Who Really Liberated Bastogne? A Probe of History

Fifty-three years after World War II, not even those who spilled blood fully appreciate the 87th Infantry Division’s magnificent and decisive role during the largest land battle ever fought by American troops. That was the Battle of the Bulge, or Ardennes...

Northern France

December 10, 1944 We were taken by truck from Metz to within 10 or 12 miles of the front. One truck stalled in front of us just as General Patton pulled up behind us in a jeep. I was about 10 feet from the General and got a good look at him sitting there with his...

He Was Only 18

This event occurred about a week before we were sent to intercede in the “Battle of the Bulge” but I would like to relate it in support of the brave men who died there where by fate it could have been me. At the time of this event I was a member of the...

First Day in Combat

The events to be described in this note start with the first day of conflict, for the 3rd platoon of the 347th Regiment antitank (AT) company 87th Infantry Division, on December 13, 1944 in the Saar valley of France. Up until now the only important thing we had done...

The Power and the Glory: The 87th Division Attacks

One major offensive was timed to jump off at 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 30, 1944. That was German. Another major offensive was timed to jump off at 7:30 a.m. on Dec. 30, 1944. That was American. In the center of this titanic clash was the 87th (Golden Acorn) Division, a...