D-Day legacy: Niland family relives the true story behind 'Saving Private Ryan'

Preston Niland shares: "The Matt Damon character... he said exactly what Uncle Fritz said when they sent him home."

In a heartfelt tribute on the anniversary of the Normandy landings, the Niland family shared their story with WIVB, Buffalo’s CBS affiliate, illuminating the true events that inspired Steven Spielberg's acclaimed film "Saving Private Ryan." 

The movie, renowned for its gripping portrayal of a World War II rescue mission, draws directly from the wartime experiences of the Niland brothers—Preston, Robert, Fritz, and Edward, whose stories of bravery and loss echo through history.

Tragically, Preston and Robert were killed during the Normandy invasion. 

Edward was believed to have died as well, only to be discovered alive as a prisoner of war in the Pacific Theater at war's end. 

Fritz, thought to be the last surviving Niland, was ordered back home in a scenario that starkly mirrors the film's plot. 

Recalling this poignant moment, Edward's son Preston revealed the striking resemblance between his uncle's words and those scripted for Matt Damon’s character in the film. 

"The Matt Damon character—my cousin Catie said—he said exactly what Uncle Fritz said when they sent him home,” Preston recounted. 

"'I am with the brothers I have now. I’m going to stay... [he was told] ‘You can’t stay, you got to argue with General George Marshall.'"

James Niland, the great-nephew of the Niland brothers, spoke with pride about his family's legacy and their indomitable spirit. 

“They came together to conquer an unthinkable task and really showed the world that nothing is impossible with the American spirit,” he stated. “Those men were legends, and it was a legendary triumph. They’ll live on forever.”