Michel,the most important point here is that most people don't dream of making war,they have no inherent ambition for it but they are too often dragged into the misery of it by extremists and despots. War is such a terribly destructive thing. There are no winners...ever.
Very touching story. I was in Germany as an American service man and lived in the home of a German family. This was in the mid 1970s. The father had been a German soldier and was captured by the Russian army. They were very nice people. They spoke no English and we spoke little German. I had other interactions with former German soldiers as well. I had several family members who were American soldiers during WW2 and many neighbors and friends who were as well. Thanks for sharing this story with us.
Both my grandfathers served in the Second World War, one in the US Navy Pacific Fleet, one in the Royal Canadian Army. Neither of them shared much, but once in a while they would open up. Even with all the history books, and the personal stories shared by those who were there, I don't think any of us who have not experienced being in a conflict zone can understand. It's one thing to be a "statistic" as you say, which is the easier part of what historians can measure, but to consider that every one of those numbers - uniformed or civilian, Axis or Allies, man, woman, or child - had to endure situations most of us can't fathom is both humbling and saddening. Thanks for sharing this, this is the sort of thing we all need to remember and learn from.
That’s a really good story Michel. Thanks for sharing it with us. My Auntie was German and told me the story how her father was taken from the farm and made to serve. He would be shot if he didn’t go. He was placed in the German navy U-Boats during WW2. My other good buddy is Japanese. He immigrated to Australia in his late 20’s. He would watch war movies and say, “when did this happen, or did it really happen”! Apparently none of their war history was taught to them during school. War is terrible 😞
Hey Rusti.... work my Way arround your Videos. Interesting Storry. As you may know, i am from Germany. And pretty close to the Belgium Border. I can feel what you trying to tell. Our location has similar history. I life close to the Westwall. I am 42 years now... i am to young for worldwar 2. But all older people that life here, has no other storrys. So you get growing up with it. I Served a couple of years in german Airborn and also a couple of years in Afghanistan and other "Heatpoints" ....i got seriously injured and get back home and had to leave my Military carreer because of less healthy ...so after my experience i understand more and more the old people. And it gave me another focus to our live today! Sometimes it is hard to be that young, and feeling so old .... but i think it is my job, to make the World a better place for my Kids. And i am thankfull that i am able to do that with real experience! We can not change the World.... but we have to make Sure that our Kids can do! Have a nice Sunday! Now i have to answer youre Email 😆
@@Rustinox Truly the pleasure was all mine. I love humanizing stories like this. It's always the leaders that make war. The citizens on both sides pay the price.
Hi Michel many thanks for a very moving story, my father was a D,Day veteran , he landed at Aromanche, he said he met several german soldiers during the war, and most of them didn't want to be there , just like my father and his pals. He talked fondly of the kindness of the French people he met, some of them had nothing left , but we're still willing to help. He came through the war physically intact, but I think it affected him emotionally, as it did many others. I was born in 1948, and like you was interested in listening to the ex soldiers, and civilians, stories of life in the war, as parents we all hope our children never have to experience war. Do I gather from other comments that you haven't been well, if so please allow me to whish you well, stay safe, best wishe's to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
@@Rustinox Hi Michel, thanks for the reply, glad to hear your on the mend, looking forward to any new videos you post, look after yourself, Best wishes to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
It should be “viral” I love your humored and information. I was born In Dordrecht, NL in 1956. Our family has stories. My mother was a teenager in WW2 and here spent some of the war living with family friends on the “tug boats” who traveled into Germany in the late 30s into the 40s. Protection and food was “afforded”. The stories of her on living river boats, I love the rivers and d canals in the Low Countries, I love it there. I’m an American and a machinist (hobbyist maybe) I am always touched and I learn from you. You and the old German veteran gave both a great treasure. Taking his hand and he, in tears saying “sorry”. That is the best we can move forward. I too have tears. Thank you for sharing.
Great! I am from austria, my father was in the luftwaffe too, he was a mechanic. And he was influenced by the german propaganda methods, growed up in a very poor environment inbetween WW I and II. I think, we all have so much luck, to be born thereafter. And my greatest hope is, that we will allways remember and never will forget this. Excuse my weak english but it is important to me, to comment your really great Contribution! With best regards, all the best, Armin
A great story of 2 strong men, one who apologised and one that forgave. 🤗 My little sad story.. 11am 11.11 every year I crack a tinny and shed a tear for ALL the brave young fools. A few years ago I was in town and it was nearly 11 so I went to the closest RSL club (returned srevices league) hoping to grab a beer. The club was closed and there was a lone old man standing to attention in front of the memorial. All I could do was mumble "thank you" and leave him to his memories. One of the saddest things I have seen. A stark contrast to the imo disgusting way that ANZAC day is marked here. 15 min on the sacrifices made by so many young men and days of self praise for the politicians and generals that caused such pain. $500k on a new war memorial while the poor old returned diggers are left to suffer with the PTSD and injuries with little to no support. Thanks Rusti 👍🍺
We,are all victums of the times in which we live.I've tried along with my wife to shelter our children and grandchildren from the hell of this life.I thank god every day that I didn't have to directly shoot someone.I can't even kill a fly without some regret.You did a fine thing Michel shaking his hand,All life is precious.Thank's for reminding us about compassion and forgiveness.There should always be room in our hearts for love,otherwise we areas cold as stone.Many thanks.
Thank you for this story Michel! I was born in Germany and emigrated to Australia when I was 19 "to see the world" - and I'm still here at 70... My father (born in 1922) was in the Hitler Jugend and drafted to the German forces of course too. He spoke very little about what he saw in the war, but sometimes I could get him to talk about where he was and what he did there. I believe he didn't fight anywhere, but he was in the "Funkdienst" (radio corps) and was dropped off behind enemy lines in England, Scotland, Souther France and Lithuania, sometimes by submarine, with radio gear. There his job was to listen to radio communications and retransmit them to German listening posts. I think he saw some terrible things too. That's why it was so difficult for him to give any real history with context... Since living in Australia, I got to know lots of English, French, Dutch, Australian, Russian and Greek WWII veterans, men and women - all of them have the same trauma, reflected in their great struggle with that time of their lives. Interestingly, their is a theory now that the psychological damage done to that generation can be inherited. I'm the eldest of 7 children and 4 of us have persistent depression. That proportion is far higher than families without WWII participants, e.g. from unaffected countries or those who were too ill to be in the military but still raised families after the war... What a shocking waste on all sides over several generations! ...and no real lessons learnt.... some of our leaders insist in perpetuating the same mistakes made over and over.... so sad.
Thanks for your story. Really interesting. My grandfather was a war prisoner in a camp somewhere in Poland. I don't know much more about it. He never told me.
@@Rustinox He was taken prisoner during the 18 day campaign near Bruges and sent to a POW camp in Selisia Poland (i'm Michel's younger brother). He was released after 8 months, but his brother stayed in prison for 5 years. For more than 4years, our grandfather worked to maintain 2 families. After his brother's return, not a word was spoken about the war. For them, is was difficult. For us however, this time is past and we move on. We must never forget, but forgiving is the highway to future. Philippe
Well published story. Very well put and in a very human way. I also have a story with an old time machinist that was drafted in Germany in WW2 as a very young boy. I will never forget the man. I know him and his family. Let's say that the participants of war are not the ones to blame, it's the people who forced them there.
@@Rustinox My father was a chief in the navy and spent WWII on a destroyer getting Kamikazed and otherwise shot at for years in the South Pacific so your story has meaning to me.
Very touching story...thank you Michel !! My Grandfather was a B17 bombardier during the war. Like many veterans he would never talk about what he did or saw, at least around family and grandkids. I was in my 30's before I knew. Thank You so much for the story...ATB
I,m writing this through tear filled eyes as an old man [63yrs] and Its good to witness a man like you taking time to share this very moving story. The older gentleman of whom you speak will have gained a great deal of comfort after meeting you Michel as I,m sure you will radiate your warmth to whoever meets you. Regards Stuart Bell from N E England.👍
Hello Rustinox, I am 60 years old, from Great Britain, I was very aware of the difference between going to War, and being invaded, GB was very close to being invaded. I was working in Belgium in the Limburg area ( Hasselt and Genk) in 1985/86. A young man from the Belgian company (our customer), arranged to show us his small village, we were walking across the road, when we saw a large painted British flag on the road, we were very surprised to see it, the young man explained it was a tribute to the soldiers who freed their village. We were very humbled to here him speak. Thank you for your story. Best regards from the Black Country in the UK. John Quinn.
@@Rustinox On the same evening, when I drove to the small village, I saw a direction sign for "exécutie ord" ( not sure if spelling is correct, but the English was Execution Yard/Square). I asked out host, we were in his parents house; his father answered, and explained it was where German occupation fighters or resistance were executed by the Germans. He then added it was last used in the year 1963!, One of us asked if the year was correct, he said yes! We didn't ask any more questions. Again it was a little more in trying to understand the difference between British involvement, and occupied Europe. This was in 1985, so only 40 years after the hostilities had finished. Many thanks for replying. Stay safe. Regards John Quinn
Hello Michel, Great video... A wise man once told me that "Love is for giving" and "Love is forgiving", well done you for shaking the old mans hand... Take care. Paul,,
Very moving story Michel, thank you for sharing. The day we all forget and stop taking opportunity to share stories like this, will be the day it all happens again. Thank you again for reminding us all to remember. Cheers, Jon
Rustinox. One like and another 1000 at least for your story and the Men Forced into Killing in the name of A Dictator. Brought tears to my Eyes. John, Australia.
WW2 is a fascinating time in history and many sad stories both told and untold. I was stationed in Berlin, Spandau during the cold war and got to know the people well and I guarded Rudolf Hess too although we never spoke in person. But having made friends and spoken to many Germans in the time I was there, I always got a sense that they felt ashamed of their history and suffer sincere regret.
Thank you for telling this. As others have said, I too have tears in my eyes. My wife is Dutch, so the war had quite an effect on her family. The world needs more forgiveness and compassion. We all need to concentrate on the things we have in common and not our differences. Things in common like making things in our "sheds"😎 blessings.
Thank you fr sharing that story. As sad and difficult some memories are, It is important that these events in history are remembered. Unfortunately, many of the veterans do not get the respect and gratitude that they deserve. Cheers from Canada
Gday Rustinox, thank you for taking the time to share this story, I’m not at all good at reading and I don’t read books but videos like this help me understand history, I cannot imagine what it would have been like to go to war, the fear, sadness, the hurt the soldiers experienced, I believe in forgiveness, this is a time you will never forget and a story I will never forget, thank you mate..
That is a very moving story, I lost an uncle in that war, but it remains of my time in the Vietnam war. And all the lives lost for nothing! Thank my friend for the wonderful story, I can just picture the old man. Also the sons deep respect that he must felt for his father.
Thanks for the story. I had an older neighbor who was from Austria. She didnt talk much about her experiences. My parents experienced WW2 also, not much. War take lives from those who immediately died and some from those who survived.
Well done for your story telling , Just hope History is not starting to repeat itself , All The Best to you and your Family , Happy Christmas to you all what ever you do
Thank you for this story and compassion in reaching out to these 2 gentlemen . I pray for continued improvement with your health . Blessings to yourself and your family. Kind regards Brian
@@Rustinox Oh he knows. And it bothered him more when I said I'm Polish. There is no hiding of what his ancestors did there. Needless to say I don't bring it up anymore.
I worked with and became friends with a German fellow who had been a radar operator in a Me. 110 night fighter. When he saw I was sincere in my interest in aviation he opened up and we had some good conversations. Because I had a rather extensive library on WWII aviation, I knew about German aircraft. He said to his wife one day, that I knew more than him about their aircraft. That was because information was highly restricted in his time. The books I had was information revealed after the war. One subject we discussed was fear. Those young kids, and today they we look back on them as kids, 16 to 25 years old, held the same fears as our young had once they were in the middle of the conflict. Read the posters of the time. It was supposed to be an adventure.
I'm so glad I found this channel. I love that your raw materials are the same as mine. But also that, sometimes, you have a rest from machining and tell us these stories.
Hi Michel, thank you for sharing this story, it was very moving. To think that just a few people could make decisions that changed the world and it's people forever. Stay safe and well :)
Most enjoyable video Rusty, cant imagine what people went through during WW2. My dad was a paratrooper during the war and very rarely spoke about his experience
Such a moving story, beautifully told. One day I hope to write and print the story of my parents, both of whom were deported from different parts of Poland at the beginning of the Second World War by the Soviets. They were among the lucky few who survived a horrendous journey that took many years through Siberia, Persia and eventually via Pakistan, the Middle East and East Africa they came to England. Over 1.5 million were deported, only a few hundred thousand survived. They were so lucky, and I guess so am I. If they had not been strong beyond belief I would not be here today. The civilian tragedy of war is largely undocumented, unlike the “so called heroic battles”. 🌹😔
@@Rustinox That is indeed a very good idea. I will give it some thought. It would be lovely to complete the book as well, using type that I cast. I could incorporate that in the video. 🤔
Thank you for this story; it reminds of some of the stories my grandmother´s brother told me decades ago. He was in the Danish resistance, got captured and was sent to prison camp in Germany. He never spoke much of it, but for some reason he told me a few stories from that time; how some of his friends got shot and executed, but he survived to tell some of the stories...
Some say there are no winners in war, but really there are just no winners we will ever see. The winners are there - they're sitting in the palaces, in the high rises in Houston, or the financial district of London, or their compound on the Black Sea. But outside of those few, who will never get within 1000 km of a battlefield, everyone loses.
Wow. As a U.S. citizen with most German heritage, i can hardly imagine the feelings conveyed in that exchange. Too bad people get pulled in the wars of countries.
My father went from Cherbourg France to Bastogne to Czech border area with the american 3rd army. he would talk a little to other vets mostly, but when he was in his sixties a little to me. I had the good fortune to make a trip to Bavaria when my youngest daughter was at Ramstein air base 10 or 12 yrs. ago. I had his divisional and regimental histories. Anyway it made what he had said much more real. I could see the twin towers at Trier and the Roman aqueduct near there,but I also saw Dachau.His next older sisters husband was one of the first medics in there. Anyway you had me when you made the Rose.
I watch all your videos, this is my first comment. you are a naturally good person, it can be heard and seen in the way you teach people on this channel. but remember that everyone always has a choice. I can give you many examples of people who gave their lives because they did not cooperate with the torturer. this man had to be told that he had a choice, he chose life. they raped and killed civilians. my Grandfather told me with tears in his eyes what animals they were. Greetings from Poland.
hi, I think that these people had and have a lot of human qualities. after that a lot of time has passed. these people are older and smarter. understand human values.
Just remembered one of the few stories my Dad told , stationed in Italy and posted on guard duty guarding a top luxury hotel that had started to be looted, my Dad and friend one either side of the main entrance, a nearby sniper took a shot and killed my Dads friend, which one should I shoot ? toss a coin, watching your video reminded me of this story, Del.
Thank you Michel for reminding us all of the futility of wars. Wars the politicians tell us we must wage against an enemy. It is true that the the great wars of the 20th century in particular WW1 The more politically driven war that formed the foundation of world war two. The reparations imposed on Germany for WW1 that enabled Hitler to gain support of the people and extraordinary power that led germany into WW2. But it did not stop there... Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, The middle east to name a few. And lest we forget the ethnic cleansing being perpetrated by many nations against their own people. The politicians rarely enter the field of battle, Instead they send the nations youth. Young inspired but nieve, vulnerable but strong youth, young people with their lives ahead of them. Forced into a life and death battle with the same youth from from the so called enemy. Maybe some wars are a necessary evil, to thwart the megalomaniac ambitions of tyrants like Hitler, there are plenty more. Let's hope that stories like this one spreading around the globe via the internet and other electronic means will assist in pointing out the futility of any war or oppression of the people. We can only hope.
I think it's time for the second coming of Christ. What else can stop this never ending heartbreak? This was a splendid video created by a splendid man.
Brian from MA.It was bad what they had went threw no matter what side it was or who it was ..Yet we have learned nothing i have lost almost all faith in Humanity since then i have (DETATCHED) .I have everything i need right here (I THANK the LORD )i will not bother your comment line again but i will be in nose bleed seats of youtube watching and learning best wishes Besafe
@@RustinoxPeople like you with a hart and compashion are a rare thing around here so sick of the hurt its not what( i slaved for) anywho so sorry my friend just lost in a sea of every person for them selves no body to take insentive just arguing and discushion back stabbing and some peeps need a fall guy oh and gossup just so sad buddy so sad glad i got music THANKS for your concern it does mean something to me my house is sinking because of the higher ups my house is cracking in on it self trees on big rocky hill in back starting to fall over and up root im so sick of walking on a rubber band for a tight rope my hole life and i no the same thing thats been thrown in my face i do have it better than others true but in a diffrent way its still what it you are a gread dude i will be ok Myfriend i got (GOD) Besafe
Thanks for sharing your experience with the repentant German soldier from WWII. Forgiveness is a wonderful thing. Because Jesus Christ took our punishment on the cross for our sins we can put our sins behind us and approach judgement washed pure in Christ's blood. I hope the old soldier found peace and felt the love of God from being forgiven.
Michel,the most important point here is that most people don't dream of making war,they have no inherent ambition for it but they are too often dragged into the misery of it by extremists and despots. War is such a terribly destructive thing. There are no winners...ever.
I agree.
Very touching story...thanks for sharing..
Thanks for listening.
Very touching story. I was in Germany as an American service man and lived in the home of a German family. This was in the mid 1970s. The father had been a German soldier and was captured by the Russian army. They were very nice people. They spoke no English and we spoke little German. I had other interactions with former German soldiers as well. I had several family members who were American soldiers during WW2 and many neighbors and friends who were as well. Thanks for sharing this story with us.
Thanks Rick. Luckily we live in peace now.
Both my grandfathers served in the Second World War, one in the US Navy Pacific Fleet, one in the Royal Canadian Army. Neither of them shared much, but once in a while they would open up. Even with all the history books, and the personal stories shared by those who were there, I don't think any of us who have not experienced being in a conflict zone can understand. It's one thing to be a "statistic" as you say, which is the easier part of what historians can measure, but to consider that every one of those numbers - uniformed or civilian, Axis or Allies, man, woman, or child - had to endure situations most of us can't fathom is both humbling and saddening. Thanks for sharing this, this is the sort of thing we all need to remember and learn from.
Indeed, it's hard to imagine if you where not in it.
thank you for sharing and your respect of a veteran by not taking picture
My pleasure, Marion.
That’s a really good story Michel. Thanks for sharing it with us. My Auntie was German and told me the story how her father was taken from the farm and made to serve. He would be shot if he didn’t go. He was placed in the German navy U-Boats during WW2. My other good buddy is Japanese. He immigrated to Australia in his late 20’s. He would watch war movies and say, “when did this happen, or did it really happen”! Apparently none of their war history was taught to them during school. War is terrible 😞
Thanks for your story Aaron.
Wonderful story. What happened in those wars must never be forgotten.
Spot on, John.
Hey Rusti.... work my Way arround your Videos. Interesting Storry. As you may know, i am from Germany. And pretty close to the Belgium Border. I can feel what you trying to tell. Our location has similar history. I life close to the Westwall.
I am 42 years now... i am to young for worldwar 2. But all older people that life here, has no other storrys. So you get growing up with it.
I Served a couple of years in german Airborn and also a couple of years in Afghanistan and other "Heatpoints" ....i got seriously injured and get back home and had to leave my Military carreer because of less healthy ...so after my experience i understand more and more the old people. And it gave me another focus to our live today!
Sometimes it is hard to be that young, and feeling so old .... but i think it is my job, to make the World a better place for my Kids. And i am thankfull that i am able to do that with real experience! We can not change the World.... but we have to make Sure that our Kids can do!
Have a nice Sunday!
Now i have to answer youre Email 😆
Thank you very much for sharing your story. I appreciate it.
What you say and the way you say it .......weeping again.......love ❤️
Thanks Andrew.
Wonderful story. Thanks for sharing it.
Thanks for listening.
@@Rustinox Truly the pleasure was all mine. I love humanizing stories like this. It's always the leaders that make war. The citizens on both sides pay the price.
a very moving story told from the heart. no more needs to be said!
take care
mr f
Thanks f.
Hi Michel many thanks for a very moving story, my father was a D,Day veteran , he landed at Aromanche, he said he met several german soldiers during the war, and most of them didn't want to be there , just like my father and his pals. He talked fondly of the kindness of the French people he met, some of them had nothing left , but we're still willing to help. He came through the war physically intact, but I think it affected him emotionally, as it did many others. I was born in 1948, and like you was interested in listening to the ex soldiers, and civilians, stories of life in the war, as parents we all hope our children never have to experience war. Do I gather from other comments that you haven't been well, if so please allow me to whish you well, stay safe, best wishe's to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
Thanks for your story Stuart. Very interesting.
Indeed, i'm recovering from cancer but i'll be OK. Thanks.
@@Rustinox Hi Michel, thanks for the reply, glad to hear your on the mend, looking forward to any new videos you post, look after yourself, Best wishes to you and your's, Stuart.uk.
It should be “viral” I love your humored and information. I was born In Dordrecht, NL in 1956. Our family has stories. My mother was a teenager in WW2 and here spent some of the war living with family friends on the “tug boats” who traveled into Germany in the late 30s into the 40s. Protection and food was “afforded”. The stories of her on living river boats, I love the rivers and d canals in the Low Countries, I love it there. I’m an American and a machinist (hobbyist maybe) I am always touched and I learn from you. You and the old German veteran gave both a great treasure. Taking his hand and he, in tears saying “sorry”. That is the best we can move forward. I too have tears. Thank you for sharing.
Well said my friend. And well done Michhel, you're a good man.
My pleasure.
Thanks for sharing. Your meeting must have been moving for all parties. Stay well ,stay safe.
Yes it was.
There can be no progress without reconciliation. Thanks for this great story.
Absolutely. Thanks for your time.
Great! I am from austria, my father was in the luftwaffe too, he was a mechanic. And he was influenced by the german propaganda methods, growed up in a very poor environment inbetween WW I and II. I think, we all have so much luck, to be born thereafter. And my greatest hope is, that we will allways remember and never will forget this.
Excuse my weak english but it is important to me, to comment your really great Contribution! With best regards, all the best, Armin
Thanks for your story. I really appreciate it.
A great story of 2 strong men, one who apologised and one that forgave. 🤗
My little sad story.. 11am 11.11 every year I crack a tinny and shed a tear for ALL the brave young fools. A few years ago I was in town and it was nearly 11 so I went to the closest RSL club (returned srevices league) hoping to grab a beer. The club was closed and there was a lone old man standing to attention in front of the memorial. All I could do was mumble "thank you" and leave him to his memories. One of the saddest things I have seen.
A stark contrast to the imo disgusting way that ANZAC day is marked here. 15 min on the sacrifices made by so many young men and days of self praise for the politicians and generals that caused such pain.
$500k on a new war memorial while the poor old returned diggers are left to suffer with the PTSD and injuries with little to no support.
Thanks Rusti 👍🍺
That's a moving story. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for sharing your story with us Michel. Blessings to you and your family.
Thanks.
We,are all victums of the times in which we live.I've tried along with my wife to shelter our children and grandchildren from the hell of this life.I thank god every day that I didn't have to directly shoot someone.I can't even kill a fly without some regret.You did a fine thing Michel shaking his hand,All life is precious.Thank's for reminding us about compassion and forgiveness.There should always be room in our hearts for love,otherwise we areas cold as stone.Many thanks.
Thanks Norman. I agree.
Lovely story! I've got tears running down my face!
Thanks Mats.
i know it's kind of randomly asking but do anybody know of a good place to stream new tv shows online?
@Oscar August I would suggest FlixZone. You can find it on google =)
Thank you for this story Michel!
I was born in Germany and emigrated to Australia when I was 19 "to see the world" - and I'm still here at 70... My father (born in 1922) was in the Hitler Jugend and drafted to the German forces of course too. He spoke very little about what he saw in the war, but sometimes I could get him to talk about where he was and what he did there. I believe he didn't fight anywhere, but he was in the "Funkdienst" (radio corps) and was dropped off behind enemy lines in England, Scotland, Souther France and Lithuania, sometimes by submarine, with radio gear. There his job was to listen to radio communications and retransmit them to German listening posts. I think he saw some terrible things too. That's why it was so difficult for him to give any real history with context...
Since living in Australia, I got to know lots of English, French, Dutch, Australian, Russian and Greek WWII veterans, men and women - all of them have the same trauma, reflected in their great struggle with that time of their lives.
Interestingly, their is a theory now that the psychological damage done to that generation can be inherited. I'm the eldest of 7 children and 4 of us have persistent depression. That proportion is far higher than families without WWII participants, e.g. from unaffected countries or those who were too ill to be in the military but still raised families after the war...
What a shocking waste on all sides over several generations! ...and no real lessons learnt.... some of our leaders insist in perpetuating the same mistakes made over and over.... so sad.
Thanks for your story. Really interesting. My grandfather was a war prisoner in a camp somewhere in Poland. I don't know much more about it. He never told me.
@@Rustinox He was taken prisoner during the 18 day campaign near Bruges and sent to a POW camp in Selisia Poland (i'm Michel's younger brother). He was released after 8 months, but his brother stayed in prison for 5 years. For more than 4years, our grandfather worked to maintain 2 families. After his brother's return, not a word was spoken about the war.
For them, is was difficult. For us however, this time is past and we move on. We must never forget, but forgiving is the highway to future.
Philippe
Sir! You hit the nail the head. Thank you from Denmark
You're very welcome Henrik.
Well published story. Very well put and in a very human way. I also have a story with an old time machinist that was drafted in Germany in WW2 as a very young boy. I will never forget the man. I know him and his family. Let's say that the participants of war are not the ones to blame, it's the people who forced them there.
I agree with that.
Thank you. Peace to the world.
Great story Michel, thank you for sharing it with us.
Joe
Thanks for listening.
thank you for the story my father would never speak of the war i wish he had it might have helped him
Most war victims almost never talk about it.
They would have been hard times back then . My Wife's family were from Holland back then. . Great story Rusty . Cheers.
Thanks Max.In the winter '44-'45 more than 20.000 peole died from starvation in the Netherlands. But i suppose it's just another statistc...
thank you for sharing that . . . respect
My pleasure Jason.
It should go viral it was a heart touching story thank you so much for telling it
Thanks Joe. I will never forget this man.
Very touching story thanks for sharing it with us.
Thanks for your time.
@@Rustinox My father was a chief in the navy and spent WWII on a destroyer getting Kamikazed and otherwise shot at for years in the South Pacific so your story has meaning to me.
Very touching story...thank you Michel !!
My Grandfather was a B17 bombardier during the war. Like many veterans he would never talk about what he did or saw, at least around family and grandkids. I was in my 30's before I knew.
Thank You so much for the story...ATB
Thanks for your story too.
Yes it is a great story. I am from Greece , and i want to say that we forgive them , BUT never forget ! Many regards from Athens Rustinox
Thanks Spyros.
Very moving story, thank you for sharing.
Thanks for your time Steven.
I,m writing this through tear filled eyes as an old man [63yrs] and Its good to witness a man like you taking time to share this very moving story. The older gentleman of whom you speak will have gained a great deal of comfort after meeting you Michel as I,m sure you will radiate your warmth to whoever meets you. Regards Stuart Bell from N E England.👍
Thanks for your kind words.
Hello Rustinox,
I am 60 years old, from Great Britain, I was very aware of the difference between going to War, and being invaded, GB was very close to being invaded. I was working in Belgium in the Limburg area ( Hasselt and Genk) in 1985/86. A young man from the Belgian company (our customer), arranged to show us his small village, we were walking across the road, when we saw a large painted British flag on the road, we were very surprised to see it, the young man explained it was a tribute to the soldiers who freed their village.
We were very humbled to here him speak.
Thank you for your story.
Best regards from the Black Country in the UK.
John Quinn.
That's a beautiful story, John. Thanks for sharing.
@@Rustinox On the same evening, when I drove to the small village, I saw a direction sign for "exécutie ord" ( not sure if spelling is correct, but the English was Execution Yard/Square). I asked out host, we were in his parents house; his father answered, and explained it was where German occupation fighters or resistance were executed by the Germans. He then added it was last used in the year 1963!, One of us asked if the year was correct, he said yes! We didn't ask any more questions.
Again it was a little more in trying to understand the difference between British involvement, and occupied Europe. This was in 1985, so only 40 years after the hostilities had finished.
Many thanks for replying.
Stay safe.
Regards John Quinn
Wow, lovely recollection. Very powerful.
Thank you Stephen.
Hello Michel,
Great video... A wise man once told me that "Love is for giving" and "Love is forgiving", well done you for shaking the old mans hand...
Take care.
Paul,,
Love that. Thanks Paul.
Very moving story Michel, thank you for sharing. The day we all forget and stop taking opportunity to share stories like this, will be the day it all happens again. Thank you again for reminding us all to remember. Cheers, Jon
Unfortunately it starts again, even when we remember...
Rustinox. One like and another 1000 at least for your story and the Men Forced into Killing in the name of A Dictator. Brought tears to my Eyes. John, Australia.
Thanks John.
Thank you Michel, nice story. So thankful I was born after WW2
I was born after the war too... and i would like to keep it that way.
WW2 is a fascinating time in history and many sad stories both told and untold.
I was stationed in Berlin, Spandau during the cold war and got to know the people well and I guarded Rudolf Hess too although we never spoke in person. But having made friends and spoken to many Germans in the time I was there, I always got a sense that they felt ashamed of their history and suffer sincere regret.
G'day Michel, you have a wonderful story telling ability.
Thanks Rod. In my own language it would be a lot easier.
Very moving. We can never forget.
Moving indeed. That's why i wanted to share it.
Thank you for telling this. As others have said, I too have tears in my eyes.
My wife is Dutch, so the war had quite an effect on her family.
The world needs more forgiveness and compassion.
We all need to concentrate on the things we have in common and not our differences.
Things in common like making things in our "sheds"😎
blessings.
I totally agree.
Wonderful story Michel. We all need to remember this. Thank you for sharing.
If we forget it will start again.
Thank you fr sharing that story. As sad and difficult some memories are, It is important that these events in history are remembered. Unfortunately, many of the veterans do not get the respect and gratitude that they deserve.
Cheers from Canada
That's my opinion also.
Very poignant moment. Thanks for sharing it with us.
My pleasure. Thanks.
And it would seem the world has still not learnt of the true cost of conflict. Thank you Michel.
Indeed...
Gday Rustinox, thank you for taking the time to share this story, I’m not at all good at reading and I don’t read books but videos like this help me understand history, I cannot imagine what it would have been like to go to war, the fear, sadness, the hurt the soldiers experienced, I believe in forgiveness, this is a time you will never forget and a story I will never forget, thank you mate..
Thanks Matty. Indeed, i will never forget tis man.
Great account of your meeting. I used to travel to Holland on business and the feelings from the war were never far below the surface.
In Rotterdam there are almost no old buildings. The city was almost completely destroyed during WW2.
That is a very moving story, I lost an uncle in that war, but it remains of my time in the Vietnam war. And all the lives lost for nothing! Thank my friend for the wonderful story, I can just picture the old man. Also the sons deep respect that he must felt for his father.
Thanks Chui. It's a moment i will never forget.
Thanks for the story. I had an older neighbor who was from Austria. She didnt talk much about her experiences. My parents experienced WW2 also, not much. War take lives from those who immediately died and some from those who survived.
Indeed, most of the survivors almost never talk about it.
You were in the right place at the right time to offer a little comfort. Thank you for sharing.
Indeed, it was an unique occasion.
Thank you for that story.
Thanks for listening Ben.
very moving, I think that there are/were many men on all sides who did things as soldiers that they regret. But that is the horror of war!
I think so.
Very very moving, you are a very genuine man and always present engaging content, I hesitate to say but you seem much much healthier - thank you.
Thanks Rupert. I hope i can go back to work soon.
Beautiful story.🇬🇧🤔
Thanks David.
Thank you for sharing that story. Hopefully the older man went away blessed by your response and by having met your family.
I hope so too.
Well done for your story telling , Just hope History is not starting to repeat itself , All The Best to you and your Family , Happy Christmas to you all what ever you do
Well, I hope so too.
What a wonderful story. Thank you for sharing it.
Thanks for listening.
Thank you for this story and compassion in reaching out to these 2 gentlemen . I pray for continued improvement with your health . Blessings to yourself and your family. Kind regards Brian
Thank you Brian. ATB.
Thank you.
I have a friend who is german. He rarely tells people that. Because he's ashamed of what they did. He usually just says "I'm an American."
Maybe you can tell your friend that war is over...
@@Rustinox Oh he knows. And it bothered him more when I said I'm Polish. There is no hiding of what his ancestors did there. Needless to say I don't bring it up anymore.
I worked with and became friends with a German fellow who had been a radar operator in a Me. 110 night fighter. When he saw
I was sincere in my interest in aviation he opened up and we had some good conversations. Because I had a rather extensive library
on WWII aviation, I knew about German aircraft. He said to his wife one day, that I knew more than him about their aircraft. That was
because information was highly restricted in his time. The books I had was information revealed after the war.
One subject we discussed was fear. Those young kids, and today they we look back on them as kids, 16 to 25 years old, held the same fears
as our young had once they were in the middle of the conflict. Read the posters of the time. It was supposed to be an adventure.
Nice. Thanks for sharing your story.
Thank you, there is always two side too a story. ✌️
Always.
I'm so glad I found this channel.
I love that your raw materials are the same as mine.
But also that, sometimes, you have a rest from machining and tell us these stories.
Thanks. Glad you enjoy it.
Hi Michel, thank you for sharing this story, it was very moving. To think that just a few people could make decisions that changed the world and it's people forever. Stay safe and well :)
Indeed.
Most enjoyable video Rusty, cant imagine what people went through during WW2. My dad was a paratrooper during the war and very rarely spoke about his experience
As most of them...
Such a moving story, beautifully told.
One day I hope to write and print the story of my parents, both of whom were deported from different parts of Poland at the beginning of the Second World War by the Soviets. They were among the lucky few who survived a horrendous journey that took many years through Siberia, Persia and eventually via Pakistan, the Middle East and East Africa they came to England. Over 1.5 million were deported, only a few hundred thousand survived. They were so lucky, and I guess so am I. If they had not been strong beyond belief I would not be here today. The civilian tragedy of war is largely undocumented, unlike the “so called heroic battles”. 🌹😔
Maybe put it all in detail in a video. Try to work together with friends and family. A story like this may not be lost.
@@Rustinox That is indeed a very good idea. I will give it some thought. It would be lovely to complete the book as well, using type that I cast. I could incorporate that in the video. 🤔
This is exactly the kind of video that should go viral.
Thank you for this story; it reminds of some of the stories my grandmother´s brother told me decades ago. He was in the Danish resistance, got captured and was sent to prison camp in Germany. He never spoke much of it, but for some reason he told me a few stories from that time; how some of his friends got shot and executed, but he survived to tell some of the stories...
I think they all should tell their stories... before it's too late.
Great story Michel, much suffering and darkness held the whole world for that time. Very sad, but worth listening to. Peace, brother!
We better not forget.
Merci Michel
Avec plaisir.
Thank you for telling that story, Rusti. It’s very touching. I appreciate it all the more since English is not your first language.
Thanks. It would be easier for me to do this in my own language, but not much people will understand.
Some say there are no winners in war, but really there are just no winners we will ever see. The winners are there - they're sitting in the palaces, in the high rises in Houston, or the financial district of London, or their compound on the Black Sea. But outside of those few, who will never get within 1000 km of a battlefield, everyone loses.
You've got a point.
Wow. As a U.S. citizen with most German heritage, i can hardly imagine the feelings conveyed in that exchange. Too bad people get pulled in the wars of countries.
Indeed.
Cheers mate👍🇦🇺
Thank you Michel.
Welcome.
My father went from Cherbourg France to Bastogne to Czech border area with the american 3rd army. he would talk a little to other vets mostly, but when he was in his sixties a little to me. I had the good fortune to make a trip to Bavaria when my youngest daughter was at Ramstein air base 10 or 12 yrs. ago. I had his divisional and regimental histories. Anyway it made what he had said much more real. I could see the twin towers at Trier and the Roman aqueduct near there,but I also saw Dachau.His next older sisters husband was one of the first medics in there. Anyway you had me when you made the Rose.
Thanks for sharing your story, Dean.
I watch all your videos, this is my first comment. you are a naturally good person, it can be heard and seen in the way you teach people on this channel. but remember that everyone always has a choice. I can give you many examples of people who gave their lives because they did not cooperate with the torturer. this man had to be told that he had a choice, he chose life. they raped and killed civilians. my Grandfather told me with tears in his eyes what animals they were. Greetings from Poland.
Thanks Marcin D. It's very difficult to imagine us at their place.
@@Rustinox Very well said Sir.
thank you
You're welcome.
Thank you for this
My pleasure.
Only we who have served our country in combat can really understand what was in that old man's heart
Probably... Who knows?
@@Rustinox I was in the SADF for ten years, (light infantry)and no soldier will ever tell you what they did on operations and experienced.
amazing story
Thanks.
hi, I think that these people had and have a lot of human qualities. after that a lot of time has passed. these people are older and smarter. understand human values.
You've a good point there.
Touching story 😢
Thanks.
Just remembered one of the few stories my Dad told , stationed in Italy and posted on guard duty guarding a top luxury hotel that had started to be looted, my Dad and friend one either side of the main entrance, a nearby sniper took a shot and killed my Dads friend, which one should I shoot ? toss a coin, watching your video reminded me of this story, Del.
Thanks for your story Del. Chilling...
Love
Thanks.
Thank you.
You're welcome.
Thank you Michel for reminding us all of the futility of wars.
Wars the politicians tell us we must wage against an enemy. It is true that the the great wars of the 20th century in particular WW1 The more politically driven war that formed the foundation of world war two.
The reparations imposed on Germany for WW1 that enabled Hitler to gain support of the people and extraordinary power that led germany into WW2.
But it did not stop there... Korea, Vietnam, Afghanistan, The middle east to name a few. And lest we forget the ethnic cleansing being perpetrated by many nations against their own people.
The politicians rarely enter the field of battle, Instead they send the nations youth. Young inspired but nieve, vulnerable but strong youth, young people with their lives ahead of them. Forced into a life and death battle with the same youth from from the so called enemy.
Maybe some wars are a necessary evil, to thwart the megalomaniac ambitions of tyrants like Hitler, there are plenty more. Let's hope that stories like this one spreading around the globe via the internet and other electronic means will assist in pointing out the futility of any war or oppression of the people. We can only hope.
I hope so too.
Thanks for your imput John.
Michel, actually I don't think you would have taken the picture as a war veteran, but as a friend.
Yes, that makes perfect sense.
I think it's time for the second coming of Christ. What else can stop this never ending heartbreak? This was a splendid video created by a splendid man.
Thanks.
A very touching story, nobody really wins a war as both sides have those poor souls who did what they were told and have to live with the consequences
Thanks . It is...
hi im a subscriber to your channel and last sunday a saw you watching (chat) tino struckmann ,as i did..lol seems we have same interests.
Hey, that's nice. Tino has a very interesting channel. I'm a big fan.
@@Rustinox he is online now, live
@@stevenbodum3405 I know. I've seen a part of it.
You did the proper thing shaking his hand..
Brian from MA.It was bad what they had went threw no matter what side it was or who it was ..Yet we have learned nothing i have lost almost all faith in Humanity since then i have (DETATCHED) .I have everything i need right here (I THANK the LORD )i will not bother your comment line again but i will be in nose bleed seats of youtube watching and learning best wishes Besafe
Don't be too much "Detatched". There are some good people out there.
@@RustinoxPeople like you with a hart and compashion are a rare thing around here so sick of the hurt its not what( i slaved for) anywho so sorry my friend just lost in a sea of every person for them selves no body to take insentive just arguing and discushion back stabbing and some peeps need a fall guy oh and gossup just so sad buddy so sad glad i got music THANKS for your concern it does mean something to me my house is sinking because of the higher ups my house is cracking in on it self trees on big rocky hill in back starting to fall over and up root im so sick of walking on a rubber band for a tight rope my hole life and i no the same thing thats been thrown in my face i do have it better than others true but in a diffrent way its still what it you are a gread dude i will be ok Myfriend i got (GOD) Besafe
Praten met Duitser over de tweede wereld oorlog is altijd lastig. En dan heb ik het niet over de taalbarriere.
Ooggetuigen en slachtoffers praten daar zelden over. 't Is heel moeilijk om hun verhaal los te krijgen.
Peace be with you.
And with you.
Thanks.Big. Heavy. Let's not go there again.
You got that right.
Its hard for me to understand how these people can say they had no choice. Or they were just following orders.
If you dig in a bit deeper in WW2 history, you will find out. It's very interesting.
Thanks for sharing your experience with the repentant German soldier from WWII. Forgiveness is a wonderful thing. Because Jesus Christ took our punishment on the cross for our sins we can put our sins behind us and approach judgement washed pure in Christ's blood. I hope the old soldier found peace and felt the love of God from being forgiven.
Thanks Allen. It was a powerful moment. That's for sure.