In this battle, otherwise known as the Ardennes Offensive, Hitler attempted to break up the Allied (Canadian, British, and American) forces and thus regain control over the war in Europe. The battle started in late 1944 in eastern Belgium and northern Luxembourg and ended 41 days later in January 1945. Of the 81,000 American casualties, 19,000 were killed, 47,000 wounded, and 15,000 taken prisoner; 100,000 Germans were killed or wounded as well.
Five members of the Lehigh Valley Chapter, Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge, will lead a commemoration of the event by sharing their stories, relating the conditions surrounding the battle, and the price the Allies paid to win it. Moderator Bill Gieske will show documentary footage. We will also honor the late Morris Metz, whose educational work with school children and members of the public was instrumental in bringing the history of the battle alive for so many.
Metz, who served with the U.S. Army in the 94th Infantry Division and fought in Belgium and Luxembourg, headed the Lehigh Valley chapter from 2003 until 2015. He died August 8, 2016.
Free with museum admission. Free for active Military and Reserve members. Discounted admission for attendees in WWII uniform. No weapons, please.