Join historians Kevin Hymel and John C. McManus for a fascinating deep dive into one of World War II’s most intense and misunderstood battles — Peleliu. In this episode, they uncover the Army’s overlooked role in the Pacific, revealing stories of courage, sacrifice, and strategy that history often leaves behind.

From the rivalry between the Army and Marines, to the critical importance of logistics and the leadership choices that shaped the battle, Kevin and John bring new insight to a campaign long overshadowed by myth and misunderstanding. They also explore how Hollywood’s portrayals influence our view of history—and why audience engagement is key to keeping these stories alive.

🎖️ Discover the real story behind Island Infernos and the soldiers who fought it.

📚 Hosted by the team at World War II Live — where history comes alive, one battle at a time.

Send up questions at: [email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Check out Mark Fastoso's video about Sledge's War Souvenirs here:

https://youtu.be/3ei2UMxZYXs

Watch George Luz and Mark interview Henry here:

https://youtu.be/ceGbkcE4xfY

John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel discuss the profound impact of Eugene Sledge's memoir, 'With the Old Breed,' and its companion piece by his son, Henry Sledge. They explore the emotional journey of writing, the realities of war, and the importance of storytelling in preserving history. The discussion highlights personal anecdotes, the challenges of capturing the soldier's experience, and the legacy left behind by veterans. Henry shares insights into his father's life, the process of writing his book, and the reactions from fellow veterans and readers alike.

Send us your questions at:

[email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel dive into General George Patton's leadership during the North African campaign, the experiences of troops during invasions, and the complexities of military communication. The discussion also touches on the surrender of French forces in Casablanca, Patton's controversial decisions, and the impact of media portrayals of the war. Additionally, Stump the Chumps explores the controversial battle of Iwo Jima and the implications of decisions made during the war, including the liberation of Prague.

Send us question for Stump the Chumps at: [email protected]

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John and Kevin take deep dive into the life and legacy of George C. Marshall. How his leadership set a course for the world. In out Stump the Chumps section we contemplate the North Platte Canteen!!!

Send your WW2 questions for John and Kevin to:

[email protected]

We would love to hear from you!

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Patton was so concerned about the Torch Landings in Morocco that he prayed to an Hawaiian war god. It even followed him to the landing beaches. John and Kevin take you along as they walk in the footsteps of General George S. Patton ... starting with him walking ashore in Morocco.

Stump the Chumps has some great questions:

What was the worse things each

major power did during World War Two?

Which battles in World War Two are over-credited

in their significance and which battles are under-credited

and are actually more important than the widely understood.

What two or three aspects of World War Two are

gradually fading from the narrative of the war

over time?

If you have WW2 questions for John and Kevin you can email them to:

[email protected]

Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Welcome to the very first episode of World War II Live! 🎥

Historians John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel kick things off with a deep dive into the myths and realities of D-Day at Omaha Beach—one of the most famous, misunderstood, and hotly debated battles of World War II. They recall visiting the beach and how walking the ground can change your perspective.

But that’s not all. Stick around for our fan-favorite segment, Stump the Chumps, where YOU get to put the historians on the spot with your toughest World War II questions. From surprising modern questions to new twists on topics you thought you knew, you’ll see John and Kevin tackle questions they didn’t see coming.

📅 New episodes drop each a week—join us for a mix of sharp history, good humor, and straight answers from two of the leading experts on the Second World War.

👉 Don’t forget to subscribe and hit the bell so you never miss an episode!

👉 Have a question for Stump the Chumps? Send an email to: [email protected]

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