Exploring Bastogne and the Battle of the Bulge

A Family Journey Through WWII History

The final stop on our World War II journey took us to Bastogne, Belgium—one of the most important sites of the Battle of the Bulge.

Last year, our family spent a week exploring WWII sites in France and Belgium. We started on the beaches of Normandy, followed the northern coast of France to Dunkirk, and finally reached Bastogne, where one of the war’s fiercest battles unfolded in the winter of 1944.

My son and I have always been fascinated by WWII history, so this trip was a dream come true. My wife joined us—admittedly with little initial interest in tanks or battlefields—but even she found herself drawn into the incredible stories of bravery and sacrifice. Standing in the forests and towns where soldiers once fought to free Europe gave all of us a new appreciation for what they endured.

If you’re planning a visit to Bastogne or simply want to learn more about the Battle of the Bulge, I’ve shared a detailed story about our experience, complete with photos and reflections, on Substack:

👉 Surrounded But Not Defeated: Exploring Bastogne’s Battle of the Bulge

From the Bastogne War Museum to the Mardasson Memorial, the area is full of powerful reminders of courage and resilience. It’s a destination that connects history lovers and families alike to one of the defining moments of the Second World War.