World War Two Veteran reunited with M1 Garand

My great grandpa reunited with the mighty Garand after 72 years. After he was wounded on August 14th of 1944 in Dinard, France he was withdrawn from the war and that was the last time he held one. My grandpa is a recipient of the Purple Heart, Bronze Star and Combat Infantry Badge among others. Please excuse the talking in the background as they were not aware I was recording the video.
5/20/2017: It has been over a year since the original posting and I would like to include all information right here. My grandfather passed on December 19th, 2016.
FAQ: 1.) Is this his Garand? -No, his service rifle was made in 1943 and this one was made in January of 1945.
2.) Isn't this triggering his PTSD? Why would you do this? -My grandfather had not held an M1 since 1945, at the time of this recording he was 91 years old and knew time was running short, knowing that I was a collector of firearms he asked me if I could get one to show him so that he could hold one again. Not everyone would have the same desire to reunite with a service weapon and that’s okay!
3.) Did he kill anyone? -....really?
5.) Why isn't this filmed correctly? -Because I'm an idiot. This recording wasn't planned, it was an impromptu recording and I wasn't concerned with camera angle.
6.) What unit was he with? - Company E, 2nd Battalion, 121st Infantry Regiment, 8th Infantry Division, United States Army.
7.) Where did he serve?- France, a veteran of the Normandy and Northern France campaigns.
8.) I think you're an asshole who is exploiting an old man for KZbin views.- I’m truly sorry you feel that way. This video was filmed for myself and for family/future generations. I only uploaded it to KZbin in an attempt to encourage others to fulfill whatever wishes they could for this generation as they pass away.
For licensing and usage, contact: [e-mail]

[@genericfakename8197]

"Felt light back then, heavy now" my favourite part. Really puts some things into perspective.

[@L337f33t]

I had to rewind that and listen to it a couple times, man just the gravity of that sentence.

[@L337f33t]

No pun intended

[@genericfakename8197]

Good one

[@genericfakename8197]

I hope in the next world war this generation will do that generation proud.

[@emperorkrell5506]

age will do that to you, that man was once strong and energetic. time has reduced him significantly

[@Igneoused]

12/19/2016: My grandpa left this world this morning at the age of 91. He passed away peacefully at the Maine Veterans home with his youngest son by his side.

[@Bosound]

May he rest in peace. Thank you for his service.

[@ecgameplayer]

Igneousedjr he did his country proud

[@Marcus-zp7nl]

Salute

[@andre5032]

Salute

[@capnhands]

he kept us free, may he rest peacefully forever

[@ReasonArt]

Get you a man that looks at you the way he looks at the Garand.

[@wizard4389]

Reason HAHAHA OMG

[@lilboomiv7313]

Reason stop just stop

[@trevorhanzel4160]

Is this anyway to be talking on a video about a Purple Heart recipient being reunited with an M1. Seriously, get a grip people.

[@kylecostello1311]

Reason can you not

[@iamadude2232]

😂

[@Igneoused]

As many know, my grandpa passed away on December 19th of 2016, cancer did what the Wehrmacht could not. In the wake of his passing we (my mother, myself, and step father) have been working closely to ensure that my Memere (his wife) can stay in the home they shared together for over 40 years. We will be moving on to help care for her, and help cope with the loss of my grandpa. Thank you to all of you who have left prayers, well wishes, kind words, and condolences, our family appreciates that. His Garand, is going home. It's like a dog that misses its owner, I will be taking it out to shoot fairly regularly in his honor. As we are in the middle of moving, content has been slow and I do apologize that I haven't been able to get back to many people. Thank you, and take care. -A veterans grandson.

[@FD9166]

God Bless

[@jtisme17racing61]

Igneousedjr Very sorry for your loss i hope he can rest easy now.

[@heathhampton7931]

Igneousedjr sorry for your loss man... I did this exact samething for my grandfather who served in Korea. The look your granddad had was the same look my granddad had when i handed him, our M1 Garand back in the summer. Thank you for sharing this video, your grandfather truely was The Greatest Generation

[@123gtarules]

Igneousedjr I'm very sorry for your loss, your grandpa was a hero

[@Igneoused]

Heath Hampton I'm very happy to hear that you had the same chance I did. My condolences for your loss as well. Thank you for taking the time to watch this.

[@Igneoused]

I never expected this video to reach more than a few hundred people. My only hope was that seeing this old veteran reuniting with his service rifle would inspire others to do similar things for other veterans. To each and every one of you who have commented and viewed this video, thank you from the bottom of my heart for all the love, support, and admiration directed towards my great grandfather.

[@esquiretaylor3022]

Igneousedjr is that uppom from saving private Ryan lol

[@Igneoused]

Esquire Taylor is what from saving private Ryan?

[@Tyq0v3uz]

Great video! Though I don't think he has the same affinity for weapons as you or I might have. He's seen what they really can do!

[@Igneoused]

Jordan Parker quite the contrary actually, I'm a firearms collector and he is constantly asking if I've picked anything else up and he wants to see them. He is quite interested.

[@esquiretaylor3022]

Igneousedjr I have a few. Springfield or Remington ?

[@supremebonkripper7460]

God bless him

[@ZicoTops]

Rest in peace sir!

[@BerdyAlexeiEN]

Zicoooooooooooooooooooooooooo

[@BlueEchoe5]

The greatest line I've ever heard from a WW2 vet in person was to someone's response: "Thank you for being such a hero." "No, I'm wasn't a hero... But, I did fight within the company of heroes." My absolute respects.

[@GJones462-2W1]

That was said by Maj. Dick Winters, commander Easy Company 35 PIR, 101 IR. May he rest in peace. Band of Brothers hero. If you've never watched that series, I highly suggest you do.

[@BlueEchoe5]

Oh crud, I think that was him! Sure looks like what I remember of him.

[@andygagne3733]

Disturbed Duckling99543 he is saying someone said that somewhere else not in this vid

[@ybohsaht2114]

...You realize everyone in Band of Brothers were real people in real life, right? That quote was him to his grandchildren.

[@BlueEchoe5]

I've only watched Band of Brothers in small bits, but this was waaay back in middle school (ironically in history class). The veteran was one of my classmate's grandfathers, great-grandfather's? I don't remember, but it was incredibly humbling to hear him speak.

[@pkbjorn35]

"There are many rifles like this, but this one is mine"

[@sunnyjay7489]

pkbjorn35 shhhhhhh we've all watched the movies.

[@ianstrickland4697]

JARHEAD

[@Skarmy762]

pkbjorn35 you unorganized grabasstic piece of amphibian shit

[@Oh-uk5ee]

Bunny Duckling i dont

[@Oh-uk5ee]

Bunny Duckling im also sure little ducklings know nothing about human military

[@Venom-gy5oi]

I sincerely thank you're great granfather for his service.

[@kiLLjoy24CALI]

It really saddens me to know that in the near future there will be no more WW2 veterans left. Cherish the moment

[@MisterCactus777]

Lets hope there wont be any possibilities for "world war" veterans in the future too :)

[@gr8ful4EPdedhed]

When I began my nursing career 12 years ago that was the population that was in the hospital and I would make a point to listen to them all the vets. What I noticed is that they are usually very humble. I sometimes already knew that one was highly decorated but they would never say they did anything heroic and they just got lucky and ran fast. They also all hated war. They isn't many left so cherish these special people.

[@SUPERMAN-yu2tm]

They said the same when the last civil war vets died

[@gr8ful4EPdedhed]

Always one in the bunch

[@SuperTowlie420]

Its a sad thought but Godbless these vets that had to fight against such tyranny

[@RratRemi]

that man is a hero. my best wishes to him and his family, and i hope he passed away in peace

[@hit9819]

Remember lads. Always respect your elders.

[@PK__44]

Alexander Blaze amen

[@ItsPowee]

Alex Peralta damn straight

[@hanyahage9777]

not all the elders :V

[@jizzwardo9653]

Karma isn't real.

[@Youtoob02]

Respect isn't given, it's earned. And this man deserves all respect for fighting in World War II.

[@eternalconvict1641]

I just kept wondering the memories going through his head. ✊🏼

[@chasquinto]

not good ones ... i can tell

[@GrimMoDZ1o1]

Same

[@SavingPrivateBob]

Guess it'd hurt too much for him to share those ugly memories.

[@robertciabattoni1590]

same... things that shouldn't be said are best left that way

[@jjsjedudhbe6255]

'Felt light back then, heavy now...' I feel like your great grandad meant that literally and figuratively. I'm sorry to hear about his passing.

[@lancercaptainspadez6306]

what a wonderful moment to see, we will never have a generation like your grandfather again God bless them

[@mzaje6653]

He is right what you are going to say to your grandsons when they give you Call of Duty in your hand?? what a great days when i used to screaming and shouting in front of my TV screen because of the fucking ping was high!!

[@bpproductions2249]

Lancer Captain Spadez unless trump becomes president.

[@MrTrollinglol]

Russia is powerful but the US is just as powerful if not more so. It's mutually assured destruction so neither will go to war with eachother

[@azuramerp1355]

Lancer Captain Spadez agreed

[@shapro4457]

Rest in peace. I'm so sorry for your loss.

[@Igneoused]

UPDATE 10/23/2016: My grandpa is fine after his fall, however he is still staying in the hospital for now and will be attending rehab in a day or two. I've been getting several comments of RIP, he is not dead. Thank you to everyone for the well wishes and support and I will update further when I have more information.

[@dragunovful]

I hope everything is well.

[@evisceratednation]

Man he just looks like he wants to take that baby out and go shoot it. Hopefully when he's well enough ,I really feel that our WW2 vets are national treasures.

[@joelim5010]

Room237 they are.

[@Igneoused]

Room237 they definitely are!

[@retiredmeme2751]

get well!!

[@ChairmanMeow1]

Our greatest generation. Your great grandpa is a hero.

[@wmeyer116]

"A man fires a rifle for many years. And he goes to war. And afterward he turns the rifle in at the armory. And he believes he’s finished with the rifle. But no matter what else he might do with his hands, love a woman, build a house, change his son’s diaper. His hands still remember the rifle."

[@Igneoused]

wmeyer116 I absolutely LOVE that quote, and in fact it went through my mind when filming this video. He has not forgotten his rifle.

[@Hilko26]

Where is that quote from?

[@Igneoused]

Hilko Jongsma I saw it in the movie Jarhead but; beyond that I don't know.

[@Hilko26]

***** Alright thanks!

[@acemarker24]

Great Video! Man never forgets his rifle...

[@aloluna1857]

I'm sorry about your granpa. This video was amazing, there have to be more videos like this, was amazing, seriously

[@CoeXane]

something about old people is fascinating

[@snoopypingas5426]

I think it's the age.

[@Frank_D14]

Betcha Sorrie I agree. I think its the fact that it's someone who has so much more experience than oneself. All of the memories and things they've seen and done. These are people who grew up in an era before your own. I think people need to have discussions with the elderly about their past more often.

[@whatfreedom7]

The have been through a lot. Much of it we haven't seen. Even the ones who aren't vets have seen a lot over the years. God bless these vets.

[@Banquet_]

Dubeau_14 ya that's I see it

[@silvanniserko2368]

Thank you sir and all your brave brothers in arms

[@Siknastyy]

Silvanni Serko Amen

[@AngelLopezLazaro]

Respect to you and your grandpa. Hope he passed a happy man.

[@MugenDad]

Greatest Generation. There were no heroes, just men answering the call of duty and performing their service to this country.

[@Itgetsbetterofficial]

I wouldn't say greatest. I'd say them and the generation before in WW1 are equally great.

[@alexbarnes9364]

said part is my generation millennials have no sense of patriotism believing in globalism instead shoved down their throats with institutionalized education.

[@Itgetsbetterofficial]

-TheMasterSoldier- Oh. I actually wasn't aware of that!

[@fredlburrows]

They were "the Greatest Generation". I never liked "the Silent Generation", they were too great for that. They saw silent films and said they were gay, they needed sound, so they fixed them and now we have sound in our movies. You shouldn't name a generation after a problem they fixed.

[@darthluke655]

Tell your grandpa I said thank you. There will never be another generation like his.

[@Igneoused]

Obi Juan thank you, I will pass it along to him.

[@LouisianaPyro93]

Igneousedjr tell him I said thank you from a current active duty member. I respect his generation more than anything.

[@Igneoused]

Thank you, I will pass it along to him.

[@darkcrescent2903]

I don't blame him for wanting a reunification the M1 garand is a lovely weapon

[@Igneoused]

Dark Crescent it sure is!

[@Brian-wy4hg]

I laughed when he asked "How many more you gonna buy" as if he was going nazi hunting again lol

[@SawyersHerpetology]

He could go clown hunting now lol

[@cwizzy1312]

Rotger l Dead meme

[@SawyersHerpetology]

C Wizzle It's not a dead meme You'll probably see them trashing the place tonight on Halloween! XD

[@cwizzy1312]

Rotger Süßmann I watching one do that now.

[@SawyersHerpetology]

C Wizzle See? XD

[@Igneoused]

FAQ: hopefully this clears some things up! 1.) Is this his Garand? No, his was made in 1943 and this one was made in 1945. 2.) Isn't this triggering his PTSD? Why would you do this? He asked to see an M1 Garand before he passed away. 3.) Did he kill anyone? ....really? 4.) Who could ever dislike this video? People who disagree with some form or aspect in this video... or dislike me. 5.) Why isn't this filmed correctly? Because I'm an idiot. This recording wasn't planned, it was an impromptu recording and I wasn't concerned with camera angle. 6.) why are you asking questions? Because I was excited and didn't know enough to shut up and let him reminisce, I regret it now. 7.) Why are you badgering this old man? My grandpa is an odd duck. If you tell him they did nothing overseas he disagrees with you and cites what they did. If you tell him he's a hero he'll disagree with you. 8.) Your a moron/looser/asshole/idiot/______ Thanks for the compliment!

[@punzer5319]

Thank for the extra info. Best wishes from Canada.

[@Igneoused]

Punzer thanks for the support! Best wishes to your veterans as well!

[@jerryhablitzel3333]

I Remember talking with my Grandpa about WW2 and some times he would talk about and other times he wouldn't............or couldn't. It was a sore spot with him. Never discussed it sober but sometimes when he'd had a few he'd talk about it.I'm glad your grandfather is able to open up about it.

[@Igneoused]

gerald hablitzel I think it has helped him heal, being able to talk with someone who is not being judgmental. I always wished I could have reunited him with other World War Two veterans to see if that "group therapy" may have helped him.

[@dorkmax7073]

I swear, civilians think every vet gets PTSD.

[@BushPigADV]

Your gramp is a humble humble man. God bless

[@LegalizeTheNuclearBomb]

Bush Pig I read it as "Your grandpa is a horrible horrible man" I was like WTF?! but then I read it again lol

[@BushPigADV]

k hahah nooooo :D

[@bokunokintama5523]

agreed. amazing Can you imagine the things he saw?

[@gmanm1907]

These old guys are real special I just wish there was more of them left

[@ikeyschultz4969]

The way he studies it. Like a former gladiator looking over his gladius. God bless this old American warrior.

[@WrestlingfansareCLOWNS]

Amazing you could just feel the emotions from him looking at it

[@Igneoused]

Mean Man he was thrilled to be able to hold one again. Thanks for watching!

[@WrestlingfansareCLOWNS]

***** no problem bud!

[@charlesskunk5538]

Mean Man Yes ☺

[@codybeekmann7064]

Hey man just wanted to bless your grandpa worlds not as good without that generation

[@leepalmer1210]

Stop cutting onions.

[@TheSaintslive]

Me playing nacht der untoten in 2016.

[@michaell6335]

lol

[@relevantusername192]

TheSaintslive M1 garand is good until round 5

[@wgbm92]

Just played WaW, and I am confirming that the Garand is one of the least effective guns for Nazi Zombies.

[@dylansmith1261]

TheSaintslive bro. Yes

[@David-np9dh]

m1 GRAND fucking sucks, I usually go for the Thompson.

[@brodiemcgrath7741]

Very fortunate that your grandfather had his health AND his memory for 90+ years. Great video glad I came across it.

[@davidlopan7590]

RIP good sir, thank you for your service.

[@RattlerX5150]

I salute what you did for this country

[@casey-gt8nl]

Thank you

[@oscartovar5756]

thanks

[@lucid004]

RattlerX5150 thanks

[@videopost2349]

By invading other country and destroying their lives.

[@Unmedicated_Moments]

Mitchell Wright Not exactly

[@gjproductions8365]

its so nice to see memories from those who served our country and itll be a sad day when all the ww2 soilders are all gone

[@swagmoneyrespect]

This veteran is a great man who fought for other peoples freedom he definitely is a one of a kind hero

[@rickyjr.nomura9235]

For us, it may seem like some rifle he used during the Great War, but to him: it was the only thing that stood between him and almost certain death.

[@harpreetkhattra7819]

Ricky Jr. Nomura ww2 vet, not one

[@rickyjr.nomura9235]

Huh?

[@reactiegever1986]

Ricky Jr. Nomura not one death, he fought alot

[@rickyjr.nomura9235]

reactiegever I never said just one death.

[@colzbroeffectboss4619]

Like having a life vest thrown to you in deep waters.

[@kidnamedfinger6323]

I love grandpa

[@crabbypatty10fefrefe]

That's amazing. You can tell there was so much going through his mind.

[@louis1716]

Crowded House sadly probably not all happy memories...

[@InsaneActual]

louis1716 I wouldn't ask him he seems troubled

[@Igneoused]

He really isn't, we've spoken at length about what he went through. In this video he is just lost in thought and I should have been quiet to allow him to reminisce.

[@excitableosprey2513]

salute to your grandfather and to everyone that served in our armed services

[@apoxapex]

The last few of a dying breed, the strongest generation of men to take arms for our families. Nothing but complete and utter respect for you sir, if youre ever in Australia. I won't let you buy a beer, they're on the house. Thank you.

[@apoxapex]

Wyatt Stubbs never brother.

[@Igneoused]

Were he a younger man he would take you up on that! Thank you for your support, and thank you for standing with us, then, and now!

[@apoxapex]

Igneousedjr too right, I get you.

[@jomaricelis9033]

*RESPECT*

[@rtx_nba4189]

It sucks that not so many veterans from WWII is still live to these day : /

[@michaeljameson920]

Kevin Ho over 600,000

[@sakarintannoy8850]

Kevin Ho its called war :l

[@merpthemerpingmerp]

Austin Wooley Oops, I think I made the same mistake he did. I didn't see the "not" in his comment lol

[@rtx_nba4189]

wow man, that's amazing. Happy veteran day.

[@solidsnake6206]

RTX_NBA lol what about the ww1 vets? im sure they all have passed away.

[@shallows529]

What was his rank when he was in the Us Army ?

[@Igneoused]

Technical Corporal

[@shallows529]

Igneousedjr cool

[@xZombiexNation]

Find you someone that looks at you like he looks at that Garand.

[@Igneoused]

Brennan Sepulveda that's a great comparison.

[@goldenriot4328]

Brennan Sepulveda find someone who copy and pastes like you 😂😂😂😂

[@cholosocks]

Salute to your great grand dad, you can tell a lot of memories are running thru his mind as he inspects the rifle. Awesome vid.

[@benjaminbaki1758]

My grandfather fought in world war 2. He was a Yugoslavian soldier who got shot in the leg three times. He is alive and well, but he said once " At least back then, you were allowed to unleash your anger when you feel like you must." He killed 7 nazis and Italians.

[@gnnjsoto]

Ben Baki lol that's fucking awesome

[@KAMIKAZE-dk8xd]

tell him a guy from the internet sais thank you..

[@krystian0128]

Ben Baki Even if I hate partisans, communists and Yugoslavians, and more importantly, the fact of killing from behind, well, he has my respect. It's good to know that some people that saw WWII are still alive -

[@nathanmuenz7938]

Ben Baki I completely respect your grandfather, but he killed 7 "Germans"and Italians. I hate to correct you, but they weren't all Nazis. Most were soldiers exactly like your grandfather; young men fighting for their country.

[@benjaminbaki1758]

Zarachi D Sorry When he told me the story he referred to them as nazis. I just quoted his words

[@bloodmoonangel8925]

This is inspiring

[@captainAlex258]

it is very inspiring may god bless them and those who fought for him

[@TheShadowcompany1]

Powerful video. I could see the gears connecting between him and the rifle. Sent chills down my spine. God bless him.

[@ayylmaotv]

ur a commie

[@jodsilla6105]

Ayy Lmao y?

[@ayylmaotv]

i am an idiot communism is the definition of failure

[@jodsilla6105]

Ayy Lmao so how is he a commie

[@ayylmaotv]

i am an idiot its a joke. obviously he isn't a commie he even has a fukkin american flag as his profile pic.

[@TheVeganBear]

Shame he didn't put the clip in to hear the iconic ping. but looks like the poor old chap was having flash backs so sad

[@pickle4332]

thats not when he loads thats when he runs out of ammo

[@alexpelc7203]

+Red_Jacket You are correct, its the N block that makes the ping. It doesnt have to be loaded

[@MegaMaurizione]

Alex Pelc the clip needs to be there for the ping sound. Even if unloaded

[@merrick3627]

brian mostro the En Bloc is the clip. You can still load it in the rifle, even without rounds it will make the sound.

[@MegaMaurizione]

I know, I own one. I'm not a native english speaker I never called it En Block :)

[@jamesfreud1]

The Greatest Generation! Great video! Thanks for making it. That was awesome! Your grandfather is a hero!

[@Igneoused]

LONEWOLF thank you! I recorded it for future generations in my family but felt others might enjoy it as well. Thank you for watching!

[@jamesfreud1]

Igneousedjr I'll be honest man, that just about brought tears to my eyes. That was so nice of you to do that for him! I wish more people would do amazing things like this. You're a great guy!

[@Igneoused]

LONEWOLF I'm glad you enjoyed the video! I appreciate the comments and support. It's very refreshing considering I was called an "ignorant fuck" about 20 minutes ago. Thank you for your support. I am nobody special though, I just had a unique opportunity.

[@jamesfreud1]

Igneousedjr Wow! Some people, i tell you what. Its crazy how this world is filled with such good but then on the opposite side such evil. Dont pay those "people" any mind. They dont have a fraction of the class and character and heart that you have. Dont give em a second thought!

[@Igneoused]

LONEWOLF thank you very much for that.

[@mr.ishmael7801]

He just seems so awed that hes holding one again, like he's seeing an old friend after a lifetime apart.

[@tiny11231]

Thank you for your service sir! You are truly of the greatest generation that ever lived! GOD Bless you! 🇺🇸❤️️

[@Antigegner]

such bullshit...and what an insult to generations (of civilians AND soldiers) that lived before and come after...u are a fucking moron. if at least you would have said "one of the greatest"...75 years no major war, now that's an accomplishment! the current generations are much better one could argue, but that would be as stupid as your comment.

[@pine0kio512]

Nils Urban rip

[@pine0kio512]

Trenton n Older generation killed millions of people so i dont think it was better before

[@trentonm7402]

Pine 0 Kio and we don't now? Google how many unarmed, innocent civilians the US has killed in the middle east

[@pine0kio512]

Trenton n At least its not the war now

[@DrRichtoffen1]

A good friend of mine who served in Korea, once he learned I had recently bought an M1 Garand, never let up until I brought it to him and let him shoot it. After almost 70 years since he last held it bill could still shoulder, load, and fire it with accuracy at 80 yards. Was like a kid had found his long lost toy ;) was an amazing moment to be a part of.

[@Igneoused]

Its humbling to be in the presence of these men. I agree with the long lost toy part...

[@peterpiper_203]

Nice job on the rifle Better job on giving your great grandpa a chance of remembering the memories again Thanks for this with us

[@Igneoused]

PETER P I've seen some comments slamming me for this reunion but I agree, it was the right choice. Thanks for watching it!

[@peterpiper_203]

Igneousedjr Unfortunately A lot of people are assholes

[@peterpiper_203]

Igneousedjr Right On

[@robertfoster636]

My father was a WWII vet and I like to think he would've had the same reaction if someone had given him an M1. Thanks to your grandfather for his service

[@dewaldsteyn1306]

But where veterans allowed to take the guns for themselves after a war?

[@robertfoster636]

@@dewaldsteyn1306 I'm not really sure. My dad said he would've liked to keep his but I can't remember if he said if that was allowed.

[@joshn938]

This man is a treasure and a true national hero. The WWII generation are dwindling in number and it is truly a travesty. I hope he continues to live a long, fruitful life of many years to come. Much respect, sir. America thanks you. The world thanks you. And we can never show enough gratitude. Thing is, they were so humble, they brushed it off. They did what they had to do, and they did it with dignity.

[@Igneoused]

They were willing to sacrifice everything with nothing expected in return. They were all heroes.

[@joshn938]

***** Indeed.

[@will6559]

My great-grandpa, a WWII Marine, passed years ago. How ever my grandpa, a WWII veteran who was in the Navy passed recently, it's sad to see him go but I learned a lot from him. He showed me a lot like where he fought, gave me sand from Iwo Jima, showed me a painting of how you had to kiss a fat mans belly to be in the Navy. This really made me happy to see so thank you for this video.

[@Igneoused]

Thank you for taking the time to watch this, and for sharing your stories!

[@ryanfreer1478]

In 60 years, people probably won't have the same feeling holding an AR.

[@ryanfreer1478]

There's just something about holding a gun made of wood and iron and you don't get the same feeling holding something made of fiber optics, polycarbonate, and plastic lol.

[@thatguybuddy]

you might be handed an iphone 1.

[@luigipinna1170]

Your grandpa is an awesome man ! He fought nazis in my country , France . Thanks so much , he helped my country raising our beautiful flag and restoring freedom . I hope he can watch you from heaven . Thank you for this video , my grandpa was 17 years old the 6 June 1944 . Last Time , thank you and your grandpa !

[@whatdothlife4660]

Camerman was doing a great job keeping Gramps on topic and not letting Grandma derail the conversation.

[@Igneoused]

What Doth Life thank you

[@scottwitkowski1298]

The Greatest Generation. It saddens me to know we've lost so many. The generations that have followed can't fill those shoes. God Bless You Sir

[@kylethetreekat840]

Beautiful video man, sorry for your loss. Best of luck with everything in life from Scotland.

[@Matty180sid]

Kyle TheTreeKat Hello fellow scot!

[@w_._.]

"73 years old but it's not bad" lmao he was probably thinking damn right fucker

[@ThatMNTrucker93]

My grandfather served in Belgium as a truck driver hauling ammunition. Many times his convoy got hit and he always jumped out with rifle in hand. He said it was always the truck in front of him or behind him that got hit. His never did, until he got pneumonia and someone took his place until he got better. His truck got hit and he lost a lot of souvenirs. He passed January 3, 2006 on his and my grandma's 61st wedding anniversary. R.I.P. Grandpa Don, you served your time in hell.

[@treatb09]

enjoy your grandparents everyone, when they are gone the whole world changes.

[@casey-gt8nl]

Yes

[@SleepySeel]

Although I agree why where they the greatest generation? Because they chose to do something about the world. We sit on our arses and talk. And Text. And Twitter about it.

[@treatb09]

Sleepyzzz thats how you change peoples opinions you would otherwise never meet, or even come close to reaching. without internet you'd have a niche of people mostly, NOT like minded that ostracize your presence from the community and/or hold you back. the religious have been doing it for millennia. all i was saying is once your grandparents are gone, the world changes, it becomes darker, and frankly less colorful and optimistic.

[@snowflakemelter1172]

wow, that a moving little film there, his silence is all we need to know.

[@Igneoused]

Rufus Chucklebutty can only imagine what was going through his mind. He's told me stories about what they went through but.. thanks for watching.

[@drunkenbarbarian8211]

Amazing!

[@captainAlex258]

it sure is amazing

[@Igneoused]

Retired AF CE, I can't respond directly to you, I've been trying for days. I will definitely thank him for you, thank you for your service as well. Enjoy the time you have with him and I'm hoping to get to spend some shooting time with my grandpa soon. Thanks for watching!

[@calebsone1630]

+Igneousedjr this is a great video you are a good grandson .you need to take him out shooting .

[@Igneoused]

+calebsone1 thank you. I was lucky enough to be able to make his shadowbox with all of his medals as well. I'm working on getting him out shooting but he is weary of shooting behind his house hopefully we will have something soon.

[@calebsone1630]

that's great I wish my grandfather was still around he was a marine in the pacific during the second world war. on everything soak it up while he is still here. cant wait to see if you do get him out shooting good luck tell him thanks for his service.

[@Igneoused]

+calebsone1 I will definitely tell him. Thank you for your well wishes. I've got his time in the service recorded in a mini history as well as his official records and photographs. Maybe that video will go up soon. Hopefully...

[@calebsone1630]

that would be great to watch these men need to have their stories told and never forgotten. its crazy how watching something like that choked me up. by the way if you guys are in Ohio I could tell you a few ranges you two could head to.

[@SBdunks3]

That accent of the elderly is very rare now a days, sounds very vintage

[@Smoothbluehero]

Super cool these old guys. The stories these people can tell... So amazing we still have people who fought in WW2!

[@Igneoused]

Smoothbluehero they are an amazing generation!

[@LonelyGamr]

stories of how people found ways to survive is also fascinating.

[@TheSaintslive]

if u think about it wasn't that amazing to them. War is not about politics as a soldier. its about life and death

[@moonscript4675]

A vet reunited with his rifle. It's sad that ww2 vets die everyday. They have such good stories to tell.

[@sefooalexer8958]

SlingJellyStickyGlue Were the last who will Walk with these heroes

[@amperzand9162]

Not sure there are enough left to die every day.

[@zhuzzler5970]

SlingJellyStickyGlue the war is nothing which you can tell your kids. and still not if you ve won.

[@vacaneri2122]

this gave me chills. The look in his eyes when he just holds that rifle are worth a MILLION words..

[@Igneoused]

Long lost friends!

[@wiley5oh51]

There really is something to these rifles. I showed my grandfather mine when I got it. He said he still remembered how to field strip it. He said it was like seeing an old friend again. These M1's man..

[@pHixiq]

justin f it's my favorite gun TBH..

[@Igneoused]

justin f they definitely have a special place in many veterans hearts.

[@bigmanstevens592]

Here dad hold this PTSD

[@bf7504]

Triggered By Triggers you're a fucktard

[@kujip8744]

Triggered By Triggers Here, dad, hold this PTSD.* Although, I doubt he has PTSD.

[@Igneoused]

As stated by others, he wanted to do this himself. I did not force it on him.

[@ROCdevelopments]

I think it was just a joke, I laughed. God bless your great grand dad and your great grandmother who featured an Internet sensation washing the dishes.

[@AtticusFinch907]

I have a Garand. Vets are dying off. Anyway as I shoot a vet gets a certain look. I keep a couple of spare clips. I stop and go ask them if they would like to shoot the Garand. You can just see the memories coming back and how quickly they reorient to the rifle.

[@joshuawhitmore9269]

It's men like him that bled on the sands and the country side so we can have our freedoms today. Thank you so much! God bless you!!

[@Igneoused]

Joshua Whitmore thank you so much for your kind words and support.

[@rexnoct5810]

it's very sad to see this generation fade away rapidly every year.

[@Thegunumstyle]

Now we move onto a generation where people dress up in furry costumes and get offended over words on a screen. America isn't doing well and it's because of how people think nowadays.

[@Igneoused]

It really is, we loose over 300 WWII veterans a day.

[@rexnoct5810]

exactly, this is why America will never be as great as it was in WW2 because America didnt take shit from no one back then and didn't care what people thought of them and actually could seriously fuck you up. unlike today where everyone is so sensitive to like everything

[@rexnoct5810]

this generation was truly the last good one.

[@baleofhay763]

god bless the men and women who put their lives on the line to defend our nation every day.

[@kyleBlittle]

Sad to think about the rate at which his generation is disappearing. The patriotism of that generation will never been seen again. To go to war without question. To give away your possessions for America to make war machines. It's very important to American history to remember the sacrifices that generation made. I hope your Grandfather the best in his recovery.

[@deanharstad5404]

Kyle Little one of the last great generations to live. I have hopes for future generations, but not the current. (Millennials)

[@Eganweeds]

The last great generation right here ladies and gents. Men who would run into battle without questions. Treat this man with Honor and Respect, nothing less.

[@Igneoused]

Eganweeds I've been surprised at the amount of people finding major issue with this video, I appreciate your kind words.

[@Eganweeds]

+Igneousedjr I'm glad you appreciate this as much as I do. Thanks for the upload

[@Igneoused]

Eganweeds these men went willing into the gates of hell with no thought to their own safety. Returned, and asked for nothing in return. If that doesn't inspire people I don't know what will.

[@Igneoused]

Eganweeds and you're welcome! Was happy to share.

[@Eganweeds]

+Igneousedjr Yep you have a good one!

[@RageCreati0n]

“I didn’t like it when I first got it, it was heavy” a common note of the M1 Garand is how beefy they were. They were, if memory serves correctly, the heaviest mass issued infantry rifle in the war

[@BIkopsking]

I could only imagine the memories. Brought a tear to my eye and then a smile. I salute your grandfather and all soldiers who serve.

[@Southernswag8283]

I would give every last penny in my life to have a WW2 vet as a family member. Your so lucky to be in the presence of him. I’m not sure if this is a old video or not but if he’s still alive, PLEASE tell him “Thank you, we appreciate him so much. There’s a few of us out here that realize how important you guys were to our freedom”

[@Igneoused]

He’s been gone since 2016, unfortunately. Not a day goes by that I don’t miss him.

[@Southernswag8283]

@@Igneousedso sorry for your loss. Thank you so much for sharing him with us!

[@MiguelVicoR]

Alternate title; I trigger my great-grandad's PTSD

[@Igneoused]

I'm sorry you feel that way, maybe you were just making a joke but, HE REQUESTED this. He specifically asked me to try and find an M1 so he could see it one last time. Take care..

[@MiguelVicoR]

I just don't think the memories the thing brought up were very pleasant.

[@DavidGarcia-rb2lg]

Miquel Vico I don't think it's any of your buisness you don't know the man or what he went threw so your oppinion means absolutely nothing

[@MiguelVicoR]

*went through My opinion is that that having that thing in his hands is stirring upsetting and probably traumatic memories about what where probably the worst moments of his life, of course this are only based on everything I've read about combat derived trauma. I feel like being handed an object that was in your hands during the worst moments of your life might be, at the very least, unpleasant, but maybe that's just me. After all, Grandpa looks overjoyed by all the happy memories in the picture.

[@gholland5840]

it most likely reminds him of his friends during the war, which he has not seen in a long time due to them dying (in the war or of other means), or just loosing contact. those can easily be positive memories

[@GMan9029]

Must be very hard to see a rifle you used in war a long time ago where millions died. Great video and sorry for the loss.

[@holysmoke7887]

man it sucks soon everyone from WW2 will be gone sad to think about.

[@kratu6625]

Mr Homicidex life goes on

[@SsS-dj6qb]

Mr Homicidex The time for the men that fought in Vietnam will soon be over, and they will be forgotten. The men that fought in the Iraq war will eventually die, and they too will be forgotten. The next American Civil War will come along, and most of us will fight and die in it. And then the survivors will be remembered for their heroic actions. However, they too will die eventually. After that WW3 may come along, and the ones that survived that will be forgotten. Everyone will pass on eventually, and we will all be entirely forgotten in time. Our lives having no use on what will happen in future generations. It's kind of sad and frightening to think about.

[@mrsixiesrock2274]

Most nam vets are in their late 60s and early 70s now, They don't have alot of time left sadly

[@dravenvogel1429]

Mr Homicidex They can still pass down their stories.

[@TheJer1963]

1,500 WW2 vets pass away everyday. Lost my father to lung cancer back in 1994. He served on the USS ST. Paul CA-73. The last warship to fire her guns in anger in WW2. He was always proud of that fact. The ship was used in the movie In Harms Way with John Wayne.

[@1anthonybrowning]

One of my grandfathers is a Korean War vet. In the late 1980's my uncle had bought a Korean War M-1 Garand. My grandfather got to hold it, but he refused to shoulder it or look down the sights. He said there were too many faces.

[@Igneoused]

Anthony Browning I can't definitely understand that. It's sad that they haunted him so long after the war. I hope he found peace with it all. Thank you for sharing and watching! These men are a special breed!

[@rocksjoshua]

Never had the honor of meeting my Great Grandfather. He was a ww2 vet and lost his leg in the war. He committed suicide before I was born. Damn, really wish I could have met him and got to know him. Would of loved to learn about his war stories :(

[@xxV28xx]

Joshua Ebanks I'm sorry you never got to meet him. I'm going to guess he had ptsd. and about the stories and the fact that he had a hard time dealing with the aftermath of war, I doubt he would've told you much about the war. but god bless him for his service.

[@rocksjoshua]

V 28 You have a point about the stories, and thank you

[@dourabbawinner]

Joshua Ebanks I knew my grandfather who was an mp. the things he saw were horrific. he never spoke of them. had you grandfather not taken his life I bet it would be much the same

[@allstarwamrackel524]

Joshua Ebanks I didn't get to meet mine either he died of old age he got shot in both kneecaps in a P.O.W camp.

[@SsS-dj6qb]

Jimbo Jimbob Puch. Japanese camp I'm assuming?

[@dache.henrylee]

Great respect to him

[@Igneoused]

Thank you for your kind words and for commenting.

[@dueie83]

+Igneousedjr hes cool

[@dueie83]

+Igneousedjr looks cool to lol

[@andrewwalker3186]

Thank you for your service. You sir, are a hero.

[@EliteTHChannel]

Salute to him! I'll always stop and shake a vet's hand. Bravest men and women on the planet, no matter where they served or what country they belong to

[@mcinnisthemenace216]

Only warriors who served in the military know this feeling. It was something that kept him and friends alive and was the one out of millions that fought tyranny and won.

[@ExhumedWolf]

Rip he seemed like a wonderful man.

[@0326hkim]

im surehe was having flashbacks every scene he could remember with his friends running, walking, the sounds, everything. words cannot describe probably, but this is amazing for some reason. Respect to veterans and especially your great grandfather. thx OP