Nuts are a famous reference to a key moment in the Battle of the Bulge in Belgium during World War II. This episode is associated with the heroic defense of the town of Bastogne in December 1944.
This Saturday, during the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, the King and veterans threw nuts from the balcony of Bastogne Town Hall. This event is one of the key events of this day of remembrance. But why this throw?
Historical reminder
During the German offensive known as the Battle of the Bulge, German troops surrounded the town of Bastogne, held by American forces, particularly the 101st Airborne Division. Bastogne was an important strategic point because of its network of roads connecting several major axes in the region.
On December 22, 1944, the Germans, convinced that they would force the American surrender, sent a white flag delegation to demand that American forces surrender. In response to this request, Gen. Anthony McAuliffe, then commander of the 101st Airborne Division, responded with one simple word: “Nuts!”
The term “nuts”, literally “nuts” in English, can be translated in this context as “crazy people!” or “fuck off!”. It was a concise response, full of defiance and contempt, expressing a categorical refusal to surrender.
The response galvanized American troops and became a symbol of their resolve. Bastogne held out until the arrival of relief forces led by General Patton, allowing the German offensive to be repulsed.
Memory
Today, this episode has become one of the most striking symbols of Allied resistance in Belgium during the Second World War. In Bastogne, museums, monuments and commemorative events honor the memory of the soldiers who fought in this battle.
battle of the bulge history Bastogne second world war
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