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USAREUR-AF support to 80th anniversary of WWII
WWII 80 Commemoration
This year U.S. armed forces members stationed in Europe, and from U.S.-based units with historical links to WWII events, recognize and honor the men and women of the "Greatest Generation" by performing music, marching in parades and honoring the actions and sacrifices of allied nations during the commemorative period of 80 years since World War II.
The continued commitment to honor the historic significance of WWII and the sacrifices made, connects the strength of alliance and dedicated resolve during WWII to NATO strength and unity today. 
 
The following page will give an update on the support of U.S. Forces to the commemoration of the events throughout the commemorative period of 80 years since World War II.

To see more photos, videos and stories of commemorations during the 80th anniversary of WWII go here: https://www.dvidshub.net/feature/WWII80inEurope

Recent Events - 80th Commemoration of the Battle of the Bulge

The Battle of the Bulge was a turning point in World War II and a symbol of victory for freedom. Today, our strong NATO Alliance continues to uphold those values. We remain unified in our commitment to securing a peaceful future. This year, like every year, we commemorate this battle by demonstrating our commitment to our Allies and partners, which allows us to effectively combat threats and ensure security in the European and African theaters.

  • On December 14th, 2024 U.S. Army Soldiers and military veterans will march in a parade in Bastogne, Belgium, followed by a wreath laying ceremony to commemorate the siege of the city.
Commemoration Timeline
  • December in WWII 80
    • 13 December 2024: Bastogne War Museum Reception (BEL): The U.S. embassy reception at the Bastogne War Museum in Bastogne, Belgium.
    • 13 December 2024: Bastogne War Museum Commemoration (BEL): U.S. Army Soldiers will participate in a commemoration ceremony at the Bastogne American Monument. 
    • 14 December 2024: Luxembourg American Ceremony Commemoration (LUX): U.S. Army Soldiers will participate in a ceremony at the American Battle Monuments Commission.
    • 14 December 2024: Battle of the Bulge 80 Commemoration NUTS! Parade (BEL): U.S. Army Soldiers and military veterans will march in a parade in Bastogne, Belgium, followed by a wreath laying ceremony to commemorate the siege of the city.
80th Commemoration of the Battle of the Bulge
Ardennes-Alsace Campaign Dec. 16, 1944 - Jan. 25, 1945
Coming up in WWII 80: Rhineland Campaign Sep.15, 1944 - March 24. 1945

WWII events of the 80 years commemoration period that have already passed this year.

Market Garden

Approximately 120 Soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division and the 82nd Airborne Division, alongside approximately 300 troops from the Netherlands, U.S., U.K., Canada, and Poland honored the service and sacrifice of the Greatest Generation by participating in more than 60 ceremonies and events in the Dutch provinces of Limburg, Brabant, and Gelderland. 

Events were also supported by Soldiers from the XVIII Airborne Corps. Two senior representatives of the historic 30th Infantry Division, Brig. Gen. Charles W. Morrison and Col. Paul Hollenack are scheduled to support the commemorative events.

Market Garden Videos
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Operation Market Garden 80th Anniversary: Waal River Crossing and Commemoration Jump

  • Regional Media Center AFN Europe
  • Sept. 26, 2024 | 1:00

U.S. Army Soldiers, NATO allies, and partner nations reenact the Waal River Crossing and conduct a Commemoration Jump as a part of the 80th anniversary of Operation Market Garden in the Netherlands, Sept. 20-21, 2024. Operation Market Garden and World War II remains an enduring historic reminder of how Allies with a common purpose and vision forge proven partnerships and reinforce bonds that remain to this day. (U.S. Department of Defense video by Army Staff Sgt. Aaliyah Craven)

Liberation of Mons
Liberation of Belgium
Liberation of Belgium
USAG Benelux Soldiers visited several communities during the first days of September to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Belgium’s liberation during World War II. In the cities and towns of Mons, Cendron, Rumes, Saint-Remy and Monceau-Imbrechies, garrison leaders and color guard members joined Belgian Allies in honoring the service and sacrifices of U.S. soldiers, Belgian forces and members of the Belgian Resistance to free Belgium from Nazi occupation.
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U.S. Soldiers from the 2nd Battalion, 5th Cavalry Regiment, 1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division, participate in the Tanks in Town commemoration event in Mons, Belgium, Sept. 1, 2024. The weekend-long event culminated in a military parade through the surrounding communities and the streets of Mons. This is one of many outreach events that V Corps Soldiers participated in across Europe this year. Events like this help connect the U.S. military with local communities and inspire trust and confidence in the capabilities and skills of the Soldiers of V Corps. (U.S. Army video by Sgt. Zoe Y. Tourne)
Liberation of Mons - Tanks in Town 2024
1st Armored Brigade Combat Team, 1st Cavalry Division participated in the Tanks in Town commemoration event in Mons, Belgium, Sept. 1, 2024. The weekend-long event culminated in a military parade through the surrounding communities and the streets of Mons. This is one of many outreach events that V Corps Soldiers participated in across Europe this year. Events like this help connect the U.S. military with local communities and inspire trust and confidence in the capabilities and skills of the Soldiers of V Corps.
Southern France Campaign - Operation Dragoon
Normandy Campaign June 6 - July 24, 1944