HBO’s WWII “Band of Brothers” series became an instant hit, and has remained popular ever since it first aired back in 2001.  The show was based on a US Army infantry company led by Richard Winters during World War Two.  Winter’s final battle was against Parkinson’s Disease, a battle which ended with his death on January 2nd.  Winters was 92.

The battles on the beaches of Normandy were a pivotal point in history for the war, and Winters led Easy Company of the Army 101st Airborne Division during the Normandy landings on June 6th, 1944.  The series is about the Normandy battles, focusing on Winters and Easy Company.  “Band of Brothers” was produced by Stephen Spielberg and Tom Hanks.  Historian Stephen Ambrose is the author of the book “Band of Brothers” which the HBO series is based on.

According to Richard Plepler, co-president of HBO, those who worked with Winters during the filming of the series felt that he always demonstrated leadership qualities in his dignity and humility, which were always present in his demeanor on the set.  It became clear how he not only survived the ordeal in Normandy, but how he led others to do the same and help bring an end to the war.

“He said he was not the hero, but he served in a company of heroes,” Plepler said.  Plepler also recalled Winters’ hesitancy to show the final product to the surviving members of Easy Company in a special world premiere to be held at Utah Beach on June 6, 2001.  Winters knew it would be an emotional experience, and wasn’t sure about subjecting the men to it.  He finally agreed, and it turned out to be a very emotional day for everyone.  According to Plepler, nobody stopped crying for days.

“Band of Brothers” HBO Series is available on blu-ray and DVD.  

Source: AOL News