Commemorative Events

Invitees at the American Military Cemetery and Memorial commemoration

December 16 marks an historic date in the shared history of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg and the United States of America.  This is when the Rundstedoffensiv, or Battle of the Bulge, began in 1944.   It is considered the most brutal battles of the World War II in which tens of thousands of American GIs were killed or wounded defending Luxembourg – and Belgium - during the blistering cold months of the Winter of 1944-1945. 
 
This year, the government of Luxembourg, many towns, communes and commemorative societies held memorial services, vigils, and commemorations throughout the Grand Duchy to mark the 65th anniversary of this historic event.   Thirteen American World War II Veterans were present in Luxembourg during this week, some invited as special guests of the Government of Luxembourg and others as part of a trip organized by the Greatest Generations Foundation, which also brought twelve young Americans who are decedents of World War II servicemen to learn first hand about the history of the forefathers.