Admiral Stockdale is one of my heroes. I was so disappointed by the way he was treated in the '92 election. Thanks for remembering these great patriot warriors.
92 was the first election where you saw the media actively trying to influence the outcome of an election. Stockdale was a hero until he disagreed with the media. The media treated John McCain even worse. A hero is a hero regardless of what party they vote for.
@@johnharris6655 nice try dude.... debating policy or Lehman brothers crap is politics... calling the guy "No Hero for getting captured" is total bullshit calling him a loser is more bullshit.... saying he did nothing for veterans is bullshit...
My Navy aviation hero….My Dad! Joined at age of 17…WW2, Korea, Cold War…multi carrier deployments…career Navy. Nothing in my life (with exception of my children) can bring happy emotional, but guarded tears as memories of Dad and early years of lessons learned from him. Navy Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment …always inform my lifetime to this day. Dad lived these values and so much more. As his oldest son I saw them practiced in “real time” throughout his life. Dad Died, July 3rd 1987. A true and steadfast American Patriot!
My brother, a highly decorated AF Colonel, and pilot, flew many missions in Vietnam. He passed away on Nov. 5th of 2020. We're finally having a service for him on June 5th; if all goes well. We didn't speak too much about the war except that he wasn't happy with some of the decisions effecting the prosecution of the war. Johnson and McNamara were not his favorites. He was very positive about his fellow pilots and ground crew while in Thailand and Japan. He once told me that McCain was not one of those he put in high esteem....
@@northernlight696 A lot of people didn't like that McCain gave up the fact his father was an admiral. The North Vietnamese used it as a continual propaganda point throughout his imprisonment, especially after his father was named CIC of US forces in Vietnam. Somewhere along the line a conspiracy theory started that it wasn't tortured out of him, and he did it in hopes of getting preferential treatment. Another thing people don't like about him is that McCain "sold out" the US by signing his name on a condemnation of the US under threat of torture. He was far from the only POW to do so, but he was by far the most high-profile one to confess, and again because of his father's position, it was a major propaganda coup for the North Vietnamese.
I've told several friends in the last few days about this channel, guys in the flight sim community, and it's spreading like wildfire amongst our peers. My favorite aviation/military channel right now, Ward is such an interesting aviator, and a great orator. Read some of his articles as well, a fantastic writer - and of course his books, I'm just starting Punk's War.
The case studies on Stockdale and McCain are actually the first two case studies of the Articles of the Code of Conduct chapter of the recruit training book which Marine recruits read and receive a class on. These are incredible men whose legacy will continue to shape our Naval service for generations.
I had the privilege of hearing Adm. Bill Lawrence speak at my school (Franklin Road Academy in Nashville) not long after he returned from Vietnam. I was in the 5th or 6th grade at the time. With him being from Nashville, his parents were periodically in the news during his captivity as a POW. I vividly remember him telling us how he came home to find that his first wife had remarried, but that his parents were the ones still there for him and never gave up. One of the main lessons that he wanted to impart on all of us was that parents are the usually the last ones standing when all others have abandoned us. It was an honor to hear him speak.
I remember being in boot camp in 1979 and we were taking the class in the Code of Conduct, and they told us about John McCain and how he refused early release. Later we saw "Fire on the Flight Deck" and the instructor pointed out McCain getting out of his A-4 and jumping into the flames. Then they told us that within a week he was on another carrier flying missions over Hanoi.
Another great video. Highlighting the type of moral character cultivated at Annapolis. All of these men should be more well known to the American public, especially in the current political climate we find ourselves in. Men who have the courage of their convictions one and all. I have always especially admired Admiral Stockdale, what an outstanding example of strength and personal fortitude.
I greatly admire all the great men you mentioned in this video. Thanks for this great walk through history. I have a small personal story for you. I met Senator McCain a few times when I was a senior officer in the RCAF, once in DC and once at the Halifax security forum. He was an exceptional man and very well read on the security issues of our time. Later on, I was doing some genealogy and I discovered that Senator McCain was born at the base hospital at the USN submarine station in Panama. The medical officer who delivered him was one Lieutenant Commander William L. Irvine, USN - an ancestor of mine. I wish I had known that when I had met the Senator - it would have been a cool thing to share with him.
I had the distinct honor and privilege of knowing Admiral and Mrs. Lawrence when we lived next door to them on Ford Island, Hawaii. Truly an inspirational leader and just an amazingly nice guy.
Jerry Russell I am Doug’s Dad and was Commanding Officer of the Naval Ocean Processing Facility on Ford Island at the time We knew Admiral and Diane Lawrence. They were both wonderful, amazing people. We did not know of Diane’s passing and are very sad to hear of it. By the way I was an NFO and was among the first group to be trained formally as such in Pensacola in Spring/early Summer of 1960. We were all officers, mostly Ensigns from OCS at Newport RI.
Good Morning sir! Great video. Picked up my 20th Anniversary edition of Flight of the Intruder to re-read recently and realized that you had written the forward. I thought it was super cool to know the face behind the name. Thanks for making these videos. They are a real treat.
@@WardCarroll Coonts is a great author. I have thoroughly enjoyed his Intruder series and seeing Jake Grafton grow. Never saw the movie. Good story telling Commander. Thoroughly enjoy your video tales keep 'em coming!
Thank you for the video, it brought me back to that time I visited the Hanoi Hilton. A somber experience as I saw the uniform of Senator McCain and other pilots downed during that period of time. I am a Vietnamese, born and raised in the country, I had the opportunity to be educated in Canada during my earlier years and it changed my world view. Really appreciated the content you and the team brought to us.
As a relatively recent subscriber I continue to seek out your earlier videos and am never, ever disappointed. Your channel is now my #1 go to place on RUclips. Thanks for the great stories you tell about experiences you've lived and the people you've known.
Hi ward, loving the channel and watching it out in here in Baghdad (private contractor) although I’m a British army vet, the f14 has always had a special place in my military obsessions
Very cool stuff, Ward. I really appreciate your insight and commentary of your experiences! I hope your new channel theme is coming along well, man; anxious to hear more ;)
Brave men all of them. My personal hero is my partners uncle, Air Vice Marshall William 'Paddy' Harbison. Flew Spitfires and P51 Mustangs in WW2 and then the Sabre F 86 in Korea while attached to the USAF. He had some great stories and a wonderful narration that made me have the utmost respect for him and all the brave men that strap themselves into those machines. R.I.P. Paddy thank you for your brave service which includes you also Mr Carroll . Respect and Gratitude from Wales U.K
Thanks for another excellent episode, Ward. Your story of John Glenn & Adm Stockdale's cross country made me smile. We're nearly the same age so share many of the same heroes and role models as we each pursued our military fighter aviation careers. Best wishes from Spain.
Great video honoring some great men. My father was an F-4 pilot and Air Boss on the Midway during the evacuation of Saigon. I live in San Diego so Admiral Stockdale is near and dear to my heart. Grateful for these men and their service. Thank you for your channel and service.
I live in Pensacola. I never served but I love Naval Aviation, and of course Pensacola is the cradle of Naval Aviation, so I really enjoy your videos. I’m a life long scuba diver, and about 15 years ago Pensacola secured the U.S.S. Oriskany to be sunk as an artificial reef. As I understand it, the Mighty O was John McCain’s carrier when he was shot down over Vietnam. Before the ship was sunk, the dive shop was allowed to secure lots of pieces of things that had to be removed anyway - like Ready Room doors, a Brig door and lots of other interesting pieces of history. The dive shop later hosted a Oriskany Reunion and several dozen former shipmates attended. We took them out on boats and set up a underwater video feed and laid a wreath on the ship in honor of their fallen comrades. Over the years the ashes of several former shipmates have been interred on the ship. Keep up the good work.
Ward, I love your stories and first hand knowledge of Naval aviation. I was a enlisted Marine AZ. I have always loved military aircraft and the stories that go with them. Thank you sir.
I love this channel! Putting the spotlight on those who came before you and helped you along the way is a mark of true character. Thank you for these stories.
Thanks for the video, I am enjoying your channel very much. Great story, and great memories. As a retired grunt, there were a lot of times, where life in the military was quite rough to say the least. Over time, you forget the tough times, and seem to cherish the good times. It’s all about the memories.
Hi Ward! Great channel. I was a Pukin' Dog...for a couple hours. 1997 (?) I was in high school. I was in the Civil Air Patrol and assigned as a static display guard at the St. Louis County Fair and Air Show. Naturally, I picked the F-14 and spent a few hours walking around and admiring the Tomcat. Several uninformed members of the public thought I was the pilot. As much as I would have enjoyed saying yes, I never did, but I did answer as many questions about the aircraft that I accurately could. The pilot eventually showed up and gave me a triangular squadron patch with F-14 in full wing sweep as a token of appreciation. I would have stood there the whole weekend if they would have let me.
I was a Reactor Department JO aboard Enterprise during the Westpac we made in '78. Mike McGrath was aboard with VA-97. I fondly remember several times talking to him in the wardroom after a meal. What struck me as most significant was his accounting of the fight he had to go through with Navy brass, to be able to fly after he returned from Hanoi. If I recall correctly, torture had torn up his right shoulder pretty badly. Thankfully he was approved to fly and I had the privilege of meeting him.
Met ADM Stockdale at Miramar in 1987 when he came to our squadron spaces with his grandson to get VF-51 Screaming Eagle geedunk. He was CAG and VF-51 skipper but flying a VA-163 A-4 when he was shot down. An outstanding American and Naval Aviator!
Mooch! I am loving your channel. I am just eating this stuff up. Just started Punks War. Lovin' it! You are a credit to your countrymen and the US Navy! Greetings from your neighbour and ally to the north, Canada.
Great memories of Adm Stockdale. I only knew him during his time as President of the Citadel. It was a tumultuous time for him, the school, and the corp back then. I appreciate hearing your experiences and understanding of the man. Regards JC
As always, I love hearing these stories. I can relate through reading history. As I commented before, I was also a Pukin' Dog (1990-1994). I remember a story when I was there about how VF-143 got that name. What I was told was that in the early sixties, when VF-143 just got F-4 Phantoms. The wife of then Airwing commander commented about the tail emblem with the winged Pit bull. "That looks like a Pukin' Dog." Pilots and RIOs loved it, and the name stuck. Another name that sticks out is James Bond Stockdale. He flew F-8s with VF-51 in Vietnam, and later commanded an A-4 squadron, when he was shot down. He was known as a legendary Naval Aviator. He was an Airwing commander, but Marine F-8 pilot Lt Col Chuck Ludden, who commanded VMF (AW) 212 took command, which apparently had not been done since World War II. Hearing stories, like this, are the stuff of legend to me.
Mooch, I could tell story upon story of things we got away with during my tours in Heavy Two, then VAQ 131 days on the Coral Sea, the Ranger and the Kennedy; I still smile when I think of them and the pitching deck overcast night traps. (I was 2nd seat in the Whale) As the duty tanker always the last to come aboard. The crying, the screaming, the praying then finally the OK3!!! I am proud knowing I served with the best of the best. I was a "white hat", only one of a very few, and the only one to have served with offices without peers.
Ward, the last time I saw you, back in the RAG, we were calling you "Cleaver". I was in VF-143 from Sep '84 to Nov '87; didn't know you did a tour with the Dogs. Got out after that tour and did the airline gig like probably 50% of the Tomcat pilots did. As the new pilot in the squadron when I joined, I had the "privilege" of caring for and lugging around the wooden squadron mascot for my first year. From talking to many fellow former F-14 pilots that I came into contact with, I never realized how fortunate I was to have been in the Dogs. Some would say how much they disliked their squadron or couldn't stand their skipper. I loved every minute of it and would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I look back at some of the things we did flying and am thankful we never lost an airplane. I'm sure you could never get away with some of that stuff today. I've enjoyed your videos and wish you the best of luck. Tonk
Cleaver was my obvious pre-fleet CAT 1 RAG callsign. I was a Dog for my super JO tour with Snake James and Flea Smith. Great lineup that populated the RAG as instructors after that. Good times, Tonk. V/R, Mooch
@@WardCarroll Needless to say, with characters like Moon Simmons, Snort, Weasel, and a host of great JO's, there never was a dull moment. I don't know if you're aware of how the Dogs got their name, but we were told the following: While flying the F-4 in the early 60's on the west coast, they were known as the Griffins. During a WestPac cruise, the ship made a port visit to Subic Bay. The squadron had the wooden mascot made while there. After returning to San Diego following their deployment, the squadron had a party at the skipper's house. The mascot was proudly displayed on a table with the obligatory lit cigar in it's mouth. A wife of a JO saw the mascot and disgustedly proclaimed that it looked like a puking dog. As with any good call sign, genius is quickly recognized and the name stuck. There is nothing wrong with "Griffins", but it certainly lacks the flair of "Pukin' Dogs".
I did some work on the telescope at Hospital Point in the mid to late 00's. I spent my lunch hours walking the cemetery grounds admiring my heroes graves and pondering what I knew of their lives. Annapolis is a great university, and I'm still friends with the mids I met over those years.
Thank you for the history of these great, and honorable men who served. I had no idea their final resting place is on the Academy grounds. I spend several weekends a month on Ego Alley watching the little boats pass by. My thoughts will now be further across that waterway, thinking about those great men, who rest just a mile away.
Taught at USNA 89-91. My office was in Luce Hall on the same floor as Admiral Lawrence. I was one of the few aviators in Luce Hall and he routinely popped into my office just to chat. Amazing man.
Wow, you have met some legendary aviators! Its like what does someone say to John Glenn? I'd probably be stammering like Ralph Kramden lol. I first heard of John McCain when I was a kid watching Discovery Wings and he was talking about being shot down in his A-4. I did not know he was on board Forrestall when the fire broke out. I wish youtube and your channel was around when I was in high school, because I would have joined the Navy in a second. But such is life. Another great episode sir!
Admiral Wm Lawrence was one of the 32 finalists for the Project Mercury astronaut selection in April of 1959. He was not selected due to a leaky heart valve which was detected during a stress test in a heat chamber. If not for this medical issue, he would have been one of the 7 "Original" astronauts.
Really learning a lot about naval aviation and history here. Was a fan of Sen McCain and his navy Service along with all of the POWs who returned in 73. After watching Blue angels Threshold I learned one individual of many didn't return, Harley hall former blues Boss MIA, last navy guy shot down, never seen again, his RIO returned with the other POWs. I also read the book Left to die, written about Harley.
When I was a young boy growing up in the 1970's people like Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, John Glenn and even John S. McCain where the prototypical role models for us. They were the kinds of people we would read about in books at the local library and the ones we wished to emulate. I am not saying these men were saints as I have no doubt some of them could cuss up a storm with the best of anyone in the barrios but these men whom you mention in the video dedicated their lives to service to their country. Now look at us today? Fully one half of country believes in a 5 time draft dodger who insulted some of the men you talk about in this video. The young people of today grow up idolizing money and fame. Their admitted role models are more likely to be people like Jeff Bezos or Mark Zuckerberg than John McCain or John Glenn or even Neil Armstrong. I have no frigging clue when this transition happened but it most certainly does not bode well for the future of America!
Wonderful channel. Had not been to USNa since leaving Nav in 1976. Proud vet aircrew man on CVa 42. Purple shirt then commissioned to SSBN611. Great tribute to each of the Academy Icons. Particularly Sen McCain. Amazing channel. Thank you thank you
What a wonderful legendary commentary I just loved it. McCain I was truly hurt with his Passing away. When I signed up and joined the Navy and 91 through 97 to fly Hilo’s from coming out of the CAP based out of homestead Air Force Base. Definitely the best time in my life. Again thank you so much for your channel and your efforts excellent as usual God bless
You mentioned that The Pukin Dogs was one of your favorite squadrons that you were a part of. Could you do a video expounding on what made them so good or maybe what makes for a good squadron in general? Also maybe relate those ideas into how you created VF-104 "Arrowslingers" for Punk's War.
My Uncle was aboard the Forrestal when it lit up he was enlisted and survived , I saw him recently and he showed me some pictures of his shipmates at a reunion from a few years ago great guys, thanks again
MY favorite Stockdale story written by a San Diego doctor to the local newspaper upon the admiral's death. The doctor had operated on Stockdale after he returned to the ship with a scalp wound bleeding into one eye and a piece of shrapnel in the other. Chiding him slightly, the doctor asked if he thought that was a good example to set for his men. Why didn't he go to an air station in the south. Stockdale said he didn't know any good doctors in South Vietnam.
My Dad was friends with McCain in Orange Park, FL and served as his XO in Meridian, MS. You get to see a lot of cool things when you are the Skippers Kid.
Thank you sir for the stories about all these truly great men. They are such awesome stories, especially the one about Admiral Stockdale and Senator Glenn flying together. I hope kids today are taught about how great these men truly were, and the sacrifices they made for our nation.
There's an airman you should meet or talk to, His name is Chuck Nelson. He was right behind McCain when a missile hit at 600 knots, He owns a large stone quarry in Wilkinson Washington. The Corey is Corey is from 1898. The stone was used in Washington State. When I needed to get supplies he told me the story. He's a great guy to talk to.
Thank you for sharing all these stories, as I am not from the US , stories like these are most of the time unheard of, unless you manage to stumble into a wikipedia by accident.
Ward , I was was in the Army 72-75 and I remember a news report from Saigon of a POW that was suppose to be doing a report on how the POW's were being treated , and he started blinking an SOS with his eyes .Maybe you can talk about him . I don't remember his name but it is a very cool story what he did .
@@Ras7685 . You are welcome Ras. No, I didn’t see it live as I was too young. I saw it on video. If you search the internet it’s on there. It’s a humbling sight.
As a former Scooter driver myself (A-4N, IAF 1979 - 1985), I am in no position to judge John McCain's flying skills. But as a son and a grandson of WWII war veterans, I say with complete humility: A HERO he is. It's impossible to imagine the horrors of the Viet Kong POW camp, and yet, under these horrible circumstances, he rose and demonstrated strength of character, leadership and courage beyond what is expected of a "regular mortal". We will never know how many fellow POW's literally owe him their lives as result of his spiritual and moral leadership and guidance. We all need to learn and teach our children to take example of individuals like John McCain. Salute.
Ward, you have lived enough to fill three lifetimes, and you are in no way close to done. What about a video of some of the folks you have interviewed over the years and the greatest pieces of advice that you gained or what you took away from some of those interviews or friendships from the great Americans that you have come across during your career. Listening to your stories takes me back to listening to my grandfather and his friends tell stories of WW2. None were aviators but my grandpa was a retired Major and his best friend a Brigadier General. I have heard stories about the Cuban Missile Crisis and how they planned things in North Carolina. The things that happen behind the scenes that the general population never knows about are the things that are most interesting. Maybe some videos with some of your old pilots would be great as well. The ones that start off “Do you remember that time we......” Stories are always better when there is someone who remembers things that we forget. Really looking forward to receiving your book and diving into it. Much love coming to you from Raeford NC. Once again, thank you for your service 🇺🇸 and thank you for sharing your wonderful memories and stories.
Mooch, I couldn’t agree with you more about Dick Naughton. I was ships company on The Big E for the last six months of the rebuild at Newport News. He was a great leader. I ended up as one of his four Officers of the Deck (Underway). I was the only O-3. My other job was A-Strike. He taught me an incredible amount about leadership. Good memories on The Big E.
I used to see Admiral Stockdale almost every morning returning from his morning swim as I was returning from the mess hall in my knob year at The Citadel. He never failed to return my salute and always said morning to me. His stride bore the irregular walk of a man with wounds of war that could not be hidden. I recognized his gait through the early morning darkness that hid our faces. While some of his policy changes at The Citadel made the fourth class bear the scourge of the upperclassman, I always knew he was trying to make things better. I did sometimes wish if he would just give it a break so that we could just be knobs. Unfortunately, his policy was very unpopular and he left after only one year. Nice videos. Keep up the good work. Also, I purchased a copy of Punk’s War today. I look forward to reading it.
I use to see Admiral Stockdale at the San Diego Chargers games. He was such a nice man with his foam hat complete with lighting Bolts sticking out the sides. We talked at half time, he was always giving all the credit to his wife Sybil for her work in getting the POW'S home. Hey did you ever know a REO by the name of Wright Mcleod VF 1? Enjoyed the vid!
Great video Ward! I really enjoy your videos, as I am a new subscriber. Please keep them coming. I am reading your books and just finishing up Punks Wing. Love them! Thank you for your service sir!
Admiral Stockdale is one of my heroes. I was so disappointed by the way he was treated in the '92 election. Thanks for remembering these great patriot warriors.
Concur. Thanks.
92 was the first election where you saw the media actively trying to influence the outcome of an election. Stockdale was a hero until he disagreed with the media. The media treated John McCain even worse. A hero is a hero regardless of what party they vote for.
@@johnharris6655 I feel a sitting President treated him the worst.... a disgraceful moment. McCain deserves nothing but respect. BZ
@@tommytfaa I agree the things Biden said about him in 2008 were terrible.
@@johnharris6655 nice try dude.... debating policy or Lehman brothers crap is politics... calling the guy "No Hero for getting captured" is total bullshit calling him a loser is more bullshit.... saying he did nothing for veterans is bullshit...
My Navy aviation hero….My Dad! Joined at age of 17…WW2, Korea, Cold War…multi carrier deployments…career Navy. Nothing in my life (with exception of my children) can bring happy emotional, but guarded tears as memories of Dad and early years of lessons learned from him. Navy Core Values of Honor, Courage, and Commitment …always inform my lifetime to this day. Dad lived these values and so much more. As his oldest son I saw them practiced in “real time” throughout his life. Dad Died, July 3rd 1987. A true and steadfast American Patriot!
My brother, a highly decorated AF Colonel, and pilot, flew many missions in Vietnam. He passed away on Nov. 5th of 2020. We're finally having a service for him on June 5th; if all goes well. We didn't speak too much about the war except that he wasn't happy with some of the decisions effecting the prosecution of the war. Johnson and McNamara were not his favorites. He was very positive about his fellow pilots and ground crew while in Thailand and Japan. He once told me that McCain was not one of those he put in high esteem....
Good post. Sorry for the loss of your brother. Just wondering why he did not like McCain? From what I understand, it seems that others felt the same.
@@northernlight696 A lot of people didn't like that McCain gave up the fact his father was an admiral. The North Vietnamese used it as a continual propaganda point throughout his imprisonment, especially after his father was named CIC of US forces in Vietnam. Somewhere along the line a conspiracy theory started that it wasn't tortured out of him, and he did it in hopes of getting preferential treatment. Another thing people don't like about him is that McCain "sold out" the US by signing his name on a condemnation of the US under threat of torture. He was far from the only POW to do so, but he was by far the most high-profile one to confess, and again because of his father's position, it was a major propaganda coup for the North Vietnamese.
This channel is a hidden gem
I've told several friends in the last few days about this channel, guys in the flight sim community, and it's spreading like wildfire amongst our peers. My favorite aviation/military channel right now, Ward is such an interesting aviator, and a great orator. Read some of his articles as well, a fantastic writer - and of course his books, I'm just starting Punk's War.
@@Gman-109 I endorse your posting and need that book in my library I'm sure 👍
Yes it is.
Unreal, Mooch. What a storied life and career you’ve lead, bearing witness to history, in service to our country. 🤘🏼🇺🇸
Thanks, Doug! 🇺🇸👍🏻
I was literally just thinking that.
Best comment! What an honour it is to be in the the company of these great men!
The case studies on Stockdale and McCain are actually the first two case studies of the Articles of the Code of Conduct chapter of the recruit training book which Marine recruits read and receive a class on. These are incredible men whose legacy will continue to shape our Naval service for generations.
Ill admit i didn't know about a lot of these people you were talking about, but i loved hearing you talk so passionately about your heros. Thankyou :)
I had the privilege of hearing Adm. Bill Lawrence speak at my school (Franklin Road Academy in Nashville) not long after he returned from Vietnam. I was in the 5th or 6th grade at the time. With him being from Nashville, his parents were periodically in the news during his captivity as a POW. I vividly remember him telling us how he came home to find that his first wife had remarried, but that his parents were the ones still there for him and never gave up. One of the main lessons that he wanted to impart on all of us was that parents are the usually the last ones standing when all others have abandoned us. It was an honor to hear him speak.
Leave it to John McCain to flip that script and come home and abandon his loyal wife! POS
Keep feeding my addiction to Naval Aviation stories, Ward! Thanks!
Will do, Jarrett! ;-)
@Thunderbolt I have not. Good?
I remember being in boot camp in 1979 and we were taking the class in the Code of Conduct, and they told us about John McCain and how he refused early release. Later we saw "Fire on the Flight Deck" and the instructor pointed out McCain getting out of his A-4 and jumping into the flames. Then they told us that within a week he was on another carrier flying missions over Hanoi.
Great video Ward! So good to see your channel growing this quickly!!
Thanks for your support, Anuj.
Another great video. Highlighting the type of moral character cultivated at Annapolis. All of these men should be more well known to the American public, especially in the current political climate we find ourselves in. Men who have the courage of their convictions one and all. I have always especially admired Admiral Stockdale, what an outstanding example of strength and personal fortitude.
I greatly admire all the great men you mentioned in this video. Thanks for this great walk through history. I have a small personal story for you. I met Senator McCain a few times when I was a senior officer in the RCAF, once in DC and once at the Halifax security forum. He was an exceptional man and very well read on the security issues of our time. Later on, I was doing some genealogy and I discovered that Senator McCain was born at the base hospital at the USN submarine station in Panama. The medical officer who delivered him was one Lieutenant Commander William L. Irvine, USN - an ancestor of mine. I wish I had known that when I had met the Senator - it would have been a cool thing to share with him.
I'm really enjoying the content you're putting out. Thank you for your previous and current service to the country.
I had the distinct honor and privilege of knowing Admiral and Mrs. Lawrence when we lived next door to them on Ford Island, Hawaii. Truly an inspirational leader and just an amazingly nice guy.
Jerry Russell
I am Doug’s Dad and was Commanding Officer of the Naval Ocean Processing Facility on Ford Island at the time We knew Admiral and Diane Lawrence. They were both wonderful, amazing people. We did not know of Diane’s passing and are very sad to hear of it. By the way I was an NFO and was among the first group to be trained formally as such in Pensacola in Spring/early Summer of 1960. We were all officers, mostly Ensigns from OCS at Newport RI.
No disrespect for any of the other gentlemen mentioned, but plenty for ‘No Name’. Thank you for the video, & especially for your service Sir!
My thoughts exactly
One of the best videos I’ve ever seen on RUclips. Thank you for your service Mr. Carroll.
Wow. High praise, Mike. Thanks for watching.
That Glenn and Stockdale story is amazing! Thanks for sharing!
Good Morning sir! Great video. Picked up my 20th Anniversary edition of Flight of the Intruder to re-read recently and realized that you had written the forward. I thought it was super cool to know the face behind the name. Thanks for making these videos. They are a real treat.
Stephen Coonts is a mentor and friend. I was honored to write the foreword for that edition.
@@WardCarroll Coonts is a great author. I have thoroughly enjoyed his Intruder series and seeing Jake Grafton grow. Never saw the movie. Good story telling Commander. Thoroughly enjoy your video tales keep 'em coming!
Thanks @@ronpekkala3281
Thank you for the video, it brought me back to that time I visited the Hanoi Hilton. A somber experience as I saw the uniform of Senator McCain and other pilots downed during that period of time. I am a Vietnamese, born and raised in the country, I had the opportunity to be educated in Canada during my earlier years and it changed my world view. Really appreciated the content you and the team brought to us.
Thanks very much, Trieu Le.
The cowboy life of early Navel aviators. You just gotta love those guys. Where in the hell would we be without them.
Great Naval aviation history there at the Naval Academy. Thanks for this video, very enjoyable.
Thanks for watching, Paul.
As a relatively recent subscriber I continue to seek out your earlier videos and am never, ever disappointed. Your channel is now my #1 go to place on RUclips. Thanks for the great stories you tell about experiences you've lived and the people you've known.
Hi ward, loving the channel and watching it out in here in Baghdad (private contractor) although I’m a British army vet, the f14 has always had a special place in my military obsessions
Hope thing are safe and well there. Thanks for watching.
I love how proud you are of these great individuals. Keep the content coming.
Very cool stuff, Ward. I really appreciate your insight and commentary of your experiences! I hope your new channel theme is coming along well, man; anxious to hear more ;)
Thanks, Chris.
Brave men all of them. My personal hero is my partners uncle, Air Vice Marshall William 'Paddy' Harbison. Flew Spitfires and P51 Mustangs in WW2 and then the Sabre F 86 in Korea while attached to the USAF. He had some great stories and a wonderful narration that made me have the utmost respect for him and all the brave men that strap themselves into those machines. R.I.P. Paddy thank you for your brave service which includes you also Mr Carroll . Respect and Gratitude from Wales U.K
Great video sir, I feel honoured watching your videos on RUclips. Keep up the good work as always:)
Thanks, Napo!
Thanks for another excellent episode, Ward. Your story of John Glenn & Adm Stockdale's cross country made me smile. We're nearly the same age so share many of the same heroes and role models as we each pursued our military fighter aviation careers. Best wishes from Spain.
Hey, thanks again for everything & now for acknowledging our wonderful patriots that have now passed on!!!! Thank you!!!
Great video honoring some great men. My father was an F-4 pilot and Air Boss on the Midway during the evacuation of Saigon. I live in San Diego so Admiral Stockdale is near and dear to my heart. Grateful for these men and their service. Thank you for your channel and service.
I live in Pensacola. I never served but I love Naval Aviation, and of course Pensacola is the cradle of Naval Aviation, so I really enjoy your videos. I’m a life long scuba diver, and about 15 years ago Pensacola secured the U.S.S. Oriskany to be sunk as an artificial reef. As I understand it, the Mighty O was John McCain’s carrier when he was shot down over Vietnam. Before the ship was sunk, the dive shop was allowed to secure lots of pieces of things that had to be removed anyway - like Ready Room doors, a Brig door and lots of other interesting pieces of history. The dive shop later hosted a Oriskany Reunion and several dozen former shipmates attended. We took them out on boats and set up a underwater video feed and laid a wreath on the ship in honor of their fallen comrades. Over the years the ashes of several former shipmates have been interred on the ship. Keep up the good work.
Ward, I love your stories and first hand knowledge of Naval aviation. I was a enlisted Marine AZ. I have always loved military aircraft and the stories that go with them.
Thank you sir.
I love this channel! Putting the spotlight on those who came before you and helped you along the way is a mark of true character. Thank you for these stories.
I think we can all agree that only a Communist would give this episode a thumbs down.
I think it is because of Senator McCain !
@@charliehart1626 prolly right.
Hey Ward! I discovered your channel yesterday and have been binge watching ever since. Can’t wait to read your books!
All heroes deserve respect and admiration. Stockdale for sure, due to his horrific treatment and personal fortitude.
A nice tribute. Heroes need to be remembered and appreciated for risking their lives to benefit others. We have freedom because of these fallen.
This video leaves me speechless. I’m humbled of the greatness of these men.
Thanks for the video, I am enjoying your channel very much. Great story, and great memories. As a retired grunt, there were a lot of times, where life in the military was quite rough to say the least. Over time, you forget the tough times, and seem to cherish the good times. It’s all about the memories.
Much Love and Respect for these Heroes and True Men of Combat, Including yourself Sir.
Hi Ward! Great channel. I was a Pukin' Dog...for a couple hours. 1997 (?) I was in high school. I was in the Civil Air Patrol and assigned as a static display guard at the St. Louis County Fair and Air Show. Naturally, I picked the F-14 and spent a few hours walking around and admiring the Tomcat. Several uninformed members of the public thought I was the pilot. As much as I would have enjoyed saying yes, I never did, but I did answer as many questions about the aircraft that I accurately could. The pilot eventually showed up and gave me a triangular squadron patch with F-14 in full wing sweep as a token of appreciation. I would have stood there the whole weekend if they would have let me.
I am in the UK and have no links whatsoever with Naval aviation but find your Vlogs fascinating, keep them coming Ward I look forward to every one 👍
Thank you!
I was a Reactor Department JO aboard Enterprise during the Westpac we made in '78. Mike McGrath was aboard with VA-97. I fondly remember several times talking to him in the wardroom after a meal. What struck me as most significant was his accounting of the fight he had to go through with Navy brass, to be able to fly after he returned from Hanoi. If I recall correctly, torture had torn up his right shoulder pretty badly. Thankfully he was approved to fly and I had the privilege of meeting him.
Met ADM Stockdale at Miramar in 1987 when he came to our squadron spaces with his grandson to get VF-51 Screaming Eagle geedunk. He was CAG and VF-51 skipper but flying a VA-163 A-4 when he was shot down. An outstanding American and Naval Aviator!
Thanks for the video, Ward. Looks like a beautiful day at USNA and I enjoyed seeing the sailboats in Santee Basin behind you.
It was! Thanks, Rory.
Mooch! I am loving your channel. I am just eating this stuff up. Just started Punks War. Lovin' it! You are a credit to your countrymen and the US Navy! Greetings from your neighbour and ally to the north, Canada.
Great memories of Adm Stockdale. I only knew him during his time as President of the Citadel. It was a tumultuous time for him, the school, and the corp back then. I appreciate hearing your experiences and understanding of the man.
Regards
JC
Oh how I miss McCain's integrity and I absolutely respect his war career. I'm glad he'll be a source of wisdom for Midshipmen for years to come.
Very interesting stories regarding these heroes of naval aviation. I find myself hanging on your every word...
As always, I love hearing these stories. I can relate through reading history. As I commented before, I was also a Pukin' Dog (1990-1994). I remember a story when I was there about how VF-143 got that name. What I was told was that in the early sixties, when VF-143 just got F-4 Phantoms. The wife of then Airwing commander commented about the tail emblem with the winged Pit bull. "That looks like a Pukin' Dog." Pilots and RIOs loved it, and the name stuck. Another name that sticks out is James Bond Stockdale. He flew F-8s with VF-51 in Vietnam, and later commanded an A-4 squadron, when he was shot down. He was known as a legendary Naval Aviator. He was an Airwing commander, but Marine F-8 pilot Lt Col Chuck Ludden, who commanded VMF (AW) 212 took command, which apparently had not been done since World War II. Hearing stories, like this, are the stuff of legend to me.
Billy Lawrence was our 'Skipper' in VF-143 ('67) and 'Beetle' Baily remains our 'hero' and 'POW Survivor'!
Mooch, I could tell story upon story of things we got away with during my tours in Heavy Two, then VAQ 131 days on the Coral Sea, the Ranger and the Kennedy; I still smile when I think of them and the pitching deck overcast night traps. (I was 2nd seat in the Whale) As the duty tanker always the last to come aboard. The crying, the screaming, the praying then finally the OK3!!! I am proud knowing I served with the best of the best. I was a "white hat", only one of a very few, and the only one to have served with offices without peers.
Thank you for these great stories. A very instructive vid for all these great Naval Officers. Fair winds ! Greetings from Brazil.
Thanks, Gustavo!
Ward, the last time I saw you, back in the RAG, we were calling you "Cleaver". I was in VF-143 from Sep '84 to Nov '87; didn't know you did a tour with the Dogs. Got out after that tour and did the airline gig like probably 50% of the Tomcat pilots did. As the new pilot in the squadron when I joined, I had the "privilege" of caring for and lugging around the wooden squadron mascot for my first year. From talking to many fellow former F-14 pilots that I came into contact with, I never realized how fortunate I was to have been in the Dogs. Some would say how much they disliked their squadron or couldn't stand their skipper. I loved every minute of it and would do it all over again in a heartbeat. I look back at some of the things we did flying and am thankful we never lost an airplane. I'm sure you could never get away with some of that stuff today. I've enjoyed your videos and wish you the best of luck. Tonk
Cleaver was my obvious pre-fleet CAT 1 RAG callsign. I was a Dog for my super JO tour with Snake James and Flea Smith. Great lineup that populated the RAG as instructors after that. Good times, Tonk. V/R, Mooch
@@WardCarroll Needless to say, with characters like Moon Simmons, Snort, Weasel, and a host of great JO's, there never was a dull moment. I don't know if you're aware of how the Dogs got their name, but we were told the following: While flying the F-4 in the early 60's on the west coast, they were known as the Griffins. During a WestPac cruise, the ship made a port visit to Subic Bay. The squadron had the wooden mascot made while there. After returning to San Diego following their deployment, the squadron had a party at the skipper's house. The mascot was proudly displayed on a table with the obligatory lit cigar in it's mouth. A wife of a JO saw the mascot and disgustedly proclaimed that it looked like a puking dog. As with any good call sign, genius is quickly recognized and the name stuck. There is nothing wrong with "Griffins", but it certainly lacks the flair of "Pukin' Dogs".
@@tonk4967 That’s the story! Love it. And of course I knew/know all of those guys. Nels is also a good friend. We sailed together at USNA.
@@WardCarroll Nels was my first RIO.
I did some work on the telescope at Hospital Point in the mid to late 00's. I spent my lunch hours walking the cemetery grounds admiring my heroes graves and pondering what I knew of their lives. Annapolis is a great university, and I'm still friends with the mids I met over those years.
Thank you for the history of these great, and honorable men who served. I had no idea their final resting place is on the Academy grounds. I spend several weekends a month on Ego Alley watching the little boats pass by. My thoughts will now be further across that waterway, thinking about those great men, who rest just a mile away.
Taught at USNA 89-91. My office was in Luce Hall on the same floor as Admiral Lawrence. I was one of the few aviators in Luce Hall and he routinely popped into my office just to chat. Amazing man.
Good stuff, Chris. Thanks.
Wow, you have met some legendary aviators! Its like what does someone say to John Glenn? I'd probably be stammering like Ralph Kramden lol. I first heard of John McCain when I was a kid watching Discovery Wings and he was talking about being shot down in his A-4. I did not know he was on board Forrestall when the fire broke out. I wish youtube and your channel was around when I was in high school, because I would have joined the Navy in a second. But such is life. Another great episode sir!
Thanks, Frank!
John McCain was also flying off the Big E during the Cuban Missile crisis
Admiral Wm Lawrence was one of the 32 finalists for the Project Mercury astronaut selection in April of 1959. He was not selected due to a leaky heart valve which was detected during a stress test in a heat chamber. If not for this medical issue, he would have been one of the 7 "Original" astronauts.
Glad to be a patron for you, good sir! Love your content! That autographed copy of punk's war you mentioned sounds damned tasty!
Check you Patron message for specific details. Thanks, Mike.
Nice shout out to Tony Less, first Commanding Officer of the Blue Angels in 1974 when the team was reorganized as a squadron.
Love that man!
Great video. You’re one lucky dude to have had all your experiences.
I am. Thanks.
I just purchased your book! Can't wait for it to arrive here in Canada. Thank you for these videos, and thank you Sir, for your service.
Thanks for the support, John.
Really learning a lot about naval aviation and history here. Was a fan of Sen McCain and his navy Service along with all of the POWs who returned in 73. After watching Blue angels Threshold I learned one individual of many didn't return, Harley hall former blues Boss MIA, last navy guy shot down, never seen again, his RIO returned with the other POWs. I also read the book Left to die, written about Harley.
When I was a young boy growing up in the 1970's people like Neil Armstrong, Buzz Aldrin, John Glenn and even John S. McCain where the prototypical role models for us. They were the kinds of people we would read about in books at the local library and the ones we wished to emulate. I am not saying these men were saints as I have no doubt some of them could cuss up a storm with the best of anyone in the barrios but these men whom you mention in the video dedicated their lives to service to their country. Now look at us today? Fully one half of country believes in a 5 time draft dodger who insulted some of the men you talk about in this video. The young people of today grow up idolizing money and fame. Their admitted role models are more likely to be people like Jeff Bezos or Mark Zuckerberg than John McCain or John Glenn or even Neil Armstrong. I have no frigging clue when this transition happened but it most certainly does not bode well for the future of America!
My thoughts exactly
Wonderful piece of history. Thank you
I loved the storys of the hero's and legends who helped build this country.
Brilliant channel Sir! What an amazing career you had! Old Brit Soldier.
Wonderful channel. Had not been to USNa since leaving Nav in 1976. Proud vet aircrew man on CVa 42. Purple shirt then commissioned to SSBN611. Great tribute to each of the Academy Icons. Particularly Sen McCain. Amazing channel. Thank you thank you
What a wonderful legendary commentary I just loved it. McCain I was truly hurt with his Passing away. When I signed up and joined the Navy and 91 through 97 to fly Hilo’s from coming out of the CAP based out of homestead Air Force Base. Definitely the best time in my life. Again thank you so much for your channel and your efforts excellent as usual God bless
Thanks as always, jimmy.
Couldn’t be better stories: thank you!
You mentioned that The Pukin Dogs was one of your favorite squadrons that you were a part of. Could you do a video expounding on what made them so good or maybe what makes for a good squadron in general? Also maybe relate those ideas into how you created VF-104 "Arrowslingers" for Punk's War.
Like it, Chris. Thanks.
At the FBO I work at we had a Hornet stop in for fuel from the world famous Pukin Dogs, it was an honor and treat to accommodate a Pukin Dog!
Love your videos true Navy all the Warts and glory thank for keeping us involved in Naval aviation
Dang wish you made this channel before I graduated! Would've been awesome to run into you at some point while I was there! Great vid 👍
Thanks for the opportunity to walk with you and honor these men.
My Uncle was aboard the Forrestal when it lit up he was enlisted and survived , I saw him recently and he showed me some pictures of his shipmates at a reunion from a few years ago great guys, thanks again
Great stuff... I visited the naval academy couple of years ago, awesome place. Would love to have been a student there.
MY favorite Stockdale story written by a San Diego doctor to the local newspaper upon the admiral's death. The doctor had operated on Stockdale after he returned to the ship with a scalp wound bleeding into one eye and a piece of shrapnel in the other. Chiding him slightly, the doctor asked if he thought that was a good example to set for his men. Why didn't he go to an air station in the south. Stockdale said he didn't know any good doctors in South Vietnam.
My Dad was friends with McCain in Orange Park, FL and served as his XO in Meridian, MS. You get to see a lot of cool things when you are the Skippers Kid.
Meridian, Mississippi is my hometown!
Paul Galanti was my Dad’s XO at Naval Recruiting in Richmond. It was fun to hear them swap stories about flying..
Thank you sir for the stories about all these truly great men. They are such awesome stories, especially the one about Admiral Stockdale and Senator Glenn flying together. I hope kids today are taught about how great these men truly were, and the sacrifices they made for our nation.
There's an airman you should meet or talk to, His name is Chuck Nelson. He was right behind McCain when a missile hit at 600 knots, He owns a large stone quarry in Wilkinson Washington. The Corey is Corey is from 1898. The stone was used in Washington State. When I needed to get supplies he told me the story. He's a great guy to talk to.
Thank you for sharing all these stories, as I am not from the US , stories like these are most of the time unheard of, unless you manage to stumble into a wikipedia by accident.
Fair winds and following seas to these great heros. Rest in peace , we have the watch
Ward , I was was in the Army 72-75 and I remember a news report from Saigon of a POW that was suppose to be doing a report on how the POW's were being treated , and he started blinking an SOS with his eyes .Maybe you can talk about him . I don't remember his name but it is a very cool story what he did .
Hello Ras. You are referring to Jeremiah Denton. I would enjoy a story about him.
@@FIGGY65 Thanks for the name.......did you see the newscast ?
@@Ras7685 . You are welcome Ras. No, I didn’t see it live as I was too young. I saw it on video. If you search the internet it’s on there. It’s a humbling sight.
I love the stories and you are an awesome presenter. You're also one of two YTers I a patron of.
My hero is my Dad Ray Stewart was a Marine Pilot flew in Korea and Vietnam, flew over 35 different aircraft as a test pilot. Still alive today at 92
Great segment Ward!! Thanks. Even us lowly enlisted aircrew love these sea stories!! :)
As a former Scooter driver myself (A-4N, IAF 1979 - 1985), I am in no position to judge John McCain's flying skills.
But as a son and a grandson of WWII war veterans, I say with complete humility: A HERO he is.
It's impossible to imagine the horrors of the Viet Kong POW camp, and yet, under these horrible circumstances,
he rose and demonstrated strength of character, leadership and courage beyond what is expected of a "regular mortal".
We will never know how many fellow POW's literally owe him their lives as result of his spiritual and moral leadership and guidance.
We all need to learn and teach our children to take example of individuals like John McCain.
Salute.
Very good video..loved the history of these great men.
Ward, you have lived enough to fill three lifetimes, and you are in no way close to done. What about a video of some of the folks you have interviewed over the years and the greatest pieces of advice that you gained or what you took away from some of those interviews or friendships from the great Americans that you have come across during your career. Listening to your stories takes me back to listening to my grandfather and his friends tell stories of WW2. None were aviators but my grandpa was a retired Major and his best friend a Brigadier General. I have heard stories about the Cuban Missile Crisis and how they planned things in North Carolina. The things that happen behind the scenes that the general population never knows about are the things that are most interesting. Maybe some videos with some of your old pilots would be great as well. The ones that start off “Do you remember that time we......” Stories are always better when there is someone who remembers things that we forget. Really looking forward to receiving your book and diving into it. Much love coming to you from Raeford NC. Once again, thank you for your service 🇺🇸 and thank you for sharing your wonderful memories and stories.
Great ideas, Ibby. Thanks.
Ward, you sound like you are very blessed to have such a rich naval aviation history. It almost sounds like six degrees of Ward Carroll!
🙂
It's a small community.
Mooch, I couldn’t agree with you more about Dick Naughton. I was ships company on The Big E for the last six months of the rebuild at Newport News. He was a great leader. I ended up as one of his four Officers of the Deck (Underway). I was the only O-3. My other job was A-Strike. He taught me an incredible amount about leadership. Good memories on The Big E.
Thanks, Mark. Hope you’re well.
Excellent episode!!
I used to see Admiral Stockdale almost every morning returning from his morning swim as I was returning from the mess hall in my knob year at The Citadel. He never failed to return my salute and always said morning to me. His stride bore the irregular walk of a man with wounds of war that could not be hidden. I recognized his gait through the early morning darkness that hid our faces.
While some of his policy changes at The Citadel made the fourth class bear the scourge of the upperclassman, I always knew he was trying to make things better. I did sometimes wish if he would just give it a break so that we could just be knobs.
Unfortunately, his policy was very unpopular and he left after only one year.
Nice videos. Keep up the good work. Also, I purchased a copy of Punk’s War today. I look forward to reading it.
I use to see Admiral Stockdale at the San Diego Chargers games. He was such a nice man with his foam hat complete with lighting Bolts sticking out the sides. We talked at half time, he was always giving all the credit to his wife Sybil for her work in getting the POW'S home. Hey did you ever know a REO by the name of Wright Mcleod VF 1? Enjoyed the vid!
I could listen to these stories for ever. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Great video Ward! I really enjoy your videos, as I am a new subscriber. Please keep them coming. I am reading your books and just finishing up Punks Wing. Love them! Thank you for your service sir!
Thank you for sharing these stories.