@SyIis]

It's an old old story and sounds like he was in a pretty rich well off family or he was wealthy to be doing these adventures so often I'm sure it was nothing to throw ammo away and I'm sure he barely shot the gun Edit: I should add my point was that he seemed to live off of a very care-free, careless mindset and lifestyle. Accompanied by seemingly no consequences prior, leading him to this situation. In short, I'm alluding to the fact that he's never had to rough it genuinely before this point, he had no survival skills for a person constantly going on these trips.

[@NotHappening-b8t]

ammo is heavy. and if you know much about little planes. or really any plane. weight is a huge factor... most plane crashes are caused due to improper loading. ie over weight etc. i was shocked to learn just how much pain all that is. you really need to be careful on the smaller planes. even no luggage, and just to many people or to heavy of people can be huge issue. so yes tossing ammo in this scenario is OK to do...... but he did it way to early.. should of ofc kept it around until pickup was 100%...... all that said. was least of his mistake. even with lots of ammo. he probably couldnt of hiked out. wouldnt been able to carry it all. guy didnt plan, didnt have backup plans, didnt comunicate with anyone. guy was just asking to get fucked. all these are way bigger mistakes then tossing the ammo in lake lol.

[@ShadeSlayer1911]

@@NotHappening-b8t He didn't have to throw it in the lake though. Even if he couldn't bring it all back with him, why couldn't he have just left it...ON LAND? What was he worried about leaving it lying around? Was he worried bears might get their paws on it? Oh no, another hunter might find his ammo...and what?

[@Youtube-Is-Trash]

@@NotHappening-b8t No, tossing ammo in this scenario is not ok. It's brain dead stupid. Just like your thought process.

[@algee6005]

@@NotHappening-b8t no need to gaslight yourself into thinking it's ok to throw the ammo in the lake my dude lol zero reason to throw it in the lake. why not just hide it?

[@hermanmunster4949]

This is one of the many reasons why I camp at a tropical all-inclusive resort..!

[@lauritamburrino5179]

Me too 😅😅😅

[@joannaison8265]

Absolutely 😂😂😂

[@Leo_Lise]

😂

[@chrisdownes9771]

I aint vex wid ya 😂😂😂better be safe than sorry

[@leslienold7719]

Epic🎉

[@nandarox528]

Actually found this out recently. My family was in the middle of hurricane Helene's destruction. We had several helicopters fly over many times the first few days. I have some medical issues & was starting to have symptoms leaning towards needing a hospital soon. We had no power, no water, no internet, nothing to get out to the world that we needed help. So, after about 4 days, we made "Medivac needed ASAP!" signs that we put on both sides of the roof, had bright colored shirts that we could wave, & mirrors to flash pilots. Thanks to one pilot circling around, seeing my son bust his ass on the deck to go wave a shirt, & coming in close to read the signs, we were able to be rescued. All the roads around us were washed out & gone & I physically wouldn't be able to hike down the mountain to get to the local VFD. So... thankyou Mr. Greg Biffle (former NASCAR driver & my hero) for saving our lives!

[@dracofirex]

THANK YOU GREG!

[@missmissy_90]

God bless Greg. nandabox, I am so happy you were rescued. Bless you and your son, and may you be healed and able to move forward. Much ❤

[@nicholassprada6845]

I'm down here as well and living out of a Hotel for the past 58 days due to the two hurricanes. That's one heck of a story and out of anyone to come rescue you it was the one and only Greg Biffle. that's awesome.

[@LeeMuayThai]

Glad you got help!

[@acw3007]

Thank goodness for civilian pilots. They really were the ones who saved WNC. So glad you got out ok 🙏

[@Elizabeth-iv3gn]

I generally feel bad and empathic towards people who make wrong choices and decisions or they have bad luck, but I am honestly struggling to feel bad for Carl. Carl's mindset: I am going to go camping in the wilderness for 6 months, no means of communication, not telling anyone in my family and ordered them to NOT contact authorities if they think I am missing and my only means of return was a casual conversation with my buddy while we were drinking and didn't get a 100% confirmation that he would pick me up and didn't have a back up plan. What could go wrong?? 🥴🥴🥴 This story honestly reminds me of that story with the 2 guys who went hiking in a desert, they were told to bring a certain amount of water, they thought it was 'overkill', so they brought 2 mini bottles of water inbetween them for a 24-48 hour hike in a desert that goes upto 45C / 125f, on top of that, these geniuses used one of the bottles to cook hotdogs...

[@karlepaul6632]

Really? It just seems like some obviously terrible mismanagement...if his backstory contained information of him being an asshole or was disrespectful to nature or something.... whatever, if he was the type of person who had it coming to him, then ok...but there was nothing to indicate he was that type of an individual...So unlike you i do feel empathy...and to those that cared about him as well

[@Elizabeth-iv3gn]

@@karlepaul6632 If you feel empathy towards him, that's your choice. 'Mismanagement' or not, his lack of planning ending up costing him his life. If someone (not talking about Carl) decides its best to go camping to a secluded location with ZERO supplies and no means of return and communication, I am not going to feel bad if you get stuck there. He was 100% incompetent. I don't have to feel empathy towards someone who has planning skills equivalent to a 7 year old.

[@mechadonia]

@@karlepaul6632 I think forgetting to double check on the return flight, tossing out his ammo, telling his parents not to contact authorities, etc etc… many mistakes were made here, too many to write off as just a blunder, this is just reckless disregard for your own life. Obviously a tragedy, but people aren’t gonna feel bad for him the same way as they would someone who’s circumstances they didn’t bring upon themselves.

[@foamybutt8646]

Our species is strong without the dumb ones

[@samwelonduko9696]

🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣🤣 " the geniuses " !

[@Marie-mo9id]

I'm way too paranoid to ever go camping by myself in the middle of nowhere.

[@Martell-XO]

Watch all the 911 stories. That'll reassure you.

[@TheButcher-w7z]

That is not paranoid., that is rational. Camping in the middle of the artic by yourself ironically seems much more paranoid. He clearly did not have all his faculties in order.

[@jeffmiller8197]

I'd rather go camping by myself than with someone I don't know or trust. Mind plays tricks on you after awhile, just much more peaceful alone instead of being paranoid about someone you're with the whole time.

[@MissTina427]

Me too..!!Too many mr.ballen stories from camping in the middle of no where😱

[@jamesbroomfield7799]

Going out that far and secluded, you need some type of communication. I'd rent a satellite phone or something. You can't just go out into the middle of nowhere and not have some way of communication. Satty phone with some type of solar energy device to charge it. I'm not going out in the wilderness without it

[@TauraBull98]

Growing up in Alaska we were taught this story in an outdoor education class, I think of it nearly every time a bush plane flies overhead

[@Trex_Matcha]

warm tea before bed + cold shower + rainy weather + fuzzy blanket + full charged headphones and phones + silent notifications + mrballen = perfect night

[@DewTime]

Uhmmm, cold?

[@andrewthompson536]

I understand getting out a hot jacuzzi or workout and going into a cold shower can be nice but straight up…not so good?

[@nicolew4877]

I find it very hard to feel sorry for Carl. He was so careless and nonchalant about his own safety, didn’t bother to double check with his friend about the pick-up, and just generally relied on pure luck. Going into the wild with such attitude is bound to end up badly. Rest in peace Carl.

[@WendyDarling1974]

Plus no locator beacon. Although would that work in that area….?

[@djg5950]

At a minimum if I was in this situation I'd spell out the word HELP in large letters with rocks. Lake shore ? Had to be plenty of rocks around.

[@steverobertson1729]

True, but speaking of double checking....the pilot should have landed and double checked too! I want someone to explain to me how its rational to see someone frantically waving a bright orange sleeping bag at you to get your attention, then see them do a fist pump...which can mean a variety of things....but its OK to ignore their clear distress signal and turn around and go home😡😡

[@gunslinger9171]

​@steverobertson1729 yeah no kidding

[@RichardHorvatich963]

Guy sucks at planning for his safety, and you suck at empathy. Thanks for clearing that up.

[@11CharlieJMAC]

Never get rid of any gear permanently especially while still being in a position of needing that gear.

[@MassageSamurai1]

That was my first thought. If you had to dump stuff for the plane ride why not wait until the plane is there??

[@AntonioDavid-qu3zq]

Dude probably dumped all his extra food too but had just enough pride left not to mention that in the diary.

[@ITIsFunnyDamnIT]

There was a cabin 5 miles away from his campsite that he was told about but never went to. Never bothered to look at the basic instructions, never told anyone where he was going and told his dad to never contact the police if he goes missing. Throwing the ammo in the lake was really stupid. It's hard to feel any sympathy for someone that stupid. Darwin award winner for sure.

[@dfernandez3482]

And that reasoning is what made me a hoarder 😂😰

[@leonaheraty3760]

So true!

[@echopeakbicycling85]

He lost his life over a misunderstanding. That's tragic.

[@John5.56]

He sadly lost his life due to poor planning, risky decisions and some straight up goofy ones.

[@McUsernameFace]

He was incredibly reckless and still constantly lucky. This is like deep sea diving and not understanding what a "thumbs up" means.

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

And overconfidence, to not read the hunting license at least once just to know what it says was tragic. And to make a plan with a drunk friend with no confirmation on the date and location is again overconfidence, and actually asking for it. He was careless from the start.

[@meatpuppet5036]

No, he lost his life over a series of incredibly preventable mistakes.

[@bencarter7839]

Most problems are due to erroneous or missing communication of some sort.

[@mikemedcheck8475]

I'm a medical courier and there's a lot of times where I end up driving in the middle of the night. There is nothing better than listening to a mr ballen story while doing it. Thank you for making my job easier

[@Orangejuiceandsandwich]

Some other yt places i recommend are Why files Luetin 09 Exploring series Green dot aviation

[@jeffvincent6690]

Same! I listen to LLC too

[@Eds7570]

Except avoid the really spooky ones. 😅

[@justinlynch3]

Pilot sees guy in the middle of the woods waving him down with a bright orange sleeping bag, then leaves because he raise one arm. Even if the signal for distress is two arms waved, if the person is flagging you down I feel you still stop and check things out. What if the guys other arm was injured, what if he raised one arm in mistake? I mean sure if your flying by and you see the guy, and all he does is raise one arm. Fine. But the fact he flagged you down first should indicate the guy was in trouble.

[@lilafeldman8630]

Yeah, I know, I feel the same way. The pilot should have stopped to check. When you're that far out, the Arctic circle, then why wouldn't you?

[@CSDonohue11]

Sounds like none of them were very bright Especially Carl

[@birdsong46]

I agree with the reply...yep why wouldn't you stop and check...just in case

[@maddoxthediehardbillsfan]

no. he is an experienced outdoorsman with an established camp and time to leave. he literally said "all good dont wait" and you expect a pilot to say "ehh, why not waste gas, time, and the chance of saving someone who is actually in danger"? come on now.

[@Janellabelle]

Yea someone alone in the middle of the woods waving orange sleeping stuff seems sufficient, to me at least, that they're in distress. He could've called someone to the area; that's all he had to do.

[@ericp1139]

Wow, that has to be the worst body sign policy ever. What if the person has an injured arm? I guess they’re screwed?

[@Artyomthewalrus]

Wave your good arm, don't hold it still. Don't turn and walk away. I did look it up, the reason the pilot decided to leave after doing 3 passes was because he calmly turned and walked back to his tent. That is very much not normal for someone wanting help. (the pilot didn't even mention the hand signal as his reason)

[@Eds7570]

You can lay flat on the ground, a sign you need medical help if nothing else.

[@rosemadder5547]

Or only one arm.

[@rosemadder5547]

​@@Eds7570 I've laid down in the woods a LOT....

[@iftekhar77]

@@Eds7570 thats even terrible.. what if you're mistaken for being asleep... LOL

[@Sniperboy5551]

Never get rid of your ammo, you never know when you might need it.

[@taylorbug9]

Every decision that man made confused me deeply. How could anyone be so callous with their own life?

[@jro341]

Right. That would be the last thing I would ever throw in a lake.

[@Hollylivengood]

And always plan the camp, and camp the plan. Just so many problems that didn't need to happen if he had just re-checked the ride, the communication, weather.

[@BradD1997]

Yup it applies to more then just ammo too! Never treat something like its forsure going to happen, you should always prepare for plans to fall through, because you never know if somethings going to come up or not, this applies to everything including smaller things like getting a ride home from somewhere, especially if the person isnt basically family. I live by this rule, got trust issues when it comes to stuff like that and because of it im never that disappointed, surprised or inconvenienced because of it unless thats my only possible option.

[@doctorfeelok8575]

More important, don't be a DlCK and pollute our lakes.

[@dhruvcv9771]

11:30 When you see there's still 7 minutes left in the video *sweats profusely*

[@marmar69-lj6bi]

MrBallen on a saturday is amazing

[@KhallidMuhammad-k5j]

Agreed!

[@reneehomen2226]

He is the best story teller ever!

[@lizardbruh]

Oh really? Can you explain how so?

[@marmar69-lj6bi]

@ He usually posts on sunday

[@Vagabond_Etranger]

Maybe he's going back to posting 4-5x a week??? 😆

[@speculore5268]

I actually heard this story from an English teacher in high school. Hearing you tell it makes it even more chilling and unnerving. It really does do to show how important it is to really know what you're doing when it comes to your hobbies and interests.

[@DebiQ1830]

He told this one live on tour. It was the one that really got me. I'm glad he saved that last box!

[@Everyoneisanartist776]

He’s told this on the channel

[@tonym8765]

Well unfortunately the guy wasn’t the smartest, stupid decision after stupid decision

[@Randomyoutubecommenter]

Life is so exhausting, you need to know everything to survive or nothing at all and just rely on your body

[@NathalieMelissa]

​@@Randomyoutubecommenter and mind...

[@Sarahopal]

I love solo camping. Its my absolute favorite thing to do. Carl made every single mistake he could've made and I am shocked

[@conflict7269]

Absolutely he just assumed everyone was gonna read his mind i guess sad for real maybe it was all the fish he ate

[@Sarahopal]

@conflict7269 lol maybe. Too much mercury? I wondered if he was drinking a little sea water. I couldn't imagine not letting someone know where I am and when I'll be back. Especially on long trips far from home

[@jeffjones7108]

If so many people hadn't mentioned hearing about it, I would've assumed it was an early attempt at an AI-generated cautionary tale. Probably the only reason he's remembered at all is because his decisions were so offensively terrible. And he was still almost rescued. It wasn't just the wrong hand signal. The paper reported the pilot said he waved the bag "in a casual manner and watched us fly by. On the third pass he turned and walked back toward the tent, slowly, casually. No wave, no nothing." So they assumed he was fine, because why wouldn't you? On top of everything else, he behaved in pretty much the worst way you possibly could if you need to be rescued.

[@trvvst5854]

Ai generated tale wtf 🤣

[@josephromeo7541]

8:25 to skip add for podcast

[@ripnlips9671]

How about watch it you freeloader

[@Martial-Mat]

Who the hell made a waving hand "Okay?!" That seems like it was specifically designed for misunderstanding!

[@carlovincetti4538]

The problem is they need to know if someone is stranded, so hand signals are given to prevent rescue sent for someone not needing it, even if they are looking for someone. There are other hunters in the wild as well. Also that hand signal is perfect for saying, it is ok. Like, "we are good, right on for stopping by."

[@jimf.1318]

It's all by design...

[@josephdavis4956]

One would naturally throw both hands up in joy of being rescued. Darwin was right. He wasn't fit

[@EM-mw2qr]

The pilot should have stopped anyway. Especially seeing someone all alone that late into the winter.

[@cdes1776]

It wasn't just a waving hand. He said it was a fist pump (of joy) in the air. Listen!

[@headers12]

That Carl guy was a true knucklehead. Really hard to feel sorry for him, when he literally did everything possible for this outcome to occur. He had zero regard for his safety.

[@keristockton9655]

Knucklehead... You sir, win the comment section. That's EXACTLY what he is.

[@michellemartinov6267]

I’m not exactly sure who this guy thought he was going to get to pick him up not having anyone to call - not like he could just use a cellphone to call someone else. And since his friend couldn’t definitely come and get him - not for nothing did Rory think he could somehow contact someone different?

[@ducducgoose989]

Yeah this guy was a moron

[@ahabduennschitz7670]

​@@keristockton9655 *was

[@NotHappening-b8t]

@@michellemartinov6267 i would think the friend... asssumed since he never followed up, that he found another ride. that said. his friends, etc all made mistakes on not checking in after a month.. and pilot at the end. i cant imagine why you wouldnt land. just to be like hey? u sure your ok? i get there is the universal sign etc. but still. lets face it. i doubt that pilot had better things to do at that moment.. i sure he could of landed went out for a chat. especially after seeing someone waving a fing sleeping bag at you as u go by.... like wtf was going through his mind? guy was imo clearly neglegent...... dont get me wrong. the camper-photographer was def the main idiot here. not making extra sure he had pickups and backups. people knowing his schedules, and backup people. etc.

[@JennDepsycho]

This story serves as a harrowing and grim reminder to always check in with someone when you're planning a trip out on your own, no matter how short or long you expect the trip to be. Whether it's family, friend, a trusted acquaintance, or even the local PD or Wildlife Agency - let SOMEONE know your planned departure, destination, and return time frame when journeying solo. That, plus learning the signals for safety and rescue would be a massive benefit. My heart DROPPED for this poor guy when I heard the single, simple error he made that sealed his fate.

[@user-xr4jc9fy1s]

It was more than just a single error. He made a whole series of errors and bad decisions, any of which could have saved him had he made a different choice.

[@klipklapklop3359]

He basically violated every wilderness rule and sealed his fate

[@stormybridges]

I became a fan of dark and mysterious story telling the minute I watched your videos. When I get migraines, you are the one I turn to because all I can do is sit there in the dark and wait for the pain to stop and hope I eventually go to sleep. I discovered that I can listen to your videos without having to look at a screen which would make the migraine worse and it helps me relax and take my mind off of the pain. Thank you for all of your hard work!

[@wrockage]

look into emgality, it works!

[@Selena._-xd6wt]

KZbin seriously needs to stop hiding videos from us for 20 seconds. Love you Mr. Ballen!

[@daniellebibona1503]

10 minutes for me.

[@shawnadennis613]

Sometimes KZbin hides a video from me for up to 3 minutes! It’s infuriating!

[@Mak.00000]

@@daniellebibona1503same

[@blakeley38]

KZbin needs to stop censoring comments .

[@risingpinoy]

13 mins for me

[@CM-76]

Mr. Ballen told this live during his show in Nashville. It was awesome to hear it live. Thank you, John, for letting us in to the Strange, Dark,& Mysterious world live.

[@daiseylynns]

Where is the Nashville short??!! I'm dying!! And yes this was so good/sad live!

[@cl3488]

I heard it in Chicago. Great story!

[@MyVintageVibes]

I was at your Atlanta show with my boys when you told this story. This story really got to us - & most of the audience. Your show was definitely a great experience! 🙂

[@alexispedraza7233]

Chicago here! Heard it for the first time live and it was awesome!

[@wenryan4803]

Heard it live in NYC ❤ amazing

[@TrapperAaron]

We used wilderness camp in Canada. We would do a 3 month tour of the border lakes. Even w full rations we all came out weighing 30lbs less. Step A, is always check in if its a national park type place. If not let some authority in the area know ur plans. Step B is let friends or family, or the postman if u have no one else know ur return or check back date. Step C is make sure if u have a way in u have a way out.

[@alexandradittmann8588]

Good idea to let the postman know, especially for folks without family - or reliable friends like Carl.

[@adetoun702]

I had my mouth wide open for a solid minute when you mentioned the sign he gave costing him his life. Omg!!! I'm flabberdazzled.. 😮

[@Heather-xm9ul]

Without exception, throwing away ammo like that is STUPID

[@dinarusso3320]

Not trying to be rude but a lot of people in these videos have made stupid choices.... not everyone, some just had bad luck, but a lot of dumb choices

[@MostlySteve]

Yeah, WTF? why would you throw ammo into a Lake?....ever? It'd be easier to literally leave it on the ground. I'm sure there's a reason...and it's dumb. 😆

[@EphemeralProductions]

Exactly. NEVER assume you don’t need a certain supply you have with you. Keep it! Until the INSTANT you’re safe and sound and out of whatever place or situation you were in.

[@lbec9487]

In the end it wasn’t the dumbest decision. The dumbest decision was being so casual about the details of his return.

[@EM-mw2qr]

​@@lbec9487For sure. He made life or death plans with someone while they were both drunk off their ass.

[@Duuuuuuuke]

I always start out feeling bad for these guys before finding out they make the worst decisions possible, or do things I would never do in a million years

[@HeatherL7290]

Right, what was he thinking... he had no idea what he was doing....he didn't know hand signals for rescue either!

[@10willybilly]

​@HeatherL7290 he even got mad at his family for calling authorities on him when he was missing, and told them never do it again. His ignorance dug his own grave

[@Idoalltypesofdrugsandcookmeth]

@@10willybilly he did it to himself

[@thegreyarea-WPP]

@@HeatherL7290I used to do a lot of mountaineering whenever I was on leave. It’s surprising how few people know any kind of signalling beyond writing SOS on the ground with whatever they can get ahold of. As maddening as this story is, it doesn’t shock me in the slightest to find someone else without that knowledge. Truth be told, it surprises me more when people do know semaphore signals. My own knowledge comes from an RAF background. I’ve lived in the north of Sweden, so I can certainly imagine how it would have been. It’s certainly not something I’d do without a definite plan to get back though.

[@seriessplayer62747]

@@thegreyarea-WPPYeah fr, in my opinion him telling his dad to never call the authorities ever again is just a complete ego move. He obviously sucks at properly communicating to his relatives about his trip plans and thinks he’s invincible. I see people blaming the pilot but tbh, it’s his own fault. Doing something like that, he should’ve sat down and thoroughly had a labeled map and had a time window on his trip to give to a few of his close friends or relatives. I don’t care how experienced someone is, they should always tell at-least one person what where they are going to be and what time they will be back by at minimum. Nature doesn’t care about someone’s ego, nature is completely unpredictable and nature is unforgiving. This dude is a complete moron and selfish for basically making no effort at all about telling his relatives about his trip plans. Dumbass didn’t even know the SOS signs. I’m sorry but his ego got the best of him

[@Bassillixx]

He could have made an SOS sign, with sticks or Rocks or scratched in the soil.

[@zeonmoo192]

You're giving him too much credit, this is the same guy who threw his ammo in the lake and told his parents not to look for him if he's late

[@WhittaII]

@@zeonmoo192not just that. Enough confidence in his ability to survive but doesn’t even know the universal sign of “all ok” I didn’t know it either but I’m also not a survivalist in the arctic circle lol

[@funbrandi2603]

Didn't they say there was only one friggin airplane that ever flew over in like two effing years!?

[@lima4923]

@@WhittaII I mean evidently, neither was he

[@miryana79]

Lol

[@madmarduk1936]

Glad for a new MrBAllen video. Just had my position eliminated at work right before Christmas. A reminder that there are worse horrors than my life does help.

[@lawliet6910]

Sorry you’re going through this, I hope you have some good community with you helping you get through this

[@killjoyce5945]

I love how every time you mention miles, you add what the lenght means in kilometer. It really makes me happy as someone who dont use or know miles!

[@justout75]

Just remember 0.6 miles is 1 km.

[@suhtangwong]

You lost me ​@@justout75

[@Emma88178]

Same when other channels use kilometers but add the imperial system. I don't know the metric system. However if a channel only adds metric at least Google is handy. Lol

[@LoneStarStinger]

America just HAD to be different than the rest of the world. Gah.

[@dargzy]

@@LoneStarStingerWHAT THE FUCK IS A KILOMETRE 🦅🦅🦅🦅🦅

[@katinathomas]

This is a crazy story. Always confirm with friends

[@jonnybgood9376]

Thank you for helping me get through the loss of my father & his illness as well sir.

[@lukewhiting3025]

I hope you’re doing ok! Mr ballen does help us through the tough times

[@barbarahomrighaus6852]

Praying for you 🙏

[@brendad940]

I am so sorry for your loss.

[@JoJoTinkRN]

I’m so very sorry for your loss!!! 💜

[@JCourts2k23]

Sorry for your loss, I lost my dad three years ago this month to Alzheimers

[@Deuce.Hemi345]

15:52 That’s That Hurt❤️‍🩹

[@DeepVoicedDude]

This was... sad but also just confusing. Dude intentionally stranded himself in the wilderness with no concrete plans for pick-up, no plans left with anyone about where he was or when he'd be back, and no method of signaling for help in an emergency. Basically committed every cardinal sin of solo camping/hiking and it was for a FIVE MONTH trip. Death was pretty much inevitable.

[@burtonhughes8052]

With every dumb action he took, he made the end more inevitable

[@michellerutherford9551]

Thats what I'm sayin❤

[@roryasrorri701]

Death was next to him the whole time, shaking their head everytime Carl did something stoobid, muttering, "You really want me to pick you up early, don't you?"

[@lucasclark4831]

I love it when we get a Mr Ballen tale a day early!!!! I was getting super annoyed I couldn't find anything good or interesting to watch.. then out of nowhere I get the notification that the goat dropped a story early!!!!! Thank you Mr.B for being so effing epic to the core we love you!!!!!!

[@HustlerUnion420]

He is pretty much a Hero without a cape

[@sweetness371]

I so wish the pilot would have come back a few days later to check on him again. How tragic.

[@bradkirchhoff5703]

Imo that should be at least a reason to fire that officer…100 miles from anything. Winter coming….You at least note that you fn saw a camper there and to go back in a week or so to check it out.

[@dennisnielsen8030]

​@@bradkirchhoff5703No.. Flying is expensive, you cant do rutine checkup on all backpackers. He should have learned basics before going.

[@warningdeadinside2537]

​@@bradkirchhoff5703No? It's not the pilot's fault that Carl was an idiot.

[@crxzycxctus2901]

I have listened to you since the beginning and all of my coworkers and I love you. Thank you for helping me through some of the hardest times in my life ❤

[@jordanabbotty5402]

This doesn’t let you off the hook for Sunday bro

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

He’ll be back, he wouldn’t do that to us, we got a bonus because they’re hoping more people will listen to “Redacted” the new podcast.

[@justinakers3196]

Lol this is our week's vid

[@damarisobonyo677]

​@@justinakers3196😂true x

[@ateele7]

Closing in on 10 million subs. Mr Ballen is really ballen out. Congrats to your success man. You deserve it.

[@OphanielH]

Genuinely made me tear up, imagine how he felt knowing he sealed his own fate.

[@Catherine3511]

Yeah, twice for that matter.

[@NoRelationRuckus]

Right then an there I’m walking those 75 or however many miles it takes to get to civilization, Skinny and starving or Not before I take the easy way out. Nope.

[@kinGsaL1515]

thats just for dramatic effect probably added by MR Ballen to make the story more interesting. If the guy killed himself before speaking to anyone again, and nothing in his diary said anything about that, then how would anyone know he realized his mistake?

[@hippiebits2071]

@@kinGsaL1515His diary very likely either did say something about it or the guys who did the fly over remembered later on. Why would you even suggest it wasn’t true just out of the blue like that?

[@colinferry1743]

I would feel like such an idiot... He didn't even confirm with his friend that he's picking him up... Like really? And you tossed your ammo into the lake the day before you get picked up or that you think you're getting picked up? Why? Such dumb choices

[@ACVRG1]

Mr Allen, I love your stories and have been watching since 2021. I just want to say, I have admittedly been absent from your viewership for a few months and just found this video recommended to me and I noticed that you seem tired or less enthused about your story. I just want to say that I hope you’re able to take time away from your content to recoup your energy and focus on yourself and your health. You’re an awesome person, your own life story is always an inspiration to me. Hope you read this and it helps a little. Love from Arizona 👋🏽

[@jeaniehorton5964]

That is one of the saddest stories I’ve ever heard! That poor man! I cannot even imagine his pain.

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

@@jeaniehorton5964 even with everything he went through the pain of starvation has to be as bad or worse than the mental torture.

[@thedude4672]

His stupidity boggles the mind

[@bluetextonwhitebg]

you need to watch more mrballen episodes if you think this is one of the saddest lol. this guy was nothing short of a candidate for the darwin award.

[@sincerely_sepita]

Oh my God! The way my heart sunk when I learned what the sign meant. I can't imagine how Carl felt when he did. He suffered not only physically but mentally and emotionally too. Rest in peace.

[@smthnew861]

this is actually one of the most important videos you've ever made! i had no idea about this sign. my god!

[@Schrogs]

Did you plan to go on a solo hunting trip in the middle of nowhere?

[@ChuMaiWhong]

0:24 … I’m new here. What?

[@supaflexxdj]

You in for good one❤

[@kassieluv1133]

Instead of saying to smash that like button he just says stuff that inconveniences the like button lol

[@gemmagreene362]

On this page, we do terrible things to the Like Button. And we feel no shame.

[@jessg1345]

@@kassieluv1133💯🤗

[@timelordacaelus5959]

​@@kassieluv1133 "Inconvenience" is perhaps too nice a term for some of the things he says.

[@12thDecember]

That pilot should have known the difference between what looks like a simple right-hand turn signal and an excited fist pump that was preceded by enthusiastic waving of an orange sleeping bag. You would think he would have told people about the unusual campsite when he returned to the hanger, and someone would have followed up. Carl made a mistake for sure, but the authorities and his friends failed him beyond belief. Edit to add, I read the trooper's summary of the event and I think he was definitely covering his behind.

[@donnabeach1250]

100% failed beyond belief.

[@Traumasamanen]

Can you link the trooper's summary?

[@desertweasel6965]

Especially with winter approaching and knowing the person could not survive it. It wouldn't matter if they did give me an " I'm ok" signal I'm radioing to let people know there is a human in the wilderness and he will not make it through winter. Go down there and at least try to talk some sense into the guy.

[@ms-jl6dl]

He works for the government.

[@Tdotttttt]

The question is, WHY ON EARTH ANYONE THOUGHT THE EXCITED FIST UP that closely resembles one arm up, would be the one that conveys Yep I am good, please leave me alone?? This is beyond dumb. Dumber than Carl himself whoever came up with these signals.

[@markhewitt4307]

When Mr. Ballen drops a video, it makes Saturday even better

[@Clarkobe]

Hell yeah Raidernation my friend

[@Tdotttttt]

PLEASE ONLY DISCUSS THE STORY! STOP SPAMMING WITH THIS

[@AltClev37]

That was incredibly depressing 😔 poor guy.

[@raielle]

Bro literally set every flag himself. Darwin award winner.

[@teppo9585]

An utter moron. I can only assume youre also one for having any sympathy. He put a bullet in his own head, did you miss that part? So when things don´t go as youve planned you will place a bullet in your head instead of doing what you need to do to fix your situation?

[@xxxPrInCoSxxx]

He made his own bed.

[@gracenote1837]

I wish I hadn't watched it.

[@blondieYorkie]

@@gracenote1837me too 😢

[@AVH8TOR]

You haven’t popped up on my feed for a while. Honestly my favorite KZbinr. I wish I could write a book on the numerous times I should’ve died. I’ve had so many separate little instances like Carls where one little thing that I did right, let me be here today to write this. Between flying planes, shooting sports, riding motorcycles, sailing, the list goes on and on.. And there is a story for each. Maybe one day. But still have a lot left life and a lot left to write.

[@dragonwolf7962]

I could have sworn you had posted this before but then realized you did this one live and that is why I had heard it before.

[@BriarLeaf00]

I'm pausing at 2:30 to comment, being in the arctic circle, hell, being in the forest in northern new england without a sidearm and ammo, at all times, is absolutely a death sentence if bad turns to worse. So, while Im interested in how this will turn out, my instincts say "not well"

[@yangtzeling7468]

No sympathy for him. He had no qualms dumping his “trash” into the lake.

[@Treevors30]

What part of New England are you a Masshole, a Maniac? Possibly from shjt Hampshire? I'm from shjt Hampshire so I was just wondering. A couple of years ago me and my dad drove up to the mountains you know during tourist season when the leaves are changing and yeah that's a dangerous place. I'm wondering if Maine is as dangerous not 100% sure but I mean there's been planes that or a plane that's crashed and they haven't found it in the mountains so that's New England for you as East bumb Fuk as it gets.. well Northern East

[@Horner181]

My thoughts exactly

[@GeorgeVeneno]

I did exactly the same thing. Ammo is the last thing I will get rid of while I’m alone in the wilderness.

[@dinkvjr]

And you are correct, I thought the exact same thing. Thankfully he was smart enough to keep a box but why would you ever throw away ammo?? Especially before leaving, you could throw it in the water as you walk to the helicopter and wtf goes out there before making sure your ride would be there????

[@jeffroid_tv]

Thank You SOOOO MUCH for doing your "Live Tour"!!! Jannette getting to meet you in Nashville on her 60th. Birthday was Amazing! YOU ROCK!!! We traveled all the way form California to Tennessee and besides getting to see you live, I am pretty sure that we found the state we will retire to! And continue to follow your content. You have touched so many with your skill of storytelling!!! God Bless You and Yours Always! Thanks John!!!

[@JimmyNguyen-u6j]

You’re welcome happy birthday

[@soniabailey9613]

I've been a subscriber for years. Watched every video you've ever put out, Jon. But this one . . . chilling. Imagine realising you are your own grim reaper.

[@Biniyam3832]

You are the only person that can make me watch a 30 minute story time, no one does it like you. We love you Mr ballen.

[@dantastic044]

This video is 17 minutes and 46 seconds.

[@10willybilly]

​@@dantastic044ok and grass is green the sky is blue what's your point

[@keymoney204]

2:52 just based off the fact he for some reason tossed his ammo into the lake kind of insinuates that he’s losing his mind if it’s not already lost. he was alone for a long time. but i have not finished the story so i will report back after i hear what happened

[@jenniferatkinson9085]

Yeah I was thinking about you better have your weapon in some extra magazines or something

[@ghostlysoot]

Ammo is and has always been pretty expensive. No sane person would do that, you're 100% correct. Not to mention how important ammunition is while camping. Ammunition also doesn't take up that much space.

[@keymoney204]

@ like how did it take him 6 months to remember that he never actually confirmed his way back home ..

[@dondada5329]

‼️ same timing

[@cory5014]

3 strikes and you're out, he didn't get a ride home confirmed, told his father not to seek help if hes missing, then he waves off his one shot to go home.....and not to know the proper gestures before you even do that type of camping, it reminds me of the guys who go cave diving any have no experience and get themselves killed

[@adriannamartinez8513]

Exactly my thoughts, I learned the hard way to always tell someone where I’m going even if I’m simply going to for a walk behind my house. You might end up falling, breaking your leg and being stranded until luckily your cousin heard you scream for help.

[@SunshineDilemma]

Mr. B, thank you for the graphic novel! I am a school librarian and just bought it to add to our YA collection! Can't wait to spread the word on you to our students! Keep telling great stories!

[@El_LeChErO91]

Just wow! What a horrible accident to pick the one sign that means “im ok”. I couldn’t imagine his fear and desperation knowing he was in his final days.

[@scorpios_corz]

Such a sad outcome to a tragic story, I wonder if they got his films developed, would be nice if they did and had them on a display for people to remember him by.

[@LauraBzar-bk5sd]

@@scorpios_corz great idea. And they could use his story to educate people while they enjoy the photos.

[@charmaynepretty]

WHEW I thought it was Sunday for a second 😂 THANK YOU MR BALLEN!

[@martian6201]

Lol same. I even double checked my Calendar 😂

[@jakegolston1610]

Glad I’m not the only one 😅

[@HeatherL7290]

Me too I was like WAIT its saturday right??

[@Handleyourstuff]

Your Family is probably so great full to have you in there lives. I love listening to you.

[@tamlandipper29]

How is throwing your ammo in a lake less disruptive than leaving it buried or under a log?

[@HeatherL7290]

Right 👀lmao

[@Traumasamanen]

Someone might step on it, dig it up etc and after ammo has been on the ground, it can explode. Same thing if it is in water, but it is less likely that someone picks it up. It was common in 70's to get rid of old ammo by droping it in a lake.

[@WangMingGe]

@@Traumasamanen The real reason he dumped it is mentioned in other tellings of this story. He wrote about it in his journal, and it was extremely stupid. Basically, he was a pacifist; very ideologically anti-war, and, as he wrote, having all that ammo made him feel "like a warmonger". That's why he got rid of it.

[@suprlite]

​@@Traumasamanenso what if someone steps on it? 😅😅😅

[@borleyboo5613]

Poor Carl. What a terrible situation to be in. And how dreadful when he realised he wasn’t going to be rescued because of that raised fist. Rest in peace, Carl. 😢

[@TacoIsLoveTacoIsLife]

Now I know not to read comments. Appreciate the spoilers

[@oAgL214]

EXTREMELY difficult situation. Wolves, unmarked terrain, etc. I personally **think** I would've taken my chances qnd just walk, both situations are deadly but my brain just wouldn't be able to stay still. May he RIP.

[@kitamibu]

​@@TacoIsLoveTacoIsLifeWhy would you read the comments before watching the video? Most people leave comments about what they just watched, so what did you expect?

[@ns4725]

No rest in peace with suicide. It's self-murder.

[@qskii2365]

@@TacoIsLoveTacoIsLife Learning moment for you.

[@SpydersByte]

5:33 wow, youve gotta be crazy to go to some remote location with only a plane ride to get you back and not actually verify that the plane was going to... you know, actually come and get you. I dont even go to the bar without knowing exactly what my ride home is going to be, I wouldnt go out into the wilderness with just an old drunk agreement as my only way home

[@kaelevi7701]

let alone an old drunk agreement over 5-6 months ago

[@nova00077]

I watched this story live!! So amazing, love you MrBallen 🙏🏻

[@edwardcox1740]

If Rory was a real friend he might wonder where his friend was.

[@Traumasamanen]

He most likely was the one who send the plane there and told the location where to look at. Of course, why didn't he go there by himself...

[@desertweasel6965]

F Rory and F whoever gave him that annoying name.

[@bettywillbrowse]

Legit

[@SapiophileGoddess]

⁠@@desertweasel6965 Rory and Aurora - the two most annoying and difficult names to bestow upon one’s children. Particularly evil when applied to boy/girl twins. 😵‍💫

[@wisconsinfarmer4742]

He was no Calhoon, and that's fer shur

[@Heather2987]

That story was just sad. New episode a day early is awesome

[@CabFamilyAdventures]

I did NOT expect to cry! It's so sad!!! Reminder to Always read the fine print... Great video Mr. Ballen!

[@EZ_Case]

Hands down best story teller on KZbin.

[@Jillvs491]

5:55. That's your fault.

[@gangstamoney6444]

Definitely

[@tiffanysantos4867]

I read this at 5:53 😂 perfect timing

[@Boaters_hub]

Yeah get the f out of here…. I lost interest in the point😂 so who dropped him off? Carls friend?? No confirmation no backup plan. Than told his dad dont ever check up on me again. Ridiculous

[@Juuniperdjinn]

Dear Mr. Ballen, Long time listener with big time love and respect for you and appreciation not only for your channel, but your influence in the world. I just wanted to say, Thank You. Thank you for the stories you share. Thank you for the advocating you do for mental health. Thank you for helping others rise up in their own passion projects. And thank you for being You. We're pretty lucky to have a campfire honcho like you. ☺ As we approach the new year, here is hoping that you and your family are blessed with love and laughter, growth and well-being. 🙏❤

[@sarahakin]

He's taught us so much.

[@LouiseRedd]

HE STOLE THE TV REMOTE! LMAO! BOY OH BOY...NOW IM GONNA STARVE!

[@heatherbobbitt2221]

I watch this every week. It helps me get away from the problems in my life momentarily. Community please pray for my family and I. Im being evicted due to losing my job and not being able to pay rent, I’ve never asked for help but when i finally do none of the rental assistance places are able to help. Electric in my mom’s place is being shut off in 3 days and i cant find a job anywhere. Please anyone that believes in miracles, please pray for us. We need as much prayer as we can get.

[@MoonLord07]

Praying for you 🙏🏼

[@petralehto3825]

I rarely pray but I'll do it for you. Let's hope some entity that's able to help hears me all the way from Finland 😊🙏 No matter what, never loose who you are and try to stay strong 💗

[@wms72]

Go to the pastor of your local church and ask for help.

[@talltony55]

Also if you call the power company and tell them the check is in the mail they legally cannot shut off the power.

[@TheLadybughug]

​@@talltony55depending where you are, it's also illegal to cut off electrical in winter

[@Brandon84J]

Throwing you ammo in a lake is probably the dumbest thing I've ever heard. Also, you can't survive on rabbit alone. It'll give you a warm meal, but you can actually starve by eating just rabbit

[@kyoakland]

Why would you starve if you eat rabbit just wondering

[@Brandon84J]

This is directly a copy/paste from google You can "starve" if eating only rabbit because rabbit meat is extremely lean, meaning it contains very little fat, and without enough dietary fat, your body can't properly absorb essential nutrients even if you're consuming enough calories, leading to a condition called "rabbit starvation" or "protein starvation.".

[@Brandon84J]

@@kyoakland Just not enough nutrients that the body needs. It's not technically **starving** but not enough stuff the human body needs

[@BessieCraig-l4w]

I really wish the pilot had returned a few days later to see how he was doing. What a tragedy.

[@tonym8765]

This is just a case of natural selection tbh, the guy wasn’t the smartest

[@YTISASF]

@@tonym8765right! Like how the hell do u go to the Alaskan wilderness and not talk to the guy who’s supposed to be picking u up. What regular thinking person wouldn’t confirm and remind the person the day before u leave smfh

[@ahabduennschitz7670]

​@@tonym8765 Exactly my Thoughts. Its a Miracle how that Guy survived for so long in the first Place

[@HeatherL7290]

​@YTISASF for real I kept saying are you serious???

[@Katch.22]

me too... sad af. And he suffered 😢

[@saramae4880]

anytime i hear stories about people stuck in the alaska wilderness makes my heart sink. we’re always taught wilderness safety and it’s like he ignored everything he’d been taught 😓

[@penelopek9645]

This is so good that you are uploading this, many hikers will remember this now ! Saving lives 🙌

[@wisconsinfarmer4742]

he couldn't have been much of a hiker or he would have made it to Fort Yukon before the end of august.

[@snickerdoodles787]

Why would you go all the way out to the Alaskan wilderness without absolutely securing your way home before leaving?? Seems irresponsible af

[@TopHatNat]

This guy should go on the show "Alone".But he should have checked and double checked the get home details and have a rescue beacon.

[@nelsonbrum8496]

If he thought he didn't have room for the ammo, why not leave it in a shallow hole or something? Why pollute the lake by littering? Only fools give up their ammo.

[@WangMingGe]

He did it with pride. He wrote in his journal, the ammo made him feel like a "warmonger", and he was an anti-war activist. This is mentioned in other channels' reporting of this case.

[@Aldoisunhinged]

I love how this guy always knows what they were doing and saying.

[@iveywebb]

LMAO because I always say that when he clearly makes something up. Thought it was just me.

[@tjm11015]

2:10 It's not very nice of the guy to go out there to enjoy the wilderness and then just start chucking boxes of ammunition into the lake when he's leaving😮‍💨😒

[@dennisnielsen8030]

Agreed..

[@tinyhouseranch]

No hiking story ive ever heard involves ditching ammo. It would not have saved him but could have hunted

[@GingerBreadMan144]

Agreed

[@violet04nunya98]

All of you are right. But if you put yourself in his head, he’s excited to be picked up and knows that he’s in an extremely remote place, where it’s unlikely for anyone to find the ammo in the bottom of the lake, I can see the decision he made as being difficult, yet practical. Ammunition is heavy. The plane is small. He really was trying to do what he thought was best.

[@tinyhouseranch]

@ but set it on the ground? Why a body of water. Poor man is dead so i swear im not ragging on him. I shoot my gun to scare away wolfs and coyotes and. If i have extra bullets i dont toss them . Poor man rip

[@maximillianosaben]

Never enough strange, dark, and mysterious to go around in these parts, so keep 'em coming you glorious man!

[@IICypherI]

One of my favorite things is when I can catch a Mr. Ballen story when it just launches 😊 Thanks for the content! Also I know it was a few days ago but Thank you for your service too!

[@BeingMe-t6m]

This guy died by stupidity.

[@zachenderson8659]

Spoiler Alert thanks lol

[@ramohino]

⁠​⁠@@zachenderson8659more than stupidly. Who the hell with throw away all of their ammo before being picked up in the forest? All we needed to do was keep his ammo and he could’ve ate the wolfs that were trying to eat him, and he would never had to shoot himself. That was dumber than dumb. YW

[@agravy7657]

No, by ignorance

[@pophead08]

@@agravy7657 He got a hunting license, he should be aware of that, so yeah... @BeingMe-t6m is right.

[@wisconsinfarmer4742]

it's a miracle I haven't