WW II Veteran Stories - Vince Speranza

The 101st Airborne Museum 'Le Mess' in Bastogne presents WW II Veteran Stories. Last December we met Mr. Vincent Speranza.

[@Chimichanga12594]

This guy fought a war at 19. When I was 19, I was still living in my parents house working a job for minimum wage.

[@108nighthawk]

Josh Borduin Different time, different circumstances.

[@matthewtippo203]

We will never understand but we can honour these great men.

[@AR-lh8og]

Damn

[@struggle-dad6715]

Josh Borduin i was in college wishing i was in the army, i was 17 when i got out of high school, my dad agreed to sign, he had been a military police in the army but my mom wouldn't, so i had to go to college instead. but after watching all these veteran documentaries im glad my mother kept me away from possibly going to war.

[@1skyofrog]

I did a combat jump into Rio Hato, Panama, for Operation Just (Be)Cause. I was 19. 3/75

[@robertstern9951]

He just passed away at 98 years young. A special hero from a special generation.

[@scotthart2833]

"Don't you know, you're famous in Europe?"

[@kierrahenke7642]

He is from my hometown and I have met him a few times! He told this story to my 8th grade social studies class! 😂❤️

[@Nogoingback424]

Wow. That's how history should be taught.

[@rebelgaming7718]

Where is he from?

[@tinydog8910]

@@rebelgaming7718 Born in Manhattan but raised in Staten Island

[@destruction75723]

@@bigmoniesponge He looks like he is in his 50s

[@MattyC62185]

@@rebelgaming7718NYC and he just recently passed away 98 years old on August 2

[@ReViiSiion]

How does a video like this have even 1 dislike? Disrespectful..

[@lisilva9606]

@Sam Nardo or just Nazis, or foreign fascists. Or people who are critical of the US military. Not everyone on the internet is American.

[@RossG88]

Because their ancestors were the ones caught in the fence.

[@loganaragon8316]

Anyone who has ever served or has any connection to the military understands that this man is legendary and deserves the utmost respect and courtesy. He is the definition of American and makes me feel proud of being American in times that fill me with disgust and embarrassment . As a soldier, I can only hope to serve to the degree this man has. And to think that people dislike this video and comment utter ridiculousness blows my mind. I wont stand for ignorance

[@zplapplap]

Logan Aragon Less than 2% of the ratings are a thumbs down. It’s insignificant. Not sure if this proportion has changed in the two years since your comment. It’s not worth a second thought. I loved this story. It was made all the better by a fantastic story teller.

[@brianpeters7847]

@@zplapplap How Americans were many years ago What a great story

[@wyattjohnson5898]

Logan Aragon , I served in the Army and was an Airborne Engineer, We troopers have a camaraderie that’s stronger than most believe. I have three friends that met Mr. Speranza and they just listened to him. All Veterans have a great story to tell, but the Greatest Generation is by far the most important one.

[@AmeisterAmerica]

Thank you for your service and respect Logan, AIM HIGH PATRIOT FORCE!!! #AmeisterAmericaINC🇺🇸

[@AmeisterAmerica]

@@wyattjohnson5898 10-4 on the floor Wyatt and thank you for your service and sacrifice respectfully!

[@ThomasF95DUS]

This man is a good storyteller

[@kguthrie8976]

He was a history teacher after the war.

[@tennray]

@@kguthrie8976 he IS history!

[@kwcc4019]

My brother-in-law was wounded during the Battle of the Bulge and received a "Purple Heart". He is alive today and is 90 years old. God Bless all who have served.

[@garythegoat2527]

ay bro if your still alive tell your brother i said thanks

[@deadly_actual]

George OBrien thank you for saying that it means alot.

[@kathyboly19]

Reminds me of the stories my Italian father would tell us when we were children as we played with his 2 Purple Heart Medals, pretending that they were earrings, not knowing what he had lost to gain them. His metal mess kit & metal canteen with the original green canvas cover & black cap attached by a rusted chain joined us on camping trips. His men called him Sgt. "Gags" because "Gagliano" was too long. He was on the boxing team & was written about in the military newspaper for "K.O.-ing" his opponent in a 13 second round which INCLUDED the mandatory 10 second count! R.I.P. Daddy. To ALL our soldiers, living or long gone, I say a heartfelt THANK YOU for your bravery, service & sacrifices so that I am free to type anything I please without fear of being arrested, stoned to death, caned, tortured, murdered or martyred for my opinions. May God Bless You All.

[@chrsn]

In 2018, I was part of a Band of Brothers tour in Bastogne and the historian told us about Mr. Speranza's exploits. He also made a special effort to get us to a café called Le Nuts, where we were each able to get one of those ceramic "Airborne" helmet bowls as a souvenir. Though I regret not getting to try Airborne beer, I thank Mr. Speranza for his service to his country and for this wonderful story.

[@deplorablepatriot9628]

The definition of a US Paratrooper!

[@GOLFTDI]

Soldiers like him are 1 word, badass, thank you for your service

[@TheCool913]

We really need to capture more of these stories from these heroes. I served during the first Gulf War. And I still remember some of the stories told by the older Master Chiefs. Heroes don't wear capes, they wear dogtags. Thank you to all you who have served.

[@Lefrog420Blazin]

19 I was homeless and already been stabbed by a ex. Nothing compared to this Hero's life. Awesome video

[@TheAirborne6]

That is a wonderful story. I am an old Airborne soldier from the Vietnam era and love listening to my senior troopers who I revere. God Bless him

[@timurban8797]

Airborne!

[@danodonnell7218]

Welcome home brother!

[@jmaune1419]

My grandfather served in Bastogne! Pattons 3rd Armored Division!

[@brandonobaza8610]

jmaune1419 my grandfather was a radio operator in the 3rd Army, landed D-DAY +3

[@rogerscott8211]

my great granpa was 5th armored in WW2

[@andrewmorgan5066]

I am honored to be from the same town. He has dedicated his life to educating and helping others. Even when he was in his 80s he substitute taught me in High School. Everyone loves him and is still active in the community.

[@guitarclarinetguy42]

The comments on this page are unbelievably disrespectful.. Please do not disrespect this veteran like this.

[@KamikazethecatII]

These people are the cancer of Reddit, and in general the entire internet. Just ignore them, they're trolls.

[@seanbachman4563]

Joel Branham Imo it's more a joke regarding youtube comments in general. Noone's disrespecting the man but rather KZbin's comment section.

[@KoRnBrony]

KamikazethecatII I always report as Spam, but i doubt that does anthing

[@guitarclarinetguy42]

Sean Bachman I see. That makes a bit more sense!

[@guitarclarinetguy42]

***** Same!

[@DeltaSniperZRR]

The men of the 101st and 82nd Airborne Division were, and are, one of the bravest units ever. These men fought against German heavy Panzers while they were light equipt, no anti tank guns orsomething, maybe a few bazookas but that's it, sometimes not even ammo. I can't imagine how they held the line against those heavy German SS forces. Insane. And don't forget, the Waffen-SS were one of the best of the German army.

[@deathstargaming2215]

well my great uncle who fought in there old me alot of stories before he past away ( the last of 3 brother who joined)

[@antebilic1534]

Mojo Risin 506th also was a RARE one

[@jonsmith3574]

deathstar gaming my great uncle was in the 82nd . Fought in the bulge. Talked of taking out a tank with improvised explosives to stop the engine. Later He was pinned down in the snow for two days by a machine gun nest. Nearly lost his leg to frostbite. Begged the doctor not to cut it off. Kept it and recovered in England. These guys were tough son of bitches

[@tombstonejackson]

That is is the job description of a first line paratrooper. You are supposed to fight panzers with whatever you can find. When you run out of ammunition and then stones to throw at them. Once those are gone, it's spitting time against tanks. Absolutely NAILS.

[@1anre]

Luckily the 75th Ranger Regiment have taken over their mantle in today's war space

[@talkingwithheroes]

Thank You Mr. Vincent Speranza for Your Service to our Country. Great story:)

[@Missnab1966]

What a great story, thank you Mr. Vincent Speranza.

[@derekborba9574]

Greatest generation of all time! From an OIF veteran I salute you.

[@georgewashington7895]

Vincent is a great man and good friend to have. It was great to have him speak at the GSL.

[@legendarypyropony9678]

This man fought in WW2 at 19 and here I am trying to graduate, this man is great, respect to you and your entire team, thank you

[@tmewborn1]

Wow....Praise God for Him and His Generation.....I have lived as a Free Man Thanks to Him and many others of his bravery and age...tom

[@glenwestphal7586]

Awesome story! So happy for modern technology to be able to capture these stories for future generations.

[@thomasjoyce1487]

I joined at 18 and had an adventure never to forget. Learning Discipline, Respect and Love of Country.. experience of a lifetime.

[@John-mf6ky]

My Grandfather was in F company of the 501st. Sadly, he passed away before I got to meet him. I can't even begin to imagine what these boys went through.

[@theloudamerican2193]

what a guy, what a life... an increadible link to history. these men are truly national treasures. thank you all... you truly saved a world. screaming eagles! (I was a 101 st pathfinder )

[@sundialmoto]

Vincent shared his story with me at the 2012 101st Airborne Division Association Reunion in Nashville. It was an honor. It was both of ours first reunion.

[@thomasolson6788]

At 19 years old I wore that eagle patch, and was so proud to stand up and carry on that proud tradition that was set in place by heroes like this. My time was served in peace, Thank you brothers who are now in harms way, and God Bless America and the freedom's it gives us because of you warriors like you.

[@jamessmith2966]

The Greatest Generation..What a great story.

[@sangmouass]

that guy is a character- I could listen to him all day...just fantastic thank you

[@genegarren833]

I personally know Vince. I have been to Normandie 22 times and will be there this June. Vince was there last year and I hope to see him this June. I go so many times because of the living history of these men and women who were there, and the great love and respect the people give them. Also I have been to Belgium and to Holland. Incredible. If you are thinking about going, GO NOW. It will change you life and you will never regret it.

[@brucencalifornia]

A wonderful story Airborne Beer, the Man of the Legend

[@Olof950]

Wow, fantastic story. And at an age of 19...

[@marklucas6848]

It makes me proud to be an American and I once again can't thank our veterans enough for their service. God bless Mr. Speranza!

[@WoodLifeCrisis]

why would you thumb down this. What could you possibly have against a WW2 Vet from the Allies.... Unless you're a Nazi... I don't get it.

[@gramo63]

+Ginger You are correct. There are still many Nazi sympathizers in this world today and they will gladly give a "thumbs down" to a KZbin video like this.

[@chasecook2151]

I got to meet him today, definitely an amazing dude!

[@kilroywashere1]

Legend. I am a civilian jumper and I have major respect for this guy, really enjoyed the story.

[@FBlackRules]

Thank you, Mr. Speranza, for your service and for holding the line with the Battling B's of Bastogne - Currahee.

[@UncLester]

What an amazing story. I'm glad Mr. Speranza found out he became a legend, because it must have been very difficult to make a decision like visiting the place where you fought a war.

[@teamgram4]

One amazing & inspirational man! I am glad to have known him as he was a teacher at my HS back in the day.

[@turtleguy701]

This is more than EPIC! Words cannot describe how awesome this is!! I live in the same town as this guy!!! I will find him!!

[@keithhansen3963]

Thank you Sir for your service. American hero.

[@KazzKarenLewsader]

Incredible! I have sooooooo much respect for our service women and men!!! Great story.

[@danieldowning4583]

GOD Bless all that serve. We all love you Vince.

[@ronsbeerreviewstools4361]

Airborne Beer, I was a straight leg in the US Army, but I have very High regards for this Heroic Veteran. Thannks for Posting. We enjoy freedom for what guys like him did.

[@struggle-dad6715]

that whole beer story is classic, he didn't even know he was a living legend, and thats rare to be legendary while still alive....

[@cristianpasinetti3052]

I dont know how many times here in Italy i pray and say Thankx at all Young Americans people who Fought and die for set free My Country from Fascism...Thankx again HERO

[@PrevMedHealth]

My uncle Fordham (I am named after him) was a mortar officer in the 101st. Wounded at Normandy. Back in time for Market Garden. Freed a column at Foy & Jacques’ woods in Bastogne.

[@idlewild]

How does this not have more views?

[@williamleeming4082]

God Bless ALL our Veterans. WW2 men (including my very own Dad), Were definatley a special group of men. RIP POP you are deeply missed.

[@pieterk4960]

Great to have met Vince last summer (September 2019) in Son during a reenactment of the landing of 101 there. Thank you very much Vince!

[@tommcdonald9337]

Awesome story. Thanks. I was in Bastogne 3 times in 2004 visiting all the sites. Great beer!

[@denisetankha9115]

Delightful narrative. So enjoyable. Vince painted pictures before my eyes....... There must be so many stories coming out of this region. I'm sure plenty of movie material as well.

[@chrisb.5295]

I just had the honor of listening to this brave man talk at my daughter's veterans day program. This man and MANY like him are a true national treasure in which we're losing everyday.

[@srnordli]

God bless this man! He’s a national treasure.

[@belindab98]

GOD BLESS YOU Vince Speranza ~ THANK YOU!

[@travistoor6360]

May this man rest in peace 🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲

[@billevau]

Truly the 'GREATEST GENERATION'. My uncle was with the 82nd Airborne and jumped at Normandy. He survived 6 days before being wounded and taken prisoner. He was 18 years old. He came home to a very successful life, raised a family and never spoke of his experience. Bronze Star, Purple Heart, Prisoner of War, CBI and Airborne Wing medals among others. He passed away about 8 years ago.

[@ThePs3GAMEr2001]

Sounds like a good person

[@danodonnell7218]

The greatest generation! Guys like this is why my brother joined the Army's 101 st. Airborne in 1968! Then was sent to Viet Nam! Bless all those who served!!

[@anniegoettelmann9328]

Love this guy. Fantastic story teller & great singer

[@adamthestimator]

God bless Vincent Speranza! What an awesome, relatively happy, war story!

[@anthonymannetta5311]

God bless America land that I love and thank you sir for your service to our great nation

[@LarryApp]

Thank you, Sir, for your service! Thank you for telling these stories so that they don't become forgotten. Incredible!

[@ML-jk3sz]

A very amazing story to me, I actually got choked up while listening to this man tell his story. Simply amazing that he remembers all the details and tells it with such conviction. Bravo Mr. Speranza, I thank you for your bravery and for fighting for my country. Thank you, thank you!

[@kimberlyfuoco1549]

Such an amazing story! Thank you for sharing.

[@BrenJean2008]

A wonderful story, thanks for posting it.

[@conserveAmericasvalues1]

Booooooooyaaaaaaaaaaaaa legendary Thank you SIR. What a AWESOME story .Humbled to even be able to listen

[@BruceWayneOfOz]

What an amazing man, and wonderful recollection! I can see a Movie about this!! ^^X^^

[@johnbarson3756]

Another one of the Greatest Generation. God bless all of them!

[@Justquitalready]

Thank you for posting! I can listen and learn a lot.

[@jonathanedwards4902]

Thank you for this video. Made me happy at the end of my day.

[@MaxxHDROM]

great story, glad I took the time to watch it. thank you for your service

[@bliaxiong6439]

its these kind of stories that you tell your kids years later that makes it all worth it...incredible...thanks for serving

[@billt7283]

I could listen to him talk all day. What an amazing man and an awesome story teller

[@achillesgoh]

love it !! thank you for your service!! wish i couldn't meet him in person !!

[@Mumbles19852007]

I would live to sit down with this man, buy him a beer, shake his hand. My grandfather served in Korea. He passed when I was 10, never hearing anything about his service until much later in my life. God bless all who served.

[@standoughope]

What a story! Instantly added to my favorites.

[@jh3368]

Great story! Thank you for sharing this online. Cheers!

[@katharinewilson3292]

Thank you, sir, for posting this video. I have heard my father's stories all my life and I am happy to see them posted on a forum where others can appreciate them, as well.

[@KeithCooper-Albuquerque]

All I can say is: Thanks for your service and thanks for a great story!

[@joshwise9894]

Thanks for your service awesome stories.

[@mavispearson4475]

thank you Sir for your service, I'm so grateful

[@2841thax]

That was absolutely spellbinding; what a great story teller

[@ericbergfield6451]

OMG that was amazing to watch, what expression & emotion he made this man just cry right now :)

[@bubbatime]

Thank you for sharing the touching story

[@coalfired304]

This story is incredible, I hope they record all they can before these great men are all gone.

[@pw8108]

Vincent J. Speranza (March 23, 1925 - August 2, 2023) Rest In Peace

[@philwiddifield6394]

What an American hero! And a worrier with compassion as should be! God bless you Sir and thank you for your service!!!

[@phelonyjones1593]

Great story. Thats how war is. Terror and some pretty amazing times. All you have to do is survive. You're a great American, Sgt. Speranza, a genuine hero.

[@BorisKrupin]

You served well. R.I.P legend

[@ThatRogueProject]

Thank you sir for your service, I love your story

[@Smeegle653]

WOW that's quite a story... I've actually heard about the beer God bless him all of them

[@berniekessler1078]

Great story. Goes to show you that truth is stranger than fiction. Thank you for your service Vince and God bless you.

[@bggbgg5986]

Thank you for serving!

[@matthewtippo203]

Best generation hats off from Australia. 101st true gentlemen.

[@tyroniousyrownshoolacez2347]

Awesome story. Thanks.

[@capttheo1]

Personally, I think that this is one of the coolest stories I've ever come across!

[@ScarFace9797]

amazing story.

[@bchboy1206]

You're a helluva guy Vince!!! Thanks for your service, you are a true Hero!