🇱🇺🇧🇪🇺🇸 In a moment of solemn reflection and remembrance, we gathered at Arlington National Cemetery to honor the courage and sacrifice of those who fought in the #BattleoftheBulge This annual ceremony organized by the Battle of the Bulge Association, Inc. brought together their members as well as representatives from the Belgium and Luxembourg embassies in the United States, reaffirming our shared commitment to keeping the memory of this pivotal battle alive and to passing its lessons on to future generations. We were deeply honored by the presence of U.S. veteran Joseph Landry, aged 101, who fought in the brutal Ardennes campaign. Veteran Paul Goffin joined us for a hearty and warming lunch at the Residence of the Belgian Ambassador. Their presence reminded us that the Battle of the Bulge is not only a chapter in history, but a lived experience marked by extraordinary bravery, resilience, and sacrifice. Joe and Paul, we pay enduring tribute to your courage and to all those who gave so much in defense of our freedom. Through brief remarks, the Ambassadors of Luxembourg and Belgium, Nicole Bintner-Bakshian and Frédéric Bernard, as well as Steve Landry, the President of the Battle of the Bulge Association emphasized the responsibility we bear to remember, to learn from the lessons of the War, and to ensure that its meaning is never forgotten. Special appreciation was expressed for the tireless work of the Battle of the Bulge Association in preserving this legacy and honoring the men who fought. The ceremony concluded with the laying of wreaths at the Battle of the Bulge Memorial and at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, following the solemn Changing of the Guard, in a powerful tribute to all who served and sacrificed. For more detail: https://bit.ly/4rBwtx1 #battleofthebulge #WWIIMemorial #veterans #WWII MAE, Luxembourg Embassy of Belgium in the United States of America American Battle Monuments Commission U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs

Today, we pause with deep gratitude and respect to honor the life and passing of #WWII veteran Jacob J. Ruser, who lived an extraordinary 101 years. A courageous combat medic, Jacob devoted himself to saving others, even in the darkest moments of war. During the Battle of the Bulge, he and his unit, the 12th Infantry Regiment, 4th Infantry Division, defended the Luxembourg region along the Sauer River, braving unimaginable conditions as they risked their own lives to evacuate and care for the wounded. His quiet heroism and selfless compassion left an enduring mark on our country’s history. In recognition of his bravery, Jacob J. Ruser was awarded the Order of Merit of the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg for his role in the battle, which he received at the Embassy in Washington, D.C., on 29 June 2021. Today, we remember not only his service, but the humanity, courage, and kindness that defined his life. May his legacy continue to inspire, and may he be remembered with honor and gratitude always. #WWII #BattleOfTheBulge #Luxembourg #InMemoriam Directorate of Defence Battle of the Bulge Association, Inc.