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It's hard to pick a favorite episode, Shawn, but I think this it for me. We will never see men like this again-sadly. We owe them everything we have today. I'm in awe of this generation.
PLEASE get Larry cappetto on here he deserves a seat he's a treasure trove of ww2 Korea Vietnam desert Storm and the last 20years of bull sith wars in the middle east
That is so sad. Soon we won't have any of these great men left. Instead we will only have second hand stories of what these incredible and brave men did, not just in war, but with their lives afterwards.
Not just word for word but cadence for cadence exactly how President Roosevelt said it because for them it was bigger than our 9/11 could ever be. For them it was a reckoning and a call to arms to defend and avenge Pearl Harbor. When did we get sick of ourselves and our Patriotism? We’ve lost a lot of what made America - America. We’ve lost our soul and he has seen it all from when we did to the shell of what we are now. Incredible
Men like this are my heroes. I wouldn’t be here today raising my family in a free country if it wasn’t for men like you sir. Thank you for all your sacrifices, and thank sharing your story with us. You are indeed the greatest generation. And Shawn, all I can say is thank you as well. Thank you for bringing us such important content. And while I eat tons of fresh fish and wild game, I can only pray to be as sharp as this when I’m 98 years old. It’s truly inspiring. I’m honored to have had the privilege of listening to this man, and I’m all the better for it. Interviews such as this should be required and mandatory “LESSONS” in every single school across America. While it’s been an all out assault throughout this great nation to erase our history and re-write our entire story, your show serves to preserve it, protect it, and teach it. God bless us all, and God bless America.
For a 98 year old man put through battle, explosions, gunfire, and everything else, he is incredibly sharp and healthy. His memory is better than mine. Thank you for your service Don Graves.
tbf it is really hard to forget shi when u got ptsd and everytime u think it’s of the ppl u saw dead and the horrors you went through. It’s not ideal and leads plenty of people to suicide. some people are blessed to grow through it. some, not so much
same here. Reflecting on it, its amazing how far we have come technologically, but oh how far we have fallen. The problem is not technology, it's the human. While we have improved some social economic metrics, other metrics have not improved. Like the other republics in history, the decadence of our mighty nation has decayed us. We are confused now, pumped with misinformation and disinformation. I used to be an atheist, but I now think only God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are the antidotes we need to ground ourselves philosophically as to not diffract away like light through a prism.... God has helped us out of sticky situations before, He will help us still. People need philosophical foundations to ground them, unless you are grounded and well read, you don't know what to think. We need Jesus, family, patriotism, and a love of learning. But thats just my two cents. Lots has changed for the better, but lots has changed for worse. We are lost, but studying that Bible is step 1 to understanding the human experience, and our duty to always do what is right. Even when we fail we grow stronger from the experience by nurturing our relationship with God. I'm not saying be a fundamentalist, I'm saying keep an open mind to understand the Bible's code while studying it. It's not something you teach as much as it is something you have a conversation with others about after reading something. Critically and creatively think, get excited about it, never stop dreaming, and be the change you want to see in the world. I say all of this because I'm afraid we are loosing our ability to think creatively, critically, and respectfully. Honor is more rare by the day. We have a lot of problems to fix and much work to do.
"We will rekindle new faith in our values, new pride in our history, and a new spirit of unity that can ONLY be realized through love for our country. Because we understand that America is NOT a land cloaked in darkness, America is the torch that enlightens the entire world." President Donald J. Trump
It’s really sad to think that in just a few years, there will be zero WWII survivors left. These conversations are so important. I encourage everyone to seize any chance to have a conversation with these vets and if possible, document it.
Best comment right here. I’ve thought about this for years now and thought I they would pass on sooner but these WW2 vets just never give up. Absolute respect for the greatest generation.
Many video on here people have interviewed from WWII. I stumbled upon and an Old interview with 2 civil war veteran. It was in black in white but it still on here. I just wish more people cared.
Born in 82 , currently 41 year's old. I feel privileged to have grown up in an era so full of ww2 vet's 👏 we had a few come to my school as a kid and told us stories and let us ask questions. It was an amazing experience that in grateful to have had
@@Doctom91I'm not saying either is better than the other. I didn't live through Truman. Bud Joe Biden is a pedophile and his son got caught with crack. Next please
Wow I can't even imagine what this Gentleman went though in WW2. The way he speaks about our country really gives me chills. I hope we can get back to that for my children's sake and for everyone in this country 🙏🏽 great interview Shawn!
I don't have kids... One day I really would love to have a few but if that day ever comes I would want them to have the best life, and have endless opportunities to follow their dreams. I'm 29 and since I think 13 or 14? I started to listen. Listen to what people are saying about each side.. my dad always told me before you make a decision on following or voting for someone, don't follow the crowd. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. And then decide what you want from others. Can't think about short term.. sometimes you gotta think what would be best for the long run. Not a year or 4 years from now... I mean like 20-30 years down the line when you have grandkids. My fear is that call me crazy or a conspiracy theorist but.. the select few elite people control EVERYTHING. Like media, and the news channels. How come they are all reading the same script and telling us what they want us to hear.. now think about this, now you hear about how much news is "fake news" right? If true (I'm sure it is 99% of it) now think about history. How much of the world history didn't actually happen the way they say it did. They could change history to be in certain people's favors. How would we know? We brainwash generation after generation with the same history over and over. All I know is things are not always what they seem and I'm just nervous that something big is gonna happen... Hopefully not in our lifetime or our great great great grandkids life but.. it almost feels like a bubble that's been expanding for years and one day it'll be so much and all hell is gonna break loose... But who knows lol.. take one day at a time and live life to the fullest
@@Free_thinker94sounds to me that your inner conscience/spirit is telling you something. Google Chuck Missler and listen to him speak about the coming psalms 83 war. It’s actually taking place over in Israel right now. He also teaches on Romans which would be an excellent place for you to start if you want to know why we are here on this earth in the first place. Enjoy!
not meaning to come off negative at all, but i’d imagine it’s easier to stay positive in “normal” life after experiencing the most horrific combat known to man, id imagine the feeling is being grateful for everyday he’s lived off that god forsaken island
@@kaxmo69true, but a lot of people don't really "come home" after the war. Their mind is still stuck in those most horrific years of their lives. Don is one of the lucky/strong ones though, not to come back with any PTSD or "shell shock" I think is what they called it back in that time.
Just a guy on the internet.... But i think happiness comes through resilience to adversity, you can mimic this through physical training ie crossfit and intermittent fasting, cold therapy etc. Makes you appreciate the little things and sets you up to work hard.. success is a by-product.
@@kaxmo69of course it would be easier because you'd be lying to yourself.. there is nothing positive about these men and their experiences.. that's why our country is so fucked right now is from our country convincing us we have something to be proud and positive about when we don't
Shawn Ryan is such a honorable and respectable man. Not interviewing these celebrities but true American heros! Thank you Shawn! You’re the blessing we didn’t know we needed!
This man has witnessed nearly 40% of America's existence - a truly remarkable honor to hear from him. The podcast is a priceless gift, granting us the opportunity to listen to someone who has lived through and contributed to the nation's journey. Thank you for making this possible. May God bless you a lot.
It’s amazing, my great grandma who passed last year was born the year before him and they remind me a lot of eachother. Amazing stories and crazy to put it into perspective like that!
I saw your comment and thought”man hell naw he’s certainly exaggerating let me do the math” and it came up as 39,6%. That’s insane when u put it in perspective and thank u for helping me see it through that lense
I have a kind of funny story about being alive for percentage of a country’s history. When my dad was in kindergarten my grandpa was 50 and Canada was 100 years old. Grandpa told my dad that he was HALF as old as Canada and he misheard him and thought he said he was AS OLD as Canada. Dad told his teacher his fun fact and adamantly argued with his teacher that his dad IS AS OLD AS CANADA! Until he got home and grandpa corrected him. When my grandpa died he had witnessed over 66% of the history of Canada as a country. He was a carpenter that travelled down the coast to California and built several houses some of which still stand around Lake Tahoe. During WW2 he was in work camps doing construction around Banff Alberta where there was a Japanese internment camp. In his later years he was a cabinet maker and Christian author. One of the things he built during the war was the “little beehive” in Banff AB which you can still hike to today.
This is exactly what I did when the Gulf war started. I was a senior in HS. Instead of going to school I drove to a local mall where there was a Marine and Air Force recruiting office. A few month later, I shipped out. Those were crazy times. This guy is correct about the Middle East. Islam is 1,500 years old, and for that whole time there has been nothing but conflict and war between the Sunni and Shia for the past 1,400 years over who should succeed their Muhammad. About 85% are Sunni and the rest Shia and both side will kill to have their guy declared the successor and leader of Islam. Ad to this that both sides think non believers (Infidels) should be given an option to convert or be killed if they don't. 1,400+ years is just too long for the rest of the modern world to tolerate any more.
Thank you for ur service. My grandfather was a marine. Passed away 4yrs Veterans Day. Which the day before, Nov 10th, I'm sure you know is the Marine Corp bday, an is also my G'ma, his wife's bday😊 anyways, I watched my G'pa will his self to live that day. No way in hell was he dyin on the Marine Corp's bday, nor my G'mas!!! Watchin this episode late tonite brought me to tears a few times an laughed a few. Reminded me so much of my G'pa.🧡 again, thank you so much for ur service!🧡🙏🇺🇸
It's crazy how coherent he is. At 37, I could not convey my life even remotely as easily as he does. I've always been envious of people who are able to tell their story with no hitches. Salute to you, Don Graves!
You are still living your life. At some point old guys start talking about what used to be more than what comes next. He's got practice. 40 more years of practice than you.
@@Dragonologist I think you're missing the point. He's very aware and coherent not at 77 but at 98! Most people at 98 can't even care for themselves let alone carry on a full blown conversation about his life in quite detail.
This episode is actually history. I feel like the reason the youth lacks patriotism is because they don’t know about stories like these. This is what makes this channel so powerful. The people or at least Americans need to know about the heroes who have fought and died for us. This channel makes me prideful to be American
Speaking as a youth (23), these kinds of stories are easily accessible obviously, but people my age would rather scroll tiktok than listen or watch this "BoRiNg HiStOrY sTuFf", and even if they listened to it, there would be some history teacher and woke college student on the internet trying to make the Japanese seem sympathetic.
Also speaking as a youth (23), I'll share my perspective. Trying my best to keep it short, I believe many young people view our politicians as corrupt clowns, and that there is a growing sentiment that this government is more of a giant corporation. Billions to Israel, billions to Ukraine, stuffing weapon dealer pockets while the middle class shrinks, inflation rises, and the housing market doubles. Congress is full of ghouls and demons, we elect a blatant piece of shit TV star, and then someone who is damn near senile, all seemingly concerned with lining their own pockets. Most of us don't view presidents as heroes like this man views Roosevelt--and they shouldn't, because none of them are. People are more focused on witch hunting make-believe "woke", blue-haired hippies than on actual problems, and the growing political division keeps us from making meaningful progress. Recognizing all of this makes it hard to idolize the US govt. I respect American heroes and recognize their sacrifices, I know that it's definitely been worse throughout history, I am aware that the USA is still one of the best countries to live in, and my American patriotism lies within the USA as an ideal and as a group of people of which I am a part of. Those are my thoughts, a lot of it is anecdotal, feel free to disagree.
I half agree. I think a lot of it also has to do with a lack of trust in our government. Back then everyone respected the President and Congress. They were transparent, and not creating conflict to stay in power. Today you can’t trust either party. They’re all self interested.
My Grandpa was a ww2 Medic and passed away a 2 years ago on his 100th birthday! Greatest man I ever knew, continued to serve his community up until 95. Helping "old folks" (his words) get to their doctors appts. And would help serve dinners and wash dishes in the retirement home. When asked how he lived so long, he replied "Always stay moving and volunteer to help out when ever you can."
@BabyKobeeee hey, the best thing to keep in mind is that they lived to watch their families grow up. They got to experience more in life than anyone else alive, just with the advancments in technology alone in their life times. Not to mention the historic events they witnessed in real time. Our minds stay young, but our bodies grow old. The hardest thing to hear him say was, "I have outlived all my friends." We are not built to live forever. My grandpa made it to the finish line and passed away sitting in his chair with his entire family around him and all his children holding his hands.
@@NetherPrime It was necessary, but horrible. I found myself disagreeing with a lot of his political opinions, but I realized listening to him that the thing that irritates me so much about those kind of opinions is that they're far too often held by people with no understanding of the human cost to be paid by war. He's proud (rightly so) of the war he fought in, but he fully and completely understands how terrible it was, and how only the youngest and most idealistic in our society ever truly paid for it. Not the politicians. Not the internet commenters bragging about how "cool" US fighter jets are. The brainwashed, scared children were the ones to die.
I have never enjoyed an interview as much as listening to this talk. I am a Canadian, not a military family and have never liked war or the talk of war. but listening to this man and his testimony has touched something deep in my soul. God bless him and the Americans and you for our freedom even here in our Canada. Love you Brother in Christ.
Afg and Iraq vet here. Just wanted to stop by and say how thankful we are out here for you Shawn. God bless Don and the greatest generation to have ever lived.
Thanks so much for ur service man!! Both G'pas were vets, now brothers n cousins servin cause of the 2 men at head of our fam!! Again, thank you so much for ALL YOU GAVE N SACRIFICED!! 🧡🙏🇺🇸
One of the best SRS interviews I’ve watched to date. Letting this man, someone who’s literally living history talk, and Shawn being so respectful was so nice to see.
I met this guy in Normandy beach on June 7 2023. I took a picture with him outside the bar in Saint Mere Eglise France, the first liberated town in Europe from the DDay campaign. I have a picture with him. Didn’t get to talk to him for long, but it was a true honor. He wore that same hat. Such a good guy, was so happy to see an American eager to meet him. Traveled all the way to Europe to meet these hero’s.
Omg! This is mind-blowing!!! This brought tears, my cheeks are soaking wet ❤ Shawn this is awesome brother! Don Graves thank you for your service! R.I.P ,Thank you Shawn! Much love from Tuscaloosa Alabama! GOD BLESS THE USA! ❤🤍 💙
Don Graves came to my work today in Denton Texas and had it not been for this podcast I might not have known who he was. Still can’t believe I got to shake hands with this legend! What an incredible story, he also gave you a nice shoutout Shawn!
@@emilycoltrin5251 would you mind telling me where he comes to eat? I really would like to meet him or say hi, I have never met a ww2 vet and I really want to before they are all gone. I live in the Plano north texas area
You know what he would say? Get off your ass and do something about it. But not in the biased bs way so called Patriots talk about. If it means so much to you then you should be advocating for what he is talking about. And that. Comes from a millenial the last sane genration.
Wow! What a sincere honor to witness this. He is truly an incredible American hero. I was wondering how he’s doing. He is a National treasure. God bless him! 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
He is traveling around to schools and churches speaking and everywhere people are very attentive to every word because how many active alert WW2 veterans are there 80 years after the war?
@@karlBob2006 sorry but Don is alive as of Veterans Day 2024 I wasn’t witness to a ghost at Crosscity church speaking to a few hundred people! If he passed since that day no announcement was made!
For real. I've always like WW2 history. I met a guy a couple years ago random while remodeling his home and he told me all the nuke test he was apart of and how the dug trenches and the blast just blow over him and the boys
I had chills moments of triumph moments of I guess you could call it depressed state. This was such an impactful interview one of my favorite podcasts. It never lets me down I’m 39 and I never did a minute in the service but I appreciate all you guys that served. God bless everybody.
This hero is a National Treasure. Thank you, Shawn, for this interview. Makes me proud to be American to stand in the shadows of two such men. God Bless You!
@@thewinteragendadraganclove2323why are blaming God for humanity sins God made us in his image we weren't supposed to sin but we rebelled against him so don't blame God blame humans
I found Shawn Ryan Podcast about 7 months ago and been watching two episodes a week since. The new one for the week and one down through the catalog. Every interview, I learn something new. This one though, really warmed my heart and got me good. I hear my grandfather in this man. God Bless you Mr. Don Graves.
Hearing Don laugh is such a pleasure. Man’s got a life of demons that he refuses to let win. A true warrior, American hero, and deserves every ounce of recognition he can get. This man is a legend through and through. 🇺🇸
He reminds me of my Grandpa. He's 95 years old this year. But always laughing. He and my grandma had such a great relationship. He misses her dearly. She passed away a couple years ago.
Can't wait for this one. This was the greatest generation of all time, men and women. Not only did the soldiers sacrifice, everyone on at home did as well. From rationing rubber, steel, food....everyone pitched in. God bless this warrior, we owe him and everyone of that era a huge debt of gratitude.
55:11 oh my God..best clip ever. Just amazing the way you guys did this one. Best interview I’ve seen all year and it’s a month before 11/5. I needed this so much.
Man, I wish this was a 72 hour interview. This guy is a gem. I sent this video to my Grampa. They’re around the same age and he feels the same way Don does. Thank you both for the show. 🇺🇸
I’m a Marine Vet and have been to Iwo Jima, toured the old bunkers and pill boxes. Climbed Mt. Suribachi where the flag was raised. This interview brought chills down my back because I know exactly where he was on that island. Semper Fi Leatherneck. Thank you for your service
Thank you for ur service man!! My G'pa was Marine, passed away 4yrs ago Veterans day. Watch him will his self to live thru the day before, which I'm sure you know is the Maine Corp's bday, but my G'mas bday as well. No wY was he passin on that day. His oxygen was below 40, but he was passin. The next morn at 8am he looked at my G'ma, an his 2 daughters an said it's time. My G'ma had his fave shot glass, an the 3 of them used medicine cups, haha my G'ma poured his fave bourbon, they took their shots, he said he loved them all, gave my G'ma a kiss, said he loved her again, said 'HOORAH' laid back an passed within 45 seconds!🧡🙏🇺🇸.... again, thank you for ur service man!! Semper Fi
I’m 25 min in and the cadence and flow of this interview is magical. Don’s memory of his past life is amazing and Shawn isn’t getting in his way and letting it go. Amazing.
I know this show was a year ago but it popped up in my feed. What a wonderful man. Reminds me of my grandfather. He was in the war and he also drank a lot. He also spent most of his paycheck on booze. It was the thing back then. When I was born my dad told him he would not be able to hold me until he quit drinking. He did quit for the most part and as us kids got older he would have a drink now and then. Love this man and his sharpness and sense of humor.
Thank you so much Shawn, what a privilege to hear this man’s story, and thank you Mr. Graves for your bravery and devotion to this great country of ours! 🇺🇸
If you didn’t have a grandfather like this, I’m very sorry my grandfather lived till he was 98 born on the 3rd of July and created Patriots out of all his grandchildren ! Amazing interview, notice this man carried a flame thrower and lived through so much and only time he was about to cry is when he talked about how we are losing our country not anything to do with war 💪🏼🇺🇸
Mine was trained by the CIA to become a South Vietnamese Army Intelligence Office. When the war was over in 1975 was snitched on and caught by the Vietcong then went on to serve 8 years in the concentration camp survived on 1 potato per day. He ultimately made it to the U.S. in 1991 and died of cancer in 2017 at age 76.
@@fbg57 sounds insane I feel Bad for anyone who chose to work as an “Agent” in the CIA, FBI, NSA or anything other 3 letter organization. I would never want to spend my life pretending to be anything I’m not. Wish you the best… I just am high against lying and my grand father taught me that and this man in the video I think would agree when he said we need God fearing men to run our country. I feel you and your grandfather 🙏🏼
@@RedDawnReadiness he wasn’t a CIA agent. Was just trained by them to do espionage work for the South Vietnamese government, due to the fact he carried a northerner accent and that made it extremely easy to do his job. My ancestors migrated to the south in 1954 when the French left, they brought with them all the traditions and culture of northerners. But even the SV government was hella corrupt in the sense that they just sat back to collect all the fundings from the U.S. they thought since the U.S. is funding this war and its troops are here on the ground in our country why don’t we just sit back, relax and enjoy what they’ve brought with them here.
I had the honor of meeting Mr. Graves at the Marine Corps Museum a few years back. Seeing this gave me chills knowing that I had the privilege to speak with him and hear his story. A truly remarkable man that is as humble as he is wise.
This is the greatest podcast of all time. And I’m not joking. This man is a fucking National hero and treasure. Never seen a 98 year old person with their mind this solid. Such an amazing person. Respect
My neighbor is 97. He didn’t serve in WWII but trained in project V-12 right before war ended. His memory is impeccable, and I spend as much time as I can with him. I’ve had him come to our men’s group with me, shoveled his driveway, invited him over for coffee. People like this won’t be around much longer. I try to get as much information out of him as I can, he runs a bible study at our local Catholic Church. At 97 that’s pretty damn crazy. He lives alone at that, it’s crazy how he is so self sufficient.
Shawn I did not want this episode to end. What an honor to hear Don Graves story. I pray the hearts of Americans will turn back to being patriotic and loving our country.
Damn. What a humbling interview. Don graves is an absolute legend. A true American hero. Part of the greatest generation to have ever lived in my opinion and it’s sad we’ve lost that. Thank you Sean for bringing him on. More people need to hear this interview.
I love how normally, Shawn likes to direct the conversation and keep the dialog going in a pointed direction yet in this interview he takes a total back seat to let this living legend talk. Pure class and respect on display.
He actually is keeping dialog going and doing things that an interviewer should do, but he’s asking good, simple questions, and this guest is so good at talking and telling stories you don’t even notice Shawn even trying!
Ya, there's a special way to communicate with someone who has so many stories and is full of knowledge. I had a 94 year old neighbor and it was the same with him. Old timers like them are a gift and I was so happy to see Shawn show the proper care and respect towards him
US Army -Medic 1971-1973, you made Pastor Don Graves day Shawn. This, in turn, made mine. My Father in-Law just left us last year at 94 and he too was in the Pacific. God Bless you, your Team, and any members of the Greatest Generation that are still boots up.
I couldn't help but smile when Don sang "God Bless America" you can feel his love for the Stars and Stripes. Definitely felt the pride. God bless you Don and thank you for your service! 🇺🇸
Saw this vet on the Unsubscribe Podcast with another WWII My great Grandpa died when I was 25 I’m 31 now. He was in WWII Love that man forever. Much love to the viewers also. Glad to be here with you
I could listen to Don all day. I am not American but it is so nice to see such loyalty for their country from a Distinguished gentlemen, Thank you for sharing
Me too my great grandfather was alive until I was in my early 20s and I wish I would’ve picked his brain a lot more than what I did. He was such a good man he was born in 1914
@@Jerbo1125you and me both brother. Mine was in the OSS, and it absolutely disgusts me that I spent all that time with him talking sports and such, and didn’t think to dig deeper into his service. When he passed, we found his DD-214. Just a list of dates and out to the side “Out of country - Destination unknown”.
@@toddlinder-flowman6687 God bless you and your family man. Hopefully this country gets straightened out for our kids sake, and hopefully if I ever have grandchildren.
God Bless that man Don Graves!!🙏🙏.... if there is an American hero.....its him..100yrs old so well spoken and a great man....that was the most emotional episode ive ever seen..!! I wish him good health. America needs to hear him as long as he livesv! Thank yuo Shawn Ryan..again per usual an amazing podcast ! ✌️🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Don Graves is an absolute treasure. I am deeply grateful for this interview. My son is a new Marine and I find myself fascinated with the stories of our vets. Thank you Shawn for your podcast. May God heap His blessings on you and Katie. May your marriage strengthen every season it is tested.
@@bigboi9877Sometimes I dont think he could hear what Shawn said, but thats perfectly ok, im only 41 and my hearing is pretty bad. Im with You i could listen for hours and hours
@@brianh4979Yeah he definitely missed some questions, but almost was more enjoyable to see the places he would go just speaking about what he wanted to.
I listened to this one on Spotify and Wow! He is witty and sincere. I absolutely respect this guy and I appreciate this interview. I look forward to seeing his facial expressions on this video. Well done Shawn!
Shawn, can you do anything about these spammers trying to pose as you, like the commenter above? They’re clearly trying to use your recognizability to cash out.
I can only strive towards such stoicism as Don. My grandfather was a navigator on Lancaster's in WW2 and the most he ever said was "I lost a lot of friends". That sentence always stuck with me as it was the only time I ever saw the old sod (apart from our last wave to each other when I said my final goodbye at the hospital 15 years ago) show emotion. His 3rd wife (he married his 4th at 80) my Nanny (although not biological) told me just the one story about the War. She was in a cinema in Birmingham UK during a bombing by Germans. The roof collapsed and she was trapped in the rubble. As a young boy it seemed so exciting but as a man I just respect how calmly she told me. It was that old stuff upper lip. Now people would be live streaming rather than helping people out of the rubble. She also had a brother who passed away in the 1980's. He had a full military honour service. Later she told me he had been one of the first members of the SAS in Africa and had first been at Dunkirk then Arnhem and later D-Day. I so wish I had met him. One last story that nobody will probably see but at least the memory will live on in cyberspace is my mum told me how my grandfather always rode his motorcycle home after the pub and if the wooden gates were closed he used to just drive through them. He was usually drunk and did it many times. He lost my Grandmother with the birth of their second daughter my auntie. Being a WW2 veteran and being a widow must give him a pass for some of his behaviour 😊. Anyway, Saluting you Don and Shawn as ever. If I can get back on my feet (wife just left me and the kids) soon I'll definitely join on patreon or wherever the service is. Thanks for the free content in the meantime, it's not just enjoyable for the content but your team makes a top notch quality show.
My grandfather served as a marine in WW2. I am glad he passed away before seeing the country fall into the state it is today. A great interview that brings tears to my eyes.
Mine was a Chief Petty Officer on the Coral Sea. I was just talking to my Dad yesterday about how truly shocked my grandfather would be at the awful state of our country now. 💔
My grandfather was in the Navy on a aircraft carrier in the Pacific During ww2 .he passed away about 7 years ago at tne age of 98....I am glad he didn't see that last few years if he had it would have killed him
I once did a hospice rotation for my psych department which turned out to be my favorite rotation ever. We did in home with veterans from World War Two in East Tennessee. I met some of the most heroic men who became mentors to me after my time in the navy. It was astounding how proud and courageous these guys were at 17-20 years of age. It’s few and far between that you find that now. Manliness is frowned upon by most and it’s time to take a stand against the movement against men.
People don’t usually have hospice until they’re at death’s door, but from what I understand, they technically qualify once they’re diagnosis is terminal. On average, how long were these men still alive that they were able to mentor you?
@@LuckyCharms777 my longest was about six months… I was only in Tennessee for my last year and a half of undergrad and then moved back to Va for Grad school. I had three patients, two of which served in the marines and army, one in the navy. All three also worked in either Y-12, K25, or X10. If you are interested in learning about how a government took over the town of Oak Ridge, that’s where I worked. If you listen to wise words, an individual can speak to you long after they are gone.
It’s just the cycle… Hard times make strong men. Strong men make good times. Good times make weak men. Weak men make hard times. You know what we’re in… but it won’t last, as again, it’s a cycle.
I've been a fan of SRS for years but this is by far the most inspiring and emotional episode to date. God bless this man, God bless the greatest generation. We ALL have A LOT to learn from Don Graves.
I’m an Infantryman in the Army. Listening to this gentleman speak about his experiences and what he went through, the friends he lost, the peoples he’s killed and how he’s lived his life since has made me regret anything I’ve ever complained about since I’ve been in the military. Listening to what Mr. Graves went through, It’s insane. Thank you sir, the last of a generation of warriors.
I really appreciated how he didn't cut him off when he went on his tangents and small stories. Even in his old age he just loves telling these stories even if he can't quite hear or notice he's cutting you off sometimes. Much respect!
I’ve never listened to anyone like I have this man. 2+ hours of pure truth and joy hearing him. A national treasure. I hate that there aren’t more like him around anymore. Breaks my heart for our future generation. God bless you sir. May god give you many more years of health and happiness so you can keep us informed. You’re a national treasure and 😢 I hope future generations to come get to hear your words. 😢
This is an episode we don't deserve but needed! I don't even have words after hearing Every thing he said. My heart is broken listening to his stories and looking at our country now. What an honor to hear his wisdom. God bless this man and all of our veterans. We truly don't know how blessed we are because of this generation of young men. they went into battle as boys and came out men. We need to leave our country better than we found it, not only for our children's sake and generations to follow, but to honor those who fought hard for us to even be here today 🙏🏽🇺🇸
Hi Shawn, I don't normally write a response, but this was pure Gold. I'm a brit from a military family, and I've spent too many hours pouring over details of the second world war. I've listened to countless interviews, but this was pure Gold. Sharp as a tack, with a huge laugh, but serious as a marine when it came down to it. Nothing but admiration and respect, for his love for God, Country and fellow serviceman and civilian alike..I love his patriotism and pride of his country and to see him tear up over that very thing, hit me hard. Things have got to shit soup here in batshit bonkers Britian, but there are still a few diehards left to stand against the craziness of this world.. One scripture came to mind, when the righteous are on power, the people rejoice.. Don't see much of that lately but one day.....❤
THIS IS ABSOLUTELY THE BEST INTERVIEW I HAVE SEEN IN A LONG LONG TIME. THIS MAN IS OUR HISTORY AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO HEAR HIS WORDS. AND HEAR HIS LIFE EXPERIENCES. AT 98 HE TRULY IS AN AMAZING MAN. THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE AND DOING THIS INTERVIEW.
Massive respect to Shawn for flat out giving people permission to monetize this content as long as you tag him. That’s a truly rare gesture these days.
@@btappan88 I'd have thought it was obvious. But here goes - its naive to think that this channel which is run as a business is giving permission for other channels to use the material with the requirement that the channel be tagged, is not doing it as part of strategic product placement but as part of a gesture of good will.
I've been listening to this show for a long long time. This is by far the best episode yet. We need more men like Sir Don. What an honor to watch this episode.
Both my Grandfathers fought in WWII. Only met one of them. He was in the Navy. I had a lot of conversations like this growing up. His morality and principles will always stay with me.
I had tears running down my face when he sang. I hope that he is still doing well. A lot of people live into their hundreds in pretty decent health. Awesome video. Thank you both.
This mans a gem. So self aware, even at this age. Sharp as a tack. More grit than any peer i can think of. His generation truly was, the greatest generation.
I am 28 and i wish we lived in a world where my genereation have people like Don. Respectful. A true hero and a man to be admired by all. Thank you Shawn for another great episode.
This is one of the best episodes you have produced - period. This man is a national treasure - period. I lost my father in 2008 but he was in three invasions in the Pacific, including those of Saipan and Okinawa. with the 27th Infantry Division. This dude is almost a century old and sharp as a tack. Good on him and good on you for giving him a platform to recount his experience. These cats were a different kind of breed. Thank you and thank Mr. Graves.
My great uncle was a flamethrower in Vietnam. Saw him have a ptsd episode once. I’ll never forget it. Thank you for both of your service. It’s such a blessing you were able to talk to a hero of WW2
My grandpa was a flame thrower in the 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps during WWII. I was never able to speak to him about it because he died when I was very young. This interview is very insightful and helps me learn what his contribution was to the war effort. Thank you both and God Bless!
That’s IT. Shawn, as soon as I am able to, I’m joining the Patreon. You’re literally preserving history and making it at the same time. You’re doing the Lord’s Holy Work. Thank you for this.
@@Killa_Suerte Shawn always talks about it, I don’t want to falsely advert or something lol but I just wanna support what he’s doing at this point, the show ALWAYS blows me away and as a fellow recovered drug addict and alcoholic I just want to support the guy. It’s not so much about what I’ll get.
Don is a treasure, I'm Australian and my family are generational professional trawler fisherman and I would absolutely love to cook him some of our seafood here as we have some of the finest on the great barrier reef here, coral trout, red emperor, mud crabs, coral crabs, it would be beyond words sitting and having a Australian seafood feast with such a wonderful man! Thanks again Shawn and you are definitely invited brother! Love your work my friend!
That's so kind of you Neighbor, it never ceases to amaze me of how many non Americans are so kind to our Vets. If no one else tells you I want to be the first thank You so much for such an act of kindness that you offered Him and I hope he reads your message and goes to visit someone so kind as yourself. Sorry this was so long but your comment was hella worthy of a genuine response from at least someone. May you and your family be prosperous and well!
@@TheSorcererAhrimanahsulexactly and that's how we should all treat our vets be it vets from our country of origin or our allied nations they all risk everything to keep our nations safe and preserve our way of life
This is one of the best WW2 veteran interiews I've ever watched... love how Shawn lets the interviewee talk and expand instead of direct answers... paints a perfect picture
I have a neighbor whos 102. He was navy in the south pacific. His stories are amazing! The things hes seen and experienced are incredible! This interview is just like sitting with Al and just hearing what things were like back then. I love hearing from true patriots who were bigger badasses in their day than i ever will be. Respect to those old guys who are still blessing our lives by being here to tell the tales.
Best interview/ video in RUclips history! Thank you, Don Graves, for sharing your story and your continued service to our country! Thank you, Shawn, for your service and for not letting these men be forgotten!
Tell your Gramps thanks for his service. You should plan to do something really nice for him on this Veterans Day (Nov 11th). My Gramps passed away when I was 16. He was in the Air Force in the Korean War when he was 16 & lied & went to the Korean War. I was a little bitch figuring out how to put 1 foot in front of the other. I WISH that I had the chance to do something nice for him now. I can ONLY wish & wish as hard as I could, it'll ONLY EVER be a wish. I'd trade anything for the chance.
I got to this interview coincidently, but can't stop listen to this iconic kind of man. a sharp minded person who quits school but knows more than high educated people. this man should talk to the crowd not only in churches. very enlightening in so many cases. wish him all the best and many thanks and lovely greetings from Munich(Germany)
I don't normally watch interviews but I was completely enthralled in this interview, incredible storytelling. I'm a Canadian with no real connections with America but wow was this guy inspiring. True patriot.
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God did not come to bring peace, but a sword against evil.
Always killing it Shawn, thank you for this.
It's hard to pick a favorite episode, Shawn, but I think this it for me. We will never see men like this again-sadly. We owe them everything we have today. I'm in awe of this generation.
Good afternoon, gentlemen, Katie, and crew 😊🙏 God bless
PLEASE get Larry cappetto on here he deserves a seat he's a treasure trove of ww2 Korea Vietnam desert Storm and the last 20years of bull sith wars in the middle east
God he’s sharp for 98 years old. What an absolute legend. Truly the greatest generation. Thank you Shawn for getting his story out.
@@SufyanJohnson Not that that's saying much. hell I'm 23 and he seems sharper than me.
Last generation wo there food being contaminated
Thats right
Moves around pretty damn well too
Still feel like he could kick my ass.
Don passed aug 2 of 2024! He was 100 years old. R.I.P to a true American hero and real man!
Rest in peace, Don! God bless and watch over us!❤🙏🙌🇺🇲
Not the same guy. That guy was in the Army. This guy is a Marine.
That is so sad. Soon we won't have any of these great men left. Instead we will only have second hand stories of what these incredible and brave men did, not just in war, but with their lives afterwards.
He died 2 days before my birthday 😢
He's still alive and he's only 99 and not 100.
I got chills when he recited FDR’s speech. You know something made a massive impact on someone’s life when they recite it word for word 82 years later
Not just word for word but cadence for cadence exactly how President Roosevelt said it because for them it was bigger than our 9/11 could ever be. For them it was a reckoning and a call to arms to defend and avenge Pearl Harbor. When did we get sick of ourselves and our Patriotism? We’ve lost a lot of what made America - America. We’ve lost our soul and he has seen it all from when we did to the shell of what we are now. Incredible
Agreed. I wish I could give this comment several 👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍👍
@@THEGREENHELIUMpeople lost the sense of patriotism when they started voting their rights away for deceitful mf people
@@THEGREENHELIUMdont blame the people blame the ones in control. Goverment got soft.
@@THEGREENHELIUMcouldn’t agree more
Men like this are my heroes. I wouldn’t be here today raising my family in a free country if it wasn’t for men like you sir. Thank you for all your sacrifices, and thank sharing your story with us. You are indeed the greatest generation. And Shawn, all I can say is thank you as well. Thank you for bringing us such important content. And while I eat tons of fresh fish and wild game, I can only pray to be as sharp as this when I’m 98 years old. It’s truly inspiring. I’m honored to have had the privilege of listening to this man, and I’m all the better for it. Interviews such as this should be required and mandatory “LESSONS” in every single school across America. While it’s been an all out assault throughout this great nation to erase our history and re-write our entire story, your show serves to preserve it, protect it, and teach it. God bless us all, and God bless America.
I second that Mr White your spot on
SPOT ON SIR
Hearing these old timmers laugh, warms my heart. Reminds me so much of my grandfather who served in the pacific.
It does us too.
Yes. ‘I got to Ireland tooo!’
Said with an Irish accent had me giggling. Sharp guy.
I was thinking the same thing, reminds me of my grandfather.
It’s always nice to see someone relive the good memories
Ditto bro my papa's was there too
335 marines only 18 came back ... Man I'll remember this interview for the rest of my life. Don Graves had balls of steel
He was the only man with a flame thrower to survive!
Yea I do t think I’ll
Forget his face or his laugh for the rest of mine either. Real men leave an impression on others
Bros got balls of platinum shit
He had to do what he had to do.
Hoorah
For a 98 year old man put through battle, explosions, gunfire, and everything else, he is incredibly sharp and healthy. His memory is better than mine. Thank you for your service Don Graves.
Is call organic diet most of his life
Not to mention a flame thrower that beyond crazy
@@JaviVibesyou are most certainly right. They didn’t have all the processed garbage and sedentary lifestyle back then.
tbf it is really hard to forget shi when u got ptsd and everytime u think it’s of the ppl u saw dead and the horrors you went through. It’s not ideal and leads plenty of people to suicide. some people are blessed to grow through it. some, not so much
And he's talking about starting to feel at 98 that his legs aren't what they used to because of his younger years. Ha!
This is one of my favorite episodes ever. I could listen to Mr Graves talk for as long as he wanted to. What an amazing man he is.
At the end he chokes up and says “We gotta love our country again. It breaks my heart.”
Man that made me tear up
Same here, that came from the heart.
same here. Reflecting on it, its amazing how far we have come technologically, but oh how far we have fallen. The problem is not technology, it's the human. While we have improved some social economic metrics, other metrics have not improved. Like the other republics in history, the decadence of our mighty nation has decayed us. We are confused now, pumped with misinformation and disinformation. I used to be an atheist, but I now think only God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit are the antidotes we need to ground ourselves philosophically as to not diffract away like light through a prism.... God has helped us out of sticky situations before, He will help us still. People need philosophical foundations to ground them, unless you are grounded and well read, you don't know what to think. We need Jesus, family, patriotism, and a love of learning. But thats just my two cents. Lots has changed for the better, but lots has changed for worse. We are lost, but studying that Bible is step 1 to understanding the human experience, and our duty to always do what is right. Even when we fail we grow stronger from the experience by nurturing our relationship with God. I'm not saying be a fundamentalist, I'm saying keep an open mind to understand the Bible's code while studying it. It's not something you teach as much as it is something you have a conversation with others about after reading something. Critically and creatively think, get excited about it, never stop dreaming, and be the change you want to see in the world. I say all of this because I'm afraid we are loosing our ability to think creatively, critically, and respectfully. Honor is more rare by the day. We have a lot of problems to fix and much work to do.
❤
Can't do that when you import people who hate the country
"We will rekindle new faith in our values, new pride in our history, and a new spirit of unity that can ONLY be realized through love for our country. Because we understand that America is NOT a land cloaked in darkness, America is the torch that enlightens the entire world."
President Donald J. Trump
It’s really sad to think that in just a few years, there will be zero WWII survivors left. These conversations are so important. I encourage everyone to seize any chance to have a conversation with these vets and if possible, document it.
Best comment right here. I’ve thought about this for years now and thought I they would pass on sooner but these WW2 vets just never give up. Absolute respect for the greatest generation.
Many video on here people have interviewed from WWII. I stumbled upon and an Old interview with 2 civil war veteran. It was in black in white but it still on here. I just wish more people cared.
Start talking to the Korean and Vietnam vets too.
I once met a guy that fought in the Mexican American war 1846-1848
Born in 82 , currently 41 year's old. I feel privileged to have grown up in an era so full of ww2 vet's 👏 we had a few come to my school as a kid and told us stories and let us ask questions. It was an amazing experience that in grateful to have had
What an honor. His memory and energy at 98, incredible. We don't have many WW2 vets left, let's cherish these episodes.
Quite a stark contrast to our current Commander in Chief, no?
@@dimitrimariutto Your current Commander in Chief is stil way better than Truman, just saying.
@@Doctom91I'm not saying either is better than the other. I didn't live through Truman. Bud Joe Biden is a pedophile and his son got caught with crack. Next please
@@dimitrimariutto18 years older than the "commander" in chief, yet 100% more coherent and competitent, and battle proven.
@Doctom91 you don't even believe that. Comon now
Wow I can't even imagine what this Gentleman went though in WW2. The way he speaks about our country really gives me chills. I hope we can get back to that for my children's sake and for everyone in this country 🙏🏽 great interview Shawn!
Agreed
I don't have kids... One day I really would love to have a few but if that day ever comes I would want them to have the best life, and have endless opportunities to follow their dreams. I'm 29 and since I think 13 or 14? I started to listen. Listen to what people are saying about each side.. my dad always told me before you make a decision on following or voting for someone, don't follow the crowd. DO YOUR OWN RESEARCH. And then decide what you want from others. Can't think about short term.. sometimes you gotta think what would be best for the long run. Not a year or 4 years from now... I mean like 20-30 years down the line when you have grandkids. My fear is that call me crazy or a conspiracy theorist but.. the select few elite people control EVERYTHING. Like media, and the news channels. How come they are all reading the same script and telling us what they want us to hear.. now think about this, now you hear about how much news is "fake news" right? If true (I'm sure it is 99% of it) now think about history. How much of the world history didn't actually happen the way they say it did. They could change history to be in certain people's favors. How would we know? We brainwash generation after generation with the same history over and over. All I know is things are not always what they seem and I'm just nervous that something big is gonna happen... Hopefully not in our lifetime or our great great great grandkids life but.. it almost feels like a bubble that's been expanding for years and one day it'll be so much and all hell is gonna break loose... But who knows lol.. take one day at a time and live life to the fullest
@@Free_thinker94sounds to me that your inner conscience/spirit is telling you something. Google Chuck Missler and listen to him speak about the coming psalms 83 war. It’s actually taking place over in Israel right now. He also teaches on Romans which would be an excellent place for you to start if you want to know why we are here on this earth in the first place. Enjoy!
Notice how happy and positive this man is?
Even when speaking about the bad times.
A role model for all of us.
not meaning to come off negative at all, but i’d imagine it’s easier to stay positive in “normal” life after experiencing the most horrific combat known to man, id imagine the feeling is being grateful for everyday he’s lived off that god forsaken island
@@kaxmo69true, but a lot of people don't really "come home" after the war. Their mind is still stuck in those most horrific years of their lives. Don is one of the lucky/strong ones though, not to come back with any PTSD or "shell shock" I think is what they called it back in that time.
Just a guy on the internet....
But i think happiness comes through resilience to adversity, you can mimic this through physical training ie crossfit and intermittent fasting, cold therapy etc.
Makes you appreciate the little things and sets you up to work hard.. success is a by-product.
@@robg8203he probably does have ptsd. A lot of people keep it to themselves.
@@kaxmo69of course it would be easier because you'd be lying to yourself.. there is nothing positive about these men and their experiences.. that's why our country is so fucked right now is from our country convincing us we have something to be proud and positive about when we don't
Shawn Ryan is such a honorable and respectable man. Not interviewing these celebrities but true American heros! Thank you Shawn! You’re the blessing we didn’t know we needed!
@@netwurk88 Amen brother!
Fucking A baby, gotta love a real American Soldier. They're the greatest generation for a reason.
WWI/II were real wars. Unlike that War on CIA-armed te**or bs.
@@TheOGSticks11please put aye 😂😂😂
@@iLoveSpreadingMisInformation in Ohio it's "Hay" 😅
This man has witnessed nearly 40% of America's existence - a truly remarkable honor to hear from him. The podcast is a priceless gift, granting us the opportunity to listen to someone who has lived through and contributed to the nation's journey. Thank you for making this possible. May God bless you a lot.
Well said!!
When you put it like that wow lol. Crazy to think about
It’s amazing, my great grandma who passed last year was born the year before him and they remind me a lot of eachother. Amazing stories and crazy to put it into perspective like that!
I saw your comment and thought”man hell naw he’s certainly exaggerating let me do the math” and it came up as 39,6%. That’s insane when u put it in perspective and thank u for helping me see it through that lense
I have a kind of funny story about being alive for percentage of a country’s history.
When my dad was in kindergarten my grandpa was 50 and Canada was 100 years old.
Grandpa told my dad that he was HALF as old as Canada and he misheard him and thought he said he was AS OLD as Canada.
Dad told his teacher his fun fact and adamantly argued with his teacher that his dad IS AS OLD AS CANADA! Until he got home and grandpa corrected him.
When my grandpa died he had witnessed over 66% of the history of Canada as a country.
He was a carpenter that travelled down the coast to California and built several houses some of which still stand around Lake Tahoe.
During WW2 he was in work camps doing construction around Banff Alberta where there was a Japanese internment camp. In his later years he was a cabinet maker and Christian author.
One of the things he built during the war was the “little beehive” in Banff AB which you can still hike to today.
“I’m gonna skip school tomorrow to go join the Marines”
HOLY COW what a powerful statement!!!!!!
This is exactly what I did when the Gulf war started. I was a senior in HS. Instead of going to school I drove to a local mall where there was a Marine and Air Force recruiting office. A few month later, I shipped out. Those were crazy times.
This guy is correct about the Middle East. Islam is 1,500 years old, and for that whole time there has been nothing but conflict and war between the Sunni and Shia for the past 1,400 years over who should succeed their Muhammad. About 85% are Sunni and the rest Shia and both side will kill to have their guy declared the successor and leader of Islam. Ad to this that both sides think non believers (Infidels) should be given an option to convert or be killed if they don't.
1,400+ years is just too long for the rest of the modern world to tolerate any more.
what timestamp is this at
Finish school then join the Marines Marines don't take quitters
@@pokeee1:00:11
@ 1:00:11
As a Marine from the 80s and 90s who was influenced by a survivor of iwojima I have to say this meant so much to me. God bless Don Graves. Thank you
Thank You for your service Sir! I pray you and your family are well!
Thank you! I was denied in 2004 for a heart mumor in the navy. Honor be to God. Thank you for your sacrifice and your patronage
Thank you for ur service. My grandfather was a marine. Passed away 4yrs Veterans Day. Which the day before, Nov 10th, I'm sure you know is the Marine Corp bday, an is also my G'ma, his wife's bday😊 anyways, I watched my G'pa will his self to live that day. No way in hell was he dyin on the Marine Corp's bday, nor my G'mas!!! Watchin this episode late tonite brought me to tears a few times an laughed a few. Reminded me so much of my G'pa.🧡 again, thank you so much for ur service!🧡🙏🇺🇸
Yes! I know to some it may be a meaningless phrase but I truly in my heart mean it!
❤
It's crazy how coherent he is. At 37, I could not convey my life even remotely as easily as he does. I've always been envious of people who are able to tell their story with no hitches. Salute to you, Don Graves!
literally. If someone asked about my life id have it summed up in 4/5 minutes
@@Dominic-jr3on pretty much the same. My brain doesn't work that way lol
You are still living your life. At some point old guys start talking about what used to be more than what comes next. He's got practice. 40 more years of practice than you.
@@Dragonologist I think you're missing the point. He's very aware and coherent not at 77 but at 98! Most people at 98 can't even care for themselves let alone carry on a full blown conversation about his life in quite detail.
@@Shelbyzd
Agree. He missed the point totally. Oh well
This episode is actually history. I feel like the reason the youth lacks patriotism is because they don’t know about stories like these. This is what makes this channel so powerful. The people or at least Americans need to know about the heroes who have fought and died for us. This channel makes me prideful to be American
Speaking as a youth (23), these kinds of stories are easily accessible obviously, but people my age would rather scroll tiktok than listen or watch this "BoRiNg HiStOrY sTuFf", and even if they listened to it, there would be some history teacher and woke college student on the internet trying to make the Japanese seem sympathetic.
It’s the liberal ideology taking over schools. It’s written in the communist teachings, especially Marx. Start with the youth; indoctrinate them.
Also speaking as a youth (23), I'll share my perspective. Trying my best to keep it short, I believe many young people view our politicians as corrupt clowns, and that there is a growing sentiment that this government is more of a giant corporation. Billions to Israel, billions to Ukraine, stuffing weapon dealer pockets while the middle class shrinks, inflation rises, and the housing market doubles. Congress is full of ghouls and demons, we elect a blatant piece of shit TV star, and then someone who is damn near senile, all seemingly concerned with lining their own pockets. Most of us don't view presidents as heroes like this man views Roosevelt--and they shouldn't, because none of them are. People are more focused on witch hunting make-believe "woke", blue-haired hippies than on actual problems, and the growing political division keeps us from making meaningful progress. Recognizing all of this makes it hard to idolize the US govt.
I respect American heroes and recognize their sacrifices, I know that it's definitely been worse throughout history, I am aware that the USA is still one of the best countries to live in, and my American patriotism lies within the USA as an ideal and as a group of people of which I am a part of. Those are my thoughts, a lot of it is anecdotal, feel free to disagree.
I half agree. I think a lot of it also has to do with a lack of trust in our government. Back then everyone respected the President and Congress. They were transparent, and not creating conflict to stay in power. Today you can’t trust either party. They’re all self interested.
Literally could be the last interview we ever get from a surviving ww2 soldier
My Grandpa was a ww2 Medic and passed away a 2 years ago on his 100th birthday! Greatest man I ever knew, continued to serve his community up until 95. Helping "old folks" (his words) get to their doctors appts. And would help serve dinners and wash dishes in the retirement home. When asked how he lived so long, he replied "Always stay moving and volunteer to help out when ever you can."
Helped the old ppl! Lol. That's awesome!
My great aunt is about to turn 100 and your scaring me
@BabyKobeeee hey, the best thing to keep in mind is that they lived to watch their families grow up. They got to experience more in life than anyone else alive, just with the advancments in technology alone in their life times. Not to mention the historic events they witnessed in real time. Our minds stay young, but our bodies grow old. The hardest thing to hear him say was, "I have outlived all my friends." We are not built to live forever. My grandpa made it to the finish line and passed away sitting in his chair with his entire family around him and all his children holding his hands.
Dick van dyke says the same thing in his biography literally titled keep moving.
He sounds amazing. God bless him
"Only young men can fight wars. We were brain washed..." Powerful stuff.
he also said it was necessary, it kept you alive and it got you killed.
@@NetherPrimeI believe he’s right.
What a fucking badass!!
@@raisethelinetuck your shirt in!
@@NetherPrime It was necessary, but horrible. I found myself disagreeing with a lot of his political opinions, but I realized listening to him that the thing that irritates me so much about those kind of opinions is that they're far too often held by people with no understanding of the human cost to be paid by war. He's proud (rightly so) of the war he fought in, but he fully and completely understands how terrible it was, and how only the youngest and most idealistic in our society ever truly paid for it. Not the politicians. Not the internet commenters bragging about how "cool" US fighter jets are. The brainwashed, scared children were the ones to die.
I have never enjoyed an interview as much as listening to this talk. I am a Canadian, not a military family and have never liked war or the talk of war. but listening to this man and his testimony has touched something deep in my soul. God bless him and the Americans and you for our freedom even here in our Canada. Love you Brother in Christ.
I loved it so much
As opposed to those who love war.
Canadians Should be proud The USA didn't and couldn't win that war...On her Own..Thank You Canada and the Canadians that helped Fight for freedom too.
Hahaha. “Freedom in Canada…..” That’s pretty funny!
You got Swedish Ancestry? 🙏🇸🇪
He’s a man who’s story needs to be heard. Even dementia was scared of him even in old age he’s still witty
Afg and Iraq vet here. Just wanted to stop by and say how thankful we are out here for you Shawn. God bless Don and the greatest generation to have ever lived.
Thank you for your service brother
Thanks for stepping up and serving our country man
Thank YOU dude, from the bottom of my jaded cynical heart
Thanks so much for ur service man!! Both G'pas were vets, now brothers n cousins servin cause of the 2 men at head of our fam!! Again, thank you so much for ALL YOU GAVE N SACRIFICED!! 🧡🙏🇺🇸
One of the best SRS interviews I’ve watched to date. Letting this man, someone who’s literally living history talk, and Shawn being so respectful was so nice to see.
I agree. Good job Shawn
mind blowing!
Nice avatar.
@@ClickClack_Bamyou too 👍
I met this guy in Normandy beach on June 7 2023. I took a picture with him outside the bar in Saint Mere Eglise France, the first liberated town in Europe from the DDay campaign. I have a picture with him. Didn’t get to talk to him for long, but it was a true honor. He wore that same hat. Such a good guy, was so happy to see an American eager to meet him. Traveled all the way to Europe to meet these hero’s.
Omg! This is mind-blowing!!! This brought tears, my cheeks are soaking wet ❤
Shawn this is awesome brother! Don Graves thank you for your service! R.I.P ,Thank you Shawn! Much love from Tuscaloosa Alabama!
GOD BLESS THE USA! ❤🤍 💙
I can't believe in 2023 this man still lives and breathes amongst us. Live as long as you can Don. We appreciate you so much.
Hope he becomes worlds oldest man
I'm so glad he's alive but so sad to see everything he fought for went all to nothing
Don Graves came to my work today in Denton Texas and had it not been for this podcast I might not have known who he was. Still can’t believe I got to shake hands with this legend! What an incredible story, he also gave you a nice shoutout Shawn!
That's Mr. Ryan and Mr. Graves fixing our culture in action.
What happened in your shop I need details
He eats breakfast at a restaurant by my house in north Texas every single morning
@@emilycoltrin5251 would you mind telling me where he comes to eat? I really would like to meet him or say hi, I have never met a ww2 vet and I really want to before they are all gone. I live in the Plano north texas area
I also work in Denton, what business did he come in to?
I have to admit that I cried a few times during this one. Don is an amazing amazing American and one hell of a Patriot!
Me too! Really touched my heart.
I definitely did then proceeded to bawl a little at the end when he was singing 😢
@@michellepack4134 same!
You know what he would say? Get off your ass and do something about it. But not in the biased bs way so called Patriots talk about. If it means so much to you then you should be advocating for what he is talking about. And that. Comes from a millenial the last sane genration.
The absolute greatest generation. Never has god made so tough and resilient a group of people.
Don spoke at our church last night Veterans Day 2024! He’s an amazing man of faith !
Wow! What a sincere honor to witness this. He is truly an incredible American hero. I was wondering how he’s doing. He is a National treasure. God bless him! 🇺🇸❤️🇺🇸
He is traveling around to schools and churches speaking and everywhere people are very attentive to every word because how many active alert WW2 veterans are there 80 years after the war?
I’m glad to hear he’s doing well.
I'm sorry he passed away about four months ago. Nice writeup for Donald Graves on Lynch and Sons Oxford website. God bless
@@karlBob2006 sorry but Don is alive as of Veterans Day 2024 I wasn’t witness to a ghost at Crosscity church speaking to a few hundred people! If he passed since that day no announcement was made!
Ww2 vets on the Shawn Ryan show is the veteran content we didn't even know we needed
Yeah right, man! We knew we needed this!
For real. I've always like WW2 history. I met a guy a couple years ago random while remodeling his home and he told me all the nuke test he was apart of and how the dug trenches and the blast just blow over him and the boys
@@Erosgatesfacts
I had chills moments of triumph moments of I guess you could call it depressed state. This was such an impactful interview one of my favorite podcasts. It never lets me down I’m 39 and I never did a minute in the service but I appreciate all you guys that served. God bless everybody.
Need Korean war, Vietnam vets before these stories are lost forever.
This hero is a National Treasure. Thank you, Shawn, for this interview. Makes me proud to be American to stand in the shadows of two such men. God Bless You!
lol this was years ago when the gov tricked innocent folk to fight blood money wars
Absolutely a treasure!
Amen!
...international treasure
@@theone--- Agreed! 😊
I feel privileged just to be able to listen to this legend speak.. thank you Don and Shawn and GOD BLESS AMERICA 🇺🇸
How can you say god bless America after listening to this. God is responsible for every horror expressed in this interview
@@thewinteragendadraganclove2323🤡
@@thewinteragendadraganclove2323why are blaming God for humanity sins God made us in his image we weren't supposed to sin but we rebelled against him so don't blame God blame humans
I found Shawn Ryan Podcast about 7 months ago and been watching two episodes a week since. The new one for the week and one down through the catalog. Every interview, I learn something new. This one though, really warmed my heart and got me good. I hear my grandfather in this man. God Bless you Mr. Don Graves.
Hearing Don laugh is such a pleasure. Man’s got a life of demons that he refuses to let win. A true warrior, American hero, and deserves every ounce of recognition he can get. This man is a legend through and through. 🇺🇸
He reminds me of my Grandpa. He's 95 years old this year. But always laughing. He and my grandma had such a great relationship. He misses her dearly. She passed away a couple years ago.
Can't wait for this one. This was the greatest generation of all time, men and women. Not only did the soldiers sacrifice, everyone on at home did as well. From rationing rubber, steel, food....everyone pitched in. God bless this warrior, we owe him and everyone of that era a huge debt of gratitude.
Don speaks on a lot of this. Get ready!!
You said it!
Way better than the generation that fought for our independence......🥴
I agree 100!! Also those during the revolution war were great too.
Not sure they're the greatest generation, the folks of 1776 were much greater and their principles have been increasingly betrayed since.
From all the trauma and horrors he faced, was the family that most hurt him.. it’s indeed an eye open for all of us, thank you for your service sir
Solid point. Let's take care of those around us.
I noticed that too.
@@treym4600bruh they had feelings lmao
Best show ever. This man is a treasure.
55:11 oh my God..best clip ever. Just amazing the way you guys did this one. Best interview I’ve seen all year and it’s a month before 11/5. I needed this so much.
Man, I wish this was a 72 hour interview. This guy is a gem. I sent this video to my Grampa. They’re around the same age and he feels the same way Don does. Thank you both for the show. 🇺🇸
I’m a Marine Vet and have been to Iwo Jima, toured the old bunkers and pill boxes. Climbed Mt. Suribachi where the flag was raised. This interview brought chills down my back because I know exactly where he was on that island.
Semper Fi Leatherneck. Thank you for your service
Thank You for your service Sir! I pray you and yours are doing well!
Thank you for ur service man!! My G'pa was Marine, passed away 4yrs ago Veterans day. Watch him will his self to live thru the day before, which I'm sure you know is the Maine Corp's bday, but my G'mas bday as well. No wY was he passin on that day. His oxygen was below 40, but he was passin. The next morn at 8am he looked at my G'ma, an his 2 daughters an said it's time. My G'ma had his fave shot glass, an the 3 of them used medicine cups, haha my G'ma poured his fave bourbon, they took their shots, he said he loved them all, gave my G'ma a kiss, said he loved her again, said 'HOORAH' laid back an passed within 45 seconds!🧡🙏🇺🇸.... again, thank you for ur service man!! Semper Fi
I’m 25 min in and the cadence and flow of this interview is magical. Don’s memory of his past life is amazing and Shawn isn’t getting in his way and letting it go. Amazing.
I know this show was a year ago but it popped up in my feed. What a wonderful man. Reminds me of my grandfather. He was in the war and he also drank a lot. He also spent most of his paycheck on booze. It was the thing back then. When I was born my dad told him he would not be able to hold me until he quit drinking. He did quit for the most part and as us kids got older he would have a drink now and then. Love this man and his sharpness and sense of humor.
Thank you so much Shawn, what a privilege to hear this man’s story, and thank you Mr. Graves for your bravery and devotion to this great country of ours! 🇺🇸
blind devotion
Thank you for your service Don Graves! You walked so that we could all run 🙌✊💯
Love your content Julian thank you for being you.
Truth!
@JulianDorey They were just different back then. Hope the move is going smoothly.
If you didn’t have a grandfather like this, I’m very sorry my grandfather lived till he was 98 born on the 3rd of July and created Patriots out of all his grandchildren ! Amazing interview, notice this man carried a flame thrower and lived through so much and only time he was about to cry is when he talked about how we are losing our country not anything to do with war 💪🏼🇺🇸
Mine was trained by the CIA to become a South Vietnamese Army Intelligence Office. When the war was over in 1975 was snitched on and caught by the Vietcong then went on to serve 8 years in the concentration camp survived on 1 potato per day. He ultimately made it to the U.S. in 1991 and died of cancer in 2017 at age 76.
@@fbg57 sounds insane I feel
Bad for anyone who chose to work as an “Agent” in the CIA, FBI, NSA or anything other 3 letter organization. I would never want to spend my life pretending to be anything I’m not. Wish you the best… I just am high against lying and my grand father taught me that and this man in the video I think would agree when he said we need God fearing men to run our country. I feel you and your grandfather 🙏🏼
@@RedDawnReadiness he wasn’t a CIA agent. Was just trained by them to do espionage work for the South Vietnamese government, due to the fact he carried a northerner accent and that made it extremely easy to do his job. My ancestors migrated to the south in 1954 when the French left, they brought with them all the traditions and culture of northerners. But even the SV government was hella corrupt in the sense that they just sat back to collect all the fundings from the U.S. they thought since the U.S. is funding this war and its troops are here on the ground in our country why don’t we just sit back, relax and enjoy what they’ve brought with them here.
❤
I had the honor of meeting Mr. Graves at the Marine Corps Museum a few years back. Seeing this gave me chills knowing that I had the privilege to speak with him and hear his story. A truly remarkable man that is as humble as he is wise.
I feel honored to be able to hear this man’s story. Truly a great American. 🇺🇸
Man some of the things he says seems profound to me but it was the norm
This is the greatest podcast of all time. And I’m not joking. This man is a fucking National hero and treasure. Never seen a 98 year old person with their mind this solid. Such an amazing person. Respect
Agreed
Because men was raised and built different then. Men like this doesn’t exist anymore and with each generation they get softer and softer
My neighbor is 97. He didn’t serve in WWII but trained in project V-12 right before war ended. His memory is impeccable, and I spend as much time as I can with him. I’ve had him come to our men’s group with me, shoveled his driveway, invited him over for coffee. People like this won’t be around much longer. I try to get as much information out of him as I can, he runs a bible study at our local Catholic Church. At 97 that’s pretty damn crazy. He lives alone at that, it’s crazy how he is so self sufficient.
Shawn I did not want this episode to end. What an honor to hear Don Graves story. I pray the hearts of Americans will turn back to being patriotic and loving our country.
Damn. What a humbling interview. Don graves is an absolute legend. A true American hero. Part of the greatest generation to have ever lived in my opinion and it’s sad we’ve lost that. Thank you Sean for bringing him on. More people need to hear this interview.
I love how normally, Shawn likes to direct the conversation and keep the dialog going in a pointed direction yet in this interview he takes a total back seat to let this living legend talk. Pure class and respect on display.
He’s the best listener while also being the best interviewer
He actually is keeping dialog going and doing things that an interviewer should do, but he’s asking good, simple questions, and this guest is so good at talking and telling stories you don’t even notice Shawn even trying!
Ya, there's a special way to communicate with someone who has so many stories and is full of knowledge. I had a 94 year old neighbor and it was the same with him. Old timers like them are a gift and I was so happy to see Shawn show the proper care and respect towards him
US Army -Medic 1971-1973, you made Pastor Don Graves day Shawn. This, in turn, made mine. My Father in-Law just left us last year at 94 and he too was in the Pacific. God Bless you, your Team, and any members of the Greatest Generation that are still boots up.
What a treasure of a man. Thank you for posting this. Don is a true American Patriot. This was my favorite show of all time. Thank you
the smile on your face after you say "That's ME!" at 4:34 God bless you and the Shawn Ryan Show
Don was such a joy. I could listen to him talk all day. Thank you Shawn, for preserving this wonderful man's life story. God bless you both. ❤
Absolutely ZERO disrespect to the other amazing hero soldiers of men, but I feel this is the best interview. I'd love to shake Don's hand!!
Top g for sure
I couldn't help but smile when Don sang "God Bless America" you can feel his love for the Stars and Stripes. Definitely felt the pride. God bless you Don and thank you for your service! 🇺🇸
❤ beautiful voice he has. I was in total tears hearing him sing ❤ God Bless America 🇺🇸 😊
Remarkable. Brought tears to my eyes.
Agreed. I began singing along.
I sang along
Saw this vet on the Unsubscribe Podcast with another WWII
My great Grandpa died when I was 25 I’m 31 now. He was in WWII Love that man forever. Much love to the viewers also. Glad to be here with you
What an amazing guest. Perspective from almost 100 years. That man is still as sharp as a whip. Well done, Marine!❤
Right, it seems to me like he has another decade or two left in him! God bless him
I could listen to Don all day. I am not American but it is so nice to see such loyalty for their country from a Distinguished gentlemen, Thank you for sharing
Me too my great grandfather was alive until I was in my early 20s and I wish I would’ve picked his brain a lot more than what I did. He was such a good man he was born in 1914
@@Jerbo1125you and me both brother. Mine was in the OSS, and it absolutely disgusts me that I spent all that time with him talking sports and such, and didn’t think to dig deeper into his service. When he passed, we found his DD-214. Just a list of dates and out to the side “Out of country - Destination unknown”.
@@toddlinder-flowman6687 God bless you and your family man. Hopefully this country gets straightened out for our kids sake, and hopefully if I ever have grandchildren.
God Bless that man Don Graves!!🙏🙏.... if there is an American hero.....its him..100yrs old so well spoken and a great man....that was the most emotional episode ive ever seen..!! I wish him good health. America needs to hear him as long as he livesv! Thank yuo Shawn Ryan..again per usual an amazing podcast ! ✌️🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲🇺🇲
Don Graves is an absolute treasure. I am deeply grateful for this interview. My son is a new Marine and I find myself fascinated with the stories of our vets. Thank you Shawn for your podcast. May God heap His blessings on you and Katie. May your marriage strengthen every season it is tested.
I love how Shawn just lets him tell his story and just watching him gets immersed in them. And how patient he is.
It’s the only podcast where the Host never interrupts the guests and always lets them tell the full story. Shawn is a humble man indeed
@@bigboi9877Sometimes I dont think he could hear what Shawn said, but thats perfectly ok, im only 41 and my hearing is pretty bad. Im with You i could listen for hours and hours
@@brianh4979Yeah he definitely missed some questions, but almost was more enjoyable to see the places he would go just speaking about what he wanted to.
@@jmd489 Yup. Hes the kinda of guy you could hand the mic to and say talk about all you want to
I know it may seem like he’s rambling at times. But when elderly people speak I listen intently
This interview needs to be preserved in a museum. Thank you both for your service and sacrifices!
I listened to this one on Spotify and Wow! He is witty and sincere. I absolutely respect this guy and I appreciate this interview. I look forward to seeing his facial expressions on this video. Well done Shawn!
Sharp as a tack.
Shawn, can you do anything about these spammers trying to pose as you, like the commenter above? They’re clearly trying to use your recognizability to cash out.
I can only strive towards such stoicism as Don. My grandfather was a navigator on Lancaster's in WW2 and the most he ever said was "I lost a lot of friends". That sentence always stuck with me as it was the only time I ever saw the old sod (apart from our last wave to each other when I said my final goodbye at the hospital 15 years ago) show emotion. His 3rd wife (he married his 4th at 80) my Nanny (although not biological) told me just the one story about the War. She was in a cinema in Birmingham UK during a bombing by Germans. The roof collapsed and she was trapped in the rubble. As a young boy it seemed so exciting but as a man I just respect how calmly she told me. It was that old stuff upper lip. Now people would be live streaming rather than helping people out of the rubble. She also had a brother who passed away in the 1980's. He had a full military honour service. Later she told me he had been one of the first members of the SAS in Africa and had first been at Dunkirk then Arnhem and later D-Day. I so wish I had met him. One last story that nobody will probably see but at least the memory will live on in cyberspace is my mum told me how my grandfather always rode his motorcycle home after the pub and if the wooden gates were closed he used to just drive through them. He was usually drunk and did it many times. He lost my Grandmother with the birth of their second daughter my auntie. Being a WW2 veteran and being a widow must give him a pass for some of his behaviour 😊. Anyway, Saluting you Don and Shawn as ever. If I can get back on my feet (wife just left me and the kids) soon I'll definitely join on patreon or wherever the service is. Thanks for the free content in the meantime, it's not just enjoyable for the content but your team makes a top notch quality show.
@@ShawnRyanShowlove you Shawn. Thank you for shining a light on these heroes, as well as the vermin in power. You're a real patriot.
@@30AndHatingItIt is Shawn though 😅
My grandfather served as a marine in WW2. I am glad he passed away before seeing the country fall into the state it is today. A great interview that brings tears to my eyes.
❤
Mine was a Chief Petty Officer on the Coral Sea. I was just talking to my Dad yesterday about how truly shocked my grandfather would be at the awful state of our country now. 💔
My grandfather was in the Navy on a aircraft carrier in the Pacific During ww2 .he passed away about 7 years ago at tne age of 98....I am glad he didn't see that last few years if he had it would have killed him
This is the man who should be leading this country as president. Not that thing that is sitting in the Oval Office now.
I once did a hospice rotation for my psych department which turned out to be my favorite rotation ever. We did in home with veterans from World War Two in East Tennessee. I met some of the most heroic men who became mentors to me after my time in the navy. It was astounding how proud and courageous these guys were at 17-20 years of age. It’s few and far between that you find that now. Manliness is frowned upon by most and it’s time to take a stand against the movement against men.
People don’t usually have hospice until they’re at death’s door, but from what I understand, they technically qualify once they’re diagnosis is terminal. On average, how long were these men still alive that they were able to mentor you?
AMEN
@@LuckyCharms777 my longest was about six months… I was only in Tennessee for my last year and a half of undergrad and then moved back to Va for Grad school. I had three patients, two of which served in the marines and army, one in the navy. All three also worked in either Y-12, K25, or X10. If you are interested in learning about how a government took over the town of Oak Ridge, that’s where I worked. If you listen to wise words, an individual can speak to you long after they are gone.
It’s just the cycle…
Hard times make strong men.
Strong men make good times.
Good times make weak men.
Weak men make hard times.
You know what we’re in… but it won’t last, as again, it’s a cycle.
❤
I've been a fan of SRS for years but this is by far the most inspiring and emotional episode to date. God bless this man, God bless the greatest generation. We ALL have A LOT to learn from Don Graves.
If we could only be so lucky...
I’m an Infantryman in the Army. Listening to this gentleman speak about his experiences and what he went through, the friends he lost, the peoples he’s killed and how he’s lived his life since has made me regret anything I’ve ever complained about since I’ve been in the military. Listening to what Mr. Graves went through, It’s insane. Thank you sir, the last of a generation of warriors.
I really appreciated how he didn't cut him off when he went on his tangents and small stories. Even in his old age he just loves telling these stories even if he can't quite hear or notice he's cutting you off sometimes. Much respect!
I’ve never listened to anyone like I have this man. 2+ hours of pure truth and joy hearing him. A national treasure. I hate that there aren’t more like him around anymore. Breaks my heart for our future generation. God bless you sir. May god give you many more years of health and happiness so you can keep us informed. You’re a national treasure and 😢 I hope future generations to come get to hear your words. 😢
This is an episode we don't deserve but needed! I don't even have words after hearing Every thing he said. My heart is broken listening to his stories and looking at our country now. What an honor to hear his wisdom. God bless this man and all of our veterans. We truly don't know how blessed we are because of this generation of young men. they went into battle as boys and came out men. We need to leave our country better than we found it, not only for our children's sake and generations to follow, but to honor those who fought hard for us to even be here today 🙏🏽🇺🇸
Thank you Shawn. I love hearing stories from old timers.
Definitely need more.
We are working on some more stories to bring! Thank you!
Shawn, this was the best episode yet. Mr. Graves is a shining light in an increasingly dark time. God bless you both, and God bless America.
Hi Shawn, I don't normally write a response, but this was pure Gold. I'm a brit from a military family, and I've spent too many hours pouring over details of the second world war. I've listened to countless interviews, but this was pure Gold. Sharp as a tack, with a huge laugh, but serious as a marine when it came down to it. Nothing but admiration and respect, for his love for God, Country and fellow serviceman and civilian alike..I love his patriotism and pride of his country and to see him tear up over that very thing, hit me hard. Things have got to shit soup here in batshit bonkers Britian, but there are still a few diehards left to stand against the craziness of this world..
One scripture came to mind, when the righteous are on power, the people rejoice..
Don't see much of that lately but one day.....❤
Never give up!!
THIS IS ABSOLUTELY THE BEST INTERVIEW I HAVE SEEN IN A LONG LONG TIME. THIS MAN IS OUR HISTORY AND EVERYONE NEEDS TO HEAR HIS WORDS. AND HEAR HIS LIFE EXPERIENCES. AT 98 HE TRULY IS AN AMAZING MAN. THANK YOU SIR FOR YOUR SERVICE AND DOING THIS INTERVIEW.
Massive respect to Shawn for flat out giving people permission to monetize this content as long as you tag him. That’s a truly rare gesture these days.
Thats how I got here.
Free marketing and people can make money so they put work in
Lol I think you might be a bit naive😂
@@donramanayake1505Accuse him of being naive but give no reasons? Sounds like you’re the one who is naive.
@@btappan88 I'd have thought it was obvious. But here goes - its naive to think that this channel which is run as a business is giving permission for other channels to use the material with the requirement that the channel be tagged, is not doing it as part of strategic product placement but as part of a gesture of good will.
I've been listening to this show for a long long time. This is by far the best episode yet. We need more men like Sir Don. What an honor to watch this episode.
Both my Grandfathers fought in WWII. Only met one of them. He was in the Navy. I had a lot of conversations like this growing up. His morality and principles will always stay with me.
I had tears running down my face when he sang. I hope that he is still doing well. A lot of people live into their hundreds in pretty decent health. Awesome video. Thank you both.
This mans a gem. So self aware, even at this age. Sharp as a tack. More grit than any peer i can think of. His generation truly was, the greatest generation.
I am 28 and i wish we lived in a world where my genereation have people like Don. Respectful. A true hero and a man to be admired by all.
Thank you Shawn for another great episode.
I would love to live in a time like the 50s, if you could add our modern civil rights. I think that would be perfect.
This is one of the best episodes you have produced - period. This man is a national treasure - period. I lost my father in 2008 but he was in three invasions in the Pacific, including those of Saipan and Okinawa. with the 27th Infantry Division. This dude is almost a century old and sharp as a tack. Good on him and good on you for giving him a platform to recount his experience. These cats were a different kind of breed. Thank you and thank Mr. Graves.
That was one of the best interviews I’ve ever seen. Great job Shawn. Mr. Graves is a national treasure! Thank you for giving AMERICA his history.
My great uncle was a flamethrower in Vietnam. Saw him have a ptsd episode once. I’ll never forget it. Thank you for both of your service. It’s such a blessing you were able to talk to a hero of WW2
My grandpa was a flame thrower in the 3rd Marine Amphibious Corps during WWII. I was never able to speak to him about it because he died when I was very young. This interview is very insightful and helps me learn what his contribution was to the war effort. Thank you both and God Bless!
Overwhelming testimony from Don Graves. I had to stand in my front yard as he sang 'God Bless America'. What a soul, a voice, a hero, an American.
I’m an hour in and I can’t put the phone down. This interview is a masterpiece. The best one I’ve ever seen on WW2.
They just don’t make men like him anymore. Honored to have listened to this. Very inspiring..Thank you S R!
they dont make blind warriors anymore, do you support the homless vietnam vets like this?
That’s IT. Shawn, as soon as I am able to, I’m joining the Patreon. You’re literally preserving history and making it at the same time. You’re doing the Lord’s Holy Work. Thank you for this.
What’s on the patreon that we miss here?
@@Killa_Suerte Shawn always talks about it, I don’t want to falsely advert or something lol but I just wanna support what he’s doing at this point, the show ALWAYS blows me away and as a fellow recovered drug addict and alcoholic I just want to support the guy. It’s not so much about what I’ll get.
Don is a treasure, I'm Australian and my family are generational professional trawler fisherman and I would absolutely love to cook him some of our seafood here as we have some of the finest on the great barrier reef here, coral trout, red emperor, mud crabs, coral crabs, it would be beyond words sitting and having a Australian seafood feast with such a wonderful man! Thanks again Shawn and you are definitely invited brother! Love your work my friend!
That's so kind of you Neighbor, it never ceases to amaze me of how many non Americans are so kind to our Vets. If no one else tells you I want to be the first thank You so much for such an act of kindness that you offered Him and I hope he reads your message and goes to visit someone so kind as yourself. Sorry this was so long but your comment was hella worthy of a genuine response from at least someone. May you and your family be prosperous and well!
@@TheSorcererAhrimanahsulexactly and that's how we should all treat our vets be it vets from our country of origin or our allied nations they all risk everything to keep our nations safe and preserve our way of life
God Bless You. I can imagine Don in his glory setting down to a fine sea food feast prepared with love and care that you our Australian friend can do.
No better friend than an Aussie!
This is one of the best WW2 veteran interiews I've ever watched... love how Shawn lets the interviewee talk and expand instead of direct answers... paints a perfect picture
I have a neighbor whos 102. He was navy in the south pacific. His stories are amazing! The things hes seen and experienced are incredible! This interview is just like sitting with Al and just hearing what things were like back then. I love hearing from true patriots who were bigger badasses in their day than i ever will be. Respect to those old guys who are still blessing our lives by being here to tell the tales.
Best interview/ video in RUclips history! Thank you, Don Graves, for sharing your story and your continued service to our country! Thank you, Shawn, for your service and for not letting these men be forgotten!
You should check out some old interviews with ww1 soldiers very interesting and very informative
@@jonahsymes4060My great grandpa was a US Army Sgt in WWI combat
This is beautiful! My grandpa is 96 and he served in the US Navy during WW2 and I’m so happy to see an interview like this 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸
Tell your Gramps thanks for his service.
You should plan to do something really nice for him on this Veterans Day (Nov 11th).
My Gramps passed away when I was 16. He was in the Air Force in the Korean War when he was 16 & lied & went to the Korean War.
I was a little bitch figuring out how to put 1 foot in front of the other.
I WISH that I had the chance to do something nice for him now. I can ONLY wish & wish as hard as I could, it'll ONLY EVER be a wish.
I'd trade anything for the chance.
You should get an interview with him while you can
It would be an honor to shake his hand.
I got to this interview coincidently, but can't stop listen to this iconic kind of man. a sharp minded person who quits school but knows more than high educated people. this man should talk to the crowd not only in churches. very enlightening in so many cases. wish him all the best and many thanks and lovely greetings from Munich(Germany)
I don't normally watch interviews but I was completely enthralled in this interview, incredible storytelling. I'm a Canadian with no real connections with America but wow was this guy inspiring. True patriot.
We’re all relatives neighbor! Love to our northern brothers and sisters.
If only we could get a Canadian hell hounds on the show! They Really fucked the Germans up in both world wars