Easy Company Veteran on combat from D-Day to the Eagle's Nest | Ed Shames

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  • čas přidán 26. 07. 2021
  • Become an AVC Patreon member to receive an annual calendar, early access to videos, exclusive content, and several other perks. This funding goes directly into helping us capture more incredible stories with our nation's veterans: / americanveteranscenter
    Colonel Edward "Ed" Shames was the last surviving officer of Easy Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, 101st Airborne Division. A unit that would be made famous by the miniseries Band of Brothers.
    Trained at Toccoa, Shames would make his first combat jump as an NCO into Normandy on D-Day. For his actions in Normandy he would earn a battlefield commission to second lieutenant.
    After D-Day he would lead his men through Operation Market Garden, the Battle of the Bulge, and ultimately be the first platoon into Hitler's "Eagles Nest".
    Colonel Edward D. Shames, age 99, passed away peacefully at home on December 3, 2021.
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Komentáře • 1,2K

  • @seangearhart4616
    @seangearhart4616 Před 2 lety +255

    Took a marked bottle of Cognac labeled for Hitler only and drank it for a Bar Mitzvah. What an absolute legend!

    • @travisfleenor2418
      @travisfleenor2418 Před rokem +18

      My thoughts exactly. Talk about poetic justice. That is what real antifascism looks like.

    • @jimirsayssponsor5844
      @jimirsayssponsor5844 Před 21 dnem +1

      Ehhhh idk man sounds like a pretty good story to me…

    • @thecomrade9284
      @thecomrade9284 Před 14 dny

      ​@@travisfleenor2418National socialism you mean?
      Tf is wrong with people...

  • @christopherjohnson4807
    @christopherjohnson4807 Před 2 lety +1748

    RIP Lt. Shames June 13th 1922 - December 3rd 2021. You were a great man and an excellent army officer. You were one of the first to receive a battlefield commission from your battalion for your exceptional leadership. You expected nothing short of perfection from your men. You were tough on your men, but that's because you were trying to make sure they got the job done and got back home to their families. You were one of the last members of the greatest American generation to ever live. We will never forget your sacrifice, your story, and your legacy. I will definitely tell your story and the story of Easy company to my kids and grandkids one day. Rest in peace, colonel.

    • @hardmarciacrush3338
      @hardmarciacrush3338 Před 2 lety +14

      Slip away Trooper AATW.

    • @jimflys2
      @jimflys2 Před 2 lety +49

      I think of these guys at this time of year. I miss my dad. He was there too, but with the 501st PIR saw the same stuff. It's like listening to my dad talk. God bless em.

    • @robshane6634
      @robshane6634 Před 2 lety +16

      December 3rd is my birthday, thank you for your service sir 🇺🇲

    • @stanpressley8136
      @stanpressley8136 Před 2 lety +18

      GOD Bless thank you sir for the good words about a true AMERICAN!!!!

    • @giovannicarosa8819
      @giovannicarosa8819 Před 2 lety +18

      Wow he lived a long life! It would have to feel like a whole different life from then to now. Rest In Peace sir, your sacrifice will not be forgotten!

  • @jgonzalez101
    @jgonzalez101 Před měsícem +11

    Thank you, Lt. Col. Ed Shames for your brave and courageous service to our Country. One of the Greatest Generation of WWII!❤️🙏🇺🇸

  • @HellaNGMusic
    @HellaNGMusic Před 20 dny +5

    RIP Lt. Shames❤ We will never forget what the veterans, and those who lost their lives did for Europe!

  • @bluedevilblood5630
    @bluedevilblood5630 Před 2 lety +1017

    When you hear the saying, "respect your elders", this is the generation that comes to mind.

    • @jasonfiore8182
      @jasonfiore8182 Před 2 lety +9

      Very true

    • @vivians9392
      @vivians9392 Před 2 lety +6

      Yep!

    • @sever427
      @sever427 Před 2 lety +4

      Hen Landed in a bunch of cows

    • @Geoduck.
      @Geoduck. Před 2 lety +10

      Thank you! Today's youth can learn from what you said. Respect must always be earned.

    • @DDGVET4
      @DDGVET4 Před 2 lety +8

      These were my dad and uncles generation. We were the ones saying respect your elders to our kids.

  • @jonathanpugh2271
    @jonathanpugh2271 Před 2 lety +168

    Just Heard The Sad News, Folks. Colonel Edward Shames, The Last Surviving Member Of Easy Company, Has Passed Away At The Age Of 99. The Last Of The " Band Of Brothers "
    Has Passed. Rest In Peace, Colonel Shames. Rest In Peace, Richard Winters, Lewis Nixon, Buck Compton And All Of The Other Honored Members Of Easy Company. Thank You, For Your Service. Thank You, For Your Sacrifice. We Will Always Be Indebted To You And All Of
    " The Greatest Generation " Who Won The Second World War.

  • @Airbornefighter-hr7lt
    @Airbornefighter-hr7lt Před měsícem +5

    From one veteran to another, thank you…….for your service. It is because of great men like yourself……that I got see my son born in a free world and to raise him. Only because you and THE greatest generation to live…….made it so. A debt that we can NEVER repay.

  • @robertwhite3752
    @robertwhite3752 Před 21 dnem +5

    Thank you for your service sir. It because of you and men like you that I live in a free country. Freedom isn’t free!!

  • @JackBearpark-vw2pe
    @JackBearpark-vw2pe Před měsícem +3

    Dropped into the darkness scared to death and cracked the fk on with the job at hand!! Different breed of men!!

  • @christopherpope1800
    @christopherpope1800 Před 2 lety +160

    "I wasn't exactly happy'...understatement of the year. What a Man.

  • @CsuarezFla
    @CsuarezFla Před 4 měsíci +7

    When a captain tells a sergeant "I ll follow you" that sergeant is a badass.

  • @wellthatssomethingpodcast1797

    I love everything about this interview! My man Shames drives Hitlers Mercedes around for three days and then pushes it OFF A CLIFF!! Grabs Hitlers whiskey brings it home and finally opens it a BAR MITZVAH!!!!! He had me rolling Shames YOU ARE MY HERO!!!!

    • @vincenttan8006
      @vincenttan8006 Před 8 měsíci +10

      Despite all the things they have seen and perhaps some done by decree, they are still so innocent at heart ❤

  • @gsmith207
    @gsmith207 Před 9 měsíci +46

    21 gun salute would never do this man justice… rest in peace soldier and patriot. Thank you

  • @christianpervert525
    @christianpervert525 Před 2 lety +286

    "They were all scared to death...and I wasn't exactly happy." - Ed Shames

  • @glennfleming1107
    @glennfleming1107 Před 2 lety +137

    My dad served in the British 9th Parachute Battalion, 3rd Parachute Brigade, 6th Airborne on D-Day, helping take the German gun battery at Merville. He would never talk much about his experiences, but he was right there in the midst of it. He died in 1981, aged 56. Although he rarely spoke of that day and beyond, he did leave me enough to write a book about it. The book is called 'Eight Seconds'; entitled so because that's how long it took for him to reach the ground after jumping from his C-47. After publication, a copy of the book was later parachuted into the battery and signed by all the people who took part in that jump. I will be eternally grateful to him and all the other young men like Colonel Shames for their service and sacrifice.

    • @John-mf6ky
      @John-mf6ky Před 5 měsíci +4

      Damn, that's a helluva story, respect to you old man. My grandfather was there with the 501st, he died about the same time as your pops. Sadly, it was before I was born. I really wish I could have met the man. He never really talked about it either.

    • @Airbornefighter-hr7lt
      @Airbornefighter-hr7lt Před měsícem

      From an airborne veteran, thank you for his service, airborne sky god……Utrinque Paratus

    • @Urmom-jx1ys
      @Urmom-jx1ys Před měsícem

      Wow your 12 year old dad landed in Normandy? AUUUMAZIN.

    • @Urmom-jx1ys
      @Urmom-jx1ys Před měsícem

      @@Airbornefighter-hr7ltlooks like you can’t math either boomer. Bet you never did a combat jump either like literally any Airborne dope after 44

  • @justinm6143
    @justinm6143 Před měsícem +10

    I truly respect this man. RIP Sir. They don’t make them like that anymore.

  • @1225Media
    @1225Media Před 2 lety +699

    I met Ed Shames at my local supermarket in VA and spoke with him in the parking lot for over an hour. He is one of the most dynamic individuals I have ever met! I hope to run into him again soon! Thank Mr. Shames for your dedicated and faithful service sir!

    • @tWoforgamenot1
      @tWoforgamenot1 Před 2 lety +4

      indeed :)

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 Před 2 lety +6

      Yes! Would Love to be in Virginia Beach far away from the Antichrist hordes running interstates Victimizing Americans and Others at will to Destroy from within and through Several + Administrations now....

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 Před 2 lety +4

      & Meet the Fine Colonel there^^🌞🇺🇸🗼💌🗽

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 Před 2 lety +2

      All of my Comments via CZcams Kentucky Legend Whiskey-glazed Ham Recipe & on additional Videos

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 Před 2 lety +2

      @@tWoforgamenot1 + All of my Comments via CZcams Father Mark Goring 26+ July 2021

  • @AB034TX
    @AB034TX Před 2 lety +74

    wow. 100 YO and clearly has the composure of a soldier and memory of a genius. Knows his missions like they were executed just yesterday. Respect.

    • @tpsu129
      @tpsu129 Před 2 lety +2

      Next June 13th. He was born in 1922.

    • @maureenjossick429
      @maureenjossick429 Před měsícem

      True soldier through and through.🫡🇺🇸

  • @cannotfindmyshoes3
    @cannotfindmyshoes3 Před rokem +61

    As a Romany Gypsy, it makes me smile that he relates looking smart in the clean uniform hé had only tried on once, as looking "like a Gypsy". It's not often people refer to us that way, thankyou Lt. Shames for your kind expression but also a MASSIVE THANKYOU and enormous respect for your sacrifice to save us all from the Nazis. God bless you.

    • @raymondbaldwin4905
      @raymondbaldwin4905 Před 2 měsíci +1

      Out of curiosity is the word gypsy offensive in anyway?

    • @PickleishBILL
      @PickleishBILL Před měsícem

      @@raymondbaldwin4905that’s what I thought but us Americans only know of gypsies as gypsies

    • @2shy1151
      @2shy1151 Před měsícem +3

      My grandmother used to tell me I dressed like a Gypsy. Now I know it wasn't exactly a bad thing. I think she just meant "flashy." Always hard to tell if I was being praised or not with her. Lol.

    • @keegansimpson9117
      @keegansimpson9117 Před měsícem

      ​@raymondbaldwin4905 It has recently become less acceptable/ considered rude in US English.
      In US English, it has a history of being used as an adjective that means free-spirited, artistic, unconventional, or bohemian. This is considered incorrect and moderately offensive.
      It has also been turned into a verb - to “gyp” means to swindle or take advantage of im a transaction. This is even more offensive.
      As far as referring to the actual ethnic group, Roma or Romany/ Romani would likely be more appropriate. I believe some members self-identify with the term “gypsy” (according to internet sources) but it is not polite for others to use.

    • @maureenjossick429
      @maureenjossick429 Před měsícem

      They are Romani people (gypsy is like a slur) but they’re very colorful in their dress, but here is an example, of reasons why many Romani ppl are looked “down” upon..while facing their own oppression-
      Many Romani children are sent to classes for pupils with learning disabilities. They are also sent to so-called "delinquent schools", with a variety of human rights abuses. Romani in European cities are often accused of crimes such as pickpocketing. Also, this:
      In August 29, 2002, Madalin Voicu, one of the most well known Romani politicians in Romania and one of two Romani representatives in the Romanian parliament, made the following statement:
      Our gypsies are stupid. They could at least be crafty but they aren't. They are just primitives and they manage to irritate the entire society which is already watching them closely [...] They run through the country and Europe barefoot, slimy and dirty, wearing clothes which are more likely to disgust you than make you feel sorry for them [...] Begging, soliciting and being disorganized will never bring them any advantages.
      That is a DISGUSTING representation of a people they know NOTHING of! Shame on those Romanian politicians! And holy racism I thought the U.S was bad..🤦🏻‍♀️🙄

  • @stonesinmyblood27
    @stonesinmyblood27 Před měsícem +4

    Being a former NCO, I love how so many NCO’s during WW II did amazing feats and how officers, like when I served, depend on us. We’re the backbone of the American military, for centuries. Sgt Shames was among the best of the best 🇺🇸

  • @Vindicta3127
    @Vindicta3127 Před měsícem +22

    Men like him are the reason why we live in a free world and aren’t speaking German. This is what a true hero looks like. Thank you for your service sir. I hope he’s doing well🫡

    • @willamestrada1121
      @willamestrada1121 Před měsícem +1

      Why does it matter what language we speak? I wish I spoke 100 languages.😊

    • @Vindicta3127
      @Vindicta3127 Před měsícem

      @@willamestrada1121 it’s just a figure of speech , meaning if we didn’t stop the Nazis back in Europe they might have taken over America and the rest of the world on the future. I speak 3 different languages, English, Spanish and Japanese

    • @Markfreeman8
      @Markfreeman8 Před měsícem +2

      He passed away unfortunately but his story and service lives on

    • @matthewswan9419
      @matthewswan9419 Před měsícem +1

      They taught German at my highschool

    • @Vindicta3127
      @Vindicta3127 Před měsícem +2

      @@matthewswan9419 yeah they teach multiple languages in high school , what’s your point?

  • @xw1sdomx749
    @xw1sdomx749 Před 2 lety +72

    The only living officer of easy company passed away yesterday on December 3rd 2021, may his soul RIP, Edward Shames Rip

  • @RobertMarshall-hl1rv
    @RobertMarshall-hl1rv Před měsícem +3

    My salute to you sir I could listen to you for hours it's because of you that we can now live

  • @Shaboomquisa
    @Shaboomquisa Před 2 lety +129

    my great Gdad was col sink, retired general sink, of the 506. lucky we have their stories I had never met sink as he was long gone by then. I only have stories from my g dad. good ole Lexington nc boys

    • @carterjohnson839
      @carterjohnson839 Před 2 lety +5

      Any word on that bottle ? My curiosity is running wild lol

    • @dwightmaciv4789
      @dwightmaciv4789 Před 2 lety +4

      I'm from Randolph county nc

    • @dwightmaciv4789
      @dwightmaciv4789 Před 2 lety +6

      Good ole Lexington style bbq down at the bbq centre

    • @dwightmaciv4789
      @dwightmaciv4789 Před 2 lety +3

      @MichaelKingsfordGray It is the North Carolina , public school system to blame . They suck so bad .

    • @historicspencernc9698
      @historicspencernc9698 Před 2 lety +5

      I am also kin to Col. Sink. I am from Rowan County.

  • @TreyM1609
    @TreyM1609 Před měsícem +3

    What a true soldier.. not only a true soldier but a true man and true friend.

  • @cshubs
    @cshubs Před měsícem +6

    This channel ought to have 100 million subscribers. So underrated.

  • @davidlouiso9650
    @davidlouiso9650 Před 2 lety +116

    Ladies and Gentlemen, what you are watching and listening to,…Is what the definition of HERO!!!…actually is!

  • @MegaDog2012
    @MegaDog2012 Před 9 měsíci +17

    The veterans are great storytellers
    I love these guys

  • @lordeagle100
    @lordeagle100 Před rokem +94

    I ended up with the 101st in 2003 in Mosul Iraq. I saw this series for the first time while on that deployment and these fellas story got me through a few rough nights..... They were all heros but we're to humble to say it.... True grit from true men...

  • @brianrobertson1211
    @brianrobertson1211 Před měsícem +4

    This man deserves our thanks for preserving the liberties we enjoy as Americans.

  • @Jay-nq2jl
    @Jay-nq2jl Před 27 dny +3

    No sports hero, rock star, politician, or anyone they hold up high these days can hold a candle to this man

  • @PathfinderHistoryTravel
    @PathfinderHistoryTravel Před 2 lety +24

    As of August 2, 2021 Brad Freeman and Ed Shames are the sole survivors of The Band of Brothers E. Company, 506th PIR, 101st Airborne, U.S. Army serving in World War II. I am grateful to all those who served. I owe my liberty to them.

  • @golfer5636
    @golfer5636 Před 2 lety +431

    I am floored and so relieved to see that Ed is still with us. How incredibly sharp his recall remains. Looks phenomenal also! What a stud. Should’ve been given more print by Ambrose and therefore more screen time on Band of Brothers. Incredible man!

    • @FullFrontalExposure
      @FullFrontalExposure Před 2 lety +15

      Definitely one of the best interviews yet!!

    • @2litersoftwist988
      @2litersoftwist988 Před 2 lety +17

      That man hasn't mentally aged a day (and hardly physically) you know that man talked just like that and acted just like that on jump day

    • @MrBlysko
      @MrBlysko Před 2 lety

      I have a question to you !
      How old are you ?

    • @MrBlysko
      @MrBlysko Před 2 lety

      @@FullFrontalExposure why the best testimony ? What about the others especially I am recalling myself of an other undearing testimony from Antonio T RUGGIERO D Company 2nd Rangers Battalion .
      Why ?? Why ?? No labels no prices were given .

    • @altonbunnjr
      @altonbunnjr Před 2 lety +6

      @@MrBlysko he’s 99.

  • @MarkJohnson81
    @MarkJohnson81 Před 2 lety +133

    This man is a legend not many left of that generation all of you are hero's

    • @dontknowme1792
      @dontknowme1792 Před 2 lety

      Brought to you by Qatar

    • @kevinpence8590
      @kevinpence8590 Před rokem +1

      God damn right friend! So heartbreaking they are all going away. They are the reason our beautiful country still exists........ heartbreaking............

  • @BakerImageGroup
    @BakerImageGroup Před 10 měsíci +12

    Thank you AVC for recording this brave man’s story for future generations to hear!

  • @tpsu129
    @tpsu129 Před 2 lety +11

    Listening to Lt. Shames is like listening to my grandfather again. He was in Belgium at the same time.
    God Bless the Greatest Generation.

  • @Brianthehistorynerd
    @Brianthehistorynerd Před 2 lety +119

    I had the opportunity of meeting Mr. Shames twice in Pennsylvania at the WW2 Weekend. He’s amazing to talk with and can be very intimidating as well.

    • @candengorman1213
      @candengorman1213 Před 2 lety +5

      Agreed I met him there aswell!

    • @jamesireland6606
      @jamesireland6606 Před 2 lety +9

      Just watching this interview you knew in his prime he was a tough son of a b****

  • @danielmccarty8067
    @danielmccarty8067 Před 2 lety +218

    One of the best interviews I’ve heard. I truly miss these WWII vets. They were the backbone of our country

    • @jeremycox2983
      @jeremycox2983 Před 2 lety +5

      Indeed they were and their fathers the Great War vets before them.

    • @mynameis3568
      @mynameis3568 Před 2 lety +7

      Now, look what we have! These kids today have no respect for anyone else much less themselves.

    • @doom3798
      @doom3798 Před 2 lety +2

      @@mynameis3568 oh be quiet you absolute knob

    • @doom3798
      @doom3798 Před 2 lety

      @Dave L he is speaking bollocks. glorifying young men and kids going to war and dying horrifically to justify his bigotry. the men of that era deserved the empathy and kindness that young men and kids today deserve.

    • @doom3798
      @doom3798 Před 2 lety +1

      @Dave L 'i miss the old days when young men and kids went off to die in agony in inhumane conditions and when you could be openly racist without people telling you it's bad' quiet boomer

  • @peternuyten7114
    @peternuyten7114 Před 2 lety +172

    Wow... this is the intriguing, thrilling war story I ever heard. The 101st joined the 82nd who finally liberated us here in Nijmegen, the Netherlands in a bloody, devistating fight. Today we have everywhere monuments of those heroes...

    • @karifredrikson8492
      @karifredrikson8492 Před 2 lety +17

      Thank you for honoring those Dear Men.

    • @basternox5990
      @basternox5990 Před 2 lety +10

      These men keep me silent every year for a few minutes (plus the time it takes to see these documentaries)

    • @Jakal-pw8yq
      @Jakal-pw8yq Před 2 lety +8

      Thank you for honoring these incredible men. I'm sorry for the years of occupation you suffered at the hands of the Nazis. But I'm incredibly proud that it was my country that liberated your country and gave you your freedom back! Prayers and good wishes to you from Jim in Seattle Washington

    • @bobs3354
      @bobs3354 Před 2 lety +5

      Support to Netherlands from USA.

    • @jbsully2864
      @jbsully2864 Před 2 lety +3

      My great uncle was in the 82nd and helped liberate a camp. I think he helped liberate Dachau.

  • @clivebaxter7905
    @clivebaxter7905 Před 2 lety +82

    I managed to meet Ed in England many years ago and he had all the time in the world for me and my family,I brought he’s book and he signed it,I wrapped it up and to this day never opened it, he is a complete legend and I’m so glad I met him.

    • @dwightcurrie8316
      @dwightcurrie8316 Před rokem +3

      I have a few books like that. Not sure why I bought them with no real intention of reading them. Maybe just knowing they are there is enough. I can't say I'll never open them, but I sure as Hell can't say I will either. We Humans are interesting Critters, no?

  • @calimann21
    @calimann21 Před rokem +35

    It breaks my heart knowing that the brave men of the greatest generation are almost all gone. Thank you for all that you have done.

  • @kennethmaiforth6460
    @kennethmaiforth6460 Před 2 lety +166

    I could listen to that man talk about his war experiences for a year great man who did a great thing

    • @dontknowme1792
      @dontknowme1792 Před 2 lety +1

      Look who this is sponsored by.

    • @drewwagner4802
      @drewwagner4802 Před 2 lety +1

      Myself!

    • @edhellbilly
      @edhellbilly Před 2 lety +1

      I could listen to this man all day talking about cutting grass or talking about nothing at al....l awesome stuff

  • @MrPapageorgio
    @MrPapageorgio Před 3 měsíci +38

    I don't think he was exactly happy about Normandy.

    • @user-we8lu1ld6s
      @user-we8lu1ld6s Před 2 měsíci +4

      He wasn’t exactly happy at all

    • @dv2033
      @dv2033 Před měsícem +1

      I thought the video kept getting rewound somehow lol

    • @Reaper_777-wc7yo
      @Reaper_777-wc7yo Před 14 dny

      I don’t think he was happy either.

  • @jeffthomas4321
    @jeffthomas4321 Před rokem +21

    I can’t get enough of these stories! The respect for those men that were over there fighting and the women who took on all that was thrown at them here at home, is a respect that I feel down to my soul. That was a special time, a time that should never be forgotten.

  • @Jdn23
    @Jdn23 Před 2 lety +79

    I’m fresh off the back of my yearly Band of Brothers re-watch. As always, I go and watch a load of interviews with WW2 veterans afterwards. I’ve seen so many by now and this has to be the best yet. Sending respect to Edward Shames from the UK! 👍

    • @littleguy6753
      @littleguy6753 Před rokem +4

      I watch it every year too. Sometimes it's by accident or I watch a CZcams clip & it makes me watch again.

    • @bernardsalvatore1929
      @bernardsalvatore1929 Před 9 měsíci +1

      I'm wondering if this gentleman knew Major Winters cuz their stories sound so similar!!
      ❤🇺🇲

    • @Ukraineaissance2014
      @Ukraineaissance2014 Před 3 měsíci +1

      ​@@bernardsalvatore1929winters was his commander

  • @JR-zv6qm
    @JR-zv6qm Před 2 lety +96

    Lt. Shames was considered a yeller. Maj. Winters didn't think he'd make a good leader bc of his yelling. But Sgt. Malarkey thought he'd make a good leader - however, Lt. Spiers got the job. Bottom line is he is a brave man who was awarded the Bronze Star & Purple Heart. It would be the honor of my life just to be in the same room as him.

    • @lornakim5706
      @lornakim5706 Před 2 lety +4

      Know a Retired Full Colonel who started out a Private E- nothing out of the Corn Fields of iowa who Yelled All the Time & made himself into a Great Leader^^🗽🗼🌞🇺🇸❤️🎆⚓💌✨

    • @rickmcguire9930
      @rickmcguire9930 Před 2 lety +3

      @MichaelKingsfordGray what do you mean ?

    • @catmarrco7863
      @catmarrco7863 Před 2 lety +4

      @MichaelKingsfordGray You want to go fishing ass hole, go to the lake and jump in. Make sure you got full pack on.

    • @johnrobitzsch2092
      @johnrobitzsch2092 Před 2 lety +4

      @MichaelKingsfordGray a coward? You must be crazy! I bet you are the coward! You have never been in the military! One day you will be punished by God for calling this soldier a coward!

    • @mitchb4084
      @mitchb4084 Před 2 lety +2

      @MichaelKingsfordGray what sickness do you have to call him a coward.

  • @sampat10
    @sampat10 Před měsícem +2

    I will forever be grateful to these men and AVC for sharing their stories 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

  • @shakeandbreak2938
    @shakeandbreak2938 Před 2 lety +77

    I love this man, "i wasn't happy". God bless him. Thank you for your service.

    • @zachcade2946
      @zachcade2946 Před rokem +3

      I chuckle each time he says that lmao

  • @satchemo24
    @satchemo24 Před 2 lety +50

    He was scared as he'll but still did his job! God bless this man.

    • @MrWhitelightning73
      @MrWhitelightning73 Před 2 lety +2

      A time when men were men.
      I can only imagine what the future holds. Since I still see grown adult males walking around outside with masks on. Simply because of what the ENEMEDIA propaganda machine tells them.

  • @chevyon37s
    @chevyon37s Před 2 lety +118

    Ed sure has a lot of energy for a hero his age!
    I enjoyed listening to him.

    • @joefera8947
      @joefera8947 Před 2 lety +6

      My grandmother, who we just lost, was the same way. 94 years old and still mowing her lawn, working in her garden and moving wheelbarrows of snow from the front of her house to the back. As my cousin said, she'd be up there cleaning the gutters if we didn't take her ladders away. LOL

    • @jontest5718
      @jontest5718 Před 2 lety +3

      I think it has a lot to do with perspective. These guys were in their late teens and twenties and saw the worst of life and humanity, as well as unparalleled experiences. You probably appreciate everything which is good after that, do they view everyday of normalcy as a treat.

  • @joeschneider732
    @joeschneider732 Před 2 lety +43

    Met Ed in 2004 in Norfolk ,Virginia for Easy Company reunion. Went with my dad for the weekend to meet these men. The Greatest Generation!!! Had a great time I’m glad he’s doing well looks great!God Bless him and his family!

  • @lulabelle82
    @lulabelle82 Před 2 lety +58

    RIP Sir. When they talk about legends, these guys are what they mean. May his name live on forever.

  • @chrispierdominici3891
    @chrispierdominici3891 Před 2 lety +48

    Ed Shames is quite the character! It always amazes me how good their memory is so many years later. I hope my memory is half as good when I get to be his age.

    • @1earflapping
      @1earflapping Před 2 lety +4

      Not only his memory. Judging from an interview with him 6 years ago, it appears he has had a stroke, and he's survived that pretty well too. Amazing, very durable guy.

    • @gat2asp919
      @gat2asp919 Před 2 lety +5

      Its easier to remember when it's the greatest upheaval in human history. Also the greatest adventure of your life.

  • @jimmyb4728
    @jimmyb4728 Před 2 lety +172

    LETS GET THE HELL OUTTA HERRRE, love it. Man these guys didn't have brass balls they had STAINLESS STEEL BALLS. May they all RIP. Mr. Shames I hope you live as long as you want, thank you for literally helping to save the world, you and all the men and women who served during WWII. You and your family be safe.

    • @chevyon37s
      @chevyon37s Před 2 lety +8

      Maybe even titanium

    • @fazole
      @fazole Před 2 lety +3

      Read Donald Burgett's books on his 101AB experiences. Those guys entertained themselves with knife fights, blowing up each other's quarters and of course the old mumblety peg. Crazy tough men.

    • @jimmyb4728
      @jimmyb4728 Před 2 lety +2

      @@fazole thanks for the book. I love reading anything about WWII. Whether it's about battles or biographies, like Patton's or MacArthur's, Nimitz or Halsey. I would be remiss if I only looked at it from our point of view so I've read Rommels as well, but nothing from the Soviet side never found anything from their generals and Stalin was a complete liar. But hey thanks again for the book. You n yours be safe.

    • @Mrs.IndiYoung
      @Mrs.IndiYoung Před 2 lety +4

      @@chevyon37s Diamond

    • @myloki22
      @myloki22 Před 2 lety +2

      @@Mrs.IndiYoung Adamantium

  • @fazole
    @fazole Před 2 lety +38

    Many of these southern guys grew up in incredible poverty, tar paper shacks, working for a pittance if lucky. Guys working in factory towns in N. Caroline got only 9th grade educations since high school wasn't mandatory. They were hard, yet gentle just men. God and family were strong. That is the Greatest Generation.

    • @barrybarnes96
      @barrybarnes96 Před 2 lety +1

      The vast majority of the Greatest Generation were FDR New Deal Democrats. They came back and took advantage of the GI Bill and other benefits that came out the New Deal.

    • @natedog1619
      @natedog1619 Před 2 lety +5

      @@barrybarnes96 much different to be a Democrat back in those days, dude. If you think our generation has anything on these guys then you are sorely mistaken.

    • @williammartin2842
      @williammartin2842 Před 2 lety +5

      A 9th grade education back then is superior to a college degree today. Now a days schools just babysit children.

    • @Ann-kw1pn
      @Ann-kw1pn Před 2 lety +5

      True. My grandparents were all New England mill workers. My parents, aunts, and uncles never talked about the past except to say, "we had nothing." My maternal grandfather insisted that his seven kids go to high school, very unusual at that time. For the most part, they did. My mother knew Latin and Greek at 16. I miss the people of that generation.

    • @nolesfan8900
      @nolesfan8900 Před 2 lety +5

      We’d never do it today. The anti-American liberalism has destroyed our culture and weakened us as a unified country. If China decides it’s time for us to go we are doomed. America could use a good dose of “toxic masculinity “ before it’s too late.

  • @REALWOODSMAN
    @REALWOODSMAN Před měsícem +2

    Guys like this are the reason America was at one time the best country in the world.. along with these men dying so are the traditions and values that were around during their time these interviews are crucial to American history guys like this has such a huge significant role in America

  • @Lttl3G26
    @Lttl3G26 Před 2 lety +24

    The fact that he and his men were the ones that took the eagles nest is amazing i bet that felt unreal when they got to the top

  • @usnchief1339
    @usnchief1339 Před 2 lety +36

    They lived like everyday was their last. We can't thank them enough for their courage and determination to wipeout the enemy.

  • @jwest142
    @jwest142 Před 2 lety +22

    Without men like this, we might all be speaking a different language today. Thank you for your service and thank you for protecting the freedoms I enjoy today. God bless you sir and all that served. I live in your debt every day of my life.

  • @memoriesofthesecondworldwa4762

    Rest Easy sir, your service to this country will never be forgotten. Long live Easy Company🦅♠️🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

  • @lewiswereb8994
    @lewiswereb8994 Před rokem +15

    Very humorous story teller. One of the best stories and best tellers I've ever heard, and completely natural. Great guy!

  • @_zombie_queen_
    @_zombie_queen_ Před 2 lety +15

    We just lost him? That's so sad. Bless his heart. Band of brothers...was an amazing piece of art, the interviews were my favorite part.

  • @oledahammer8393
    @oledahammer8393 Před 2 lety +59

    My Uncle was 82nd Airborne in D-Day, he managed to survive the war as well. These men were beyond brave. God bless them all for their service and all the men that fell in combat to preserve our liberties. I can't imagine what my Uncle would say about the BS our current Gov't is pulling....he'd probably be reaching for his M1 Garand...

    • @premiersportingkc3443
      @premiersportingkc3443 Před 2 lety +3

      Stop larping, my dude. Your uncle was a proud anti-fascist who killed Nazis. Don't tarnish his name like that by acting like he'd defend current day fascism

  • @ronniebishop2496
    @ronniebishop2496 Před 2 lety +35

    My dad was in the infantry and he said it was the toughest thing he’d ever been in, and he went through the depression and worked hard all his life. But the paratroopers went through jump school. Audie Murphy was plain infantry and was awarded every medal the military had, including the Medal of Honor. These people in the entire infantry were incredible people.

  • @mikeybreakz6292
    @mikeybreakz6292 Před 2 lety +38

    my family has directly fought in every single conflict our great nation has faced since the 1776 first war. all my kin have always served. we will always be of service. both my grandfathers and their brothers fought and made it home in WW2. my grandmother made tank bolts in a factory while her husband fought. uncles aunts, all soldiers... we came from mountain men.. . all the wives either went to to the front to be nurses or worked in factories at home. my kin served in 1776, the civil war WW1 and 2, korea, nam and me and my brother are both rangers and served in afghanistan and iraq. no matter the war we americans fight together. long live the fighters.

    • @williammartin2842
      @williammartin2842 Před 2 lety +6

      Americans are proud of and respect you and your family.

    • @matthewestrada5217
      @matthewestrada5217 Před 2 lety +1

      I read that and the first thing I thought of was Lt Dan. But jokes aside much respect.

    • @Jakal-pw8yq
      @Jakal-pw8yq Před 2 lety

      Thank you for sharing your amazing Legacy with us! Seems like there's a book in there somewhere!

    • @Mr.Thermistor7228
      @Mr.Thermistor7228 Před 2 lety +1

      @@matthewestrada5217 haha i thought that too! That little clip in forest gump of all the men in his family getting shot throughout all the pat wars

    • @michaelphelps5064
      @michaelphelps5064 Před 2 lety

      Thank you for your service

  • @oldsalt7534
    @oldsalt7534 Před 2 lety +46

    This guy is a hoot. Love listening to him.

  • @rollastoney
    @rollastoney Před měsícem +1

    Dude Ed Shames! I didn’t know he had interviews. Such a treat. Sharp as a tack until the end. RIP 🇺🇸🫡

  • @37Dionysos
    @37Dionysos Před 2 lety +19

    He goes through all this and winds up cruising around in one of Adolf's limousines! Great interview

  • @ragnakok7973
    @ragnakok7973 Před 5 měsíci +5

    Man this dude was not only a badass, but he seemed like he was funny and good hearted guy to be around. Rest in power my guy❤

  • @matthewbender9152
    @matthewbender9152 Před 2 lety +33

    "I had a roll of money that'd choke a horse, and I was gonna spend it..." some things just don't change.

    • @powertrain4786
      @powertrain4786 Před 2 lety +7

      For sure.... I would have spent it too not knowing if I'd be around the next day or week....

    • @andrewsmith3257
      @andrewsmith3257 Před 13 dny

      "roll of money that would choke a horse" straight goals!

  • @moisesperez4605
    @moisesperez4605 Před rokem +11

    I’ve listen to this interview like three: or four times, each time I listen to it, it seems comical at times, but someone so brave, calm and cool, and doing what his duty, and what he was trying to do, rest in peace.

  • @w3tua
    @w3tua Před 2 lety +27

    Huge balls, Colonel! You are a hero to all of us soldiers that came after you!

  • @truereaper4572
    @truereaper4572 Před 2 lety +20

    Absolute legend. It breaks my heart that there aren't many of these great men left, and I'll probably never meet one of them.

  • @tubularfrog
    @tubularfrog Před 2 lety +43

    Col. Ed is quite a remarkable man. He has an excellent memory, and seems to be in good health for his advanced age. Probably because of the good physical shape he was in when younger, and it's paying off in later years. Thank you Col. for recalling your experience in Normandy, and for doing your duty no matter what was scaring you personally.

    • @CityColourr
      @CityColourr Před 2 lety +1

      Lieutenant!

    • @tubularfrog
      @tubularfrog Před 2 lety +2

      @@CityColourr AVC is listing him as Colonel (see above).

  • @danb2122
    @danb2122 Před měsícem +1

    I love to hear these stories. History that needs to be told and not forgotten.
    Both my grandfathers served in the war. But one of them passed in 2002 and took most of his stories with him. But thank you for keeping their story alive.

  • @paul2812
    @paul2812 Před měsícem +2

    Good bless this man! Thank you! Amazing story!

  • @johnhansen8272
    @johnhansen8272 Před 2 lety +18

    Ed would be famous, but he was in the wrong platoon. Story of most of us lol. Thank you for your dynamic service. Legend.

  • @mikeblunt5000
    @mikeblunt5000 Před 2 lety +27

    He is a great man, thank you for your service and sacrifice, so I can live the life I have, you are truly an American Hero

  • @sleepingninjaquiettime
    @sleepingninjaquiettime Před 2 lety +34

    I could listen to this guy for a long time. We need more interviews from this trooper.

  • @aocnetwork
    @aocnetwork Před 2 lety +52

    God bless sir.

    • @Gutslinger
      @Gutslinger Před rokem

      😯

    • @pinkythehobo
      @pinkythehobo Před 3 měsíci

      It's mind blowing. .this man probably brushed shoulders with my grandfather. .101st American Airborn screaming eagles

  • @juandelacruz9510
    @juandelacruz9510 Před 2 lety +21

    The best first person WW2 story ever told.....👌 thank you " Ed "!

  • @dzobie
    @dzobie Před 2 lety +5

    I wish I could stand before this great man and salute.

  • @collecttcg1122
    @collecttcg1122 Před 7 měsíci +3

    I could listen to these incredible men all day!

  • @Ray-dv3nz
    @Ray-dv3nz Před 2 lety +7

    Band of Brothers is the best mini series I have ever seen. It’s all about Easy company. 👍🏻

  • @daveed_0161
    @daveed_0161 Před 2 lety +41

    Wow, He's the last surviving officer of Easy Company.

    • @johnmagill3072
      @johnmagill3072 Před 2 lety +10

      I believe hes the last man period.

    • @daveed_0161
      @daveed_0161 Před 2 lety +8

      @@johnmagill3072 There are only two left :( Bradford Freeman is the last surviving Enlisted Man of Easy Company; Edward Shames is the last surviving officer of Easy Company.

    • @Josh-nq6lh
      @Josh-nq6lh Před 2 lety +4

      @@daveed_0161 And now, sadly, there is only one. RIP Col Shames...

  • @drewwagner4802
    @drewwagner4802 Před 2 lety +12

    Just love these old interviews, true Heros who stood up against Nizasim.

  • @Tolson2024
    @Tolson2024 Před měsícem +1

    Thank u sir for ur service and to all the ppl who fought rest easy man much love

  • @jeffmeyers2106
    @jeffmeyers2106 Před 12 dny

    I could have listened to this amazing soldier all day. God bless him.

  • @axelwittersheim7787
    @axelwittersheim7787 Před 2 lety +19

    True heroes, so many could learn from them. If only there was more like him.

  • @thekidd8169
    @thekidd8169 Před rokem +4

    I don’t have the vocabulary to express the gratitude and love I have for you and your men. Thank you LT.

  • @tonyd6848
    @tonyd6848 Před 2 lety +10

    Wow! What a story!
    This man is incredible!
    And he is still alive?
    Dear sir. You are a hero and quite a character! God bless you and many thanks for your service!!

  • @sammyvh11
    @sammyvh11 Před 2 lety +11

    Thanks to these guys I have everything . My relatives in Latvia where exterminated like insects by the Nazis.

    • @karifredrikson8492
      @karifredrikson8492 Před 2 lety +1

      I can’t even imagine the depth of your sorrow. You’re safe now & in God’s arms.

  • @jamessholtz6016
    @jamessholtz6016 Před 2 lety +8

    I'm 66. Was in the USMC. Had DI's walk on all parts of my body as I was crawling through mud. And worse. I was not a S-bird nor was I in a motivational platoon. It's a different world today.

  • @elephantjr22
    @elephantjr22 Před 2 lety +11

    This man is an amazing human being This story is one of the best stories I've heard . Thank you sir for you and your sacrifice for your service and your amazing story

  • @geckoproductions4128
    @geckoproductions4128 Před 2 lety +8

    Col Shames: Thank you for your service sir. You are indeed from the greatest generation. God Bless You and Godspeed!

  • @marykaysrescue2022
    @marykaysrescue2022 Před 2 lety +4

    An amazingly brave man! I did not know Col. Shames but I am personal friends with his son Dr. Douglas Shames. They are a very dedicated, hard working family, who have all led very interesting lives. RIP Col. Edward Shames

  • @teddygunzbarno2102
    @teddygunzbarno2102 Před 2 lety +6

    Ed alive @ kicking almost 100 years old sharp as could be thank you for your service 🙏

  • @rvaugh230
    @rvaugh230 Před rokem +2

    I gotta say I'm only a minute into this and love the way this guy talks. Hes adding enough relevant info to be interesting but not so much hes getting off subject and rambling. The fact about the Pentagon being built but unoccupied is a good example.

  • @EmpyreanFrost
    @EmpyreanFrost Před 2 lety +7

    These men.
    These men were and always will be the toughest most courageous s.o.b's to have ever lived.
    God bless them

  • @redtobertshateshandles
    @redtobertshateshandles Před 2 lety +15

    The captain ' knew his limitations '. Nowadays, the diverse idiots, that are in charge , are told by politicians that they're great.