Army JROTC Cadets from Ansbach High School visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery. (Photo by Cadet Minka Larson)
Written by Cadet Ella Peavler & Cadet Marley Shackleton
This year, for our annual Veterans Day trip, we traveled to Bastogne, Belgium, one of the most significant locations of World War II. The Battle of the Bulge, which was the main focus of our visit, played a crucial role in the Allied victory. On our first day we explored a museum filled with real tanks and wartime equipment, giving us a glimpse into the daily challenges faced by soldiers who fought bravely for freedom.
On our second day we were especially honored to be guided by Mr. Martin King, a renowned World War II historian, who took us through some major World War II monuments. He also helped us to envision what life was like for many people during the war. Mr. King gave us his real first-hand stories of people he had met who served during the war, and why the Battle of the Bulge remains such a defining moment in history. Another highlight was visiting a museum featuring a World War II bomb shelter simulator.
“The simulator was so fun and felt really realistic,” said Cadet Francis Schuettpelz.
The museum also had lifelike displays of German and American soldiers, which vividly showed what the conditions would have been like during the battle as well as the harsh realities of war. It was exciting to see and kept all the Cadets engaged and interested in learning about our history. Towards the end of our journey, we paid tribute at Gen. George S. Patton’s grave in Luxembourg’s national cemetery. General Patton’s leadership was instrumental in the Allied success during the Battle of the Bulge. During a brief ceremony, our three senior Cadets, Chance Duplessie, Jazzlyn Symack, and Micah Cook, conducted a ceremonial wreath laying. Every Cadet also placed flowers on a soldier’s grave – a powerful moment of reflection and gratitude.
“It was really important to me because it was honoring our veterans in a personal way,” said Cadet Sadie Craig.
Learning about the Battle of the Bulge in the very place where it happened brought history to life in a way that a classroom never could. We are deeply thankful to everyone who helped organize this unforgettable trip.
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