this day in the yesteryear: Battle of the Bulge Begins (1944)

Battle of the Bulge Begins (1944)

This major German counter-offensive on the Western Front during World War II was the largest and bloodiest battle fought by the US Army during the war. Taking advantage of foggy weather, German forces attacked the thinly held American front in the Belgian Ardennes sector, catching the Allied forces unprepared. The Germans penetrated deep into the Allied lines. However, an American force held out at Bastogne, and the arrival of reinforcements turned the tide. How did the battle get its name? More… Discuss

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• Americans, Belgians mark Bulge anniversary
• Americans, Belgians mark Bulge anniversary

today’s holiday: Opening of the Underground Caves Day

Opening of the Underground Caves Day

The end of World War II is marked annually by the people of Butaritari Island (northern islands of the independent republic of Kiribati). Each year, they open the caves that were built to shelter them during the war. Accompanied by a celebration, the event takes place on the anniversary of the day the caves initially were opened after the war ended in 1945. The event’s main activities take place in Ukiangang village on Butaritari Island, featuring singing, dancing, feasting, and indoor and outdoor games. More… Discuss