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European Allies commemorate 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in Luxembourg

On Dec.14, 2024, the American Battle Monuments Commission hosted a ceremony at Luxembourg American Cemetery to commemorate the U.S. and Allied forces who fought in the Battle of the Bulge 80 years ago.

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Photo by: Mike Shipman 

On Dec.14, 2024, the American Battle Monuments Commission hosted a ceremony at Luxembourg American Cemetery to commemorate the U.S. and Allied forces who fought in the Battle of the Bulge 80 years ago. 

Among the guests, His Royal Highness the Grand Duke of Luxembourg; His Majesty Philippe of Belgium; Prime Minister of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Luc Frieden; U.S. Ambassador of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg Thomas M. Barrett; and Chief of Staff of U.S. European Command Maj. Gen. Pete. Andrysiak; honored the WWII veterans in attendance including John “Jack” Foy, who spoke during the event, and their comrades who perished during the war.

“These sacrifices paved the way for liberation, reconstruction and peace,” said Grand Duke Henri. “It is our duty never to forget those who gave their lives.”

The commemoration overlooked the cemetery grounds, where more than 5,000 service members lie in rest, many of whom lost their lives in the Battle of the Bulge and in the advance to the Rhine River.

“Come here to the Luxembourg American Cemetery,” said ABMC Secretary Charles K. Djou, who also delivered remarks at the event on behalf of the commission. “Come see these crosses and these stars of David. Come and see what true sacrifice is about.”

The Battle of the Bulge commemoration was the final WWII 80 anniversary event in 2024, culminating a year of honoring those who fought for freedom and reinforcing the resolve and unity that continue to bind like-minded nations today.  

"Eighty years ago, in the depths of the Ardennes winter, the ground we stand on today bore witness to extraordinary courage and unimaginable sacrifice," Andrysiak said. "Their fight was for something greater - a vision of a free Europe and a better future. Today, as we commemorate their bravery, we reaffirm our gratitude for their sacrifice and the unity that made victory possible."

For more than 100 years, the ABMC has been committed to its mission: honoring the service, achievements and sacrifices of the U.S. service members who made the ultimate sacrifice during American conflicts abroad, including the ones who fought in the Battle of the Bulge.