VBOB attends Bastogne Museum dedication

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Bastogne War Museum Dedication March 21, 2014

Every US veteran, soldier or relative who has ever visited Bastogne, has surely gone to the Mardasson monument.  Neighboring the Mardasson monument, a WW2 museum was also to be found. The City of Bastogne, supported by local, regional and EU funding, has taken the task to renew the museum. It was closed for almost two years. Work included a general overhaul and extending the existing building and a complete new scenography, dedicated to the entire cyclus of WW2.

(l-r) Mrs Frans Marique; Christiane D'Haese; Marcel D'Haese Pres VBOB chapter; Frans Marique, VP VBOB chapter
(l-r) Mrs Frans Marique; Christiane D’Haese; Marcel D’Haese Pres VBOB chapter; Frans Marique, VP VBOB chapter

 

Over 800 people were invited to the inauguration of the new “War Museum” in Bastogne on Friday, March 21st. The “Greatest Generation” was also present, as three WW2 US Veterans and the Belgian VBOB Chapter, led by Marcel D’Haese were special guests.
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01Everyone was welcomed by the mayor of Bastogne, Benoit Lutgen, followed by a short but powerful speech of Mark C. Storella, Deputy Chief of Mission U.S. Embassy Brussels. After the speeches, Mayor Lutgen, Mr. Storella and other VIP’s officially opened the Bastogne War Museum, a new museum dedicated to the Remembrance of the Second World War.

02The bold architectural concept of the museum, which flanks the famous Mardasson Memorial, will welcome visitors for a unique journey to the past. The “Bastogne War Museum” experience will allow the visitor to step back in time and understand the reality of the Battle of the Bulge. From the causes of the battle to its dramatic consequences, the visitor will be immersed in an interactive experience. The personal testimonies, the many authentic artifacts, the innovative scenography, and the experience-orientated approach (three scenovisions, 3D Multi-sensorial devices) make the Bastogne War Museum a must see.

(l-r) Mathieu Billa, Museum curator; Marcel D’Haese BE Fusiliers
(l-r) Mathieu Billa, Museum curator; Marcel D’Haese BE Fusiliers

The Mardasson Memorial and the “Bastogne War Museum” share the same ambition: maintain the memory alive of those who fought for our freedom and defend values such as peace and freedom. With the upcoming 70th Anniversary of the “Battle of the Bulge”, the museum will be an interesting place to visit.

The Museum is open from March 22nd, 2014. All information can be found at www.bastognewarmuseum.be.

Story and photos submitted by Patrick Brion & Malek Azoug