Videos tagged with Don Graves

Don Graves, a 98-year-old WWII veteran, shares his harrowing experience as a flamethrower operator during the Battle of Iwo Jima. He highlights the extreme danger of his role, noting a 92% casualty rate and a mere four-minute life expectancy. Graves was the sole flamethrower survivor from his unit, which began with 335 Marines, with only 18 total survivors from the island.

This review of the Throwflame XL18 flamethrower explores its surprising legality for civilian ownership in most US states. It details the weapon's historical context, tactical risks, and technical specifications, including its fuel mixture and operational challenges like weight and ignition reliability. The video concludes that while expensive and niche, the XL18 is a powerful symbol of industrial warfare and a unique collector's item.

This episode of the Shawn Ryan Show features Don Graves, a 98-year-old World War II Marine veteran who recounts his harrowing experiences during the Battle of Iwo Jima. Graves discusses wielding a flamethrower in the dangerous caves and pillboxes, his survival amongst heavy casualties, and reflects on his wartime experiences. The interview also touches upon his childhood, his father's WWI service, joining the military, hearing FDR's "day of infamy" speech, military training, and his perspectives on the country's current direction. The episode is framed by the historical context of Pearl Harbor and the costly nature of the Iwo Jima campaign, offering a veteran's profound insights and wisdom.

Don Graves, a Marine veteran of the Battle of Iwo Jima, recounts his experience as a flamethrower operator. He details the tactical strategy of night operations against entrenched enemy forces and the specific training for his role with the M2 Flamethrower in the 5th Marine Division. The episode highlights the harsh realities of combat in the Pacific Theater.