World War 2 LIVE

Join military historians John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel on World War 2 Live as they dive into the dramatic opening phase of the Allied invasion of Sicily in 1943—Operation Husky. In this episode, they break down the strategy behind the landings, the challenges on the beaches and in the air, and why Sicily became the crucial first step in prying open Hitler’s Fortress Europe. You’ll hear battlefie...

In this Stump the Chumps segment, historians John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel tackle two fascinating viewer questions that shed new light on the final months of World War II and the planning for D-Day. First Question: Did the U.S. Army and the Soviet Army ever fight each other at the end of World War II? John and Kevin explore the tense, chaotic final weeks of the European war, examining where U.S....

We kick off our series on the Sicilian Campaign with a look at the Allied planning. John and Kevin take you into the minds of the Allied planners for Operation Husky. They also take viewer question in Stump the Chumps....including looking at the issue of British tea breaks during Operation Market Gardern. Send us questions at worldwar2live@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more...

In this episode of World War II Live, Kevin Hymel takes viewers deep inside General George S. Patton’s personal archive to uncover a remarkable treasure: previously unseen photographs from World War II. Kevin reveals how he found these rare images, what they show about Patton’s leadership and personality, and why they change our understanding of his legacy. Join Kevin and John C. McManus as they e...

In this episode of World War II Live, hosts John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel engage in a lively discussion about their experiences leading battlefield tours, the significance of personal connections to history, and the challenges of military logistics. They share insights from recent tours, including memorable meals and interactions with participants, and delve into the complexities of intelligence...

John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel chat about the US Army's small arms during World War 2. Why the switch from the bolt action Springfield to the semi-auto M1 Garand? In our Stump the Chumps segment hear how they start to research a new topic! Send in your WW2 questions for Stump the Chumps at: worldwar2live@gmail.com Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

For a deeper look at Henry Sledge’s journey, visit Mark’s Game Room on YouTube to watch the in-depth interview that Mark Fastoso and George Luz Jr. conducted with him. LINK: https://youtu.be/ceGbkcE4xfY In this episode, Kevin Hymel, John C. McManus, and Henry Sledge delve into the personal and historical significance of Peleliu during World War II. They explore Henry's emotional journey to the isl...

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...

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,...

John C. McManus and Kevin Hymel delve into the Battle of Kasserine Pass, exploring the leadership challenges faced by American commanders, the dynamics of the German offensive, and the lessons learned from this early World War II engagement. The hosts discuss the significance of command visibility, the impact of logistics, and the morale of troops during combat. They reflect on the historical cont...

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 explore...

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: worldwar2live@gmail.com We would love to hear from you! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

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 b...

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 fa...