WWII Episodes

In this week’s episode of Duty & Valor, we share the remarkable story of Air Force Lt Col Louis Curdes, a WWII ace unlike any other. Curdes was one of only a handful of American pilots to shoot down aircraft from all three major Axis powers. Germany, Italy, and Japan. But his most astonishing feat came when he made a split-second decision to shoot down an American transport plane to save its crew from capture. From his early days in Fort Wayne, Indiana, to daring escapes as a POW, and finally t...

At just 17 years old, Private First Class Jacklyn Lucas became one of the youngest service members ever to receive the Medal of Honor. But his path to heroism was anything but ordinary. After lying about his age to join the Marines at just 14, Lucas would go on to defy the odds, stowing away on a ship to Iwo Jima, diving onto two grenades to save his fellow Marines, and miraculously surviving. In this episode, we recount the astonishing bravery, sacrifice, and resilience of a young man who refus...

At just 18 years old, Navy Hospital Apprentice First Class Robert Bush displayed extraordinary courage during the Battle of Okinawa. While under relentless enemy fire, he tended to a wounded Marine officer, all while fending off attacking Japanese soldiers with his sidearm and a discarded rifle. Gravely wounded himself—including the loss of an eye—Bush refused to be evacuated until his platoon commander was safe. For his heroic actions, he became the youngest sailor to receive the Medal of Honor...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary courage of Lieutenant Colonel Edward S. Michael, a B-17 Flying Fortress pilot and Medal of Honor recipient from World War II. On April 11, 1944, during a harrowing mission over Germany, he faced relentless enemy attacks, a crippled aircraft, and personal injuries that would have defeated most men. Yet, his steadfast resolve to save his crew and complete the mission turned a near-certain tragedy into an inspiring story of ...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the life and legacy of 1LT Pascal Poolaw, Sr., the most decorated Native American soldiers in U.S. Army history. A member of the Kiowa Tribe, Poolaw served with distinction in World War II, the Korean War, and the Vietnam War, earning four Silver Stars, five Bronze Stars, and three Purple Hearts for his extraordinary bravery. But his story goes far beyond medals—it’s a tale of duty, sacrifice, and love for family. Please visit our website...

Send us a text In this episode, we honor the life and service of U.S. Army Colonel Ruby Bradley, one of the most decorated women in American military history. From her courageous actions as a combat nurse during World War II and the Korean War to her incredible resilience as a POW, Colonel Bradley's story is one of selfless heroism and unyielding dedication. Join us as we explore how she earned the title “Angel in Fatigues” and became a symbol of strength, compassion, and sacrifice. To support ...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable life of Major General Merritt "Red Mike" Edson, a Marine Corps legend whose leadership and bravery during World War II saw him being awarded the Medal of Honor. From his early combat experience in the jungles of Nicaragua to his heroic stand at Edson’s Ridge during the Battle of Guadalcanal, we’ll explore how his courage under fire and tactical brilliance shaped the outcome of key battles and left an enduring mark on mi...

Send us a text In this episode of Duty & Valor, we honor the extraordinary life of Rear Admiral Bruce McCandless, a hero of the Pacific Theater during World War II. When the USS San Francisco faced near destruction during the Battle of Guadalcanal, McCandless, then a communications officer, took command after his superiors were killed or incapacitated. His quick thinking and courageous leadership not only saved his ship but also played a pivotal role in securing a critical victory. Please visit...

Send us a text Visit Amazon to purchase The Cappy (12 Pack): https://a.co/d/0jh0HP0r Richard Sherman's book Home: Remembering The Military Heroes Who Never Returned can be purchased at: www.neverhomeheroes.com In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the extraordinary life of Sergeant First Class Edward Carter Jr., a soldier whose courage and determination transcended the barriers of race and adversity. From his early days fighting in foreign wars to his heroic actions on the battlefield...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Duty & Valor, we take a deep dive into the extraordinary life and service of Brigadier General Kenneth N. Walker, a visionary leader whose bold actions helped shape the future of airpower during World War II. Known for leading from the front, Walker refused to stay behind the lines and instead took to the skies alongside his men in some of the most dangerous missions of the war. His strategic brilliance and personal bravery culminated in a fateful missi...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the remarkable story of Llewellyn Chilson, one of World War II’s most decorated soldiers. From his humble beginnings in Ohio to his heroic actions on the battlefields of Europe, Chilson's courage under fire earned him three Distinguished Service Crosses, among other honors. We'll explore his extraordinary feats, including the daring capture of enemy positions that defied the odds, and reflect on the unwavering commitment that...

Send us a Text Message. On this week’s episode of Duty & Valor, you’ll hear the story of William "Wild Bill" Donovan, the man who shaped the future of American intelligence. Dive into the incredible life of this war hero, legal legend, and pioneering intelligence officer who left an indelible mark on U.S. history. From his Medal of Honor bravery in World War I to his pivotal role in forming the Office of Strategic Services (OSS) during World War II, Donovan's legacy is nothing short of extraordi...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of the Duty & Valor Podcast, you'll hear the story of, Lieutenant Commander Edward "Butch" O'Hare. Discover the incredible story behind O'Hare's legendary bravery on February 20, 1942, when he single-handedly defended the USS Lexington from a squadron of enemy bombers. With only a handful of bullets and unmatched determination, O'Hare's actions turned the tide of battle and earned him the Medal of Honor. Join us as we delve into the details of this daring ...

Send us a Text Message. In this episode of Duty & Valor, we delve into the extraordinary heroics of US Army 1st Sergeant Leonard Funk Jr., a true American hero of World War II. Discover how Funk's indomitable spirit and exceptional leadership turned the tide in some of the war's most brutal battles. Hear the gripping account of his incredible bravery during the Battle of the Bulge, where he led a daring assault on a heavily fortified German position and single-handedly thwarted a planned attack ...

Send us a Text Message. Discover the true story of Lieutenant Colonel Ernest Childers, a Native American hero whose bravery and leadership during World War II earned him the Medal of Honor. In this episode, we delve into the life and legacy of this remarkable soldier, from his early days in Oklahoma to his fearless actions on the battlefields of Italy. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: americanindianmagazine.com nationalww2museum...

This episode tells about the life of James H. "Jimmy" Doolittle, an American icon who embodied the spirit of aviation. We'll explore his early days as a daredevil pilot breaking speed records, then delve into his pivotal role in World War II leading the daring Doolittle Raid on Tokyo. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: history.com af.mil wikipedia.org britannica.com James Doolittle britannica.com Doolittle Raid Support the Show. ...

Colonel Bruce Carr wasn't just a fighter pilot, he was a master of defying odds. This episode dives into the incredible true story of how he evaded capture after being shot down, then stole a German plane to escape. We'll also explore his rise to becoming a flying ace in World War II and his continued bravery during the Korean and Vietnam Wars. Get ready for an action-packed journey that will leave you inspired by Colonel Carr's unwavering courage and ingenuity. Please visit our website to lear...

From his humble beginnings as a mechanic to his rise as a top fighter ace, Lt. Col. Walsh's journey is one of unwavering determination and exceptional bravery. Witness his daring missions in the Pacific Theater, where he faced overwhelming odds and turned the tide of battle. Discover the incredible acts of heroism that earned him the highest military honor. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: wikipedia.org pacificwrecks.com nps.gov...

Join us as we delve into the remarkable story of Staff Sergeant Marcario Garcia, a true American hero and the first Mexican immigrant to be awarded the Medal of Honor. From his humble beginnings in Mexico to the intense battlegrounds of World War II, Garcia's journey is one of selfless valor, unwavering courage, and breaking barriers. Discover the gripping details of his heroic actions where he faced two machine guns alone to save his comrades. Please visit our website to learn more about other...

On October 12, 1944 Jack and the other men of Company I faced a heavily defended German machine gun position that was inflicting heavy casualties on the advancing Americans. Ssg Pendleton volunteered to lead a squad on an attack on that position. He gave his life to ensure his men reached their objective, ensuring the success of the Allied advance further into Germany. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: wikipedia.org yakimaherald....

US Navy Lieutenant Albert David wasn't your typical war hero. He was a humble engineer thrust into the heart of an unthinkable mission: capturing a German U-boat at sea. In the vast expanse of the Atlantic, during the heat of World War II, David led a daring raid, boarding the U-505 in a face-to-face confrontation with the enemy. His success not only turned the tide of the war, but also uncovered a trove of intelligence that changed the course of the conflict. David's story is a testament to the...

On this episode of Duty & Valor you'll hear the story of US Army Tsgt. William Bader, a man who was awarded a Silver Star for saving the life of a fellow soldier. He was a hero to his nation and I'm honored to tell you his story. Please visit our website to learn more about other American Heroes. www.dutyandvalor.com Sources: wickedlocal.com Legacy.com deathonnews.com hammondstar.com vetcoices.wordpress.com loc.gov Support the show Thank you for listening to Duty & Valor! Music by Amelie Le...

Sergeant Major Kenneth Stumpf was more than just a soldier; he was a hero. This episode delves into the life of this remarkable individual, exploring his courageous actions during the Vietnam War and his impactful legacy. Kenneth Stumpf, a young man from Wisconsin, answered the call to duty during the Vietnam War. Serving three tours, he faced unimaginable challenges with unwavering bravery. On April 25, 1967, Stumpf's heroism shone brightest. Despite being wounded, he single-handedly charged f...

In this episode of Duty & Valor, the true story about the bravery and sacrifice of Army Staff Sergeant Ruben Rivers. As a member of the 761st Tank Battalion, The Black Panthers, during World War II, Rivers exemplified unwavering valor in the face of overwhelming odds during World War II. His remarkable leadership and selfless actions paved the way for his unit's advance despite fierce German resistance. It took the nation 53 years to recognize his properly when he was finally awarded the Medal o...