Thank You so much. My Uncle Jimmy (Pvt. James E Johnson) was killed during this battle on January 7th, with the 193rd Gld Inf, Company A. I am a member of the Scions. I have been digging for any information about Dead Man's Ridge for over 35 years when my Dad got the box out of the attic so I could get the information I needed to find his burial plot. As it turned out the cemetery I had the name of was only temporary in France. I have the book covering where he was buried there. Letter stated he was killed by artillery, and he is buried in Luxemburg along with General George S Patton. My Dad got to meet his brother in 2011 when my brother and I went with him to Europe.
When we were there in 2021 we took some pictures of the soldiers grave markers at the cemetery you uncle is buried at. I’ll go through the pics to see if I have it.
Thank you for covering part of the saga of the 17th Airborne. My grandfather was in the 17th, was in the 'Battle of the Bulge' and the crossing of the Rhine. It always seems his division’s exploits are forever doomed to being overshadowed by the 82nd, the 101st, and in the instance of 'the Bulge', eclipsed by the 3rd Army as well. The poor 17th nary elicits a mention. It warmed the cockles of my heart to hear the words and to see the 17th Airborne logo plastered on the screen.
The 17th is remembered and honored every year at the Dead Man's Ridge Walk near Bastogne. I've attended the last 4. There are monuments to the 17th in nearby Flamierge and Houmont. There is also one (2 years old) in Wesel, Germany, at the Hotel Haus Duden, a building which my uncle (S1 officer for the 194th Glider Infantry Regiment) chose from a map while helping plan Varsity for the 194th.
I do not know how any normal person hears of such deeds and is not in awe. The sad fact is that societies occasionally depend on those with the best characters willingly sacrificing themselves. Thanks to men like them, I have lived with more liberty and peace.
With research, and interviews of the men involved. Hey, I gained in Benning in 1982! Orangey red clay dirt. I’ll never forget that stuff, or being a army Ranger.
My grandfather fought in the Battle of the Bulge with the 452nd Anti-Aircraft Battalion. I remember him telling me this how cold it was one of the coldest winters in Europe's history.
My uncle was with Pattons 3rd army. He fought at the bulge as well although probably not as long as your uncle. He marched almost 100 miles in 48 hours and immediately went in to battle. He also spoke of how unbearable the cold was. Those men truly were the greatest generation.
@@lancerevell5979 , I am something of a polar bear myself, much more comfortable in cool and cold climates than in hot sticky ones but I looked at the video clips here and felt myself being chilled to the bone. The cold Winter may have hampered the allies but it probably hampered the Germans too, especially with the German invasion of Russia.
I wonder if my dad was in the battle, he wouldn't talk about anything I mean anything, he kept everything inward I know he seen some awful things 😢😓😭 I did managed to get a few things out of him. All sad though mom always acted like she fought besides him 🤷♀️🤦🏻♀️ so embarrassing. I know she wasn't there she was a kid back with her family probably got spanked every day.
In 1991 I met a man Dusty Ross who grew up in Omaha fought in the Bulge w the 17thAirborne. Dusty came and worked for me for a couple of years. Top notch man in all respects. Thanks for reminding me of Dusty.
Not sure how perpetuating state interests is "something greater" than the lives of people who otherwise wouldnt have been traumatised and possibly lived longer lives, but okay
@@ekim000 Well you both have some bits of some kind of truth there. I really suspect Isadore Jachman was not thinking 'I shall give my life for America' so much as thinking 'You nazi filth, you are not going to kill my buddies'. So a squad of his brothers in arms - Yeah, I suspect he might well have thought all their lives them worth something greater than his one life. But who can sensibly listen to accounts such as these and fail to recognise that state on state conflict, grinding millions of the best people all the combatant nations have to offer is an insane squandering of human kind's best genes? I watched this video with huge respect for Jachman and his buddies But with a great sense of sadness such acts were necessary because a cadre of evil people mislead a nation.
My dad was in the 17th. Missed the Battle of the Bulge, his troop ship was rammed by a French Aircraft carrier on the transatlantic voyage, and they were delayed. Used to complain that he had gone up in airplanes 23 times before he ever landed in one... finally... in 1972. Thank you for this story.
I was in the 82nd airborne division. We flew in C130s. After many successful jumps, I was on a jump that got scrubbed, causing us to return to the airfield to land. It was terrifying.
As a former paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division I am ashamed to say that I have never heard this story. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. I shall do more research on it myself.
8th div Germany 59-61 Class 39-61 Bragg, 173rd Okinawa 63-64 This is also the first time I've heard of the 17th at the Bulge. And I've read a lot of history and many of my senior officers and NCO's were WW 2 vets in my Army days.
A shout out to you, the history teacher I wish I had had back in schools. But I have you now and I am an attentively interested student who can't get enough. You make history exciting, interesting and important.
Awesome story! As an Army veteran I really appreciate these stories. My Uncle "Bud" Wilson was with the 101st at the Battle of the Bulge. I would like to request you attempt to do an interview and story on another 101st soldier: Vince Speranza. He was the "beer delivery guy" to wounded soldiers in Bastongne. He has been interviewed on several RUclips channels including the University of IL, and has been featured in several RUclips videos for the airborne song: Blood Upon The Risers. He's quite a character and "I" (also a historian by degree) feel that you would do his story "justice" in one of your videos. He's in his mid-90's now, so don't delay! As an aside, I believe he and my Uncle Bud were in the same platoon during the Battle Of The Bulge. Please consider doing a video on Vince and how a brewer in Belgium now brews Airborne Brown Beer in his honor. That sir, is a story that "Deserves To Be Remembered"! Thank you!! SSG Bill Wilson
@@stevedietrich8936 here is the link (if RUclips will let me attach it) to a video of Vince when he visited my company's corporate HQ a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/_fXYSmR-WiM/видео.html
@@liberalsockpuppet4772 Thanks!! Here is a link to a RUclips video (if YT will let me attach it) when he visited my company's HQ a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/_fXYSmR-WiM/видео.html
You should do a video on Robert " Rosie" Rosenthal. A B-17 pilot that flew 52 missions, was shot down and escaped from Behind Enemy Lines three times and after the war went on to be a prosecutor at Nuremberg. That's history that deserves to be remembered.
A Proud US Army Brat is currently at his best Salute to honor this Hero. I never had the honor of Service, but I grew up in the Army. Grampa Harvey Meyer served in the Pacific, Papa Ray Potter served as Atlantic Peace Patrol during Korea-his brothers all served in WW2-many many of my uncles in Vietnam or the Cold War; my mother and father BOTH served in the Cold War. To hear of a MAN giving the truest Last Full Measure Of Devotion makes me stand tall and give a Salute as best I have been taught… second-hand. I hope to meet Isadore when I get to the Pearly Gates, so I can tell him “Thank you.”
Thank you Lance. I was not aware of Sgt. Isadore Jachman or this story of the 17th - and I've read and heard a good bit over many years. Again, thank you for bringing the stories of these brave Americans to our attention - and into the 21st century. Time marches on but certain memories seem to dictate a regular renewal for the inspiration of our subsequent generations.
@@johnsimons9831 yes, that was Operation Torch. It was not only the first American Airborne combat operation, but it’s also the longest mass parachute insertion ever completed, having flown all the way from England to the objective. I’m a 3/509 founding member when the unit was reactivated at Ft. Richardson in 2005. 1/509 is at Ft. Polk. There are only a few Airborne Infantry units in the Army so you see a lot of the same faces as you rotate around the units throughout your career.
Im glad to see they reactivated the 509th it allso had the first medel of honer paul huff snd where the reason all paratroopers where maroon berets from honorary red devils the brits thought a lot of them
Our father was there, 17th Airborne, 193rd Glider Infantry Division. Last year my son & I did the annual Deadman's Ridge Walk in Belgium. Thank you for remembering history.
Thank You so much in giving recognition to the men of the 17th Airborne. My Grandfather was a Sgt. Frank Raimondi who served with the 17TH 513PIR receiving a Bronze Star and purple 💜 in the Battle of the Bulge. The paratroopers of 17th are sadly under appreciated or just fade into the background of history books mostly due to the hero’s of the 101st & 82nd airborne divisions. The paratroopers from “Thunder from Above” is truly “History that deserves to be remembered” Thank You
J I .First of all thank you for your family's heroic service. The Paras SAS Seals etc. Are so good at War, they can't live with peace. They have to be constantly busy engrossed in life or death situations. They thrive on Adrenalin. And live for the excitement of it. God Bless Em All;True Warriors. Phil. UK
Thank you for your great coverage of the 17th at Dead Man’s Ridge. Jachman was the first of 4 Medals of Honor awarded to 17th Airborne troopers, more than any other WW2 airborne division, in just 5 months of intense combat. After the war the 17th was merged with the 101st and 82 Airborne and their name and contribution are often overlooked. My grandfather Capt Charles Jones was in Jachman’s regiment and fought nearby in Flamierge. He was awarded the Silver Star for directing an artillery strike on his own foxhole when it was literally overrun by German tanks. The tanks quickly retreated from the exposed American front line. He and John Kormann (mentioned in your video) were lucky to come home. RIP to Jachman and 1000 other troopers who did not 😢🫡
Izzy was my Grandfathers brother … My moms Dad. Joseph “ Joey “ Jachman, just past last July 4th of All days.. I grew up sleeping under Izzy’s Medals.. wayy before they went to DC.. I have his boxing Gloves … we still here fam 🫡
Thanks for recognizing the 17th ABD. My maternal uncle, Wilfred Eugene Varner (Uncle Gene), fought and received a Purple Heart during the Bulge battle. He jumped in Operation Varsity in 1945. He earned a Silver Star on March 4, 1945, near Vulfen, Germany. He was a hero to me, as well as the country he fought for. RIP, Uncle Gene. There are few like you. Salutes and much respect.👍👊🤛
It matters not your race,religion,creed or clan.You fight for this nation,America,is all that matters.That makes you not just a hero but an American Hero".Thank you & your family foe your service & sacrifice.God Bless!
I had family on both sides of the war. Heard many terrible, sad, and heroic tales. From Pearl harbor and Europe. Men on troop ships heading to Japan just before the surrender of Japan. The last story was from the son of a man who fought at the Colmar Pocket. We visited Colmar on a trip to see the country. We were amazed at the number of war memorials in and around the town. Yet in the states it’s all but forgotten. Thank you for your wonderful episodes on world history sad as in this case, and every other description put to an event.
"The greatest generation" was an understatement. As this story clearly points out. God bless these men and women. I thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Hello, I have contacted THG to do a episode on Operation Varsity. I am thrilled he did a story on this. My dad was 17th 466 PFAB. Their combat jump was into Germany. It was the largest airborne operation in history to be conducted on a single day and in one location. It also was the worst single day for allied airborne troops. Probably didn't help they drop in daylight. Montgomery good plan. Anyway, next time you are anywhere discussing ww2. Ask them which Airborne unit had the most MOH awards in WW 2? I'm sure you will be the only 1 who knows.
Thank you for this story of 17th airborne and specifically the 513 PIR action in the bulge. My dad was there, and served as a battlefield medic with 513 PIR company A. He was awarded the Silver Star for action on January 4, 1944 in the same battle as Jackman
Thank you for researching and posting this. Those of us who haven't, thankfully, been directly involved in a war or genocide need to be reminded, OFTEN, of the true costs of such events/atrocities and need to recognize what so many others have given and give so that we can live "free."
Another outstanding snippet of history! As uncommon as the valor of Sergeant Jachman was a common virtue, so to is the uncanny, uncommon, impeccable timing and delivery of The History Guy to present such a story that took place 78 years ago today 1-04-1945. The History Guy makes such uncommon things a common occurrence. Thank you History Guy! Thank you!
As impressive as the defence of Bastogne was, the key defences took place at St. Vith and the northern shoulder of the breach. Those critical actions rarely get mention.
@@TheHistoryGuyChannel Bruce Clarke's brilliant ad-hoc defense was the thumb in the throat of the advance towards Antwerp - denying Germany the key road junction and rail line ended their ambitions. Even after being pushed out of St. Vith, the American defenses on the high ground to the west dominated the town and junction, still denying their use to the Germans. German forces never did gain functional control of the junction, and St. Vith was the functional high water mark of their offensive. Likewise, the northern shoulder continuously faced fresh German soldiers as each advancing unit slid past. Preventing the gap widening into a general breakout was absolutely critical. The brutal, heroic fight there is almost always never covered in any detail.
My father, Lester Garrett was in the bulge at the area of St. Vith. When his area got overun and the Germans were going from foxhole to foxhole killing anyone alive he survived by playing dead like the 3 dead men in his foxhole. He never spoke of the war to me but he had told that to my mother.
@@larrygarrett724 my experience has been that most soldiers whom have seen really harsh combat don't talk about it much. They tell funny stories about things which were combat-adjacent, but only rarely do they open up about the real brutal stuff.
A little known fact: Jimi Hendrix trained as a paratrooper in the Army but never saw combat duty. One of his old Army buddies, Billy Cox, later played bass with Jimi in the Band of Gypsies.
5:07 Lt William P Yarborough: in the early 60s as Gen Yarborough, he dusted off the design of M1942 paratrooper uniform (seen with the 4-slant pocket jacket and baggy cargo trousers) and helped develop the jungle utility uniform that became standard during Vietnam and which influenced military combat uniforms to this day. I have seen it written that it was one of the few times the army came up with a uniform that was actually functional.
I was a US Paratrooper in the XVIII Airborne Corps in 1984 and we were allowed to wear the Vietnam jungle fatigues. We wore them year round. They were terrific in the heat and humidity of Central America. Also the legacy of the 17th Airborne Division lives on as the 507th PIR runs the US Army Jump School at Fort Benning, GA. AATW!
Thanks for remembering this hero. How sad that if proper intelligence had been available perhaps a different outcome would have occurred. It's vital to be prepared and properly outfitted. Yet beyond all the odds, this hero stood up for his friends and comrades.
Excellent job. Know a bit of military history, but had never heard or read of the 17th Airborne Division nor the battle of Dead Man's Ridge! Have you done anything on St. Vith, please? Very Well Done 👍!
Thanks for featuring the 17th Abn. Div. It's a unit that gets overshadowed by the 82d & 101st. A tip of the hat to SSG Jachman....clearly a badass dude.
@@timf2279 No kidding. One almost never hears of the 13th Abn. Div. Though they never made a combat jump, one of their RGT's did...in southern France.....and I believe the division saw combat during the final stages of the push into Germany. I think they were slated to redeploy to the Pacific for the invasion of Japan.
True they were formed later in the war. After D-day their ranks were depleted to fill the losses in the 82nd and 101st. After that held in reserves and not used because of not being combat tested. Also the war in Europe was advancing and ending fast that their operations were not needed as ground troops had overran the objectives.
Just one of the many of the acts of bravery during WW2, many of which that did not get witnessed or recognized with honors. I cannot comprehend the fear they overcame to knowingly become a target in a effort to repel an enemy advance.
HG, this is an awesome show ! So important that these be remembered . These Men and Women’s service to us all and the World for that matter should be in every History class . Thank You “HG” for your service to us all
Thank you! I'd like you to consider covering Presidential Unit Citations as well. My friend Art LeBlanc was with the 5th Rangers, which received two such citations, one for the almost forgotten battle of Irsch-Zerf 5th Rangers 1945. I don't know if art is still alive, but he was almost certainly the last Allied survivor. there is an article with a title like "nine days behind enemy lines" which is a good overview. Art was at Utah Beach on D-Day (he was a combat engineer then) and always maintained that irsch-zerf was much harder than Normandy, and he was proudest of the Unit citations.
As a battlefield historian living adjacent to the Westwall proximal to St. Vith, I'll first complement your general historical accuracy. That out of the way, it's unfortunate that Bastogne is yet again featured given the sheer scale of the campaign and number of Allied units involved. Jachman was a hell of a soldier, and the siege of Bastogne is a hell of a story, but you really should look more closely at the "northern shoulder" of the larger German Ardennes-Alsace counteroffensive. In particular at the "Twin Villages" of Rocherath-Krinkelt, given the recent MoH theme. Five were awarded there in a 48 hour span. If you really want to stretch your strategic legs, consider the story of the defense of St. Vith -- perhaps even focused on the 106th Inf. Div. "Golden Lions". Always happy to help, if such collaboration is of interest.
The history guy can go from weird history like the history of chickens or the phillips screwdriver to these stories of incredibly brave men and once you start listening you have to stay til the end. One of the best you tubers out there. Although italways makes me sad to hear that these men die the story of what they did and even more importantly who lived because of their actions. Even though our world is a very bad place knowing there are people out there like Sergeant Jachman gives me hope. Thank you to allthe brave men who put themselves in harm’s way for us.
LTG Edward M. Flanagan, Jr. was my Godfather and he wrote many amazing books recounting his experiences, not only during WW2, but throughout his amazing career. I would recommend “The Los Banjos Raid”. It’s about his his unit parachuting in to a prison camp in the Philippines to rescue civilian prisoners in 1945. General Flanagan lived a long life, passing away in 2019.
I served with the 101st, 82nd and 173 airborne brigade as a combat engineer. When I became a sgt I would tell every new cruit that there was no better honor than to serve your country as a paratrooper I would instruct them to write home and tell there mother that they will be the best trained soldier in the army and they had the best combat leader. It was great being airborne. I can’t see doing it any other way. 1969 -1992.
5:50 High airborne casualties for sure. If I remember correctly, I read it was somewhere around 400 to 500 friendly fire casualties on that Sicilian mission. But like war in general, things such as that are won't to be forgotten.
What a terrific story, I had never heard it prior to this. Thank you for using the correct term, Medal of Honor, in your story. So many people erroneously use the term Congressional Medal of Honor.
Bravery and courage comes, most times, at a cost; hence, so many MOH awards are given posthumously. I would like to think that, given the circumstances and the stakes, I would be as willing to make that sacrifice. No one knows if they can until they're in that position. SSgt Jachman, as well as so many others, did just that. He put everything else aside and did the job and paid the price. MOH awardees deserve our highest consideration and praise.
Thank you HG. He was truly a brave man. Hitler destroyed Germany just as if he had done it on purpose. Wars are usually fought between good men on both sides.
Anyone else notice that guy on guard with the M1 with the rifle grenade attached? Not sure what he was thinking you had to a a blank clip in the rifle if you had a rifle grenade attached. That would render his rifle useless for point defense because he can only fire a grenade or remove the grenade and change out to a clip with regular cartridges to fire it as a rifle.
I would like to hear you do a history on the Korean war. My Father-in-Law was a member of the 17th infantry "Buffalo" Regiment in the Army. He was a medical technician in Medical Company and "Item" company. He is now 93 years old and has PTSD and never liked to talk about it. I only heard him mention a few things about what happened such as how cold it was and seeing a bomb destroy a jeep his friends were in . I have some of his old News Paper clippings of the battle. One news paper clipping talks about "Old Baldy". (I wish I had to space to write the entire article on what they went through). Maj. Gen. C. B. Ferenbaugh from the 7th division gave them a high commendation for the Distinguish Unit Citation. The article also cites about "King' Company and 'Love' Company. My Father- in-Law also wrote a note about the Space A flights.
Isadore or Izzy as his childhood friends called him went to Hebrew Perocrial School in Baltimore now know as Talmudical Academy. I can't share pictures in the comment section but I have pictures of a plaque hanging in the school and of his grave in Baltimore. There is also the Army Reserve center in Owings Mills, MD named after him. He was one of six students from the school that was killed during WW2
I'm a big fan of your videos though you made an error, the 82nd Airborne was the solo parachute division in Sicily, the 101st Airborne didn't see its first combat till D-Day. You mentioned both fighting in Sicily. I'm a veteran from the 82nd and definitely know my history and that of our rivals in the 101st. Love your show!
Did the 17th have adequate winter gear? Don Burgett wrote about how the 101st was thrown into the battle in such a rush that many soldiers didn’t have weapons and all of them were wearing their green jumpsuits.
I don't know that "enjoy" really describes my reaction. Humbled, perhaps, catches my response better. You, sir, have an evident reverence for those who see their duty, and, deliberately and with great risk, do their duty. Thank you.
Traveling Garrison Forest Road in Baltimore County MD the armory is named for this hero. Growing up near there I often wondered who this man was and what he did. Thank yo HISTORY GUY!
My father was drafted for one year in January 1941. On December 6th he was on a ship going to somewhere in the pacific. They returned the next day. He was in the Signal Corp and his unit was sent to Iceland for two years. They were ordered to pack up everything and figured that the next stop was home since they were away for two years. Rumor said that they would go to Scotland and take the Queen Mary home. When they got to Scotland, there was the Queen Mary in the harbor. At a formation, an officer said that they were to receive an additional $25 a month in pay . They cheered . When he said that they were now paratroopers, no one cheered. They had glider training and were assigned to the 101 st Airborne. They didn’t do any combat landings but he was at Bastogne. I always wonder if any of the stock photos that are shown have his image.
Thank You so much. My Uncle Jimmy (Pvt. James E Johnson) was killed during this battle on January 7th, with the 193rd Gld Inf, Company A. I am a member of the Scions. I have been digging for any information about Dead Man's Ridge for over 35 years when my Dad got the box out of the attic so I could get the information I needed to find his burial plot. As it turned out the cemetery I had the name of was only temporary in France. I have the book covering where he was buried there. Letter stated he was killed by artillery, and he is buried in Luxemburg along with General George S Patton. My Dad got to meet his brother in 2011 when my brother and I went with him to Europe.
This is my Great Uncle 🫡
When we were there in 2021 we took some pictures of the soldiers grave markers at the cemetery you uncle is buried at. I’ll go through the pics to see if I have it.
Thank you for covering part of the saga of the 17th Airborne. My grandfather was in the 17th, was in the 'Battle of the Bulge' and the crossing of the Rhine. It always seems his division’s exploits are forever doomed to being overshadowed by the 82nd, the 101st, and in the instance of 'the Bulge', eclipsed by the 3rd Army as well. The poor 17th nary elicits a mention. It warmed the cockles of my heart to hear the words and to see the 17th Airborne logo plastered on the screen.
The 17th is remembered and honored every year at the Dead Man's Ridge Walk near Bastogne. I've attended the last 4. There are monuments to the 17th in nearby Flamierge and Houmont. There is also one (2 years old) in Wesel, Germany, at the Hotel Haus Duden, a building which my uncle (S1 officer for the 194th Glider Infantry Regiment) chose from a map while helping plan Varsity for the 194th.
Yes THIS DOES deserve to be remembered!! RIP Jackman a true hero
***Jachman
Uncle Izzy Fammm
@@hunterdavis3003thank you for the correction lol
How does an individual American comment on such a heroic endeavor that is beyond one's civilians comprehension? Great job Lance and happy new year
Just remember the sacrifices, that’s you can do
Easy answer. He was Polish.
@@dominik36127 That was certainly part of it. The Poles were prominent in a lot of legendary engagements in WW2 (including the Battle of Britain).
I do not know how any normal person hears of such deeds and is not in awe. The sad fact is that societies occasionally depend on those with the best characters willingly sacrificing themselves. Thanks to men like them, I have lived with more liberty and peace.
With research, and interviews of the men involved. Hey, I gained in Benning in 1982! Orangey red clay dirt. I’ll never forget that stuff, or being a army Ranger.
My grandfather fought in the Battle of the Bulge with the 452nd Anti-Aircraft Battalion. I remember him telling me this how cold it was one of the coldest winters in Europe's history.
My uncle was with Pattons 3rd army. He fought at the bulge as well although probably not as long as your uncle. He marched almost 100 miles in 48 hours and immediately went in to battle. He also spoke of how unbearable the cold was. Those men truly were the greatest generation.
Yep, all my old Uncle Albert would say of his Army experience over there was.... "It was cold... so cold."
@@lancerevell5979 , I am something of a polar bear myself, much more comfortable in cool and cold climates than in hot sticky ones but I looked at the video clips here and felt myself being chilled to the bone. The cold Winter may have hampered the allies but it probably hampered the Germans too, especially with the German invasion of Russia.
Yeh even worse was 1941 and 42. But by the end. Still was cold. The war took place in a few years of extreme cold winters
I wonder if my dad was in the battle, he wouldn't talk about anything I mean anything, he kept everything inward I know he seen some awful things 😢😓😭 I did managed to get a few things out of him. All sad though mom always acted like she fought besides him 🤷♀️🤦🏻♀️ so embarrassing. I know she wasn't there she was a kid back with her family probably got spanked every day.
As a Former Army Infantryman and combat veteran. Thank you for doing the videos on our fallen soldier's. So their sacrifices are not forgotten.
There is No Lament, nor Tears, for the Fallen Warrior. Only a Desire to Be As Bold and Brave of Spirit.
In 1991 I met a man Dusty Ross who grew up in Omaha fought in the Bulge w the 17thAirborne. Dusty came and worked for me for a couple of years. Top notch man in all respects. Thanks for reminding me of Dusty.
The 17th Airborne is one of the forgotten combat divisions of WW2. It' deserves more videos like this.
From a time when people understood what honor, and sacrifice for something greater than any one man or woman, was. RIP Sgt. Jachman
Not sure how perpetuating state interests is "something greater" than the lives of people who otherwise wouldnt have been traumatised and possibly lived longer lives, but okay
@@tracer.s indeed you don't understand.
@Ekim your other comment on this channel is alluding to conspiratorial anti-vax nonsense. Sorry if I don't find your judgement especially cutting.
@@ekim000 Well you both have some bits of some kind of truth there.
I really suspect Isadore Jachman was not thinking 'I shall give my life for America' so much as thinking 'You nazi filth, you are not going to kill my buddies'.
So a squad of his brothers in arms - Yeah, I suspect he might well have thought all their lives them worth something greater than his one life.
But who can sensibly listen to accounts such as these and fail to recognise that state on state conflict, grinding millions of the best people all the combatant nations have to offer is an insane squandering of human kind's best genes?
I watched this video with huge respect for Jachman and his buddies
But with a great sense of sadness such acts were necessary because a cadre of evil people mislead a nation.
Carry on, Soldier! Carry ON!
I have never been in such a situation or called upon to perform such an act of bravery. I am in awe of those who have.
My dad was in the 17th. Missed the Battle of the Bulge, his troop ship was rammed by a French Aircraft carrier on the transatlantic voyage, and they were delayed. Used to complain that he had gone up in airplanes 23 times before he ever landed in one... finally... in 1972.
Thank you for this story.
I was in the 82nd airborne division. We flew in C130s. After many successful jumps, I was on a jump that got scrubbed, causing us to return to the airfield to land. It was terrifying.
As a former paratrooper with the 82nd Airborne Division I am ashamed to say that I have never heard this story. Thank you for bringing it to my attention. I shall do more research on it myself.
8th div Germany 59-61 Class 39-61 Bragg, 173rd Okinawa 63-64
This is also the first time I've heard of the 17th at the Bulge.
And I've read a lot of history and many of my senior officers and NCO's were WW 2 vets in my Army days.
A shout out to you, the history teacher I wish I had had back in schools. But I have you now and I am an attentively interested student who can't get enough. You make history exciting, interesting and important.
Awesome story! As an Army veteran I really appreciate these stories. My Uncle "Bud" Wilson was with the 101st at the Battle of the Bulge. I would like to request you attempt to do an interview and story on another 101st soldier: Vince Speranza. He was the "beer delivery guy" to wounded soldiers in Bastongne. He has been interviewed on several RUclips channels including the University of IL, and has been featured in several RUclips videos for the airborne song: Blood Upon The Risers. He's quite a character and "I" (also a historian by degree) feel that you would do his story "justice" in one of your videos. He's in his mid-90's now, so don't delay! As an aside, I believe he and my Uncle Bud were in the same platoon during the Battle Of The Bulge. Please consider doing a video on Vince and how a brewer in Belgium now brews Airborne Brown Beer in his honor. That sir, is a story that "Deserves To Be Remembered"! Thank you!! SSG Bill Wilson
Sounds like a great story. Go for it THG!
Thanks for sharing. I am definitely going to look his videos up. Thank you for your uncle. My uncle also served in the bulge under Patton.
I would watch that, motion seconded.
@@stevedietrich8936 here is the link (if RUclips will let me attach it) to a video of Vince when he visited my company's corporate HQ a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/_fXYSmR-WiM/видео.html
@@liberalsockpuppet4772 Thanks!! Here is a link to a RUclips video (if YT will let me attach it) when he visited my company's HQ a few years ago: ruclips.net/video/_fXYSmR-WiM/видео.html
You should do a video on Robert " Rosie" Rosenthal. A B-17 pilot that flew 52 missions, was shot down and escaped from Behind Enemy Lines three times and after the war went on to be a prosecutor at Nuremberg. That's history that deserves to be remembered.
A Proud US Army Brat is currently at his best Salute to honor this Hero. I never had the honor of Service, but I grew up in the Army. Grampa Harvey Meyer served in the Pacific, Papa Ray Potter served as Atlantic Peace Patrol during Korea-his brothers all served in WW2-many many of my uncles in Vietnam or the Cold War; my mother and father BOTH served in the Cold War.
To hear of a MAN giving the truest Last Full Measure Of Devotion makes me stand tall and give a Salute as best I have been taught… second-hand.
I hope to meet Isadore when I get to the Pearly Gates, so I can tell him “Thank you.”
Thank you Lance. I was not aware of Sgt. Isadore Jachman or this story of the 17th - and I've read and heard a good bit over many years. Again, thank you for bringing the stories of these brave Americans to our attention - and into the 21st century. Time marches on but certain memories seem to dictate a regular renewal for the inspiration of our subsequent generations.
“Staff, thank you for your service”, from ex-Cpl 🇦🇺. Lest we forget.
Lance, thank you for remembering.
I’m a Airborne Infantry combat veteran myself and will always take the time to honor a fellow paratrooper. GERONIMO!
My dad was one of the first 500 to jump into combat in north africa with the 509th pib
@@johnsimons9831 yes, that was Operation Torch. It was not only the first American Airborne combat operation, but it’s also the longest mass parachute insertion ever completed, having flown all the way from England to the objective.
I’m a 3/509 founding member when the unit was reactivated at Ft. Richardson in 2005. 1/509 is at Ft. Polk. There are only a few Airborne Infantry units in the Army so you see a lot of the same faces as you rotate around the units throughout your career.
Im glad to see they reactivated the 509th it allso had the first medel of honer paul huff snd where the reason all paratroopers where maroon berets from honorary red devils the brits thought a lot of them
Our father was there, 17th Airborne, 193rd Glider Infantry Division. Last year my son & I did the annual Deadman's Ridge Walk in Belgium. Thank you for remembering history.
Izzy is my great Uncle 🫡
Uncle Izzzyyyy
Thank You so much in giving recognition to the men of the 17th Airborne.
My Grandfather was a Sgt. Frank Raimondi who served with the 17TH 513PIR receiving a Bronze Star and purple 💜 in the Battle of the Bulge.
The paratroopers of 17th are sadly under appreciated or just fade into the background of history books mostly due to the hero’s of the 101st & 82nd airborne divisions.
The paratroopers from
“Thunder from Above” is truly
“History that deserves to be remembered”
Thank You
J I .First of all thank you for your family's heroic service. The Paras SAS Seals etc. Are so good at War, they can't live with peace. They have to be constantly busy engrossed in life or death situations. They thrive on Adrenalin. And live for the excitement of it. God Bless Em All;True Warriors. Phil. UK
@@PhilORourke
That’s Awesome Phil.
Thank you so much!!
Your fam was with mine. Izzy is was my great uncle
Such courage and devotion. Where do such men come from really? There are no words for it but thank God for such.
Thank you for your great coverage of the 17th at Dead Man’s Ridge. Jachman was the first of 4 Medals of Honor awarded to 17th Airborne troopers, more than any other WW2 airborne division, in just 5 months of intense combat. After the war the 17th was merged with the 101st and 82 Airborne and their name and contribution are often overlooked.
My grandfather Capt Charles Jones was in Jachman’s regiment and fought nearby in Flamierge. He was awarded the Silver Star for directing an artillery strike on his own foxhole when it was literally overrun by German tanks. The tanks quickly retreated from the exposed American front line. He and John Kormann (mentioned in your video) were lucky to come home. RIP to Jachman and 1000 other troopers who did not 😢🫡
Izzy is my Great Uncle 🫡
I slept under his medals growing up
Izzy was my Grandfathers brother … My moms Dad. Joseph “ Joey “ Jachman, just past last July 4th of All days.. I grew up sleeping under Izzy’s
Medals.. wayy before they went to DC.. I have his boxing Gloves … we still here fam 🫡
Thanks for recognizing the 17th ABD. My maternal uncle, Wilfred Eugene Varner (Uncle Gene), fought and received a Purple Heart during the Bulge battle. He jumped in Operation Varsity in 1945. He earned a Silver Star on March 4, 1945, near Vulfen, Germany. He was a hero to me, as well as the country he fought for. RIP, Uncle Gene. There are few like you. Salutes and much respect.👍👊🤛
It matters not your race,religion,creed or clan.You fight for this nation,America,is all that matters.That makes you not just a hero but an American Hero".Thank you & your family foe your service & sacrifice.God Bless!
I had family on both sides of the war. Heard many terrible, sad, and heroic tales. From Pearl harbor and Europe. Men on troop ships heading to Japan just before the surrender of Japan. The last story was from the son of a man who fought at the Colmar Pocket. We visited Colmar on a trip to see the country. We were amazed at the number of war memorials in and around the town. Yet in the states it’s all but forgotten. Thank you for your wonderful episodes on world history sad as in this case, and every other description put to an event.
"The greatest generation" was an understatement. As this story clearly points out. God bless these men and women. I thank you for your service and sacrifice.
Our heroic men are probably turning in their graves with things such as the military HURT FEELINGS REPORT!
MOH recipients do these heroic actions to save their brothers in arms with no thought of winning a medal just saving men.
Nobody wants a Purple Heart or Medal of Honor, or any other award for valor. It's something you are awarded after suffering.
Fantastic history. I've read extensive WWII history but knew little about the 17th Airborne's role. Thank you for your research.
Hello, I have contacted THG to do a episode on Operation Varsity. I am thrilled he did a story on this. My dad was 17th 466 PFAB. Their combat jump was into Germany. It was the largest airborne operation in history to be conducted on a single day and in one location. It also was the worst single day for allied airborne troops. Probably didn't help they drop in daylight. Montgomery good plan.
Anyway, next time you are anywhere discussing ww2. Ask them which Airborne unit had the most MOH awards in WW 2? I'm sure you will be the only 1 who knows.
R.I.P. Greatest Generation! Ya'll "PAID" it Forward!
Thank You!
As a 101st Airborne vet, B Co,1/502, 2BCT (OIF 07-09) I approve this message!
Finished this one with a tear in my coffee this dawn of the fifth. A good way to start the year.
Thank you for this story of 17th airborne and specifically the 513 PIR action in the bulge. My dad was there, and served as a battlefield medic with 513 PIR company A. He was awarded the Silver Star for action on January 4, 1944 in the same battle as Jackman
Thank you for researching and posting this. Those of us who haven't, thankfully, been directly involved in a war or genocide need to be reminded, OFTEN, of the true costs of such events/atrocities and need to recognize what so many others have given and give so that we can live "free."
Another outstanding snippet of history! As uncommon as the valor of Sergeant Jachman was a common virtue, so to is the uncanny, uncommon, impeccable timing and delivery of The History Guy to present such a story that took place 78 years ago today 1-04-1945. The History Guy makes such uncommon things a common occurrence. Thank you History Guy! Thank you!
As impressive as the defence of Bastogne was, the key defences took place at St. Vith and the northern shoulder of the breach.
Those critical actions rarely get mention.
ruclips.net/video/nN20NryI3Dw/видео.html
@@TheHistoryGuyChannel Bruce Clarke's brilliant ad-hoc defense was the thumb in the throat of the advance towards Antwerp - denying Germany the key road junction and rail line ended their ambitions. Even after being pushed out of St. Vith, the American defenses on the high ground to the west dominated the town and junction, still denying their use to the Germans. German forces never did gain functional control of the junction, and St. Vith was the functional high water mark of their offensive.
Likewise, the northern shoulder continuously faced fresh German soldiers as each advancing unit slid past. Preventing the gap widening into a general breakout was absolutely critical. The brutal, heroic fight there is almost always never covered in any detail.
My father was on that northern shoulder (Elsenborn Ridge) with the 2nd ID.
My father, Lester Garrett was in the bulge at the area of St. Vith. When his area got overun and the Germans were going from foxhole to foxhole killing anyone alive he survived by playing dead like the 3 dead men in his foxhole. He never spoke of the war to me but he had told that to my mother.
@@larrygarrett724 my experience has been that most soldiers whom have seen really harsh combat don't talk about it much. They tell funny stories about things which were combat-adjacent, but only rarely do they open up about the real brutal stuff.
A little known fact: Jimi Hendrix trained as a paratrooper in the Army but never saw combat duty. One of his old Army buddies, Billy Cox, later played bass with Jimi in the Band of Gypsies.
Lou Rawls:BCo 2/505th inf 82nd
That's a well known fact.
One of the best albums of his too
@Aqua Fyre we didn't fight the Germans during the vietmom war..🤣
@Aqua Fyre I almost fell off my barstool with the laughter..👍
Great story Guy. Thank you for honoring the memories of our brave brothers in arms!
I did not expect my eyes to start sweating as I read about this battle and the heroic actions of Isadore Jachman.
Same.
👊🏻🫡
My great Uncle
These who have gone before us deserve our deepest gratitude.
5:07 Lt William P Yarborough: in the early 60s as Gen Yarborough, he dusted off the design of M1942 paratrooper uniform (seen with the 4-slant pocket jacket and baggy cargo trousers) and helped develop the jungle utility uniform that became standard during Vietnam and which influenced military combat uniforms to this day. I have seen it written that it was one of the few times the army came up with a uniform that was actually functional.
I was a US Paratrooper in the XVIII Airborne Corps in 1984 and we were allowed to wear the Vietnam jungle fatigues. We wore them year round. They were terrific in the heat and humidity of Central America. Also the legacy of the 17th Airborne Division lives on as the 507th PIR runs the US Army Jump School at Fort Benning, GA. AATW!
Thanks for remembering this hero.
How sad that if proper intelligence had been available perhaps a different outcome would have occurred. It's vital to be prepared and properly outfitted.
Yet beyond all the odds, this hero stood up for his friends and comrades.
A fine example of a MAN to all preceding generations. May he rest in peace. What an amazing story.
Excellent job. Know a bit of military history, but had never heard or read of the 17th Airborne Division nor the battle of Dead Man's Ridge! Have you done anything on St. Vith, please? Very Well Done 👍!
ruclips.net/video/nN20NryI3Dw/видео.html
Good morning Lance and Happy New Year from Ft Worth TX...
Thanks for featuring the 17th Abn. Div. It's a unit that gets overshadowed by the 82d & 101st. A tip of the hat to SSG Jachman....clearly a badass dude.
I agree. Most everything is Band of Brothers Easy Company 506th. Also forgotten is the 11th and especially the 13th Division.
@@timf2279 No kidding. One almost never hears of the 13th Abn. Div. Though they never made a combat jump, one of their RGT's did...in southern France.....and I believe the division saw combat during the final stages of the push into Germany. I think they were slated to redeploy to the Pacific for the invasion of Japan.
True they were formed later in the war. After D-day their ranks were depleted to fill the losses in the 82nd and 101st. After that held in reserves and not used because of not being combat tested. Also the war in Europe was advancing and ending fast that their operations were not needed as ground troops had overran the objectives.
I'm glad the 11th Airborne Divsion was re-activated in Alaska recently. They have an interesting history as well.
We still here Fam 🫡🥊🥷🏿
Just one of the many of the acts of bravery during WW2, many of which that did not get witnessed or recognized with honors. I cannot comprehend the fear they overcame to knowingly become a target in a effort to repel an enemy advance.
HG, this is an awesome show ! So important that these be remembered . These Men and Women’s service to us all and the World for that matter should be in every History class . Thank You “HG” for your service to us all
Amazing heroism and sacrifice. Thanks for remembering history guy.
Thank you for your post . Izzy is my uncle and the family really appreciates your post . Please feel free to ask me any questions
Another great episode of THE HISTORY GUY! It was also a story of courage that leaves me with a feeling of awe. Thank you keeping History alive!
It is the Distinguished Service Cross, not Medal. It is the second highest award for valor for a Soldier. Overall, excellent episode.
That was a fumble.
"Are you looking for a safe place? Just pull your vehicle behind me because I'm the 82nd Airborne and this is far as the bastards are going..."
I've always loved that quote, and I was Marine Corps.
Airborne!
👍👍
Thank you! I'd like you to consider covering Presidential Unit Citations as well. My friend Art LeBlanc was with the 5th Rangers, which received two such citations, one for the almost forgotten battle of Irsch-Zerf 5th Rangers 1945. I don't know if art is still alive, but he was almost certainly the last Allied survivor. there is an article with a title like "nine days behind enemy lines" which is a good overview. Art was at Utah Beach on D-Day (he was a combat engineer then) and always maintained that irsch-zerf was much harder than Normandy, and he was proudest of the Unit citations.
Discussion of the Presidential Unit Citation in this episode: ruclips.net/video/rkZuSc0WtJc/видео.html
I have enjoyed hearing about the unknown/unsung heroes from the greatest generation. It has brought to life the scope of that horrible time.
I’ve been studying WW2 for 15 years. I’ve never even heard of the 17th Airborne and I’ve read over 400 books about WW2
You need new books lol
I guess knowing there was the 13th Airborne Division will be a shock.
en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki/J._D._Tippit had no idea about this shit , but Izzy is my great uncle
Ive known my whole life cuz I grew up sleeping under his medals haha
Thank you for talking about the 17th Airborne
I'm somewhat of a polar bear, more comfortable in cool or cold climes than hot humid ones, but damn, those video clips look frigging cold!
As a battlefield historian living adjacent to the Westwall proximal to St. Vith, I'll first complement your general historical accuracy. That out of the way, it's unfortunate that Bastogne is yet again featured given the sheer scale of the campaign and number of Allied units involved. Jachman was a hell of a soldier, and the siege of Bastogne is a hell of a story, but you really should look more closely at the "northern shoulder" of the larger German Ardennes-Alsace counteroffensive. In particular at the "Twin Villages" of Rocherath-Krinkelt, given the recent MoH theme. Five were awarded there in a 48 hour span. If you really want to stretch your strategic legs, consider the story of the defense of St. Vith -- perhaps even focused on the 106th Inf. Div. "Golden Lions". Always happy to help, if such collaboration is of interest.
Doug do you watch The History Underground ?
I know a woman whose dad was in the 17th Airborne Division and participated in Operation Varsity.
The history guy can go from weird history like the history of chickens or the phillips screwdriver to these stories of incredibly brave men and once you start listening you have to stay til the end. One of the best you tubers out there. Although italways makes me sad to hear that these men die the story of what they did and even more importantly who lived because of their actions. Even though our world is a very bad place knowing there are people out there like Sergeant Jachman gives me hope. Thank you to allthe brave men who put themselves in harm’s way for us.
LTG Edward M. Flanagan, Jr. was my Godfather and he wrote many amazing books recounting his experiences, not only during WW2, but throughout his amazing career. I would recommend “The Los Banjos Raid”. It’s about his his unit parachuting in to a prison camp in the Philippines to rescue civilian prisoners in 1945. General Flanagan lived a long life, passing away in 2019.
Thank you for your work I would not have even known about this man if it wasn't for your channel thank you for your service so we don't forget theirs
Thank You every veteran for our freedoms and for setting a standard for courage . God Bless you .
I served with the 101st, 82nd and 173 airborne brigade as a combat engineer. When I became a sgt I would tell every new cruit that there was no better honor than to serve your country as a paratrooper I would instruct them to write home and tell there mother that they will be the best trained soldier in the army and they had the best combat leader. It was great being airborne. I can’t see doing it any other way. 1969 -1992.
For years, on my way to work, I drove past the Army Reserve building on Greenspring Avenue which is named in his memory. Now I know who that man was.
Thanks THG for again telling a story of great valor that deserves to be remembered.
5:50 High airborne casualties for sure. If I remember correctly, I read it was somewhere around 400 to 500 friendly fire casualties on that Sicilian mission. But like war in general, things such as that are won't to be forgotten.
What a terrific story, I had never heard it prior to this. Thank you for using the correct term, Medal of Honor, in your story. So many people erroneously use the term Congressional Medal of Honor.
Thank You History Guy.
Bravery and courage comes, most times, at a cost; hence, so many MOH awards are given posthumously. I would like to think that, given the circumstances and the stakes, I would be as willing to make that sacrifice. No one knows if they can until they're in that position. SSgt Jachman, as well as so many others, did just that. He put everything else aside and did the job and paid the price. MOH awardees deserve our highest consideration and praise.
Great story. Thanks for telling it!
When I was a teen, my father had business dealings with Isidore's father some 15 years after Isidore's death. That poor man still mourned for his son.
Brand new History Guy video, good morning and happy new year!
As always, Lance, an important story beautifully presented.
Thank you, and Happy New Year to you and yours.
MY FATHER WAS A COMPANY COMMDER IN THE 28TH INFRANTRY DIVISION, HE WAS WOUNDED IN THE HURTGEN FOREST.
Thank you HG. He was truly a brave man. Hitler destroyed Germany just as if he had done it on purpose. Wars are usually fought between good men on both sides.
Mazel tov, History Guy! An excellent story.
The end of this episode had me in tears
Both fascinating and sobering. If only today's generation could understand the value of such sacrifice.
At the risk of his own life, he knew if he didn't grab that bazooka all will perish. A person as he is imrtant to be remembered. Thank you.
Love these individual stories!
Anyone else notice that guy on guard with the M1 with the rifle grenade attached? Not sure what he was thinking you had to a a blank clip in the rifle if you had a rifle grenade attached. That would render his rifle useless for point defense because he can only fire a grenade or remove the grenade and change out to a clip with regular cartridges to fire it as a rifle.
Where uncommon valor was a common virtue and Americans gave their fullest measure of devotion to a cause much greater then themselves.
I would like to hear you do a history on the Korean war. My Father-in-Law was a member of the 17th infantry "Buffalo" Regiment in the Army. He was a medical technician in Medical Company and "Item" company. He is now 93 years old and has PTSD and never liked to talk about it. I only heard him mention a few things about what happened such as how cold it was and seeing a bomb destroy a jeep his friends were in . I have some of his old News Paper clippings of the battle. One news paper clipping talks about "Old Baldy". (I wish I had to space to write the entire article on what they went through). Maj. Gen. C. B. Ferenbaugh from the 7th division gave them a high commendation for the Distinguish Unit Citation. The article also cites about "King' Company and 'Love' Company. My Father- in-Law also wrote a note about the Space A flights.
Once again you bring this old man to tears
Thank you for the video. If I may make a correction, the word scion is pronounced with a silent c, as in si-on.
History Guy, you are a marvel. Thank you for your service.
Great research, good video and an interesting story about a little known unit. Bravo Zulu, History Guy!
Rest in Peace Brother
So glad to hear the medal was upgraded. My thought right off the bat was that it should be the Medal of Honor.
Isadore or Izzy as his childhood friends called him went to Hebrew Perocrial School in Baltimore now know as Talmudical Academy. I can't share pictures in the comment section but I have pictures of a plaque hanging in the school and of his grave in Baltimore. There is also the Army Reserve center in Owings Mills, MD named after him. He was one of six students from the school that was killed during WW2
You must know My Fam then..
Are you from Baltimore ?
Love your videos. The Battle of Ramree Island would make a great video.
I'm a big fan of your videos though you made an error, the 82nd Airborne was the solo parachute division in Sicily, the 101st Airborne didn't see its first combat till D-Day. You mentioned both fighting in Sicily. I'm a veteran from the 82nd and definitely know my history and that of our rivals in the 101st. Love your show!
I had the privilege of serving in both…AIRBORNE ALL THE WAY!
Did the 17th have adequate winter gear? Don Burgett wrote about how the 101st was thrown into the battle in such a rush that many soldiers didn’t have weapons and all of them were wearing their green jumpsuits.
I don't know that "enjoy" really describes my reaction.
Humbled, perhaps, catches my response better.
You, sir, have an evident reverence for those who see their duty, and, deliberately and with great risk, do their duty.
Thank you.
Guys like him are in increasingly short supply. God bless, sir!
Traveling Garrison Forest Road in Baltimore County MD the armory is named for this hero. Growing up near there I often wondered who this man was and what he did. Thank yo HISTORY GUY!
Yup, that’s Me
Thank you!
My father was drafted for one year in January 1941. On December 6th he was on a ship going to somewhere in the pacific. They returned the next day.
He was in the Signal Corp and his unit was sent to Iceland for two years. They were ordered to pack up everything and figured that the next stop was home since they were away for two years. Rumor said that they would go to Scotland and take the Queen Mary home. When they got to Scotland, there was the Queen Mary in the harbor.
At a formation, an officer said that they were to receive an additional $25 a month in pay . They cheered . When he said that they were now paratroopers, no one cheered. They had glider training and were assigned to the 101 st Airborne. They didn’t do any combat landings but he was at Bastogne. I always wonder if any of the stock photos that are shown have his image.
Ah, yes. December 6, 1941. That was my father's discharge date, but the papers weren't to be signed until Monday. He finally got out in 1945.