Today, we commemorate the 79th anniversary of the end of World War II in Europe, when Nazi Germany surrendered unconditionally to the Allies on 8 May 1945. This day, also known as Victory in Europe Day (V-E Day).
One of the places that witnessed the horrors and heroism of the war was Clervaux, a small town in northern Luxembourg. Clervaux was the scene of fierce fighting during the Battle of the Bulge, the last major German offensive on the Western Front in December 1944. The town was defended by American troops, who faced overwhelming odds and bitter cold. After a week of resistance, the town fell to the Germans, who destroyed most of its buildings, including the historic castle.
However, the American soldiers did not give up. Led by General George S. Patton, the Third Army launched a counterattack in January 1945, and gradually liberated the region from the German occupation. Clervaux was one of the last towns to be freed, on 12 February 1945. The liberation of Luxembourg was a significant achievement for the Allies, as it secured a vital supply route and prevented the Germans from reaching the port of Antwerp.
To honor the American soldiers who fought and died for the freedom of Luxembourg, a monument was erected in Clervaux in 1950. The monument, known as the G. I. Monument, depicts a bronze statue of an American infantryman, holding a rifle and a helmet, standing on a granite pedestal. The pedestal bears the inscription: “To the American soldiers who gave their lives in the liberation of Luxembourg – December 1944 – January 1945”. The monument is located in a park near the castle, which has been restored and now houses a museum of the Battle of the Bulge.
The G. I. Monument is a wonderful tribute to the American army who liberated Luxembourg at the end of World War II.
It is especially impressive in winter time (photo taken in January this year), as it reminds us of the harsh conditions and the courage of the soldiers who faced them.
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