Echoes of Valor: Episode 7 - A Conversation with Tuskegee Airman, Harry Stewart
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Release Date: 03/14/2024
Front to the Films: An Inside Look at the Upcoming Film Dad’s Secret War: France 1944, with Georges Strachan-Heyes
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
The Front to the Films podcast is thrilled to announce our latest episode featuring a conversation with Georges Strachan-Heyes, retired British Army officer and Director of Operations for the UK and NATO at Onebrief. In this episode, hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), Georges brings his exceptional insights in discussing The World War II Foundation's newest documentary, Dad’s Secret War: France 1944. This gripping documentary, based on Scholars of Mayhem by Daniel C. Guiet and Timothy K. Smith, chronicles the daring World War II missions of Jean Claude Guiet, who served with...
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Front to the Films: Historians John McManus and Chris Kolakowski Discuss Operation Market Garden the 80th Anniversary
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of Operation Market Garden: A Special Episode of Front to the Films In honor of the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden, we are thrilled to release a special episode of Front to the Films. This monumental military operation, which commenced on September 17, 1944, is remembered for its bold ambition, immense sacrifice, and pivotal role in World War II history. Our latest podcast delves deep into the operation's significance, the lasting lessons it offers, and its portrayal in the classic war film A Bridge Too Far. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA...
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Front to the Films: Part 2 of "The Cajun Connection: Frenchies in WWII": A Conversation with Dr. Jason Theriot
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
We're excited to bring you Part 2 of our enlightening interview with Dr. Jason P. Theriot, historian and author of the groundbreaking book, Frenchie: The Story of the French-Speaking Cajuns of World War II. Join us as host Colonel Tom Rendall continues this captivating discussion on our latest "Front to the Films" podcast episode. In this concluding segment, Dr. Theriot provides a deeper view into the extraordinary contributions of Cajun troops during World War II. These soldiers, often overlooked in broader military histories, used their unique linguistic skills to serve as vital...
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Front to the Films: Frenchie: The Story of the French-Speaking Cajuns of World War II. A Conversation with Jason Theriot (Part 1)
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
In our latest episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Dr. Jason P. Theriot, an historian and author of the new book . This episode offers a deep dive into the unique contributions of Cajun soldiers during the war and the profound impact they had on their cultural identity. A Unique Linguistic Contribution Jason shares insights with our host, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), of the role of Cajun soldiers during WWII, known affectionately as "Frenchies." These young men from Louisiana, who grew up speaking French due to their Acadian ancestry, became invaluable as...
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Front to the Films: A Conversation with a Modern "Monuments Man" - Dr. Mitch Yockelson
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
In our latest episode of "Front to the Films," we had the privilege of speaking with Mitch Yockelson, a respected military historian and archivist. Mitch's work provides a deep understanding of military history, especially during World War II. Our conversation highlighted the lives of leaders and soldiers who influenced key moments in history. The Airborne Heroes of Normandy Mitch Yockelson's recent book, The Paratrooper Generals: Matthew Ridgway, Maxwell Taylor, and the American Airborne from D-Day through the Normandy Campaign, was a focal point of our discussion. As we mark the 80th...
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Front to the Films: An Exclusive Interview with LTC William R. Hogan, Author of "Task Force Hogan"
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
In our latest episode of the "Front to the Films" podcast, host Colonel Tom Rendall sits down with Colonel William Hogan, a fourth-generation veteran and acclaimed author of the new book, Task Force Hogan. Colonel Hogan shares insights into the heroic exploits of his father, Samuel M. Hogan, and his battalion during WWII. William R. Hogan served all over the world as a soldier-diplomat, from peacekeeping in the Balkans to humanitarian operations in Haiti and combat in Afghanistan. He is the youngest son of Samuel M. Hogan, one of the US Army’s most colorful and successful...
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Front to the Films: The Rifle: An Interview with Andrew Biggio
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Join us on Front to the Films as we explore the compelling stories of World War II veterans with our special guest, Andrew Biggio, author of the acclaimed book The Rifle: Combat Stories from America’s Last WWII Veterans Told Through an M1 Garand. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall, this episode promises an in-depth look at the personal histories and remarkable experiences of the veterans who fought in one of the most significant conflicts in history. Andrew Biggio, inspired by his family's personal sacrifices during World War II, has dedicated his life to preserving the memories of the...
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Front to the Films: An Exclusive Interview with Alex Kershaw
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
Join us for an engaging episode of "Front to the Films" as we sit down with renowned author and historian Alex Kershaw. This Sunday, May 26th, at 8:00 pm EST, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.) hosts an insightful discussion that offers each of us a wider view of World War II and its signficance. Alex Kershaw is celebrated for his in-depth research and compelling stories. His latest book, Patton's Prayer, dives into General Patton’s deep faith and its impact on his leadership during World War II. Kershaw’s other notable...
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Front to the Films: A Son's Reflection: George Luz and Easy Company
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
As we approach the 80th Anniversary of D-Day, join us for a special episode of "Front to the Films" as we welcome George Luz, Jr., to share memories of his father, George Luz Sr., the lively paratrooper from Easy Company immortalized in the book "Band of Brothers" and the HBO mini-series. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.), this episode discusses into the legacy of George Luz Sr. and the famous camaraderie of Easy Company. Host Tom Rendall introduces George Luz, Jr., and sets the stage for a heartfelt discussion about George Luz Sr.'s legacy and his impact on Easy Company. George Luz,...
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Front to the Films: Keith Nightingale and Joey Ivanov - Countdown to D-Day's 80th Anniversary (Part 2))
From The Front To The Films: A World War II Podcast
This is Part 2 of our discussion with Keith Nightingale and Joey Ivanov as we approach the 80th Anniversary of D-Day.
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Tune in to a captivating episode of 'Echoes of Valor' featuring LTC Harry T. Stewart Jr., one of our nation's most distinguished veterans, and one of last two surviving Tuskegee Airman--brought to you in collaboration with The National Museum of the Mighty Eighth Air Force and The World War II Foundation. Your host, Colonel Tom Rendall, unpacks the gallantry, trials, and historical impact of the Tuskegee Airmen through the personal experiences of Colonel Stewart, a recipient of the Distinguished Flying Cross.
Colonel Harry T. Stewart Jr. stands as one of the most honored members of the Tuskegee Airmen. Born on July 24, 1924, in Newport News, Virginia, his family relocated to Queens, New York, when he was two, near North Beach Airport. This proximity sparked his lifelong passion for aviation as he gazed at the planes flying above. At 17, sensing his forthcoming draft into World War II, he excelled in a military examination that singled out prospective pilots, which led to his enlistment in the US Army Air Corps as an aviation cadet.
Stewart earned his pilot wings at Tuskegee Air Field, Alabama, and, still in his teens, received his commission as a second lieutenant. He underwent combat fighter training in the P-40 Warhawk and P-47 Thunderbolt, and in 1944 he was deployed to Italy with the all-black 332nd Fighter Group. Stewart completed 43 combat missions in the P-51 Mustang. His most notable combat success occurred on April 1, 1945, as then First Lieutenant Stewart and other P-51 pilots protected B-24 Liberators during a bombing mission. The engagement that followed saw Stewart down three FW-190s, securing him the Distinguished Flying Cross.
The episode recorded on March 3rd explores Stewart's rigorous training, pivotal combat encounters, and his triumph in the inaugural Air Force "Top Gun" competition of 1949. Stewart, as one of the last Tuskegee Airmen, provides invaluable insight into their contribution to military aviation history.
Midway, the episode features spotlights on the Mighty Eighth Air Force and The World War II Foundation, then resumes with a discussion on the timeless relevance of the Tuskegee Airmen’s heritage in today’s military and aviation realms. In the final segment, Colonel Stewart offers advice to young military and aviation hopefuls, contemplating the strides made and the distance yet to be covered.
Seize the opportunity to engage with Colonel Stewart's profound legacy and the collective story of the Tuskegee Airmen. Immerse yourself in a significant slice of World War II history and gain a deeper perspective by reading “Soaring to Glory.”
'Echoes of Valor' continues to narrate tales of airborne bravery. Stay tuned for more stories that are bound to captivate and motivate.
