The Veterans of the Battle of the Bulge at our 30th Annual Reunion were in for a treat! Our registration headquarters was the Hilton Garden Inn and upon arrival were given a wine and cheese reception. A spirit of comradeship soon followed and our organization made a special presentation to Ashley Woitena of the Columbus Convention and Visitors Bureau, for her forbearing spirit in making our visit so worthwhile.

The Veterans and Associate Members of VBOB will cherish the memory of the wreath laying ceremony at Fort Benning, Georgia where an invocation was delivered to perpetuate the memory of the sacrifices made by by those who served during the Battle of the Bulge. Details of the wreath laying ceremony are included in Fort Benning’s newsletter, “The Bayonet” click-here

Fort Benning is well known as a self-sustaining military command and has served as Home of the Infantry since the early 20th century.

Located right outside Fort Benning’s gate we visited the National Infantry Museum and Soldiers’ Center — a Tribute to Heroes. Inside we found a plethora of exhibits including six galleries each representing a different era in Infantry history from the Revolutionary War to the desert wars. This Museum is well designed for self-guided tours and trained docents were stationed through the museum to direct us, answer our questions and enhance our experience.

We Visited the National Prisoner of War Museum, which tells the story of the prisoners of war throughout American history. Located at Andersonville, Georgia this site also includes the infamous Civil War Prison.

Probably the occasion we will most remember was when we departed from our hotel to the Little White House of Franklin D. Roosevelt and his Memorial Museum in Warms Springs, Georgia. We were escorted from our hotel by a large motorcycle brigade of the Patriot Guard of Georgia who stood at attention at the entrance way as we approached the Little White House. David Burke, interpretive park ranger, with the help of others arranged for a memorable day.

Georges A. Hoffman, Honorary Consul, Grand-Duche De Luxembourg and Colonel John W. King III, Commander, Ranger Training Brigade, Fort Benning were our guests at the banquet.

Looking back, travel and change of place imparted new vigor to the minds of we Veterans and Associate Members of VBOB.

article by J. David Bailey

photos by John Bowen