By the end of the 19th century, Bastogne was a thriving fortified town in the middle of an important crossroads of highways and railway lines in Belgium, with forest products and cattle fairs well known. It all came to a terrible end with the German occupation in World War II. Although liberated by the Allies in late 1944, German forces attacked in their goal to conquer the Ardennes and separate American and British forces. Shortly before Christmas the German forces began their offensive, thereafter known as the Battle of the Bulge, by attacking the American Forces surrounding the town. A few days later, Brigadier General McAuliffe and the 101st Airborne Division along with elements of the 10th Armored Division arrived to counter attack, but after heavy fighting was encircled in the city. On December 22, German emissaries asked for the American surrender, to which the General famously answered, “Nuts!” Later, the troops of General Patton broke the deadlock and the official end to the battle was declared almost three weeks later.
What remained? A city almost completely destroyed, more than 25 thousand dead, and 50 thousand never accounted for. Today, Bastogne is a town that has dedicated its existence to honoring the sacrifices of the soldiers who fought Nazi Germany. Join us in retracing the steps of those who fought for liberty and freedom.
€99 Adults & Youths
€89 Childen ages 3-11
Prices available on request for children younger than 3 years.
Dates TBA |
Departs 0600
Entrance War Museum incl. Exhibition Generations 45
Entrance Foxholes of Easy Company
Visit Peace Woods Memorial
KMC Center Bldg. 3336
Ramstein Air Base
66877 Germany
+49 (0) 6371-476650
+49 (0) 6371-476330
DSN 480-6330 / 6650
Mon - Fri • 0900 - 1630 hrs