MEDAL OF HONOR: Fighting Back the NVA After 4 Days Left Him with Only a Few Choices

MEDAL OF HONOR: Fighting Back the NVA After 4 Days Left Him with Only a Few Choices | Gary Littrell

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Күн бұрын

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Gary Littrell is a US Army veteran who received a Medal of Honor for his bravery during the Vietnam War.
Sfc. Littrell's Medal of Honor Citation:
For conspicuous gallantry and intrepidity in action at the risk of his life above and beyond the call of duty. Sfc. Littrell, U.S. Military Assistance Command, Vietnam, Advisory Team 21, distinguished himself while serving as a Light Weapons Infantry Advisor with the 23d Battalion, 2nd Ranger Group, Republic of Vietnam Army, near Dak Seang. After establishing a defensive perimeter on a hill on April 4, the battalion was subjected to an intense enemy mortar attack which killed the Vietnamese commander, one adviser, and seriously wounded all the advisors except Sfc. Littrell. During the ensuing 4 days, Sfc. Littrell exhibited near superhuman endurance as he singlehandedly bolstered the besieged battalion. Repeatedly abandoning positions of relative safety, he directed artillery and air support by day and marked the unit's location by night, despite the heavy, concentrated enemy fire. His dauntless will instilled in the men of the 23d Battalion a deep desire to resist. Assault after assault was repulsed as the battalion responded to the extraordinary leadership and personal example exhibited by Sfc. Littrell as he continuously moved to those points most seriously threatened by the enemy, redistributed ammunition, strengthened faltering defenses, cared for the wounded and shouted encouragement to the Vietnamese in their own language. When the beleaguered battalion was finally ordered to withdraw, numerous ambushes were encountered. Sfc. Littrell repeatedly prevented widespread disorder by directing air strikes to within 50 meters of their position. Through his indomitable courage and complete disregard for his safety, he averted excessive loss of life and injury to the members of the battalion. The sustained extraordinary courage and selflessness displayed by Sfc. Littrell over an extended period of time were in keeping with the highest traditions of the military service and reflect great credit on him and the U.S. Army.
Recorded May 27, 2017.
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0:00 Intro
4:26 The Elite Units
6:25 Vietnam
12:38 The Battle
31:44 "Training, Adrenaline, and Love for My Fellow Rangers"
34:52 Reality Set In
36:42 Medal of Honor
42:09 "I Don't Wear This Medal for Me"

Пікірлер: 2 200

@americanveteranscenter Жыл бұрын

Become an AVC Patreon member to receive exclusive content and perks. This funding goes directly into helping us capture more incredible stories with our nation's veterans: patreon.com/americanveteranscenter

@thiemtranthi7760 Жыл бұрын

Thiem bg vn woman thAnhk

@Arminiuswolfspeer Жыл бұрын

Americans still celebrating illegal wars, war crimes and crimes against humanity.. #ReparationsForEveryCountrySufferingAmericanTyranny

@scottieeasley4907 Жыл бұрын

Omg.. wow.. that man stole UR FOX hole & paid for it in full

@scottieeasley4907 Жыл бұрын

Battalion commander stole his foxhole but paid him back with interest the same day... what a guy that battalion commander. If u need anything U let me know.

@leonleon2276 Жыл бұрын

Does VC stand for Vietcong? What does the A stand for?

@gaz9556 3 жыл бұрын

"I'm the custodian of the medal, they earned it, I get to wear it for them" that's the words of a hero right there

@onpointmotorworks7485 Жыл бұрын

Love it

@robertwguthrie3935 Жыл бұрын

Damn straight.

@nickames3808 Жыл бұрын

WOW!!! Now, that's A Righteous Man!!! Most Heroes say the same! COMRADES

@gogogo1064 Жыл бұрын

💪💪💪💪

@donscheid97 Жыл бұрын

So many of them say exactly the same thing. Not going to psycho-analyze it but makes one even more proud of them that they are humble.

@charlieninervn8231 4 жыл бұрын

I had a similar experience “with the best NCO ever” Master Sergeant Everett Finnel. He had fought in WWII, Korea, and VietNam. I was 18 years old been in the military about 6 months when I first met Master Sergeant Finnel. He was a tough no nonsense NCO who cared for his troops. His actions, that I observed as a young troop, gave me the knowledge of how a leader should be. I drew on the knowledge he passed on to us many time while serving as a fire team leader in Vietnam. Now, he served most of his time when black people were not treated well in the military but he was not bitter. He succeeded in spite of racism and never displayed any bitterness. He took me under his wing, a southern hick with a Deep South accent. HIs direction, the training he gave me saved my life many times over. The best thing he did for me was give me a life long desire to be good to everyone and never judge a person by what they look like but by their deeds. Master Sergeant Finnel a true American and hero.

@davidburnett2329 4 жыл бұрын

Incredible .. Dude awesome story . Thanks brother !

@codyhendricks6927 3 жыл бұрын

How old are you? I'm guessing at least in your 80s and your on KZfaq leaving comments???

@TBreezy17 3 жыл бұрын

Comment is so underrated. Incredible story sir.

@stevetackett581 3 жыл бұрын

@@codyhendricks6927 my Dad and Uncle are Vietnam Vets, one in the infantry the other the 173rd Airborne and both frequently watch youtube videos and occasionally leave comments. If someone gets on here and tells an “untruth” then that’s on them and not for us to decide

@xKaylaaxD 2 жыл бұрын

So glad you were able to have such a positive experience in such a high stress time. 🙌🏼🇺🇸❤️ god bless. Thank you for your service!

@stevenc3422 Жыл бұрын

CSM Gary Littrell was my First Sargent in 1977 when serving with C 1/75th Ranger Battalion. He was tough as nails and one of the finest NCO's that I have ever met in my military career.

@SaundersE5 Жыл бұрын

C 1/75 81-83, God bless you!

@mattjack3983 2 ай бұрын

The man is a legend

@AllLiesAndCableTies 2 ай бұрын

God bless you for sharing

@user-fx6kc7tb8l Ай бұрын

God Bless you sir.. Thank you for your service so we can continue living the American dream..

@jessvolina6007 Ай бұрын

Awesome story! Thank you for your service! 🇺🇸

@baxterscientific 10 ай бұрын

Men like this are a dying breed in America today. Soft spoken Relaxed. When he says something he means it. Thank you for your service.

@Grey_Rock_ 4 жыл бұрын

Csm Littrel, “5,000 enemy against my 500 rangers, I regard this as a fair fight.” Hard af.

@aaroncarmona1995 4 жыл бұрын

LJ L Ice in his fkn veins..

@Tac1713 3 жыл бұрын

@@OVER9000xDxD If you don’t have anything nice to say don’t say it these men have went through hell I don’t think you have the courage to live a day in his shoes

@11bravo1789 Жыл бұрын

As an Infantryman, Iraq War veteran, I love this man. These are the guys who paved the way for us. They had it tougher and did more with less than we had to.

@adambane1719 11 ай бұрын

Iraq was never a "war" ! It takes TWO armies to make a war

@HiGlowie 10 ай бұрын

@@adambane1719tell that to all the guys who died or had limbs blown off via IEDs.

@MegaJcamp 10 ай бұрын

It was Vietnam not Iraq.

@dniiez_one 9 ай бұрын

@@adambane1719your mom should have swallowed you

@SexyFace 9 ай бұрын

iraq army is an army @@adambane1719

@puma51921 Жыл бұрын

One of the greatest things I have done in my life was escorting Medal of Honor recipients from the airport to their hotel. This was for the Medal of honor association. I escorted 5 recipients and their families. They were some of the most humblest and respectful people I have ever met. I was ashamed they kept thanking me for my service knowing what amazing acts they had done. I had read the citations for each recipient prior to their escorts. Amazing representatives of their military services.

@irenedemarco1354 Жыл бұрын

They were grateful for your interest and respect.... The vietnam vets all seem so humble... Freaking strong, yet humble.. 💞✌️🙏

@HiGlowie 10 ай бұрын

Usually really tough folks are the ones who are humble.

@6PathSage 7 ай бұрын

@@HiGlowiefacts

@bch5513 Ай бұрын

@@HiGlowieEXACTLY...

@reddiver7293 13 күн бұрын

They are heroes, to be sure. But, as a grateful civilian, please allow me to thank you for your service.

@paulbrown6338 Жыл бұрын

If you have ever been in close combat you know just how real this situation was. Four days of doing this and to survive is just amazing. So much respect for what he did. I was in Viet Nam during this time assigned to 5th Special Forces period and remember when the sister camp fell. He really lived up to the Ranger Creed.

@mattkaustickomments Жыл бұрын

Why wasn’t another friendly force brought over to surround the attackers? Politics? Not enough people to spare? I could understand the delay for a day or 2. But 4 days & nights alone?

@oldkingcrow777 Жыл бұрын

@@mattkaustickomments I'm not a veteran, but remember that there are human individuals in charge of these regiments Sometimes they're good, sometimes they're bad. Sometimes they're good but make choices that end up being bad, etc... So often in these horrible scenarios, it's some desk officer who sees it all as chess pieces. That's definitely why the officers who went through the enlisted ranks up to brass ranks invariably make the best choices and have the true love of the men who serve under them, all the way down to thr lowest ranks who never have the pleasure of a 1 on 1 meeting. Chesty Puller and Smedley Butler come to mind. Thst doesn't mean there haven't been great, combat-less generals, I think many respected Eisenhower, for example, but it paled in comparison. I don't think MacArthur saw "genuine" combat on a personal level, and it showed with his sickening "strategy" in the pacific. Just throwing marines at the Japanese. Luckily for those marines the brotherhood and spunk got them 90% of the way, but even with *relatively* low casualties in comparison to the Japanese, they were unacceptable numbers of losses. Schwarzkopf was another, he had SEEN combat. Those men weren't just numbers on a report. They had *lives* . I'd bet good money the vast majority of fumbles like this where men are essentially abandoned and expected to either make it on their own or die, are cases where some career-officer at a desk just deems it logistically unworthy and it's a sad reality. TLDR: "Sir, this is a Wendy's" 😂

@jimcole389 Жыл бұрын

@grovepeate3316 Жыл бұрын

What a great American Hero,father and the finist example of a Ranger is.I salute you sir.

@spiderchata1 Жыл бұрын

@robertdavis6708 Жыл бұрын

I was a good friend of an Army Ranger named James Shepherd who grew up in Williamstown Kentucky. We worked in an integrated steel mill in SW Ohio. Jimmy was one of the hardest workers on the crew and took him months before he mentioned being a Ranger. As I sit here and listen to Gary's stories, I can imagine Jim being in those hills and fighting for hours. When Jim was born, little did he know that God assigned him longevity. I was proud to work with him for over 35 years.

@crosbymcdowell863 4 жыл бұрын

When Gary was in the 101st G-3 Training, he and I were the training inspectors for the division. We were pretty care free, called the inspections as we saw them and avoided the politics of division level officers. The G-3 Training staff was a fun, happy go lucky group but the hours were long and often we did not leave until after 6PM. On the day he was notified to report to the CG Office as we were preparing to go home, we were both afraid that someone somewhere had a beef with something he had done or said to another. We never seemed to mince for words. SO I told him that I would wait until he returned to the office after his CG appearance. It was a pretty long wait for me expecting that the worse had happened. Yet when he returned, he was sort of in shock, winded and then sat down across from me as I asked him, "Well how bad is it?" A long pause and he responded, "You won't believe me!" I pushed again and he stated that he had just been notified he was to be presented with the CMH. I responded that this was not a time to be joking, were we both in trouble? But it was a fact, as the video confirmed. But he just went back to work the next day after a long story about what had happened in RVN. Later, he attended a parade in his home town of Henderson KY, which was near by. There the mayor presented Gary with a Kentucky Long Rifle of the mid 1800's era. That is an even better story. He was one of the best NCO's I ever worked with.

@scottiechrisrodriguez9322 3 жыл бұрын

Lol! Great story Sir! Thank You for your Service!

@Nick-fb9uq 3 жыл бұрын

Welcome home, Sir. Thank you for your service.

@jonathandavis6072 3 жыл бұрын

Proud to be a fellow Hendersonian. He is a legend here.

@michaelfuller2378 3 жыл бұрын

Hooah!

@conradotis318 2 жыл бұрын

I know Im randomly asking but does someone know a way to log back into an instagram account? I was dumb forgot my password. I would love any help you can give me.

@AndrewGrey22 2 ай бұрын

I'm proud to live in the same country as this guy. What a great human being.

@dhoang9133 5 жыл бұрын

Thank you sir, from a Vietnamese American whose father died fighting along Americans in one of those battles

@FatGuyInLitlCoat 4 жыл бұрын

Rest in Peace

@efrainrodriguez9550 4 жыл бұрын

FatGuyInLitlCoat, That you Sir from another Vet Nam Vet.

@keithgunn-glanville7829 4 жыл бұрын

Stories like these are finally getting the attention they deserve, so that men like your father can be honored and remembered. Back in the day the only stories that were allowed to be publicized were about white American soldiers. The heroism and sacrifice of the Vietnamese soldiers, African American soldiers , Hmong, And many others who were forgotten for 50-60 years needs to be recognized. I feel this gentleman does recognize this and makes a point to give credit to his Vietnamese troops and their bravery.

@comptonghost9013 3 жыл бұрын

Sorry to hear about your father I’m sure your father fought his butt off trying to free the people of Vietnam I wish I didn’t have to come to that your father didn’t deserve to die my dad passed away as well so I know exactly how it feels man god bless your father

@larrycroft470 2 жыл бұрын

@@keithgunn-glanville7829 That is a virtue signaling BS story straight from your imagination Keith. What you just stated is a lie. All American soldiers in that war were treated shabbily by the leftest in the country who are running the country RIGHT NOW. The stories of the heroism of the South Vietnamese were wide spread. As were the heroics of the Hmong tribesmen who along with the South Vietnamese soldiers were massacred by the CCP backed North Vietnamese. Since i have mentioned the CCP in a negative light yt will delete or ghost this comment but i hope they keep it up because it is the truth. Go peddle your crap somewhere else. This is a sight for American heroes.

@blkwarriorspirit5528 2 ай бұрын

Reacting to enemy incoming and doing a accurate call for fire on specific coordinates speaks volumes of CSM's skill level and ability. Vietnam war era generation didn't use handheld GPS systems either. Map reading, radio communications, and land navigation skills needed to be on point. Respect CSM Littrel. Thanks for your service Sergeant Major from a 11B Veteran hoorah.

@shadowdancer2439 Жыл бұрын

This man is proof that nature triumphs nurture. Father abandoned him and mother died shortly after. Lived a very dysfunctional life jumping around from family member to family member. He knew he was a nobody and was determined to become a somebody no matter the cost. Thank you for your character and your service!

@notaQuackhead369 Жыл бұрын

Lol that doesnt apply. It was still nurture just negatively. Ya boy didnt grow up in the street or woods 😂

@pele914 Жыл бұрын

@@notaQuackhead369 agreed, the nurturing of his life may have taught him that no one is here for you therefore you have to fight everyday for your right to life. Joining the Army he found a home for his mindset and in way he found a stage to display.

@irenedemarco1354 Жыл бұрын

He was a sad kid that found a purpose.... When you are dragged up, you become very resilient and multiskilled... And thrive on caring for others... A lot of special forces have had tough backgrounds... Part of what makes them so damn stubborn and determined to achieve...

@karenwilson712 11 ай бұрын

Yes, little boy thinking he’s a nobody🥲

@Janellabelle 11 ай бұрын

What a crazy thing to say. Lol

@theshannan59 Ай бұрын

These humble men are an inspiration. Above and beyond the call of duty. He speaks of the love he had for his fellow Rangers . Thank you sir for the country you served and the lives you saved.

@Bluepickles333 3 жыл бұрын

Only 40 something survived out of 450, that is disastrous. What a courageous story, can’t even imagine it.

@AirborneAnt 2 жыл бұрын

Yea I heard that too…I was like what?!?!?!? That’s a platoon leaving a battalion engagement…

@jj-nh8lz 2 жыл бұрын

I am amazed that there was no apparent effort to send troop reinforcements in to try to get those guys out during a four day battle with 2000 NVA troops surrounding them.

@benedicthampus4964 Жыл бұрын

42 out of 473?!

@nickbanney3487 Жыл бұрын

39 walking wounded, probably other survivors who could not evacuate on their own

@slipperygypsy1366 Жыл бұрын

@@jj-nh8lz wasnt it 5000

@phil_ar Жыл бұрын

Interviewer: "You were outnumbered like 10 to 1". Sfc. Gary Litrell: "Outnumbered but the odds were about the same. It was an even fight in my opinion".

@rangerjones5531 Жыл бұрын

‘Force multipliers’ are a great thing!🇺🇸🍺

@phil_ar Жыл бұрын

@@rangerjones5531 Damn right

@hahtsauce Жыл бұрын

@@crispindry2815 I bet you're real fun at parties. Get a life loser.

@evanpetelle5669 Жыл бұрын

@@crispindry2815 sheesh. Fuckin’ joke.

@ToniBoordane Жыл бұрын

So fuckin badass 😂

@kevinjackson6568 Ай бұрын

A True. Living America Hero Here!!! God Blessed You for Your Service for our Freedom.

@kmg474 7 күн бұрын

Your freedom? In Vietnam?

@mr.imarealsuperhero4201 Жыл бұрын

I'll shed a silent tear for every single one of the 400+ that served, fought and died that day alongside this brave man.

@johnscanlon2598 10 ай бұрын

I had to rewind it 3 times to make sure I heard right that over 400 were lost RIP

@JEBlancoMEd Жыл бұрын

I was 10 years old watching the Vietnam war and I cried 1974. As the years Years pass- I became a US marine and served as a state trooper and now I am retired . I cried again listening to his story in 2022 as an adult .

@cooldaddy232 Жыл бұрын

Stop your crying jar head, ooorah!,, platoon 2070,, Graduated Halloween 1980,, this was an omen,,, lol!

@malcommckay2571 Жыл бұрын

Always Faithful 'Semper Fidelis' Marine

@mgray4254 Жыл бұрын

It's amazing how much the US down played our losses in Vietnam. But you can't put out those numbers in losses. It would discourage any new soldiers.

@cardo718 Жыл бұрын

J.E. Blanco M.Ed, In 1974 I was a 19 year old PFC in the Marines. Joined in 1974, served 6 1/2 years of active duty. I re-enlisted in 1977 and got out in 1980. I worked as a Journeyman Carpenter, then I became an Officer of the California Highway Patrol in 1984 and am now honorably retired. Semper Fidelis.

@thehopeforunderstanding9263 Жыл бұрын

wake up or to say if you don't know what Protects freedom and Justice how you pretend to understand and fight for freedom and Justice exactly your jobs and duty as we the people to protect freedom and Justice from the enemy within America since day one government and the unbaised unopinionated fact checked news we hear truth form a opinion and bios and vote and sheriff's interpret law we interpret justice following no law decide guilt on Injust no injust not guilty and the state can't be the victim or it's B.o.B on your heads schilling on your heads and they couldn't build prisons fast enough and would fall into civil war destroying itself from within without my right this countries foundation and only protection from the Enemy within since day one government and the unbaised unopinionated fact checked news we hear truth form a opinion and bios and fire or rehire if did what we the people put them there to do .. We police government here watching unbiased unopinionated fact checked news we make politicians tell the truth and do there job is exactly we the people's jobs freedom isn't free justice isnt given we trust in God no government to give us freedom no cops to hand out justice sheriff interprets law we interpret justice following no law decide guilt on Injust no injust not guilty and the state can't be the victim or it's schilling on your heads and they couldn't build prisons fast enough and would fall into civil war without my right this countries foundation and only protection from the enemy within since day one government and the unbaised unopinionated fact checked news the truth protects freedom and Injust protects the just . sure as hell can't even fake we the people anymore stand for Injust untrue trust in government to give you freedom and cops to hand out justice and politicians to tell the truth and do there job why vote you north Korean get out

@dynamicprotectionco Жыл бұрын

I served with Gary in 1976, another great example of our Era united states army, I sent a note but it was deleted, im former special forces living outside the us, good to see you again.

@bobdavis3357 Ай бұрын

Thank you veterans for your courageous and honorable service to our country.❤

@mikevaldez7684 Жыл бұрын

Chills ran through my body as I heard him say 44 men out of 475 made it off that hill.....they went 4 days with no food, & annihilated 5000 enemies....barely any water......wow.....the losses were astronomical....

@mwnciboo Жыл бұрын

Same as Gloucester Hill - Imjin River in Korea - Long Tan as well - although 4 days is beyond ridiculous.

@SurfBum713 Жыл бұрын

"They earned it, I get to wear it for them". Never better words spoken. Thank you for your service.

@jeffcrowder1892 4 жыл бұрын

He gave great respect to his adversaries by saying it was an equal fight due to him having the high ground, artillery and air support to counter their shear numbers of 10 to one advantage. That in itself was admirable.

@mbigatti 4 жыл бұрын

Thank you, sir, for your gallantry. I read a story from a F105 pilot where he had to drop is load danger close to a team of lurps who were in contact and about to be overrun. He explained that a half a degree off and his load would drop on the team instead of the enemy. A young lump had to stand in plain visibility, under heavy fire, holding a strobe so the pilot could see exactly where the team was. The lurp was my father. He made it out and 50 years later they met in a 101st reunion. He was 17 or 18 at the time. As old as my son is today. The selflessness of these young men (and kids) is hard to believe and awe-inspiring.

@jerryheughins7882 Жыл бұрын

This is so much more compelling, then television

@theccwdad Жыл бұрын

Soldier to the bone. Our country is still here because of men like this. Time for the world to grow up.

@jester8710 Жыл бұрын

Well said John

@pirsensor1186 Жыл бұрын

The vietnamees farmers kickt out the soldiers to the bones out of vietnam 🤣

@liberalhere3731 Жыл бұрын

America got involved in Vietnam in order (1) to get France to join NATO. Then (2) JFK was afraid of losing the 1968 election if our involvement did not increase. Rethuglicans, after Bay of Pigs, were calling him weak on national defense and not a good anti-communist. Most people don't know (1) Ho Chi Minh, during WW2 asked America to stop France from retaking its Indochina colonies. (2) In an attempt to look democratic, Eisenhower proposed a vote in South Vietnam expecting the South to win. When polling showed Ho was the overwhelming choice, Eisenhower cancelled the vote. Finally (3) the war in Vietnam was a civil war, not America versus communism. Of course, "anti-communism" doesn't extend to American business which happily traded with "communist" regimes. Nor to our NATO allies who also trade with "communist" regimes...Well until russia invaded Ukraine.

@DrownInLysergic Жыл бұрын

Nobody was threatening our country during the Vietnam War so no, people like him are not the reason our country is still here. WW2 veterans are the reason our country is still here. Vietnam was a pointless war we had no business being in, and we invaded them. And lost to Rice farmers lol. Nobody was threatening our country, France just wanted their territory back and thought we were the best chance at taking it for them and we called it "stopping the spread of communism"

@heresy3573 Жыл бұрын

@@pirsensor1186 thats not a fair assessment They stood no chance vs the U.S. soldier, the US never lost a battle during the vietnam war

@billfariss1514 Жыл бұрын

Gary Littrell refused to capitulate under conditions that the biggest and strongest of any professional sport would have ran for their lives under. Though 85% of the fighting force he was with were killed, his guts and military mindset saved the rest. He began the battle a non-com and left the battle a battalion commander with the rank of sergeant. With all the officers killed or unable to lead, he held the field!

@geordiejones5618 Жыл бұрын

Really shows how much all that training matters more than your rank. The unit commanders trusted him because they saw over months that he knew what he was doing.

@joevassallo4683 Жыл бұрын

Has Gary got twin sons

@KennyMcC 2 жыл бұрын

This man mentioned ‘being fortunate’ many times. There may have been some fortune involved but it seems to me his success was because of his bravery, heroism and loyalty to his troops. Top man.

@loki2stunt Жыл бұрын

Seems to be too lucky....

@gustavomackdaddy7800 Жыл бұрын

Yes sir....

@gustavomackdaddy7800 Жыл бұрын

Training is ever t hing ..and the love for your home boys on your left & rigght

@garyhill2740 9 күн бұрын

"If you can't put it in a rucksack and jump out of an airplane with it, it's too much equipment". These men are tougher than woodpecker lips. Much admiration, it's a privilege to hear this man's story. Much thanks for his service.

@jacobpettes335 Жыл бұрын

As a young man, I loved to sit and listen to stories from older folks, especially veterans. They are our living history and we are their legacy. Thanks for making these stories available to us.

@JefferyAshmore 8 ай бұрын

The term old man in my family is a sign of respect, because you lived this long on your wisdom. Strength and courage and have much to give.

@billvs6505 Жыл бұрын

Gary Littrell's story is amazing, and he is an amazing story teller. By no stretch of the imagination can I picture being in the situation he and his troops were in. Of approximately 473 personnel that were there at the beginning of the battle, only 41 survived. In these modern times maybe the word "hero" is overused, but he is a hero in every sense. Total respect.

@patrickfalandino Жыл бұрын

@twlttznr Жыл бұрын

At they time they were in this situation each was fighting for their brothers to keep others alive. That is an insight which I have learned from many combat veterans. That is why they say that the heroes were the ones who didn’t get home

@johnbaugh2437 Жыл бұрын

I know. I just listened and love this man

@johnwelsh2497 Жыл бұрын

I could listen to this man tell a story everyday... Incredible.

@MrWARHAMMER68 Жыл бұрын

That is exactly what I am about to do.

@arhatyellow Жыл бұрын

9~2

@arhatyellow Жыл бұрын

@reddiver7293 13 күн бұрын

Why is it that true warriors, true heroes, are so humble and soft spoken? Just overcoming the adversity of his childhood is rather heroic. The respect he has for his brothers in arms makes it easy to understand was something reciprocated. This guy is amazing! The way he talks about heavy combat in a tone of voice like I talk about making a sandwich. Thank you, sir!

@user-uk3lb2kf1d 2 ай бұрын

On top of all the great things about this man his voice and the way he speaks is mesmerizing.

@troyez5218 Жыл бұрын

Gary Littrell is a warrior in every sense of the word, and a shining example to all generations of what that looks like in person.

@EKcyclist Жыл бұрын

Hello there, and greetings from Scotland. As an observer from across the Atlantic, recent event in the USA have saddened me; there is so much polarisation in your great country. However, men like this show another side- bravery, humility and a recognition of the contribution of others. This is the US that I’ve grown up admiring. Thank you for all your military has done for the western World. Despite what others have said, you’ve pulled us Europeans out of the fire on many occasions.

@nicholastudor934 Жыл бұрын

Many Americans are saddened by the polarization as well. These men’s stories are such a blessing. I pray for my country to turn back to God and truth. Thank you!

@jonasdowner 10 ай бұрын

we're a secular nation, Karen.

@urwrstntmre 3 ай бұрын

@@jonasdowner The laws established at the beginning were founded on Christian principles, but yes, it doesn't mean the US is a Christian theocracy

@andrewwright8507 Жыл бұрын

I was fortunate enough after doing 2 tours Afghanistan and while living in Central Oregon to meet at the time 2016 the oldest living Medal Of Honor recipient alive again in Oregon Bob Maxwell and also got the opportunity to travel to the coast and dedicate a highway in honor of all gulf War, OEF and OIF vets and I am so honored to this day to have even shaken his hand!

@navyeodguy1605 Жыл бұрын

I remember being in Afghanistan in 2012. Had a buddy that worked with an ISR asset. He called me 1 night and said “get over here. It’s gonna be a good one.” An A-Team was on top of a hill. The top of the hill was maybe 2 acres. Thru the TOC, ISR notified the team to mark their perimeter with infrared “fire flies” that there were approx 200-250 taliban coming up the hill 360-degrees. The next thing you see are dozens of flashing infrared lights all around their perimeter. You can hear AC-130 in comms, then they lit the entire area around the camp. Apaches were off a ways waiting for the AC to get done. Then they went in for mop up. No American got even a scratch. There were no bad guy survivors.

@dosidicusgigas1376 Жыл бұрын

Thats freaking awesome sir. Thank you & your brothers in arms for your service. Im glad all you guys survived that assault. I have respect for most combatants but terrorists are an exception, it must have been pretty sweet to see the angel of death & apaches blast them to hell.

@daviddistefano7520 Жыл бұрын

@@nobodynever7884 You're 100% right about that when it comes to CHINA, (C.C.P.) but you're also 100% wrong, wrong & WRONG what you said and broke down about the Taliban, U.B.L. and Afghanistan as a whole. We can also talk about Saddam Hussein and the Invasion/War in Iraq because of the 9/11 attacks and the W.M.D.'s reasoning for invading and going to war in Iraq. But then again, I'm not entirely defending the decision to invade and go to war with Saddam Hussein and Iraq. I can only partially agree with you about the decisions that were made to go into Iraq, and also the decisions that were MISTAKENLY made in the aftermath of the Invasion as the War, G.W.O.T., O.E.F. and O.I.F. progressed, after initially being a very big victory in the beginning of 2003 and throughout the rest of that year ONLY, until the '"Surge operation"' victories much later on into the War and end. But the Invasion and War in Afghanistan following the 9-11-2001 Terrorist Attacks was and will ALWAYS AND FOREVER BE 1000% CORRECT AND JUSTIFIED in what the United States and the allied coalition had to do there !! PERIOD end of story.

@OpinionatedPeach Жыл бұрын

This isnt your video. Humble yourself

@rmp7400 Жыл бұрын

@@nobodynever7884 Hypocrisy of those in power ..who abuse their power, does NOT negate the heroism of the individual grunts who are there " not to question why, but to do or die" A very difficult situation to be in. High Commanders often betray their country...and the soldiers under them. That is Life. You try it, Sir:. Try being obedient under evil commanders, and serving with courage and humility because you KNOW that there is more good in this country than evil.. ( and you are not the only one to be aware of injustice on earth) As Jesus said: it is difficult to die for a just man.... However He suffered for us when we were evil. And Christ Jesus also even suffered for those humans who would ALWAYS choose evil. .. Because there was ONE - (and only one) created human who NEVER COMMITTED ANY EVIL: His holy Mother, Mary. All the rest of us just do the best we can...under very difficult circumstances But worry not!!! Holy God knows how to sort the wheat from the chaff. And He also knows what He will do with all chaff. 🙏🏼

@johnscanlon2598 Жыл бұрын

@@nobodynever7884 except they weren’t in their home country you stupid bastard they are foreign fighters , pick a damn book up before you start spouting diarrhoea out the mouth again

@waltirvin2979 Жыл бұрын

My younger brother spent 20 years and retired out of the hundred and first airborne. It wasn't that he wanted to but he had a physical problem that required it into this day he wishes he was still in. God bless our troops including my older brother who just passed. In memory Captain James B Irvin, US Army retired.

@rogerdorn38 Жыл бұрын

I never served, but I have lived a great life because of men like this, and all of you who have served. Thank you.

@jackcleary4027 Жыл бұрын

"They earned it. I get to wear it for them" When he said that i thought to myself he is a true hero who recognizes and of course saw first hand the ultimate sacrafices that were made for our freedom. Thank you sir! It's my hope that many,many more people hear your story and appreciate what you and those who served went through

@brucknerian9664 Жыл бұрын

I'm hooked on these stories from veterans. These should be compulsory viewing not just for students of history, but all Americans, including everyone hoping to become an American.

@olplainface1299 10 ай бұрын

We are full, no more room for anyone who wants to be an American, sorry. Anyone that comes here at this point should do so knowing that they are taking resources from an American who was born here and will be dealt with with violence eventually.

@JB-hp6up 9 ай бұрын

@@olplainface1299that's ridiculous, you know how many talented doctors, engineers, scientist come here from over seas and do nothing but make our country better and become legal tax paying citizens the right way?! There are plenty of resources for those that go through the process the correct way, and we are better off for having those determined and intelligent people here, that statement was nothing but ignorance.

@baileyayyy5085 8 ай бұрын

lmfao imagine being a nationalistic american and also xenophobic god you guys are so cringe@@olplainface1299

@wolfofrhodeislandx7462 Жыл бұрын

Not even an armed service member but tears came to my eyes listening to this man's story.thank you for your service sir you men were absolute warriors made it possible to live the way we do today.alot of people in this world need to recognize that fact

@ricky4214 Жыл бұрын

"I didn't earn this medal, I don't feel that I deserve this medal, I was a non-commissioned officer doing a job, I didn't do anything heroic, I'd done my job" spoken like an absolutely legendary hero, living as a higher standard of human than all of us

@bretgreen5314 Жыл бұрын

Ranger Littrell is the man I want by my side when the going gets tough.

@prodigal_no_more 9 күн бұрын

I am friends with Gary’s nephew. Every time I see this interview pop up. I will listen to it again.

@joesTired 4 жыл бұрын

Damm, this man commands respect on so many levels. Seems like a really good man and hard as nails!

@Frip36 3 жыл бұрын

Thanks for saying what I was thinking. Total respect for this heavy weight.

@shawni321 4 жыл бұрын

If you think you might pass on this interview, DON'T. It is riveting, and he is one of a kind.

@marcusthegreat3653 10 күн бұрын

HE IS SO GIFTED AT SPEAKING AND STORYTELLING, BEST IVE EVER HEARD

@cartermccool6233 Ай бұрын

Telling a warrior they can’t fight because they fought too well is like telling your best player on a basketball team they can’t play because they score too many points rest is definitely earned at a point but a warrior doesn’t rest until the battle is won or they are dead- these videos are amazing I’m grateful to live in a time I can hear and watch these men speak on their own heroic acts!

@SergeantSquared 4 жыл бұрын

*_"When you have the high ground, and you have the support; you have the advantage."_*

@migslist909 5 жыл бұрын

The voice.....The attitude......This guy created the phrase “Go ahead, make my day”

@delvictor7570 4 жыл бұрын

I believe that was Dirty Harry.

@hunter-kq2pu Жыл бұрын

this guy is unbelievably strong 💪 along with all his men his story is remarkable.

@septor-og6hi Жыл бұрын

This man is one of the most selfless, bravest and coolheaded soldiers I've ever had the honor of listening to.

@patrick4662 6 ай бұрын

Agreed. I love this channel. All these stories are incredible. And what’s more is they are told so well, each vet is extremely articulate. Impressive considering they are probably recounting some of the most painful and traumatic instances in their lives.

@kainschilling6758 4 жыл бұрын

the way this man presents himself is something we need more of these days

@dotdashdotdash Жыл бұрын

Too many w(oke snowflakes nowadays who don't know which bathroom to use)

@davehutchinson5118 Жыл бұрын

@@dotdashdotdash You shouldn't comment on the heroics of a man that you have no clue as to what it takes to achieve.

@jaredhildebrandt7210 2 жыл бұрын

"I didn't earn this, the men I served with earned it" this is a humble man!

@johnsanders7337 Жыл бұрын

This man is why we are the greatest country on earth. You sir are an example of what we should strive for

@nunyabiznis3595 Жыл бұрын

By what metric do you measure "the greatest country on earth"? This guy is a true hero you ain't wrong there.

@francopasta3704 Жыл бұрын

@@nunyabiznis3595 f you live you’d understand…if you don’t, it’s pure envy…

@shanejones578 4 ай бұрын

@@francopasta3704America is a hellhole for anybody under 30.

@drewwestenbarger535 Жыл бұрын

I could listen to this great hero tell his stories all day, such a humble guy!!!

@bitchslap3873 Жыл бұрын

I know exactly what to mean my friend, I used to make coffee for a ww2 veteran in Australia and would geet into trouble for sitting with him for too long,but I didn’t care. He had a story worth telling and I was honoured to hear it

@danmurphy4472 4 жыл бұрын

This Man is what makes our Country the best on the planet earth !!..........MUCH RESPECT SIR !!.........Thank You for your incredible service to USA.........God Bless and WELCOME HOME !!

@darrenpickard6518 Жыл бұрын

Yeah good luck with your issues with gluttony ,diabetes of your citizens getting so fat and on top of that ,try sorting out your ridiculously old law about guns that results in alot of sad devastation also on top of that good luck fixing your health care system that is immoral and does not care if you are broke,apart from that then yeah i guess your right America is the best place in the world, right?.

@georgeturner3rd220 Жыл бұрын

Sir, I had the pleasure of meeting 1 of your brave troopers in my home in 2015. He spoke about you, but at the time I didn't know about this video, but he loved you still. He was doing maintenance work and me being a Marine, we some how opened up a conversation about Obama and from there we got into his duty in Vietnam. He said that he barely made it off a hill defending Saigon and onto the one of the last American aircraft waiting for VIPs at an airport and that was how he got here. He asked that I never reveal his name whenever I spoke about his story, so I will respect his wishes. I wonder how much time had passed from your battle with the NVA and the fall of Saigon? Mr. Soldier, if you ever read this comment and remember the short, fat discharged Marine, please come and pay a welcomed visit to my home.

@jasonhale2523 Ай бұрын

Thank you for sharing your great story. I was born in 78 and have always admired Vietnam veterans. When I was a teenager I read "The Protected Will Never Know" by Leigh Wade, this book planted the seed that I would serve however I could. I was never a great soldier, but I've always felt so honored to follow in the foot steps of other great men - even if only in a support role as a Combat Engineer. This may be late - but, THANK YOU VIETNAM VETERANS FOR YOUR SERVICE. GOD BLESS YOU AND THE USA.

@louisadamo2510 15 сағат бұрын

Incredible story to hear and watch. I had the honor of meeting and having a picture taken with Sgt. Morris in February of 2019 at my wife’s DAR conference in Orlando where he was an honored guest. I have the utmost respect for all veterans and proud to say my youngest son is a Major and former active duty pilot in the Air Force and current pilot with the Mo. air guard.

@lewisclark5694 Жыл бұрын

I met one Army Medic MOH recipient when I was a medic. He was the nicest, most humble man I ever met in the service.

@itsaboutTime2revolt Ай бұрын

That noncombatant medic MOH recipient??

@bulletpoints556 Жыл бұрын

I remember reading the story of the mission for which he won the MOH. Incredible and inspiring presentation, every fighting man should pray for such leadership when thrust into combat.

@ratagris21 Жыл бұрын

He received not won the MOH.

@PRLcafe Жыл бұрын

Total respect from Warsaw, Poland. Salute You Sir. TOUGH LIFE. tough human.

@wildcat8598 14 күн бұрын

This Man hit the nail on the head. When SHTF you don’t rise to the occasion, instead you fall to your level of training. If you do something enough it becomes muscle memory and even in the most stressful situations when everything’s going crazy it’s your training that will keep you alive.

@GS-ez9rb 2 жыл бұрын

What an amazing man. No wonder he had everyone’s respect. Thank you for your service

@UAL012 Жыл бұрын

I met Drew Dix (Medal of Honor winner from Pueblo, Colorado) and he has the same attitude. "I was just doing my job and doing what had to be done." As a US Navy Veteran, I understand this completely. These men are humble and as down to earth as you can possibly imagine.

@benjipurrincho1474 Жыл бұрын

No medal is “won” as in a raffle. A medal must be earned.

@michaellongfellow8164 Жыл бұрын

Drew is a friend of mine and he exemplifies what a true hero is all about. I had the privilege of meeting 45 MOH recipients at the MOH Convention in Pueblo, Colorado in 2017. It was an awesome 4 days that I'll never forget.

@mikevaldez7684 Жыл бұрын

This man is just riveting to listen to! I literally hung on every word that came out of his mouth! Such an excellent, intense well-spoken man.... amazing life story......

@pedenmk Жыл бұрын

I know where Henderson KY is. I grew up in Indiana. Gary is a humble man. I to served on Okinawa in the MARINE CORPS. Great episode. Thank you gentlemen. God bless

@medicinemanager 4 жыл бұрын

What an amazing interview. Too bad more NCO's and officers don't possess this fellows demeanor. Thank you SGM Littrell. How humble he is.

@1murder99 Жыл бұрын

I was an ordinary grunt in a Light Infantry Brigade. The longest fire fight I was in was 2 1/2 hours. Seemed like forever. Glad you made it home.

@BroccoliHead7 Жыл бұрын

that kinda sucks

@1murder99 Жыл бұрын

@@BroccoliHead7 You should have seen it in color.

@ronniespain18 Жыл бұрын

It doesn't matter if the firefight is 2 1/2 hours, 2 1/2 days, or 2 1/2 months, war is hell my friend and I'm glad you made it home

@BroccoliHead7 Жыл бұрын

@@1murder99 I really don’t care

@jeraldbottcher1588 3 ай бұрын

Very humble man. And as common for almost all MOH recipients, they were not chasing after a medal, they were just doing their jobs, doing the best they could. They had fear, but overcame the fear to do what had to be done. He is a true hero!

@happygimp5167 Жыл бұрын

Through my years of living on this earth, I wish I could've met this humble gentleman. I was so young at the time he served, and I barely remember what went on in the 60s because I wasn't born until 1964. My father served and thankfully he returned home after his tour in Vietnam, and I was given my father until he passed in 2017. I talked with him about his time in the Army, and when we talked about his own passing, I told him, "Dad, I want to send you off with military credits". His response was, "why they didn't care about me then, what makes you think they care about me now"? I wasn't sure how to respond to that. But then I said, "Dad, this is a very different time than what went on long ago". But, when he passed, we laid him to rest and we told his story, and that gave me peace. I miss dad so very much, and I wish I could sit down with him, and hear more of his stories. I know dad passed knowing full well, that he was going to be met with my mother standing at the gates of heaven and to never be apart again. I miss them both! But I thank God, for allowing me to be their son... God bless and thank you to all that have served.

@bobcatwelder00 6 ай бұрын

he is still alive

@robertlaporte2998 3 жыл бұрын

Amazing how he fought thru all of that at 24 years old.I Thank God for people like your Rangers and you for your Sevice to this Great Country of ours.

@B-money96 15 күн бұрын

I cannot even imagine what the feeling is like knowing that your next and only option is to engage the enemy in direct hand to hand combat. Every nerve and every ounce of adrenaline had to be all in. After four days your adrenals are shot and your nervous system is begging you to stop. These men are stronger than we will ever understand. Thank you for your service. I'm sorry for those who perished. They fought bravely.

@justinburwell5124 Жыл бұрын

"I trained my troops. I'm very proud of that." Spoken like a true NCO. These are the leaders today's military is missing.

@samrichmond9709 2 жыл бұрын

What a peaceful voice that man has. God bless him for his service and thoughtfulness for others !🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸

@coryontheroad5459 Жыл бұрын

These men are the best we got.My father was one and was and still to this day is my Hero.

@parrot849 Ай бұрын

I am a Vietnam veteran and my father-in-law was a U.S. Navy Corpman attached to a Marine Corps rifle company in World War Two. During the Battle of Okinawa he was awarded the Congressional Medal of Honor for his actions during that fight. He knew Command Sergeant Major Littrell through his membership in the MOH association. Some years ago my wife and I, while as guests of my father-in-law at one of the MOH functions had the opportunity to briefly speak with Gary. The impression I came away with was that of one of the most warm, kind and humble warriors I’ve ever met in my association with military service; Or for that matter, any other walk of life. It is people like Gary, and my father -in-law, that makes one truly proud to be an American. Shame on President Nixon for not at least sitting down at a brief meal with those nine American heroes….

@brianrobertson1211 Ай бұрын

Thank you sir. I enjoy my freedom as an American because of you.

@PanFUGGINterA 3 жыл бұрын

Just listening to this hero tell his story had me scared shitless... Amazing bravery and courage!

@banjodeano2202 4 жыл бұрын

what a brave humble human being, full respect to you Sir...

@Nimrodbodeinejr Жыл бұрын

So am I but I ain’t trying to upstage this man’s story what I did was nothing compared to this man and I fought everyday in Afghanistan

@cooltools007 11 күн бұрын

I loved the unplanned advert for what leadership is all about… and this guy absolutely did excatly want should have been done, being their with your guys for the collective group and aim,.. and the most telling part was putting himself in the position not just to be their but to be able to do the best job he could by seeing the battlefield and being a genuine professional making his own know firstly your one of them , but training and then the test of such a difficult situation makes you a real leader amongst your brothers awesome, from the uk,.. 👍🙏

@michaelkimbrell8358 8 күн бұрын

this man is a gem

@secretsquirrel6308 Жыл бұрын

After 4 years of ROTC, my dad eent straight to Korea. Engaged in hand to hand combat at age 17. He came out of that military action as a SSgt with Silver Star with Oake leaf cluster and Bronse star. He led overnight patrols in Viet Nam in area between Cam Ranh Bay and Khe Son. He wouldn't talk much. I learned from listening while he visted with buddies,what mom knew, and later his DD-214. After 22 years active service he separated as GySgt. The pain of frostbite in his feet remained until his passing. He was often haunted of dreams of being slaughtered by the enemy he killed. He passed due to multiple afflications of Agent Orange.

@allencollins6031 Жыл бұрын

Wow speechless

@jameskrepp120 Жыл бұрын

thats a pretty large area to patrol??

@maxfullerton5228 Жыл бұрын

@@jameskrepp120 Well it's in that area, not neccessarily the whole area

@EasyTiger.01343 Жыл бұрын

My Dad knew a guy that did a thing…

@sammiedog4 Жыл бұрын

well he volunteered/ why complain

@patalexander3702 Жыл бұрын

What a wonderful soldier and human being! Thank you for your service, sir.

@martinsmithjr.2777 Жыл бұрын

Proud to be a flag waving American! these colors DO NOT RUN! my 7th gen grandfather served during the 1899 Spanish American War on ironclad POWHATAN his file says he received a medal for Valor saving his com officer during a skirmish I carry his good looks and rip your head off attitude when things go south! LOVE AND KISSES SEE U SOON!

@glennlariva6896 Жыл бұрын

This man represents the warrior class of our society that has fought and allowed us to keep our freedom. God bless him and all the men and women who unselfishly sacrificed for us.

@lookup2one 2 жыл бұрын

THANK YOU EVERY VETERAN for YOUR SERVICE!!! I can never say this enough. I'm a Army Brat, my dad was drafted in 1942, and stayed in until 1968. He was stationed in Germany twice then Kadena, Okinawa! I was a little girl then...but I remember the typhoon and earthquake we were in, in Okinawa! I remember seeing my dad leave the island for the Philippines on a Chinook helicopter. We had a lady help my mom, with 8 kids in Okinawa, I wish I could find her, her name sounds like "Sea Echo" I still have the dresses and jackets she sewed for my mom❤

@Angela-iv7qy Жыл бұрын

Maybe you can find her through Facebook. Post pictures of yourself as a child with the clothing she sowed on. There’s probably some kind of database of people who are trying to find each other from that era.

@BushidoDevilDog Жыл бұрын

Perhaps her name was Chieko (‘chee-eh-ko’)...about the closest Japanese female name that I can think of that might sound like “sea-echo”.

@rockymountainlifeprospecti4423 Жыл бұрын

When this man walks barefoot, the sound of iron hitting the floor is all you hear.. incredible story. Thank you for sharing this and keeping history alive!

@butterchuggins5409 Жыл бұрын

Is that the sound of his giant metal balls clanking on his boots?

@sarac1118 Жыл бұрын

Well I, for one, laughed at your dumb comment😉

@46bovine 3 ай бұрын

Thank you for your service and welcome home, CSM Littrell!

@kenl6769 Жыл бұрын

I have been in contact many times and suffer from it. Still, I am not worthy to comment on this warrior’s bravery and honor in leadership. All I can say is how appreciative I am to hear his story, from him, and how lucky I am to be his countryman.

@irenedemarco1354 Жыл бұрын

Oh yes you are worthy... you didn't cause any of the actions you had to respond to... the war was not your fault You did your job and got home... I so hope you find some inner peace...xx Thank you for your service... 💞✌️🙏

@terribuchin4357 9 ай бұрын

And we are so fortunate to have men like you to serve and protect us. Thank you so very much and God Bless you.

@harpoon_bakery162 Жыл бұрын

he's a great man. I hope he is still giving interviews because we need to have his excellent service record as part of the historical record for people to admire.

@xipingpooh5783 Жыл бұрын

This man is part of the foundation that the Military is built on. Thank you for sharing his remarkable story. Semper Fidelis🇺🇸1983-1989

@gregmccarter2176 2 ай бұрын

He was a man of honor starting at a young age....natural born leader...thanks for your service

@tarawilliams228 Жыл бұрын

I'd like to mention my first cousin of who I am very proud of.Master Sargeant Lloyd Dale Sams,U.S.A.F 1963-1984.A highly decorated service man.Passed at 51 years old In the blizzard of 93.Rest In Peace warrior.