In this week’s episode of The What’s The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Don and Dennis sit down with award-winning poet, author, and Navajo Nation Poet Laureate Laura Tohe. Laura shares her incredible journey growing up on the reservation, attending boarding school, and finding her voice through writing and storytelling. As the daughter of Navajo Code Talker Benson Tohe, Laura offers a powerful perspective on the legacy of the Code Talkers — the brave Diné men who used their language to create an unbreakable code during World War II. She discusses her acclaimed book Code Talker Stories, which preserves the firsthand accounts of these heroes, and reflects on the cultural and emotional impact of bringing their stories to light. Don and Dennis dive deep into Laura’s career as a poet, educator, and advocate for Indigenous voices, exploring how her early life experiences shaped her art and sense of purpose. Together, they discuss storytelling, identity, and the importance of preserving language and history for future generations. Tune in for an inspiring and heartfelt conversation that honors family, culture, and the enduring strength of the Navajo people.

On tonight’s episode of The What’s The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Dennis and I sit down with two remarkable guests: Dr. Monique Brouillet Seefried, PhD, and Colonel Jason R. Musteen, PhD, U.S. Army (Ret.). Together, they’ve brought to life a fascinating piece of military history through their latest project — the English translation of Général Louis Dio: The Wartime Epic of One of Free France’s Greatest Soldiers, 1940–1946. Originally authored by French General Jean-Paul Michel and Dr. Monique Seefried, the book chronicles the extraordinary life and service of General Louis Dio, a key figure of the Free French Forces who fought alongside General Leclerc from Africa through the liberation of France and into Germany. The story highlights Dio’s courage, leadership, and his role in shaping France’s military legacy during World War II. Our conversation explores the challenges and importance of translating and preserving this wartime narrative for new audiences, the deeper meaning of Dio’s legacy, and how history continues to resonate through their work. Dr. Monique Brouillet Seefried — historian, educator, and U.S. WWI Centennial Commissioner — brings both academic insight and personal connection to the project as Dio’s goddaughter. A former chair of the International Baccalaureate and a scholar of history at Emory University, Dr. Seefried’s lifelong dedication to education and heritage makes her uniquely suited to tell this story. Colonel Jason R. Musteen, PhD, retired U.S. Army officer, historian, and former Chief of Military History at West Point, joins us with his extensive background in modern European military history. With service in Iraq, Afghanistan, and the Horn of Africa — and honors including the Legion of Merit, Bronze Star Medals, and Combat Action Badge — Colonel Musteen lends both a soldier’s perspective and a scholar’s precision to this translation. Join us as we dive deep into the making of this translation, the history behind General Louis Dio’s legacy, and the enduring lessons of leadership, courage, and service found in the pages of this remarkable work.

This week, we are joined by best-selling author John Bruning to talk about his new book, Fifty-Three Days on Starvation Island: The World War II Battle That Saved Marine Corps Aviation. John discusses the importance of the Battle of Guadalcanal and the Marine pilots and airmen who helped win the epic battle that began in August 1942. John tells us all about John L. Smith, Marion Carl, and Dick Mangrum, which are the three U.S. Marines that his book focuses on. He also talks about his interviews with the Marine veterans who lived to tell about it, how he researched such an incredible tale, his inspiration for writing, and much more! For those who follow John on social media, John's "writing cat" also makes a special guest appearance on the podcast.

Episode 216 – Judith Avila & Latham Nez on the Navajo Code Talkers This week we are joined by Judith Avila, co-author of the best-selling book Code Talker: The First and Only Memoir By One of the Original Navajo Code Talkers of WWII by Chester Nez. Judith is a Navajo Code Talker scholar who has toured extensively, giving presentations on this vital piece of World War II history. By 2011, she had conducted more than 80 hours of interviews with Chester Nez and his son, Michael Nez, capturing invaluable first-hand stories and perspectives. Chester Nez, who passed away in 2014, was one of the original 29 Navajo Code Talkers who developed the first truly “unbreakable” code, using the Navajo language to secure Allied communications in the Pacific Theater. Remarkably, this code was the only one used by the Allies during WWII that was never cracked by the Japanese. We are also joined by Latham Nez, Chester Nez’s grandson, as we discuss the extraordinary role of the Navajo Code Talkers and their critical importance to achieving victory in the Pacific.

This week on the What’s The Scuttlebutt Podcast, author Sandra McGee joins us to discuss the World War II books she co-wrote with her late husband, author William L. McGee, over the course of 20 years. Sandra shares her experiences researching, proofreading, and editing some of the most impactful and detailed works ever written about the South Pacific Amphibious Forces in WWII. The three critically acclaimed books include: The Amphibians Are Coming! The Solomons Campaigns 1942–1943 Pacific Express Sandra also co-authored Operation Crossroads, the story of the three atomic bomb tests conducted at Bikini Atoll in July 1946, immediately following WWII. She offers valuable advice on conducting research for large-scale projects and reflects on meaningful moments shared with World War II veterans throughout her work.

In 2019, I signed up for TikTok with the sole intention of keeping an eye on what my kid was up to online. What I didn’t expect was to stumble across a community that was far different from what the media and politicians led us to believe. One of the first creators I discovered was an extraordinary man—WWII veteran Jake “Papa Jake” Larson. Through heartfelt one-minute interview clips recorded by his granddaughter, Mckaela Larson, Papa Jake’s stories immediately captured my attention. After binge-watching about 20 of these snippets, I reached out to Mckaela to see if Papa Jake would be interested in a long-form interview. To my joy, he was not only interested—he was more than ready. Papa Jake was charismatic, energetic, and sharp as a tack. His first interview with me aired on July 12th, 2020, and we followed it up with another on September 6th, 2020. It became clear he still had more to share, so we sat down one last time on November 4th, 2020, to record what would become our final conversation. After hearing the heartbreaking news of his passing today, I decided to revisit those three incredible interviews, take the very best moments, and bring them together into this tribute episode. Please join me in honoring the legacy and voice of an American hero in WTSP EP214: Remembering Papa Jake. 🇺🇸

This week on The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, we sit down with producer Kirk Saduski for an in-depth conversation about his work on some of the most critically acclaimed World War II film and television productions, including Band of Brothers, Saving Private Ryan, The Pacific, and Masters of the Air. Kirk shares his experiences working behind the scenes on these influential projects and offers insight into the storytelling process, the challenge of portraying real-life history on screen, and the emotional responsibility of honoring veterans’ stories. His reflections provide a rare look into the collaborative efforts required to bring such landmark productions to life—balancing cinematic drama with historical authenticity. Topics covered include: The creative process and production scope of Band of Brothers, and how it became a definitive portrayal of WWII paratroopers The legacy and impact of Saving Private Ryan, and its role in reshaping how war is depicted in modern film The development of The Pacific and Masters of the Air, and the effort to shed light on underrepresented aspects of the war The enduring connection between these series and the WWII community, including veterans, families, historians, and enthusiasts Kirk’s personal memories of working alongside industry legends like Tom Hanks and Steven Spielberg, and the commitment to honoring real soldiers through storytelling About Kirk Saduski Kirk Saduski is a producer and long-time creative executive at Playtone, the production company founded by Tom Hanks and Gary Goetzman. Throughout his career, Kirk has focused on projects that preserve and present American history, particularly through the lens of military service. His work has earned widespread respect not only for its production quality but also for its educational and commemorative value. His dedication to accuracy, emotional truth, and collaboration with historians and veterans has helped define a generation of World War II storytelling in television and film. Whether you’re a student of history, a fan of military cinema, or simply appreciate the craft of meaningful storytelling, this episode offers a thoughtful and revealing conversation you won’t want to miss.

Episode 213 – Fourth of July Reflections, Wartime Realities, and Battles Around July 3rd In this special Independence Day episode of The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Don is joined by Jeff and the newly announced producer Zach as they dive into a wide-ranging and thoughtful discussion perfect for the July 4th holiday. The crew reflects on what the Fourth of July means in a modern context and explores the powerful emotions Jeff experienced returning home from war—confronting the striking contrast between his time in combat and seeing civilian life resume as if untouched. The conversation then turns toward a compelling comparison: what might those same post-war feelings have been like for World War II veterans coming home in the 1940s? As part of this historical lens, the team takes a deep dive into three significant battles from World War II that occurred around the July 3rd time frame, examining their strategic and emotional impact on the broader war effort. From personal insights to historical deep dives, the episode captures the spirit of remembrance and respect for those who served. Plus, in the Whatcha Readin' segment, Jeff shares an exciting update—he’s started work on his own memoir, offering listeners a first glimpse into the stories and perspectives he plans to share. All this and more in a jam-packed episode of reflection, history, and heartfelt discussion.

This week on What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, our friend Zach Morris returns to the show, filling in as guest host for Jeff. Together, we welcome acclaimed historian and author Craig L. Symonds to discuss his latest book, Annapolis Goes to War. In this insightful conversation, Symonds shares the compelling story of how the U.S. Naval Academy and its midshipmen transformed in response to the global crisis of World War II. Drawing from years of research, he explains how Annapolis became a critical pipeline for naval leadership during the war, and how the institution adapted to prepare young officers for the immense challenges ahead. Craig L. Symonds is Professor Emeritus of History at the U.S. Naval Academy, where he taught for over 30 years. A former department chair and recipient of the prestigious U.S. Navy Superior Civilian Service Award, Symonds is widely recognized as one of the foremost scholars of naval history. He is the author of numerous award-winning books, including Lincoln and His Admirals (which won the Lincoln Prize), Decision at Sea, and Neptune: The Allied Invasion of Europe and the D-Day Landings. His work is known for its rigorous scholarship, compelling narrative, and accessibility to both academic and general readers. Join us for a rich discussion that dives deep into the intersection of education, leadership, and wartime innovation—and gain a new appreciation for the role Annapolis played in shaping the U.S. Navy's wartime legacy.

This week on What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Jeff and Dennis recap their latest WWII Living History event — sharing stories from the field, lessons learned, and the camaraderie that makes it all worthwhile. Their conversation naturally leads into a deeper discussion on the importance of stepping up in your community. What happens when key organizers can no longer carry the load? Why is it vital for others to be ready to step in and help maintain the traditions and events that bring people together? Tune in as the guys reflect on legacy, leadership, and keeping history alive — plus much more.

This week on The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Don kicks things off by drawing the winner of our April Patreon Prize Pack Giveaway—congrats to the lucky supporter! Then, Dennis checks in with an update from an event he and Jeff recently attended from the world of living history. From there, Don and Dennis dive deep—literally—into the remarkable legacy of the Navy Frogmen, the elite Underwater Demolition Teams of WWII. Learn how these daring pioneers helped shape modern naval special forces, and how their rigorous training and battlefield contributions are providing inspiration and historical grounding for Dennis’s upcoming WWII short story series. Packed with giveaways, history, and a look at stories yet to be told—this is one episode you won’t want to miss.

This week on What's The Scuttlebutt, Don and Dennis sit down with historian and storyteller Andrew Booher to explore the compelling tale of a remarkable group of high school students known as The Weslaco Eight—a group of young men from Weslaco, Texas, who would go on to serve with distinction during World War II. These eight friends exemplified duty, courage, and brotherhood as they left their small town to answer the call of service. Among them was one individual who became world-famous—not for a lifelong military career, but because of a snapshot in time that would go on to symbolize an entire generation's sacrifice. Andrew takes us through his ongoing research and presentation on the group, which he is currently transforming into a book. We dive into the inspiration behind his work, the incredible true stories he’s uncovered, and the legacy of these young men who exemplified the spirit of the Greatest Generation. Don’t miss this powerful conversation about history, heroism, and the enduring impact of a single photograph.

Episode Description – What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast EP 207 This week on What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, Don, Jeff, and Dennis sit down with author and former Army Ranger Mir Bahmanyar for a deep dive into the extraordinary history of the U.S. Army Rangers. From the harrowing campaigns in North Africa to the treacherous mountain battles in Italy, the conversation explores the grit, sacrifice, and legacy of these elite soldiers—and how their stories inspired Mir’s latest book, The Houdini Club. Mir Bahmanyar is a military historian and former U.S. Army Ranger who served with the 2nd Battalion, 75th Ranger Regiment. He has authored several acclaimed titles including Shadow Warriors and SEALs: The US Navy’s Elite Fighting Force, known for their meticulous detail and vivid storytelling. In The Houdini Club, Mir fuses real-life Ranger operations as a suspenseful portrait of clandestine WWII missions. One gripping section reads, "In the tunnels beneath Rome, silence was survival—each step echoing decades of secrets and blood, each breath a gamble against discovery." Whether you're a military history buff or just love a good wartime thriller, this episode delivers insight, action, and the passion behind preserving untold stories. 🎙️ Stream now wherever you get your podcasts!

Episode 206 - Unlocking Your Family’s WWII History with Zach Morris This week on The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast, we welcome back historian and researcher Zach Morris for an in-depth discussion on how to navigate the National Archives when researching your family’s military history. Zach breaks down the best strategies for uncovering service records, the most important details to include when filling out paperwork, and common pitfalls to avoid. Plus, we take another deep dive into Dennis' grandfather’s experiences during World War II, uncovering new details about his service. If you've ever wanted to learn more about your family’s connection to WWII, this episode is packed with insights and useful tips!

Episode 205 - The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast This week, we are joined by author Dr. Roger Newman to discuss his new novel, *Boys*. The book follows the story of Alex, a young Black boy who finds refuge on a dairy farm after his family is murdered by the Ku Klux Klan during the Great Depression. Taken in by the farm’s White owners, Alex grows up alongside their son, Pete, and the two consider themselves brothers. Together, they navigate the harsh realities of Jim Crow-era racial intolerance in the South. As war looms, they join a segregated U.S. Army and find their own identities through the crucible of battle. Separated for years by their military careers, they reunite at Fort Jackson, South Carolina, in 1969, facing the tensions of the Civil Rights and antiwar movements. When Pete is brutally attacked off-base, Alex must uncover the truth while confronting his past and what it means to be a Black man with a White brother. We also dive into the history of Hill 314, a crucial battle during the siege of Mortain in August 1944. As part of Operation Lüttich, German forces launched a counteroffensive against Allied troops in an attempt to halt their advance in France. The **2nd Battalion, 120th Infantry Regiment**, held their ground on Hill 314 for nearly a week, cut off and outnumbered. Facing relentless German assaults, artillery barrages, and dwindling supplies, the American defenders suffered heavy casualties—approximately 300 men started the defense, with nearly 200 becoming casualties**. Their fierce resistance played a pivotal role in preventing the German breakout, ultimately shaping the lead-up to the "Battle of the Bulge* Tune in for a compelling discussion on *Boys, military history, and the lasting impact of these pivotal moments in history!

In episode 204 of *The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast*, we take a deep dive into the intense and pivotal Battle of Iwo Jima, discussing the fierce combat, strategic significance, and the incredible bravery displayed by U.S. Marines during one of World War II’s most grueling conflicts. We explore historical insights and the lasting impact of this battle on both the war and those who fought in it. Alongside our historical discussion, we announce another exciting Patreon prize pack giveaway, rewarding our dedicated supporters with exclusive WWII-themed collectibles. Additionally, we take a moment to honor the passing of K9 Duke, reflecting on the profound role that military and law enforcement service dogs play in protecting and assisting their handlers. As always, we wrap up the episode with our "Whatcha Readin'" segment, sharing books and articles that have captured our interest, from WWII history to other compelling reads. Tune in for a mix of historical deep dives, community engagement, and insightful conversation in this packed episode of *The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast*!

**Episode 203: The 80th Anniversary of the Liberation of Auschwitz** This week, we reflect on the 80th anniversary of the liberation of Auschwitz, one of history’s most infamous concentration camps. We discuss key historical details, including the staggering numbers—over **1.1 million** people perished within its walls, with **960,000** of them being Jewish victims of the Holocaust. At its peak, Auschwitz held more than **100,000** prisoners at a time, serving as a grim testament to the horrors of Nazi Germany. In this episode, we also revisit an interview from *Episode 6*, recorded at the **Holocaust Museum in Naples, Florida**, where we explored firsthand accounts, artifacts, and the museum’s mission to educate future generations about this dark chapter in history. Join us as we honor the memory of those who suffered and reflect on the lessons that must never be forgotten.

**Episode Description: What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast - Re-Deployment Part 4** This week, we’re joined by Mike Weigel to discuss his grandfather's incredible service during WWII and get an exclusive look at some previously unpublished photos of Hitler and other high-ranking Nazi officials discovered by his grandfather in Germany. Don, Jeff, Henry, and Mike share their favorite WWII book recommendations, and Don dives into the 1998 HBO film *When Trumpets Fade*, a gripping portrayal of the Battle of Hurtgen Forest. Tune in for these stories and much more on this episode of *What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast*!

Happy New Year! Today marks the start of our 7th year on WTSP, and we’re kicking off this milestone episode with a very special guest. Don and Dennis are joined by former co-host, author, and great friend, Henry Sledge, to promote his new book, currently available for pre-order: The Old Breed... The Complete Story Revealed: A Father, A Son, and How WWII in the Pacific Shaped Their Lives. Henry shares the fascinating journey behind the creation of this book, including the extraordinary support from Auburn University’s archives, which helped him uncover unpublished parts of his father’s renowned work, With The Old Breed. He gives us a glimpse of the new book’s content, reflecting on the deep personal and historical connections that make this story so compelling. Henry also discusses the challenges of editing his original manuscript to meet publisher word count guidelines, along with plenty of other behind-the-scenes insights. Don’t miss this heartfelt and informative conversation as we celebrate another year of WTSP!

"In this special 200th episode of *The What's The Scuttlebutt Podcast*, we are honored to sit down with Robert B. O'Connor, author of *Jeep Show* and a WWII history enthusiast. Robert shares his journey of becoming captivated by WWII history, the inspiration behind his novel, and the creative opportunities historical fiction provides in storytelling. Join us for a deep dive into the stories, history, and passion that fuel this incredible work, along with plenty of WWII insights and much more!"