King Philippe and Queen Mathilde are attending the commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge this Saturday.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde advance, wrapped in thick coats and scarves to face the snow. The royal couple went to Bastogne this Saturday, December 14 to celebrate the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge.
The latter shook hands with a few curious people also present for the commemoration. The Grand Duchess of Luxembourg, Maria Teresa, and Grand Duke Henri were also among the guests. Under the snow, the procession then moved towards wreaths of flowers in front of which they held a minute of silence.
“We will never forget”
For the occasion, many veterans made the trip. Despite their advanced age, they wanted to be present, like every year, to share their experiences of this terrible Battle of the Bulge. “It’s a way for them to honor their friends who unfortunately weren’t lucky enough to survive. To not forget and return to the places where they fought 80 years ago“, explains Quentin Lison, founder of The Jackets association.
King Philippe and Queen Mathilde had already met some veterans the day before the ceremony, Friday December 13. “All US veterans of the Battle of the Bulge. 80 years after fighting for the liberation of Belgium, they were received at Laeken Castle by the King and Queen. Recognition for their courage and that of their now deceased comrades-in-arms. Thank you gentlemen: we will never forget“, they published on their official account, accompanied by photos.
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