Day Two: Our Journey Begins

Day Two - Our Journey Begins

Today our group started by going through the town of Spa at the foot hill of our boutique-like Radisson Hotel. Our first stop was at a museum in La Gleize-Stoumont where our bus was met head-on by an enormous German Tiger Tank. There the Veterans told us their experiences battling these jugernauts of the German offensive. The museum was initially closed but with the local's generousity we were able to have a "special tour." The photos and memorabilia helped create an ice breaker for the Veterans who were able to then recount many stories about the war.

Next our journey led us to a forgotten story of German atrocities where eleven brave African Americans from the 333rd Division sacrificed their lives while giving the 106th Airborn Division covering fire for their escape. The Germans then captured, tortured, and executed this selfless group of brave men. There was a reverent aura in the group as we prayed for these little-known heroes.

After the visit to the memorial, we traveled to the quaint village of Monschau, Germany in order to visit a Christmas Market. There the locals displayed their foods, and crafts in a festival of lights and music that was quite enjoyable. Dinner was German cuisine of Schnitzel, Sausage and Goulash, and of course, Pomme de Frites (french fries).

To conclude our night, our presence was requested as VIP's at a grand opening of a new museum, "Baugnez 44 Historical Center." Veteran, Bill Colwell, was given the honor of cutting the ribbon. The Veterans were treated like celebrities as everyone was asking for their autographs and their pictures. As we toured this new museum, once again, our Veteran's mouths were filled with their dramatic experiences in the various locations of the Battle of the Bulge. The Veterans were escorted by their students, via red-carpet, to a party where they were welcomed by many French, German, and Belgium citizens. During their time at the dance, many Veterans took advantage of the dance floor by requesting a dance with their female students. The generosity and gratitude shown by these individuals was unlike anything seen before. This genuine level of respect should be given to all Veterans for the gifts of freedom they have given to numerous countries all over the world.