War Veteran interview-Michael

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  • Опубликовано: 22 дек 2024

Комментарии • 1,1 тыс.

  • @JohnSmith-gy8rc
    @JohnSmith-gy8rc 9 месяцев назад +622

    "It was a good day - nobody got killed and we didn't kill anybody". Dude is a good man - knows the value of life.

    • @mattjack3983
      @mattjack3983 9 месяцев назад +12

      All of us who have experienced combat know and understand the value of life.

    • @1truthbegettingtold275
      @1truthbegettingtold275 8 месяцев назад

      @@mattjack3983 In a real war there is death everyday and you value death of your enemy. Not to win hearts and minds in an occupation. Afghanistan is not China with 1.5 billion for total war. I really want you to see that and you will in time on our own shores. Did you feel cool wearing all that gear fighting guys in pajamas? You speck of hydrated dust, for out of the ground we evolved into the mass of star dust cells we are and to the dust we shall return.

    • @teflonmusk11B
      @teflonmusk11B 8 месяцев назад +6

      Mike I would love to meet up at the VA In manhattan if your back in NY your story is almost word for word like mine the drugs Afghanistan being a infantryman from Queens . Damn i am very proud of You brother.

    • @hwb-zalpach
      @hwb-zalpach 8 месяцев назад +1

      what the hell is he was doing there then in the first place? a paradox!

    • @s_a_r_a_jd2204
      @s_a_r_a_jd2204 3 месяца назад

      ​@@hwb-zalpachhe went so they'd pay for college. That's what he says in the video at least. 🤷🏼 That's why a lot of folks join the military. Society keeps shoving college down kids' throats and they see this as a viable means to an end.

  • @devildog3799
    @devildog3799 9 месяцев назад +251

    I was a Marine that served in 2003 first wave in Iraq. In 2 decades I’ve done my best to hang in there, go get college degrees, work decent jobs. It’s like something is always missing , there’s a void there that doesn’t go away. Thank you Mark, the behavioral patterns of these Vets lets me know more about myself. But in short, very similar to other trauma survivors, we are chasing. Peace is gained within us. Doesn’t matter what you are doing or where you move. It’s not in those items or in those places. That is my life lesson.

    • @thebeachguy6697
      @thebeachguy6697 9 месяцев назад +7

      I know what ya mean. I was artillery with 10 marines in iraq in 07 and afganistan in 09. I retired in 2015 and got a great job finished college kids are grown and I am where I want to he amd yet something is missing like you said. It is the adrenaline of something....anything I miss. Hell my oldest is a Marine now and i realize man time flies. My kid is following my foot steps and to me that is scary. All the things this country is going thru right now is minuscule compared to what people that went over there experienced.

    • @siri3025
      @siri3025 9 месяцев назад +5

      Damn. This is why I read the comments. Thank you for sharing ❤

    • @shanecoleman7114
      @shanecoleman7114 9 месяцев назад +4

      Respect! Thanks my fellow brother! You may be a "Jarhead" Marine 😅 and me Army and we all Razz on each other stateside...
      Every branch thinks they're the best, but I'll say this to anyone reading this.... "The minute you're boots on ground in a war situation, you become one TEAM, one FAMILY, and we all would die for each other" if you're a good soldier that is.... Just like any profession, you'll always have a few bad eggs and some spoiled milk lol 😂
      But in general, once in Iraq we all became family.

    • @mje19D
      @mje19D 9 месяцев назад +7

      Was attached to 1-6 expeditionary in Ramadi in ‘06-‘07 as cav scout in 1st AD. I absolutely understand what you feel. Nothing and I mean nothing will fill that void. It’s almost like we left a huge piece of ourselves on the battlefield as well as the hole left from the people who didn’t make it back.

    • @teflonmusk11B
      @teflonmusk11B 9 месяцев назад +1

      1st ID? Anyway I was with 1BCT 1/32 inf 10th mountain . Got my 100% pension so thank God for that and I have a awesome VA I go to in NYC

  • @Doobwa
    @Doobwa 9 месяцев назад +381

    I've never seen a more Humble Guy, what a Hero!

    • @frenchfry5675
      @frenchfry5675 9 месяцев назад +20

      Get out more.

    • @vltruan
      @vltruan 9 месяцев назад

      He is a hero bro. Were you ever in the shit?@@frenchfry5675

    • @jjonez787
      @jjonez787 9 месяцев назад +5

      naw

    • @visicircle
      @visicircle 9 месяцев назад +7

      A real human bean.

    • @Doobwa
      @Doobwa 9 месяцев назад

      @@visicircleGo to Hell where you belong!

  • @KSCummins6.7L
    @KSCummins6.7L 9 месяцев назад +112

    I love when Mark brings veterans on, each story is sooo extremely different but similar to my own. As a fellow veteran from 95-08, I totally can relate and feel for my brother. Our stories need to be told everyday, forever so none of us forget what each one of sacrificed individually. Thank you mark for always supporting people like this.

    • @ZetsuboNoShima
      @ZetsuboNoShima 9 месяцев назад +4

      Yes sir, and thank you for your service. Everyone is obsessed with the stories of WW2 and Vietnam veterans (which is understandable) but the stories of our modern soldiers matter just as much. If it’s not too intrusive might I ask if you served in Iraq? I was born in 2003 and our invasion of Iraq and that wars veterans are the most interesting to me

    • @KSCummins6.7L
      @KSCummins6.7L 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@ZetsuboNoShima both Iraq and Afghanistan 04-05 and 07-08. Thank you for your continued support too

    • @teflonmusk11B
      @teflonmusk11B 9 месяцев назад +3

      I am from queens and served in Afghanistan from 09-10 and was medically retired in 14 because of a blast injury that happened during my 2nd deployment, anyway I am 33 now struggled a lot in my mid late 20s with opiates lost some close friends I served with because they took their lives nothing harder than survivors guilt but the bond I have with so many others because our common bond of being veterans and even more so for me regarding combat veterans is a beautiful thing. 1/32 infantry 10th mountain

    • @BillBraskyy
      @BillBraskyy 8 месяцев назад +3

      ​@@ZetsuboNoShimait's neat to hear things like this from people like you, as in the younger generation that appreciates not just vets, but the stories behind veterans and the conflicts as well. I know you weren't talking directly to _me,_ but as an OIF veteran as well (still), thank you for your support man.

    • @BillBraskyy
      @BillBraskyy 8 месяцев назад +1

      ​@@teflonmusk11BI had a friend who was a 68W that PCSd over to the unit I was in during our year in Garrison between 2010-2011, and he was with 10th Mountain as well, and he had some _stories_ about Afghanistan man... One of my first ever close friends in the army had also been sent to Kandahar back around 09 and he said it fkn sucked too.
      I went to Iraq multiple times, and of course, being a kid in my 20s, I wanted to go to afghaniland just for the experience and to be able to say I served in two different conflicts/countries, but because of my MOS and the type of unit I was in, we never got orders for Afghanistan. Being much older now and looking back, I chalk it up to it being part of God's bigger plan.

  • @joeylyons4549
    @joeylyons4549 7 месяцев назад +24

    “ when you have PTSD you’re more comfortable in the combat zone. You’re used to it “. That hits home. I have PTSD. Not from war. But from other trauma. You are so right. I tend to feel at home in turmoil and constant motion. Great assessment

  • @marcisunshine18
    @marcisunshine18 9 месяцев назад +120

    Thank you for your service🇺🇸🇺🇸 my dad was on a riverboat in Vietnam for three years. he just passed the night before Thanksgiving from Cancer from Agent Orange. He was with me. He was a hero just like you.🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

    • @pop-4567
      @pop-4567 9 месяцев назад +4

      He will always be with You...
      RIP

    • @marcisunshine18
      @marcisunshine18 9 месяцев назад +2

      @@pop-4567 thanks. He is❤️

    • @maureent8653
      @maureent8653 9 месяцев назад +2

      Sorry about your Dad.. thank you sir for serving our country.

    • @marcisunshine18
      @marcisunshine18 9 месяцев назад +2

      @@maureent8653 thank you!🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

    • @jeannehanson6025
      @jeannehanson6025 9 месяцев назад +3

      Marci so sorry about your wonderful dad and thank him for his service. My ex was on a riverboat there too. So dangerous. The rivers are small and you’re shot at from both sides. I’m glad your dear dad lived so long. My ex is still alive but has advanced level insurance at Vets due to Agent Orange exposure. 🫶

  • @494ava
    @494ava 9 месяцев назад +51

    Wow Michael you are one lucky amazing man and one hell of a soldier!! I definitely appreciate your service and your story too. My husband is a veteran of the military twice over with the USMC and USCG!! I’m a proud spouse and I’m so thankful you are still here to share your story with us!! You Rock!! Blessings to you as well!!❤

    • @leanneadams2549
      @leanneadams2549 9 месяцев назад +8

      Not bad looking either 😉

    • @rib.7809
      @rib.7809 9 месяцев назад +2

      😂😂😂😂 Agree!

    • @LoyalAsst
      @LoyalAsst 9 месяцев назад +1

      ​@@leanneadams2549
      Yes, he's too sexy to not come back in one piece.
      I wish life were peaceful, though.
      😥

  • @ow3wells
    @ow3wells 9 месяцев назад +216

    War is hell, but he made it out, what an honorable guy, great interview☮️

    • @DrivenA111
      @DrivenA111 9 месяцев назад +7

      Screw people who don’t stand for our national anthem.

    • @jjonez787
      @jjonez787 9 месяцев назад

      ​@@DrivenA111piss on your flag, bitch

    • @thedude3620
      @thedude3620 9 месяцев назад +1

      If ONLY our presidents thought the same "Honorable" then maybe they would think twice about getting involved. It's all a Game to them, let's see their kids get involved and enlist to be Honorable 🎖

    • @jjonez787
      @jjonez787 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@DrivenA111 screw the vets

    • @thedude3620
      @thedude3620 9 месяцев назад

      @@jjonez787 😳😳😳😳 Damn...

  • @gwennk4962
    @gwennk4962 9 месяцев назад +57

    I love the way you told your story, so honest and natural.
    There are some people who lose their faith after witnessing the horrors of war. Your faith only grew stronger. What amazing resilience!
    Thank-you for sharing your experience with us. 🙏

    • @RonnieD1982
      @RonnieD1982 2 месяца назад

      I think he lost faith because of the war in his childhood in the ghetto. He then proceeded to fall deeper into darkness because of those exact experiences and went to give vent in Afghanistan. That was used as a catalyst to find God I'd say.
      At least that's what I went through, in a way. I had sort of a beautiful childhood until we moved to the 'ghetto' where the walk into the valley of darkness started.

  • @kellycurley1744
    @kellycurley1744 9 месяцев назад +245

    "Don't start nothing but don't run from nothing" love this

    • @kennysutera2887
      @kennysutera2887 9 месяцев назад

      ⁠​⁠@@hddwd8006what it says

    • @drek9k2
      @drek9k2 9 месяцев назад

      That's literally the premise of being a man, don't start shit but finish it, bear the burden of responsibility for others and so on.
      The fucking sad thing is all these pilltards are getting lessons on being manchildren, by narcissistic manchildren, very few of whom are real grown men of the sort that built this country after bombing Japan and Germany to rubble. That's partly why some of the few that still got it is the immigrant communities and street kids.

    • @maplifiers
      @maplifiers 8 месяцев назад +4

      And then he went to a foreign country and attacked innocent people.

    • @thenoneckpeoplerepresentat8074
      @thenoneckpeoplerepresentat8074 8 месяцев назад +7

      @@maplifiersHe went where he was sent because he was programmed to see the world in a certain way. It’s what every country does, some of us can recognize propaganda, most cannot.

    • @yagovmolotov5127
      @yagovmolotov5127 8 месяцев назад

      dude that sounds so foolish like if i was in a no win situation that I could walk away from guess what?

  • @rosalind442
    @rosalind442 9 месяцев назад +88

    From the start at a young age what courage this young man had. And became an honorable man. A true hero. Thank you for your service. Thank you, Mark.

  • @Sunsoult
    @Sunsoult 9 месяцев назад +53

    Astounding survival story. Please bring him back for another session!!! I would love to hear what he's doing now.

  • @MsShep55
    @MsShep55 9 месяцев назад +20

    So much respect for this man. Thank you for your service, bravery and stamina. With any luck you can some day be a great Dad. We need more men like you in this country.

  • @aknaj89
    @aknaj89 9 месяцев назад +151

    I work with vietnam veteran… even in his late 80s, he wakes up several times at night with nightmares. He was never back to his normal self after tragedy he saw there. The worst was to see children because he just wanted to hug them and take them home to a safe place.

    • @johnhansen8272
      @johnhansen8272 9 месяцев назад +2

      Everyone is different. I sleep like a baby.

    • @benmaghsoodi2067
      @benmaghsoodi2067 9 месяцев назад +8

      ​@@johnhansen8272so did Ted Bundy

    • @LoyalAsst
      @LoyalAsst 9 месяцев назад +4

      I work in an ALF, so just about every guy was in the service, and the women who were married, that live alone were married to military men. One woman said to me, "If you weren't in the service, you were nobody." 🤷‍♀️
      One guy with tears in his eyes was always talking about the war, and Cuba, he spoke Portuguese, someone had to tell me what he was always upset about.
      Another guy kept worrying about a little girl who's🦵was blown off in the war, and he saved her.
      1. Asking me if I think she's alright.
      2. If I think she remembers him.
      3. Do I think she's still alive?
      4. And can he see her. (With tears in his eyes, until he passed away while I was there with Hospice). I used to tell him, "Of course she remembers you. And I believe she's alive. I don't know how to find her, though." 😟
      It was heartbreaking. He was a nice man. I just always wanted to hug them, and have.
      The Portuguese one always wanted to be with me waking around, holding my hand.
      So cute these guys were.
      💔
      It's a sad life. I can see having a strong military 🪖 in case someone comes here, or someone really needs our help desperately, but the American government looks for trouble, always did. Killing our people and others, including children and women like they're NOTHING!

    • @LoyalAsst
      @LoyalAsst 9 месяцев назад

      ​@haseeb2167Huh?

    • @LoyalAsst
      @LoyalAsst 9 месяцев назад

      ​@@benmaghsoodi2067
      (Giggle)

  • @aprilchiginsky7560
    @aprilchiginsky7560 9 месяцев назад +113

    Thank you Michael, your service is very much appreciated. 🇺🇲🦅

    • @leanneadams2549
      @leanneadams2549 9 месяцев назад

      Yes it is !!! Thank you from me and my entire family !

    • @IanF0311
      @IanF0311 9 месяцев назад +2

      ⁠@haseeb2167We don’t choose where we go. We enlist to serve our country and because for many of us we want to be soldiers, marines, sailors, we want a life that’s different from normal. We choose to serve so that people like you don’t have to, if it wasn’t for those of us who chose to serve there would be conscription and you’d have no choice then you’d have to go where the govt tells you too. To sit there and say that we failed our mission is ridiculous and clearly shows your ignorance of the conflicts we have been involved in. The government failed us and the people of Afghanistan by not having a sound strategy for the country of Afghanistan after we left but it was not a military failure.

    • @florairvan8305
      @florairvan8305 9 месяцев назад

      Yes, let's hear more from this young
      man. Refreshing that his every other
      word wasn't f--- this or f---that.This
      cringy word so much used and it's
      low class and ignorant.

    • @florairvan8305
      @florairvan8305 9 месяцев назад

      @@IanF0311 Thank you
      for your intelligent observations.

  • @jennymcbain486
    @jennymcbain486 9 месяцев назад +95

    I don’t know how our soldiers survive the atrocities of war - and continue a normal life. My absolute respect for you Michael. 🎖️🎖️🎗️

    • @miked9596
      @miked9596 9 месяцев назад +1

      We don't. IT never leaves you. You have intrusive thoughts cannot sleep get mad and a whole bunch of other shit. You can go through therapy after therapy but it only reminds you of the bullshit. So no it never leaves and it's very hard to go from marine to civillian. I'm telling you the truth. It takes years and most of us do not recover or are fine. This is a f epidemic in our country. Also our country doesn't care about us, they would rather give our help to illegal aliens. So yeah it's fucked, we only have each other and sometimes it's enough and sometimes not. Rip all my veteran friends who didn't make it.
      Semper fi

    • @AJP-j8c
      @AJP-j8c 9 месяцев назад +15

      They don't live normal lives

    • @Up_Yours_73
      @Up_Yours_73 9 месяцев назад +12

      They don't. Changes brain neuropathways, the amygdala operates differently when one sees vile acts of violence, hence he felt so dirty when he came home. He says the quiet out loud that a good deal of soldiers keep to themselves 💜 My dad was a Seabee in Vietnam, they were the first ones in, cleared and built bases and il tell you that my life as a child was victimized by my dad's 4 year deployment to that war that should have never happened. They do the best they can to fit into a society that is clueless 💜

    • @tonyhoffman3309
      @tonyhoffman3309 9 месяцев назад +4

      Yup. Wars don't end on the battlefeilds. They continue in the lives of the survivors.

    • @MilitantPrepping
      @MilitantPrepping 9 месяцев назад

      Well.. I got hurt pretty bad overseas, army docs put me on high doses of painkillers without telling me a single thing about opiate addiction and I was a dumb kid and this was back in ‘03/04 before the pill epidemic, so I didn’t have any idea what I was in for. Finished my time in the army and they gave me one last bottle of pills and wished me luck, things didn’t turn out so well. PTSD, anxiety, a decade long battle with opiates, alcoholism, and my mind… it’s still a struggle today. I somehow managed to fight through it, today I’m happily married with 6 kids, great career, but I’m silently suffering every day. I can’t remember the last time I slept through the night without using alcohol, which I rarely drink anymore. I’m a very calm, laid back kinda guy, always have been, but now I’m starting to have panic attacks. Literally without warning I’ll get really anxious and my heart starts racing, ears start ringing louder than normal, my vision narrows and gets blurry. I never had this issue before but several months ago I was at the VA and I ran into a guy I served in Afghanistan with in 04 and we were just kinda joking around and telling stories and one particular story got my adrenaline going, ever since then it’s been an issue. I would have expected the opposite, it was great seeing him and it was good remembering things with someone who not only understood but was actually there… I dunno. Feels like I’m losing my grip on things and I don’t like the feeling. I’m struggling and don’t know what to do, just living day to day and trying to be a good father and husband. Anyway enough whining, it could be worse, I’d say my life looks pretty “normal” from the outside, but I honestly don’t remember what normal feels like, I haven’t felt normal in decades.

  • @merrycoleman8257
    @merrycoleman8257 9 месяцев назад +13

    This was a refreshing story. What an encouragement this young man is. His attitude is remarkable. Wishing the best for!

  • @williamhartz8707
    @williamhartz8707 9 месяцев назад +59

    Great fellow. He is blessed with common sense. Wishing him the best.

  • @DrDrea-ey4oj
    @DrDrea-ey4oj 9 месяцев назад +513

    All for resources... our country is treating these soldiers like pawns. The horrors.

    • @TennesseeJed
      @TennesseeJed 9 месяцев назад +1

      Our entire monetary/economic system has been abstracted to consume the real wealth of our society, the humans like this fellow. It'll crash horrifically eventually if we don't collectively reform it, but it ain't looking good for that to happen.

    • @sqwk2559
      @sqwk2559 9 месяцев назад +57

      That’s why I’m voting for Trump.

    • @craigslist6988
      @craigslist6988 9 месяцев назад +43

      ​@@sqwk2559so I'm guessing by "that's why" you mean because you were a soldier and suffered a head wound, probably from slipping while cleaning toilets, so now you make really poor choices? my condolences 😂

    • @AJohnSmith
      @AJohnSmith 9 месяцев назад +13

      It has never changed and never will.

    • @AJohnSmith
      @AJohnSmith 9 месяцев назад +24

      @@sqwk2559That won’t help, he’s not your daddy or your savior. “Take the guns first…” “I say, no bump stocks.” “Operation Warp Speed was MY IDEA! The wonderful vaccine is so beautiful!” 😂

  • @melissamartin9615
    @melissamartin9615 9 месяцев назад +35

    What an incredible testimony.
    I cried hearing him say:
    " You don't know who my God is. "
    One of the best interviews on this channel.
    Wish Michael and Hutch and Nick could meet up and interview.

  • @40momba
    @40momba 9 месяцев назад +15

    Michael my brother God Bless You! I hope to hear more from you, great testimony!

  • @mrmav1889
    @mrmav1889 9 месяцев назад +41

    WoW. Could be a film😮
    Hero right there!
    All the best Michael going forward🙏

  • @aquavita1
    @aquavita1 9 месяцев назад +11

    I am in awe of his courage. Thank you for your service.

  • @bg695
    @bg695 9 месяцев назад +45

    Born to be a soldier. What a fantastic story. Thank you for your service. ❤ Wish we had thousands more like him. A special person.

  • @jackandlill
    @jackandlill 9 месяцев назад +4

    You are just precious Michael!! A true angel from Brooklyn! You've been a warrior your whole life - the world is lucky to have you! ♥

  • @crisdorcas4655
    @crisdorcas4655 9 месяцев назад +14

    Thank you for service I always appreciate the soldiers.

  • @carlahudson9984
    @carlahudson9984 9 месяцев назад +14

    Thank you for your service & your testimony. My Dad was in WWII, Korean War, Vietnam & Cold War. The only thing he ever said about it was that guys right beside him died & he couldn't understand why he lived. After WWII he was a B52 bomber. All his family from Ukraine area. May God be with us all in this evil world and give us strength to love each other. 🙏

  • @rdj0981
    @rdj0981 9 месяцев назад +26

    Thank you for your service! USMC 99-03 OEF/OSF/OIF. Your description of hyper alertness is the best I've heard. I call it "head on a swivel". Can't even eat in peace without looking all around you...

    • @FIGGY65
      @FIGGY65 9 месяцев назад +4

      Thank you as well! My PTSD counselor described it to me as “hyper vigilance” and it was a beast of a period in my life.
      I hope you are well my friend! Great interview here🤙🏼.

    • @michaelronanenglish
      @michaelronanenglish 9 месяцев назад +2

      Thank ya for your service may God bless you

  • @lilman0820
    @lilman0820 9 месяцев назад +10

    what a great interview with a true hero

  • @Fiddlesticks52
    @Fiddlesticks52 9 месяцев назад +15

    Amazing stories. You are a man with a good heart and strong will. Look after yourself now.

  • @teflonmusk11B
    @teflonmusk11B 8 месяцев назад +5

    Mike I would love to meet up at the VA In manhattan if your back in NY your story is almost word for word like mine the drugs Afghanistan being a infantryman from Queens . Damn i am very proud of You brother. Your humility does not go unnoticed stay strong 💪

  • @jamesbrooks3664
    @jamesbrooks3664 9 месяцев назад +70

    I almost died last year! I have a tbi and ptsd! I feel for this fellow solider!

    • @bossbonita1235
      @bossbonita1235 9 месяцев назад +3

      So sorry to hear that 🙏🏼 I come from a military family- very tough- but PTSD has always hurt my heart terribly! I hope you can get well and we can’t thank you enough for your service!!

    • @Frenchie_007
      @Frenchie_007 9 месяцев назад +4

      Thank you for your service.

    • @jameswade1846
      @jameswade1846 9 месяцев назад +3

      thank you for your service

    • @love2hateme712
      @love2hateme712 9 месяцев назад +1

      Thank you for fighting for our American freedom ❤ Love you man. Ps: Really Stoked to hear you met King Jesus along your path and glad to hear the promise you two made together.. Beautiful ending to your life that has just begun. ❤

  • @dianeivey1884
    @dianeivey1884 9 месяцев назад +6

    Thank you for your service, Michael.🙏❤️
    Your guarding angel is definitely with you.
    Stay blessed 🙌

  • @bakednotfried1184
    @bakednotfried1184 9 месяцев назад +11

    Best guest yall had in a minute

  • @gwag8410
    @gwag8410 9 месяцев назад +17

    Retired General Smedley Butler, most decorated marine in history, wrote a book.. War Is A Racket… he wrote..All wars are banker’s wars.. a free read, and very enlightening, highly recommended for any young person entertaining the idea of joining the military..
    That being said, I honor the young people duped into becoming pawns for a few people in ivory towers, who lust for power and resources of countries around the world… and are willing to take out millions of lives in order to gain it.. God speed young man..

    • @rib.7809
      @rib.7809 9 месяцев назад

      ❗️❗️❗️❗️❗️

  • @UzahBoolah
    @UzahBoolah 9 месяцев назад +8

    Good luck, Michael. Praying for your wellness

  • @Sunflo07H
    @Sunflo07H 9 месяцев назад +34

    How humble is this man!! I thank you for your service 🙏🏻

  • @USveteran83
    @USveteran83 9 месяцев назад +13

    Such a similar story. Raised poor in NJ, and wanted out and the army was where I wanted to go. Went into army, went airborne, and did two deployments to Iraq. 03-04, and 06-07 (which really messed me up) and just like he has said when I came home I noticed just how much I had changed. When he said that he thrived in the chaos, and when things are calm it’s actually strange. Boy, do I understand that sentiment. I was at the 2017 Route 91 Harvest festival (the first time I had been to a concert due to my uneasiness with crowds) and when the shooting started you just go into hyper vigilance mode, even more so than I already was. I spent 10 years in the army and I’m still kind of lost since getting out, not sure what to do with my life and have tried my hand at multiple things but get bored because I miss that environment, believe it or not. Most days I miss who I was, and I hope to find my purpose. Until then I will travel.

    • @paulyjones3966
      @paulyjones3966 9 месяцев назад +1

      Hope you've found some kind of peace hey

    • @USveteran83
      @USveteran83 9 месяцев назад

      @@paulyjones3966 I’m trying

    • @USveteran83
      @USveteran83 9 месяцев назад

      @@paulyjones3966 thank you

    • @AM-yt6oz
      @AM-yt6oz 3 месяца назад +1

      Thank you for your service🇺🇸. I hope you can find peace and purpose. 🙏🏻

    • @abdelhanno7260
      @abdelhanno7260 7 часов назад

      Yea. I got recruited out of Jersey City to get tf out of there. Straight to jblm after basic. I never been deployed yet as an Infantryman. God bless you and your travels. Hope you heal and find yourself. 🙏❤️

  • @cameloupe406
    @cameloupe406 9 месяцев назад +30

    I’m truly touched. I wish my brother had survived his traumas of childhood and 2 tours to Iraq, to tell his story. Unfortunately he took his life. If he only had testimonies like this to help him go on. Thank you so much for being so honest and speaking your faith in Jesus Christ. Obviously there is a reason you are still here, to share your story and the gospel that is alive today.

    • @jackandlill
      @jackandlill 9 месяцев назад +2

      I am so sorry for your loss! Thank you & your family on your brother's behalf, for his service. I dare say, bcse I know the pain well, some thoughts that help me are - you know he is safe, has peace & you have another angel in heaven watching over you ♥Be well my friend!

    • @Tahoelifestories
      @Tahoelifestories 9 месяцев назад +1

      I’m sorry for your loss it is a shame our brothers and sisters in arms are struggling this bad.

    • @sanepillow59
      @sanepillow59 7 месяцев назад

      Was your brother forced to go invade Iraq?

    • @przytulanka1979
      @przytulanka1979 6 месяцев назад

      so god save him but didn't give a shit about the others, so lovely

  • @mrggy91281
    @mrggy91281 8 месяцев назад +2

    I love how you just let him tell his story. He's a great narrator with an inspiring life.

  • @msaunsha
    @msaunsha 9 месяцев назад +42

    You’re a great dude, Michael. Thank you for your service, and thank you for your powerful testimony. I’m a believer too, despite my second fight with breast cancer. Take care and be well. 🙏🏽❤️

    • @jackandlill
      @jackandlill 9 месяцев назад +3

      You got this sister!! I can tell you are courageous!! You take good care 💝💫

    • @msaunsha
      @msaunsha 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@jackandlillaww, thank you sweet person! I appreciate it so much! ❤️❤️❤️

    • @sheepnomore8063
      @sheepnomore8063 9 месяцев назад

      Ivermectin

  • @joshuacurley417
    @joshuacurley417 9 месяцев назад +2

    What a great interview. I wish Michael all the best and hope that he finds peace while travelling around. He seems like a genuinely good guy, and his story was captivating.

  • @ursiemay
    @ursiemay 9 месяцев назад +5

    Kia ora, from New Zealand, Michael. Thanks for sharing. You have my deep respect and admiration.

    • @mik823
      @mik823 9 месяцев назад

      You respect Nazis. Long live Russia ❤️🇷🇺❤️🇷🇺zzzzz

  • @SaraKelly-e2j
    @SaraKelly-e2j 9 месяцев назад +6

    March 4th ( when I'm seeing this) is " Hug a G. I. Day. I'm sending a virtual hug. From an Airborne mom who can't hug my son for reasons you understand.
    Thank you for your service. 🇺🇸

  • @florairvan8305
    @florairvan8305 9 месяцев назад +101

    I love this interview. Disgusted and
    discouraged that so many are asking about "Rebecca." Can we just listen to this MAN?

    • @DashyDre
      @DashyDre 9 месяцев назад

      @@unknown-sx8snr Rebecca is a man.

    • @karenshear6046
      @karenshear6046 9 месяцев назад +20

      I’m sick of hearing about him he’s ungrateful rude selfish and using mark

    • @zknight4481
      @zknight4481 9 месяцев назад +9

      @@karenshear6046
      Agreed. She’s so clearly using Mark and this channel to enable her in all of her issues. I just can’t believe that Mark keeps enabling her. Seems like it’d be the opposite of the goal of this channel.
      In any case, this guys story is WAY more interesting than Rebecca’s

    • @gravemaster8747
      @gravemaster8747 9 месяцев назад +11

      Hell yeah that dude is a FREAK. This man here is what ever one should strive to be.

    • @DashyDre
      @DashyDre 9 месяцев назад +2

      Lol mark deleted my comment

  • @margaretpetersen8586
    @margaretpetersen8586 9 месяцев назад +2

    Having just watched & listened to Michael & being the mother of a combat veteran I'm very moved by this man.
    And then I see a thumbnail for one of your videos of Rebecca.
    Such a huge difference between 'givers/helpers & takers/users'.

  • @IanSmith-lu5wf
    @IanSmith-lu5wf 9 месяцев назад +3

    Hats off to you young man . Takes a special man to live through your story! Many blessings to you and long life ahead

  • @MrAraag
    @MrAraag 4 месяца назад +1

    I don't normally comment on these video's and I know few people will read this, but I had to say something about Michael. His story really touched me, and he is clearly an incredibly humble and brave man, who values life tremendously. This is by far one of the best interviews on the channel. Thank you Michael, I wish I could shake your hand

  • @Tommy-pe8ct
    @Tommy-pe8ct 9 месяцев назад +87

    Thank you for your service 🇺🇸🙏🏻💪

  • @bkzslick1221
    @bkzslick1221 9 месяцев назад +37

    Im proud hes my cousin. God bless you Mike! ❤

    • @Tahoelifestories
      @Tahoelifestories 9 месяцев назад +6

      Thank you. It’s Michael though

    • @Bravevolunteers
      @Bravevolunteers 5 месяцев назад

      @@Tahoelifestories Thank you for sharing! Your story got me pumped up man. Get some!!!

  • @a.marvellehoneyman4560
    @a.marvellehoneyman4560 9 месяцев назад +6

    “Thank you Lord, for my healing…”very powerful, I will pray this. 💌

  • @paulyjones3966
    @paulyjones3966 9 месяцев назад +2

    So pleased he's learning to go forward but appreciates how lucky he's been and kept his word

  • @TheLocknLoadChannel
    @TheLocknLoadChannel 9 месяцев назад +8

    Amazing story! Thank you for your service Michael!

  • @TiffTheTyrant
    @TiffTheTyrant 9 месяцев назад +36

    Very handsome fella. Thanks for your service ❤

    • @avrildixon7291
      @avrildixon7291 9 месяцев назад +8

      My thoughts too...he is handsome 🎉🎉🎉😊

  • @petertornabeni602
    @petertornabeni602 9 месяцев назад +4

    Michael, in doing this interview which is being watched by many (and growing every day) you make a meaningful contribution towards those who need strength and to know they are not alone. Your world is FILLED with people you’re interview touched and you are appreciated !!! GOD bless you Michael

  • @carolseven3802
    @carolseven3802 9 месяцев назад +15

    Thank you for your service. An incredible first person insight to war, and how you think.
    I’ve never considered looking at people’s hands as the threat and it makes so much sense.
    Thank you also for your down to earth easy to relate to testimony.
    I hope to see you again!

  • @michaelcavallacci2945
    @michaelcavallacci2945 Месяц назад +1

    Bronx and Queens dude here. Marine veteran. Italian.
    You’re a good man brother. Stay up.
    Strength and honor is in our blood.

  • @laurathorpe6350
    @laurathorpe6350 9 месяцев назад +3

    Intelligent, thoughtful, respectful, BRAVE, dedicated: a HUMBLE WARRIOR! Sir, you are amazing. I weep when I imagine that there are not more of you. America stand up and do right by these humble warriors. They keep us safe in every way.

  • @francafila19
    @francafila19 9 месяцев назад +2

    Incredible guy, incredible testimony. Thank you Michael, thank you Mark. The world needs to hear what's possible with character and faith.

  • @christianvanniedek2746
    @christianvanniedek2746 9 месяцев назад +6

    You’re an amazing soul!!! Thank you for being so brave ❤your truly a heroic human 💋💋💋

  • @dfoxtrot724
    @dfoxtrot724 7 месяцев назад +2

    My new favorite Mark video. Beautiful guy and I admire his unshakable faith.

  • @ricktomlinson5481
    @ricktomlinson5481 9 месяцев назад +5

    Thank you Mark for this and all your interviews! I like your stile as you let your clients speak their story without a lot of questions and chit chat. Just let them talk and you do that very well.! Incredible story here too!

  • @chrischarles7472
    @chrischarles7472 9 месяцев назад +8

    Fascinating story. I too am an Army combat veteran who grew up in Brooklyn and am very familiar with where he grew up.

  • @jameshobbs
    @jameshobbs 9 месяцев назад +14

    My man really knows how to summarize his life. No prompting just unrolled it for us. He has depth and simplicity at the same time.

  • @natalierobinson6804
    @natalierobinson6804 9 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you for your service and 100000% commitment to your country. Bless you today and all the days of your life. ❤

  • @ElChris816
    @ElChris816 9 месяцев назад +9

    Michael, your being there in Afghanistan and Ukraine saved more lives than you know. You know for sure you saved the Ukrainian Grandmother and her dog, but your job saves soldiers, civilians and resources every time you went on mission. You're an honorable warrior and this world is a better place for you and all those like you.

  • @phoebecaroline7025
    @phoebecaroline7025 9 месяцев назад +1

    What a DAWG! I want to give him the biggest hug!! Such an amazing, courageous man. We need more people like him. He is definitely gifted and special! Most could never do what he did and have the ability to think well under the most terrifying circumstances. I’m a few years younger than him and couldn’t imagine going through what he’s been through! Thank you Michael for your service❤. God is with you and has purpose for you, continue to stay strong and spiritual. I have so many questions I wish I could ask him lol!

  • @shanecoleman7114
    @shanecoleman7114 9 месяцев назад +9

    I feel ya buddy. I'm ex-military, 2006/07 military police served in Baghdad Iraq. Mainly only joined to gain the respect of my father since I had a rough childhood. Since the military I've had five back surgeries struggle with PTSD daily, was denied my first time for benefits waited 14 years and then finally got accepted. After leaving the service I started getting treated as a child again by my father.
    I've always lived alone kind of been the loner / outcast I'm the only kid to my father. All my cousins are married or have children. I have none, live alone and on disability now because even though I walk still, life's been an adjustment.
    It's a tough situation when you served your country, but feel like it wasn't given in return after. And the military beats respect and discipline in ya, and I've always struggled with dating watching just about all girls prefer the couch surfing kids as opposed to a veteran who'd spoil them.
    I've found that even 17 years later that Iraq still follows me daily, and it's probably affecting my luck with dating.
    I've found I just take it day by day at age 37, and do as much physical therapy as my back allows.

    • @beneleonhard7915
      @beneleonhard7915 8 месяцев назад +2

      maybe look into your reasons for dating. Many people are needy when it comes to relationships. Often, both sides think their happiness depends on a relationship and then project a lot into the other. Spoiling - well, a good partner will want to be cared for and care, whether male or female. Spoiling can be overwhelming or come across as "selling yourself" by the benefits that come with it. Find love in living as such - and then a partner might show up. Else it's just going to be someone breathing next to you. And if you date: just be interested in the other person, don't just meet people with the intention to form a relationship. That's not true interest, but looking for function. Of course, that works both ways and it is not easy to find true adults or those wanting to grow up. Military service may lead to the insight that a lot we do is pointless and not seeing how precious life is. It is a burden, but also an asset. I believe others can find the same or else everyone would need to go through traumatizing experiences. But such experiences may put one on a distance to the petty worries of others and their self absorbed world view while longing for a simple every day peace. I guess peace starts at home. So does love. Love for life - which is always complete as such, just we humans make such a mess of it. Once we grow up as a species, there will not be two conflicting settings that are disturbing for different reasons, yet the same: war and pseudo peace. As truly, we are at war all the time and then we seek a small peace of solace of another as peace seems so far away. I think it is the ultimate challenge and true life task to see where we are at species and see how our individual life experience is proof of that there must be a way out or rather properly into life that is not just a pendulum swinging between pain and pleasure. We seldom pause to see the miracle, but are always driven to something more or anxious to loose sth. Wishing you joy & serenity from across the pond.

    • @ft86
      @ft86 4 месяца назад

      I feel you bro. Mp 08/09 in baqubah

  • @alv2601
    @alv2601 2 месяца назад +2

    This soldier has photographic memory of his incredible harrowing war journey A true hero ! Gotd Bless him and our troops

  • @TheMrfrankclark
    @TheMrfrankclark 9 месяцев назад +5

    What a great man. I have such respect for self made men.

  • @susiedean5688
    @susiedean5688 9 месяцев назад

    Thank you for your service!!! I hope you interview more veterans. Their survival stories need to be heard.

  • @devinl.reynolds151
    @devinl.reynolds151 6 месяцев назад +3

    I love his quote "don't start fights but don't run from them ethier" my uncle told me one similar growing up "don't start the fight but make sure your the one to end the fight"

  • @Mark-gn5rw
    @Mark-gn5rw 9 месяцев назад +5

    Thank you For Your Service. True Hero! Respect Sir..hope all is good for you..thnx Mark too another excellent interview. War is Hell

    • @JDS-y1u
      @JDS-y1u 9 месяцев назад

      Amazing story...and so handsome 😊l

  • @annalisacochran5699
    @annalisacochran5699 9 месяцев назад +3

    Thank you for sharing your beautiful testimony! Continue to tell people about the miracles you’ve been blessed with. This is such an encouragement to me. God is good and God is faithful. Always.
    You are a hero in so many respects.
    A few years ago, there were some soldiers standing in front of a library. There was a sign next to them that said, “show your appreciation for those who risk their lives for our freedom.” Civilians were lined up to hug them, and shake their hand and give them encouraging words. I hope that you read all of these wonderful comments and really take them to heart. You are what the best of American military are made of; people with integrity, courage and faith.
    May God richly bless you young man. 🙌🤗💕

  • @bayoubabe6698
    @bayoubabe6698 9 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you Michael for all your service. Total respect.

  • @VirtualkitchenwithLaura
    @VirtualkitchenwithLaura 9 месяцев назад +6

    What a hero!!!
    I felt I was was listening to an audiobook.
    He would write a book.

  • @kyla6538
    @kyla6538 8 месяцев назад +1

    Hands down best interview yet! I wish you could let this guy talk until he's done talking. My father inlaw is a vietnam vet with bad ptsd & is mostly deaf from it too and listening to this man in the video gave me so much insight into what my fil must go through daily. The watching peoples hands etc just the way he described his ptsd helped me understand my fil so much better because he doesnt talk about his feelings or anything it just comes out in fits of anger which to me is his ptsd. Anyhow i would love to hear from this man again. Edit....omg i just realized his name is Michael too thats my father in laws (fil) name is too and nothing comes btwn my fil and God.

  • @nyckolaus
    @nyckolaus 9 месяцев назад +3

    What an incredible story. What an incredible man. Well done.

  • @erinwigger5027
    @erinwigger5027 Месяц назад

    Thank you for your service and everything you have done ! You’re an amazing person. Thank you for sharing your story!!! Hugs from Indiana!

  • @rzpotts4
    @rzpotts4 9 месяцев назад +4

    Thank you for your service. And thanks for sharing your experiences. May God bless you. 😊

  • @kermcc
    @kermcc 8 месяцев назад +1

    Wow, wow, wow…what a blessing he is to our country. Thank you for your warrior spirit.

  • @joshuadill7849
    @joshuadill7849 9 месяцев назад +3

    Thank you for your service brotha. Your the man and i give you alot of credit to be able to make it back and tell your story. You should fell amazing. I know its hard to forget but you made it back to tell your story, so its amzing you can tell your story

  • @boost7983
    @boost7983 9 месяцев назад +2

    Great story, had my full attention. This guy has strong faith, God bless him. Best wishes for his future.

  • @TheRooster1122
    @TheRooster1122 9 месяцев назад +7

    Absolute Warrior welcome back my friend…!!!

  • @JohnDoe-i3q
    @JohnDoe-i3q 4 месяца назад +2

    Glad you made it home. Love the simple life .

  • @allnaturaledgedesigns
    @allnaturaledgedesigns 9 месяцев назад +11

    What an amazing testimony brother 👏, God is using you, brought tears and hope to my heart, I've been struggling with stage 3 cancer, (cancer free now) after addiction in my 20's ( sober now) from a broken neck when I was 20 now fully healed, i don't have a testimony like yours but I still know God is protecting us and giving direction. God bless Soldier for Christ 🙏

  • @brendawenger4826
    @brendawenger4826 9 месяцев назад +2

    Thank you Michael for your service, God bless you

  • @kellyroge
    @kellyroge 9 месяцев назад +9

    And this is why we need certain types of Men. Thank you, Michael. Please find peace in the remainder of your life. You’ve done more in your young life than most Americans ever will. I appreciate you.

  • @chitownfeets5899
    @chitownfeets5899 5 месяцев назад +2

    The two most important days in your life are the day you were born and the day you find out why. I believe Michael was born to survive and fight in life, and now is alive to tell his story. Your a good man Michael and I’m so glad your alive today to tell your story and true feelings. Good luck man, you’re on pace to live a great life. Good luck.

  • @dawgski690
    @dawgski690 9 месяцев назад +7

    I wish I could meet you Mike. My childhood was very similar to yours. I survived two tours in Iraq. I felt raw listening to your experiences. God bless you. Keep the faith. Pray the rosary every day.

  • @mymarisol858
    @mymarisol858 9 месяцев назад +3

    Incredible man. Thank you for your service.

  • @averylowe5744
    @averylowe5744 7 месяцев назад +9

    This is a prime example of a simple, good hearted, bad ass fella

  • @Polobaby145
    @Polobaby145 9 месяцев назад +2

    What an amazing story, I was captivated every minute!

  • @vickyrosinamkrause5285
    @vickyrosinamkrause5285 9 месяцев назад +12

    I appreciate Mark's story. 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

    • @mik823
      @mik823 9 месяцев назад

      I don't ❤️🇷🇺❤️🇷🇺zzzzzz

  • @petrius658
    @petrius658 9 месяцев назад +1

    This was by far the most interesting interview I’ve seen on this channel. He is such an incredible story

    • @alcaholic9559
      @alcaholic9559 9 месяцев назад +1

      You say that every time ! Ha just kiddin and I concur .

  • @ninag3068
    @ninag3068 9 месяцев назад +22

    What a great interview and what an amazing guy. Total fox too!

  • @melodydawn
    @melodydawn 9 месяцев назад +3

    Bless this man, thank you for your Service GBY. I sure miss my Marine friends, my best friend was a Vietnam Veteran POW & MIA he taught me a lot of things, how to profile people, hyper vigilance, ext. Not gonna say no more. I cannot wait to see him in Heaven, or wherever we go thats beautiful, and my other friends who unfortunately took their own lives, or died of Cancer.

  • @aaronlattimore9409
    @aaronlattimore9409 9 месяцев назад +9

    82nd Airborne 1st 504th. A & A Leads The Way!! Salute Soldier!! Thank you for your Service

    • @michaelronanenglish
      @michaelronanenglish 9 месяцев назад +1

      You served in 1/504 as well?

    • @aaronlattimore9409
      @aaronlattimore9409 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@michaelronanenglish No I was at Fort Bragg North Carolina. 58th/659th Maintenance Com. I deployed twice with Ft. Bragg.

    • @michaelronanenglish
      @michaelronanenglish 9 месяцев назад +3

      @@aaronlattimore9409 thanks for your service. Godbless you

    • @sanepillow59
      @sanepillow59 7 месяцев назад +1

      Veteran here from the 1st Platoon, 2nd Company,3rd Batallion, Army of the Prophet's Companions, Supreme Command for Jihad and Liberation

  • @chazzmanRx
    @chazzmanRx 9 месяцев назад +1

    Thank you for standing up to the world! You are leading the way through action, setting the Bar. Many Accolades to you.

  • @nolaflowers6272
    @nolaflowers6272 9 месяцев назад +8

    Can’t wait for Michaels Part 2, stories from his van travels. Thank You for your service!