The Battle of the Bulge, also known as the Ardennes Offensive, was a major German assault during World War II, fought in the Ardennes Forest from December 16, 1944, to January 25, 1945. Over one million German soldiers, including 200,000 assault troops, faced 700,000 Allied troops, including General Patton’s 3rd Army. The battle, conducted in harsh winter conditions with cold, snow, and dense fog, saw thousands of Allied soldiers suffering frostbite and trench foot, with many wounded succumbing to the cold. It was the bloodiest battle for American forces on the Western Front, with 20,000 killed and tens of thousands wounded, missing, or captured. Despite initial German advances creating a “bulge” in the Allied lines, the offensive was repelled after fierce fighting, aided by clearing weather on Christmas Day that allowed Allied airstrikes. The battle ended in an Allied victory, depleting German resources and hastening the collapse of Adolf Hitler’s Third Reich.

Learn More:

• Casualty Report: Defense Casualty Analysis System
• Battle of the Bulge: History.com
• Battle of the Bulge Memorial: Arlington National Cemetery
• Firsthand Accounts: American Veterans Center
• Battle of the Bulge Heroes: National Veterans Memorial Museum
• 80 Year Reflection (2024): Health.mil
• Battle of the Bulge: Wikipedia Entry
• Battle of the Bulge: Army.mil
• Irving Locker Firsthand Account: American Veterans Center
• 80 Year Reflection (2024): AFN News, DVIDS, U.S. DoD
• Battle of the Bulge (Video): History.com
• Roberta Nolan, Daughter of James O’Boyle Lyons

Support is Available
Reflecting on significant moments in U.S. history can evoke strong emotions. If you or someone you know is feeling lonely or facing challenges with mental health, housing, employment, transportation, healthcare, veteran benefits, family issues or any other situation, we’re here to help. Call the Be Connected support line for service members, veterans, and their families at 866-4AZ-VETS (866-429-8387), available Monday through Friday, 8 AM to 5 PM MT. For urgent mental health crises, contact the Veterans Crisis Line by dialing 9-8-8 (veterans – press 1) or text 838255, and for life-threatening emergencies, call 9-1-1. This information is provided as a public service and is not intended to replace advice or care from licensed professional providers.