Email from Rep. McCaul

Honoring the Heroes of the Battle of the Bulge

Eighty years ago, in the Ardennes Forest of Belgium, Luxembourg, and Germany, the Battle of the Bulge began — a desperate and brutal offensive by Nazi forces that tested the resolve of the Allied troops. While the U.S and Allied forces faced tremendous challenges against a well-equipped and well-trained enemy, the American troops did what they do best: They stood up to the challenge and held the line.

The freedoms we enjoy today were born out of this bloody battle, which Winston Churchill described as “undoubtedly the greatest American battle of the war.” Half a million Americans fought in this battle, and nearly 20,000 lost their lives.

Last weekend, on behalf of Speaker of the House Mike Johnson, I led a bipartisan Congressional Delegation to Belgium and Luxembourg to honor these American heroes who fought valiantly in the Ardennes Forest.

This was my father’s war. He was a bombardier on a B-17 during WWII, protecting the skies while these brave troops were on the ground. I could not stand up on the podium without thinking about him. He was my hero, and so too are all of those whose bravery liberated Europe. In a time of peril, these men sacrificed so much to fight against tyranny and preserve democracy.

It was an honor to speak on behalf of the United States Congress at a wreath-laying ceremony to thank the veterans who fought in this battle of good versus evil.

Click below to watch my remarks.

Click to watch

Rep. McCaul lays a wreath to honor fallen U.S. servicemembers

I had the opportunity to visit the Luxembourg American Cemetery to pay my respects to the fallen heroes of the Battle of the Bulge. It is the final resting place of General George Patton, who broke through enemy lines with his brave men to turn the tide of this battle. Buried near him were two Texans who fought to defend freedom. Into battle, they carried the Texan spirit of strength and independence. May God hold all of our heroes in the palm of His hand.

Rep. McCaul at General George Patton's grave

Rep. McCaul at the gravesite of two Texans who fought in the Battle of the Bulge

The 101st Airborne Division is one of the most famous in our nation's history. They are the only major American Airborne unit to participate in two of the greatest American battles during World War II: D-Day and the Battle of the Bulge. As these brave men worked to secure the city of Bastogne, they were completely surrounded by Hitler's forces. On December 22, 1944, American troops were sent an ultimatum from German forces demanding that they surrender. General McAuliffe – the commander of the 101st Airborne Division – replied, “Nuts!” Thankfully, these U.S. forces were able to hold their position to save freedom and democracy.

Each year, to commemorate the 101st Airborne Division's resiliency, the city of Bastogne holds a Nuts Parade. It was an honor to join veterans and current servicemembers of the Division to honor and pay tribute to those who sacrificed so much. I will do whatever I can to help keep the memory of our Greatest Generation alive.

Rep. McCaul marching in the Nuts Parade

I am thankful that I had the opportunity to talk with current soldiers of the 101st Division, including a servicemember from Brenham, Texas who attended Texas A&M University.