An Exclusive Conversation with Colonel (Ret.) Gregory Fontenot

On June 6, 1944, a teenager from Michigan helped steer a flat-bottomed Navy vessel toward the shores of Normandy. His name was Myles Isbell. His ship: LST-540. He was 17. In this special episode of Front to the Films, we tell the extraordinary story of Myles Isbell—Gunner’s Mate Third Class, World War II veteran, and eyewitness to some of the most pivotal naval operations of the 20th century. To bring Myles’ story to life in full, we’ve seamlessly interwoven his final recorded interview—conducted just three months before his death—with archival audio from an earlier oral history he gave to the Library of Congress’ Veterans History Project. 🎖️ Access that full interview here » Together, these sources form a complete portrait of a quiet American hero—told in his own words. 🎧 In His Own Voice You’ll hear how Myles: Watched a troop train roll past and decided to join the Navy at 17. Survived a ship explosion in port and later navigated through U-boat-infested waters. Helped land Canadian forces on D-Day and returned to the beaches 38 more times. Witnessed the fallout of war in Japan and later delivered food to starving civilians. Built a legacy as a husband, father, business owner, and man of faith. 🏅 A Life of Service Myles Walter Isbell passed away on February 12, 2025—just three months after this interview was recorded. He served in both the European and Pacific theaters and earned multiple military honors, including two battle stars, the Naval Commendation Medal, and the World War II Victory Medal. After the war, he returned to Michigan and built a life grounded in work, service, and family—raising three sons and witnessing five generations of descendants grow up in the peace he helped protect. 📌 Why This Episode Matters This episode is intended to preserve memory, honor sacrifice, and remind us what courage sounds like. By combining present-day interview footage with material from the Library of Congress, our hope is that we’ve built a seamless narrative that lets Myles tell his own story—powerfully and completely. Join us in honoring his legacy. Listen. Reflect. Share.

In this powerful, first-person interview, 97-year-old World War II veteran Frank Wal, Jr. reflects on his life, service, and the events that shaped a generation. From the hardship of losing his mother at age eight, to enlisting in the U.S. Navy at just 17, Frank takes us through his remarkable journey—from radar duty aboard LSD-25 to witnessing the aftermath of kamikaze attacks and passing the USS Indianapolis just before its fateful sinking. Frank shares his firsthand memories of Okinawa, the atomic bomb’s impact on Japan, the occupation of Tokyo, and even a surprise encounter with General MacArthur. He speaks candidly about post-war life, teaching science and serving as a principal, building a life with his wife of 68 years, and raising four children. Frank's story is a story of war, but it’s also a reflection on resilience, service, and the quiet strength of the Greatest Generation. 📌 Chapters: 00:00 – Early Life & Loss 02:00 – Enlisting in the Navy 04:00 – Life aboard LSD-25 06:00 – Witnessing the USS Indianapolis 08:00 – Okinawa & Kamikaze Attacks 10:00 – Tinian, the A-Bomb, and Japan’s Surrender 13:00 – Occupation of Tokyo 15:00 – Seeing General MacArthur 17:00 – Post-War Reflections 20:00 – Career in Education & Family Life 22:00 – Final Thoughts 🎖️ "Just be persistent. Don't give up. If it didn't work the first time, try again." – Frank Wal, Jr. 🔔 Subscribe to our channel to hear more from the heroes of World War II and preserve their legacy. #WWII #VeteranInterview #FrankWal #WorldWarII #GreatestGeneration #WW2Foundation #OralHistory #MilitaryHistory #USSIndianapolis #Okinawa #AtomicBomb

They weren’t like other soldiers. While others were marching or jumping into battle, they skied to war. Carried rifles and ropes. Climbed cliffs in the dark. Slept in snow. And when the time came, they scaled mountains most thought were impossible to negotiate. In our latest Front to the Films episode, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.) sat down with Lance Blyth, a quiet-spoken historian who’s spent years tracing the footsteps of the 10th Mountain Division. What came from their conversation wasn’t just a military history—it was a reminder of what it means to endure, to adapt, and to lead. The 10th Mountain Division wasn’t born in a traditional barracks. It began in the Rockies, the Cascades, and the Alps—in places where men already knew how to survive when the weather turned and the air got thin. The Army called them up in wartime and sent them to the mountains of Italy in 1945, where they faced a hardened enemy and even harder terrain. They didn’t flinch. With ropes on their backs and skis strapped to their packs, they trained in snowstorms, learned to shoot with frozen fingers, and climbed vertical rock faces by moonlight. When they reached the front, they did what they were trained to do—advance. The assault on Riva Ridge was the kind of operation most commanders wouldn’t have attempted. But they did. And they won. Lance Blyth’s book, Ski, Climb, Fight, tells the full story. But this interview adds a layer of voice, of breath, of memory. You can hear in his words the weight of those mountains and the courage it took to move through them. After the war, many of the men came home and built things. Ski resorts. Equipment companies. Mountain rescue programs. Some stayed in the service. Some went quiet. But the Division’s legacy never faded. Now, as we mark the 80th Anniversary of the end of World War II, we remember what they gave—and what they gave up. The Wisconsin Veterans Museum helped us bring this story to the airwaves. You’ll find it wherever you listen to podcasts. Apple. Spotify. Amazon. It’s an hour worth your time. Because some men fought their war one step, one climb, one peak at a time. And they climbed to glory.

When a conversation with a business leader and pilot—who also happens to be the son of a World War II veteran—places you squarely in the cockpit of history, you're in for a very unique and fascinating journey. Our latest episode of Front to the Films, the official podcast of The World War II Foundation, offers exactly that. Hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), this conversation with Eric Zipkin—Co-Founder of the Tunison Foundation—is more than just an exploration of a historic aircraft. It’s about memory, purpose, and the enduring legacy of those who took to the skies in humanity’s darkest hours. At the center of the conversation is Placid Lassie, a meticulously restored C-47 Skytrain that flew in some of the most pivotal moments of the Second World War: the D-Day invasion, Operation Market Garden, and the Berlin Airlift. But as Eric makes clear, the story doesn’t end there. At first, restoring Placid Lassie was an effort to bring an aircraft back to life, but very quickly, that effort expanded into honoring the crews who flew her, the missions she endured, and the sacrifices she represents. Through this interview, you get a sense of the scale and detail involved in bringing a seventy-year-old warbird back into service—not just as a museum piece, but as a living, flying tribute. Zipkin walks listeners through the restoration process, the historic reenactments and flyovers she now takes part in, and the powerful reactions from veterans and families who witness Placid Lassie in flight. But what sets this episode apart is Eric’s deeper reflection on why this work matters. Through his leadership of the Tunison Foundation, and in partnership with individuals like James Lyle, Zipkin has helped build a bridge between generations—linking the Greatest Generation to those who come after, not through static displays, but through the tangible roar of engines, the precision of craftsmanship, and the thrill of witnessing history in motion. We also get a sense of the challenges—logistical, financial, technical—that come with keeping these aircraft in the sky. Eric is honest about what it takes, and how much support—public and private—is needed to sustain such a mission. His ask is simple: come see these aircraft, bring your families, talk to the veterans, and, if you’re moved by the experience, find a way to help. Whether you’re a history buff, an aviation enthusiast, or someone who simply believes in the power of preserving the legacy of our Greatest Generation, this episode will resonate. It’s a story of how history isn’t just recorded—it’s remembered, restored, and flown into the future. You can listen to the full episode now on Front to the Films, available on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and on our website. For more on Placid Lassie and the Tunison Foundation, visit www.tunisonfoundation.org. History doesn’t just sit in books or museums... Sometimes, it flies.

Some interviews make you think. Some make you feel. And every now and then, one does both in a way that stays with you long after the conversation ends. My recent discussion with Dr. Richard "Dick" Jessor was one of those rare moments. At 100 years old, Dr. Jessor sat across from me—sharp, reflective, and filled with the kind of perspective that only comes from a century of living with purpose. He has witnessed war, shaped the field of behavioral science, and spent a lifetime exploring what it means to live meaningfully. And in our conversation, he shared those hard-earned lessons in a way that was both deeply personal and profoundly relevant. A Marine at Iwo Jima Eighty years ago, Dick Jessor was a young Marine landing on the black volcanic sands of Iwo Jima, fighting his way through one of the most brutal battles of World War II. He dodged bullets and artillery, watched friends fall, and somehow made it through. The experience did not define him, but it shaped him. He carried it forward—not as a burden, but as a lesson. A reminder of what life is, what it costs, and how much of it is up to you. A Life of Inquiry and Impact After the war, Dr. Jessor did not disappear into the background. He built something. He became a pioneer in behavioral science, seeking to understand why people do what they do. He helped found the Institute of Behavioral Science at the University of Colorado Boulder, shaping a field that continues to influence public policy, education, and human development. Beyond his academic work, he lived with the same drive and resilience that carried him through war. He ran eight New York City Marathons. He climbed mountains around the world. He remained a student of life, always seeking to understand, to improve, and to challenge himself. A Conversation That Stays With You I sat down with Dr. Jessor expecting a 30-minute interview. More than an hour later, I was still listening. And I could have kept going. Because when someone like this tells their story—about surviving one of the toughest battles in history, about finding purpose after war, about what it really means to live a meaningful life—you don’t want them to stop. This was one of the most fascinating conversations I have ever had. If you can spare an hour, I promise you won’t regret it. You’ll walk away better for it. Acknowledgments This interview was made possible through the generous support of Onebrief—a company that understands the importance of history, leadership, and making informed decisions under pressure. As an organization, they "get it." We are also proud to present this episode in partnership with The Wisconsin Veterans Museum, which plays a critical role in preserving and sharing the stories of our nation’s veterans. Their work ensures that the legacy of those who served—like Dr. Jessor—is honored and remembered. It was an extraordinary privilege to speak with Dr. Jessor. I hope you’ll take the time to listen. It will be an hour well spent. If you would like to watch the video of this interview, CLICK HERE  

Join us for a powerful and moving episode of Front to the Films, as host Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.) sits down with historian, author, and Colonel Gregory Fontenot (USA, Ret.). This episode marks the conclusion of the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, one of the most critical and epic battles of World War II, and we could not ask for a better historian and storyteller to commemorate this momentous occasion. Greg’s extensive research and firsthand military experience bring to life the incredible stories of leadership, resilience, and innovation displayed during this historic campaign. In this episode, Greg shares vivid accounts from his books, No Sacrifice Too Great: The 1st Infantry Division in World War II and Loss and Redemption at St. Vith: The 7th Armored Division in the Battle of the Bulge, offering a rare glimpse into the courage and adaptability of the men who fought in the Ardennes 80 years ago. Highlights of the Episode: Stories from the Battle of the Bulge Greg Fontenot recounts some of the most extraordinary and harrowing moments from the Battle of the Bulge, focusing on the heroic actions of the 7th Armored Division at St. Vith. These stories capture the grit and determination of soldiers facing overwhelming odds in freezing conditions, showcasing their ability to adapt and persevere. Hear about the decisions that changed the course of battles and the personal sacrifices made by those on the front lines. The Legacy of the 7th Armored Division In Loss and Redemption at St. Vith, Greg chronicles the story of the 7th Armored Division during the grueling Battle of the Bulge. Tasked with defending the critical town of St. Vith, the division’s soldiers exemplified resilience and ingenuity in the face of overwhelming German forces. Greg highlights their ability to adapt under intense pressure, as they reorganized and countered enemy strategies in real time. Their sacrifices and determination not only influenced the outcome of the battle but also left a lasting legacy of leadership and teamwork that continues to inspire today. Lessons for Today’s Leaders Throughout the episode, Greg reflects on the qualities that defined the leaders of the Ardennes campaign—decision-making under pressure, innovative thinking, and an unwavering commitment to mission and comrades. Whether you’re in the military, a business leader, or simply someone looking for inspiration, this episode offers valuable insights into resilience and leadership in the face of adversity. Why You Should Tune In This special episode is being released as we commemorate the conclusion of the 80th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge. It’s a chance to honor the memory of the Greatest Generation while drawing timeless lessons from their experiences. Colonel Fontenot’s storytelling is vivid and heartfelt, making this a must-listen for anyone who values history, leadership, or the enduring human spirit. Greg's Books Be sure to catch this unforgettable episode of Front to the Films.  And then, be sure to purchase one of his books on World War II. You'll be glad you did!

  In our latest episode of Front to the Films, we had the honor of hosting John Slemp, a distinguished photographer, author, and veteran, whose work shines a light on the stories of World War II through an unexpected yet deeply meaningful lens. His book, Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art, is a visual masterpiece that celebrates the airmen of World War II by showcasing the artistry and stories behind their iconic flight jackets. Through this engaging conversation with our host, Colonel Tom Rendall (USA, Ret.), John takes us behind the scenes of his groundbreaking project, sharing his passion for history, the collaborative journey with world-class museums, and the inspiration he draws from his personal connection to the Greatest Generation. Key Takeaways from the Episode The Creation of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art John shared the motivation behind his book, which started with a desire to honor the men and women of World War II in a way that would resonate with younger generations. By focusing on flight jacket art, he uncovered a unique way to tell their stories—through symbols of identity, camaraderie, and bravery. Collaborating with Prestigious Institutions To bring his vision to life, John worked with renowned institutions, including the Smithsonian Air & Space Museum, the 390th Memorial Museum, and the National Museum of the U.S. Air Force. These partnerships provided access to rare artifacts and allowed John to capture the authenticity and emotional depth of these historical treasures. The Stories Behind the Art Each jacket featured in the book tells a story—of missions flown, comrades lost, and the enduring spirit of those who served. John revealed some of the most compelling stories he uncovered during his research, offering listeners a glimpse into the personal lives of the airmen and their families. Education and Inspiration for Future Generations John’s work is about preserving history through his exceptional photography—but it’s also about using it to inspire and educate. Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art serves as a powerful teaching tool for schools and museums, connecting young people to the values and sacrifices of the Greatest Generation. Looking to the Future During the podcast, John hinted at exciting future projects, including a potential documentary based on the extensive research and stories gathered for the book. His commitment to ensuring these stories are never forgotten continues to drive his work. Why This Episode Matters John Slemp’s work center's around the importance of preserving the personal stories of World War II. By focusing on something as unique as flight jacket art, he brings history to life in a way that is both accessible and deeply moving. This episode of Front to the Films reminds us that history is much more than accounts of battles—it’s about people, their experiences, and the lessons they leave behind for us. Get Your Copy of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art Experience the artistry and history for yourself. Order your copy of Bomber Boys: WWII Flight Jacket Art today and delve into the personal stories of the airmen who helped shape the outcome of World War II. Purchase the Book Here If you're visiting our International Museum of World War II (344 Main St, South Kingstown, RI 02879), we may still have some copies there for you to look at and purchase! Listen Now Don’t miss this inspiring conversation with John Slemp. Tune in to the full episode and discover how one man is using his talent and passion to ensure the stories of the Greatest Generation endure. Have thoughts about the episode? Join the conversation in the comments or share your reflections on social media using #FrontToTheFilms. Let’s keep these stories alive, together.

  This episode of Front to the Films features T. Martin Bennett, author of Wounded Tiger, hosted by Colonel Tom Rendall (USA Ret.). The discussion explores the extraordinary story of Mitsuo Fuchida, the Japanese pilot who led the attack on Pearl Harbor, and his profound transformation after the war. T. Martin Bennett, Author of Wounded Tiger Bennett brings Fuchida’s journey to life, recounting how the former military leader transitions from a celebrated warrior to an advocate for peace. Central to this transformation are his unexpected connections to Jacob DeShazer, an American POW who endures unimaginable hardship in Japanese captivity, and Peggy Covell, the daughter of missionaries who lose their lives in the war. Covell’s demonstration of forgiveness and DeShazer’s eventual return to Japan as a missionary profoundly influence Fuchida, leading him to embrace a message of reconciliation. Jacob DeShazer The conversation explores these pivotal figures and the unique intersections of their lives. DeShazer, a member of the Doolittle Raid, endures years in captivity before finding faith that compels him to return to Japan, where he ultimately inspires Fuchida. Peggy Covell, who chooses forgiveness over hatred after her parents' deaths, embodies the kind of grace that leaves a lasting impact on Fuchida as he grapples with the aftermath of the war. Bennett also discusses how Wounded Tiger captures these moments of transformation and their broader significance. The story highlights the enduring lessons of World War II, emphasizing the power of forgiveness, the possibility of redemption, and the importance of understanding perspectives from all sides of the war. Mitsuo Fuchida This episode offers an in-depth look at the people and events that shaped one of World War II’s most remarkable untold stories. Tune in to discover how Wounded Tiger weaves these narratives together into a timeless exploration of reconciliation and hope.

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 Britain’s Special Operations Executive (SOE) and America’s Office of Strategic Services (OSS). His covert operations helped arm and organize the French Resistance in Nazi-occupied France following D-Day, ultimately shaping the Allied breakthrough in Europe. Jean Claude’s “Salesman II” circuit team played a vital role in holding back German reinforcements from Normandy, a critical part of the Allied advance. As Georges recounts, Guiet’s story adds a powerful chapter to the narrative of WWII, bringing to light the real risks and sacrifices made by the unsung agents operating behind enemy lines. On September 10, 2024, the Foundation held a special advance screening of Dad’s Secret War at Fort Liberty (formerly Fort Bragg). It was a memorable evening attended by 150 senior active and retired members of the Special Operations and Airborne communities, along with their families. The response was overwhelmingly positive, with attendees deeply moved by this untold story of heroism and resilience. Georges Strachan-Heyes, who served as the keynote speaker, delivered exceptional remarks that resonated with the entire audience. His speech, which was so captivating and insightful that it left the room spellbound, delved into the film’s themes and explored how covert actions by the OSS and SOE transformed the course of WWII. His remarks were so impactful that we immediately invited him to share more on Front to the Films. In this podcast episode, airing as a lead-up to the formal premiere of Dad’s Secret War at the French Embassy in Washington, DC, on November 14, Georges joins Colonel Rendall to discuss the importance of bringing this story to the screen. He touches on themes of resilience, sacrifice, and the meticulous training and bravery required of SOE agents. Georges also reflects on the documentary’s production, which involved collaboration with the Newhouse School, offering students a hands-on opportunity to explore WWII history and contribute to historical storytelling as part of The World War II Foundation's Doccumentary, Film, Photography and History Program. Their involvement reinforces the film’s dual purpose: honoring the sacrifices of WWII veterans while educating future generations on the critical lessons of the past. Following its Embassy premiere, Dad’s Secret War: France 1944 will be aired nationwide on nearly 300 American Public Television channels. The film, narrated by Kevin Bacon, invites viewers into the life of Jean Claude Guiet and his comrades, revealing the profound human and historical impact of their missions in occupied France. Georges and Colonel Rendall’s conversation serves as an enlightening primer for the documentary, giving listeners a rare perspective on the bravery and complexities of war, and how these untold stories resonate in today’s world. Join us for this extraordinary episode of Front to the Films, where we honor those who lived and served in the shadows, and look forward to the story’s reach on a national scale. This conversation is both an introduction to the documentary as well as a fitting tribute to the courage that defined the Greatest Generation.

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 Ret.), this episode features two remarkable historians: John McManus and Chris Kolakowski. Both experts bring unique perspectives to the discussion, highlighting the critical elements of Operation Market Garden. McManus, author of September Hope: The American Side of a Bridge Too Far, offers a deep dive into the American experience, focusing on the 101st and 82nd Airborne Divisions' efforts to secure key bridges. Kolakowski, Director of the Wisconsin Veterans Museum, provides his expertise on military leadership and the tactical challenges that led to the operation’s eventual failure at Arnhem. John McManus Chris Kolakowski Recorded at the JFK Special Warfare Museum at Fort Liberty, North Carolina, this episode marks a significant milestone for our podcast—it’s the first time our host, Colonel Rendall, and producer John Zel have recorded together in person. The museum, with its rich historical displays and military artifacts, provided the perfect setting for this conversation. Toward the end of the episode, we were also joined by Roxanne Merritt, the curator of the museum, who shared her insights on the enduring significance of Market Garden for the Special Operations community. A fascinating part of the episode is our discussion of the museum's exhibit on Captain Arie Bestebreurtje, a Dutch officer who played a pivotal role during Operation Market Garden. Bestebreurtje, known to Allied forces as "Captain Harry," served as a liaison officer with the 82nd Airborne Division, working closely with General James Gavin. Bestebreurtje’s deep knowledge of Dutch terrain and his work with the Dutch resistance were critical to the Allies’ efforts to secure the Nijmegen and Grave bridges. His extraordinary bravery during the battle—including his reconnaissance missions and organization of Dutch civilians to assist the Allied forces—made him a hero in both Dutch and Allied military circles. Bestebreurtje’s contributions, though often overlooked, were essential in the operation’s initial successes​. Our discussion also touches on the cultural impact of A Bridge Too Far, the 1977 film that brought Operation Market Garden to life for millions. Both McManus and Kolakowski reflect on the film’s portrayal of the operation’s highs and lows—the courage of the soldiers, the complexity of the strategy, and the ultimate disappointment as the mission failed to capture the Arnhem bridge. Despite its ambitious scope, the film captures the emotional toll of war and has become a lasting touchstone for how people remember Market Garden. Throughout this special episode, we explore the leadership lessons drawn from Operation Market Garden, emphasizing the importance of flexibility in strategy, the need for effective communication, and the valor displayed by soldiers on both sides of the operation. John McManus and Chris Kolakowski offer valuable takeaways from this historic event, reminding us that even in failure, there are crucial lessons for military leaders today. We invite you to listen to this in-depth conversation and join us in commemorating the 80th anniversary of one of World War II’s most daring operations. Recorded in the heart of Fort Liberty at the JFK Special Warfare Museum, this episode is a tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and resilience of the soldiers who fought in Operation Market Garden. Listen now and join us in honoring the heroes of this historic operation.