For Memorial Day, SI senior writer Jon Wertheim tells the long-hidden story of Man Mountain Dean, a prolific pro wrestler and film actor who trained a special unit of immigrant soldiers called 'The Ritchie Boys' to fight in World War II. Think of what it would be like if The Rock showed up at basic training up to be your drill sergeant. More than just teaching them how to fight, Man Mountain Dean made these new Americans feel a part of their new country.

60 Minutes: Ritchie Boys, a secret U.S. WWII unit bolstered by German-born Jews

Uncle Slam's Secret Army by Jon Wertheim

For Memorial Day, SI senior writer <a href="https://twitter.com/jon_wertheim">Jon Wertheim</a> tells the long-hidden story of Man Mountain Dean, a prolific pro wrestler and film actor who trained a special unit of immigrant soldiers called 'The Ritchie Boys' to fight in World War II. Think of what it would be like if The Rock showed up at basic training up to be your drill sergeant. More than just teaching them how to fight, Man Mountain Dean made these new Americans feel a part of their new country.
<a href="https://youtu.be/nFwnh1eG6BI">60 Minutes: Ritchie Boys, a secret U.S. WWII unit bolstered by German-born Jews</a>
<a href="https://www.si.com/wrestling/2022/05/30/man-mountain-dean-wrestling-hitler-daily-cover">Uncle Slam's Secret Army by Jon Wertheim</a>

Compelling narratives from SI's best writers and captivating conversations with iconic names in sports come to life in Sports Illustrated Weekly. A unique look at legendary athletes from the preeminent sports magazine. These are the stories you’ve never heard from storytellers you won’t find anywhere else.

Sports Illustrated Weekly

Compelling narratives from SI's best writers and captivating conversations with iconic names in sports come to life in Sports Illustrated Weekly. A unique look at legendary athletes from the preeminent sports magazine. Hosted by John Gonzalez, SI Weekly is the place to find sports stories you’ve never heard from storytellers you won’t find anywhere else.

Compelling narratives from SI's best writers and captivating conversations with iconic names in sports come to life in Sports Illustrated Weekly. A unique look at legendary athletes from the preeminent sports magazine. Hosted by John Gonzalez, SI Weekly is the place to find sports stories you’ve never heard from storytellers you won’t find anywhere else.

BONUS: The Pro Wrestler Turned Army Trainer

https://api.omny.fm/orgs/e73c998e-6e60-432f-8610-ae210140c5b1/clips/8e79abf5-073f-479f-bd76-aea50017ec53/transcript

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