December 16, 1944

Sixty-five years ago today, the Battle of the Bulge began, the biggest land battle that the Americans would take part in during World War II. Fought during the worst winter in memory, the Allies went up against the desperate, last gasp of the Germans, the Americans, British and Canadians lulled into complacency by Christmas coming around the corner and getting a rude awakening on the morning of December 16th as German panzers clanked and troops began attacking under-manned outposts.

Despite horrendous losses, the Americans and their allies eventually pushed the Germans back, and a month later the enemy was in full retreat back toward Germany. It was the beginning of the end for the Third Reich as the Americans, British and Canadians pushed from the West and the Russians from the East.

The infamous "Nuts!" reply from American commander Anthony McAuliffe to the Germans demanding surrender entered popular consciousness, McAuliffe's men surrounded at Bastogne but holding the town miraculously, stalling the Germans and helping to turn the tide.

Amazing stories have come out of the Battle of the Bulge. Just a little remembrance on this cold winter's day while we're snug and cozy in our warm houses.

Yuletide!

Hi, all! I'd like to encourage those who celebrate Yule to consider creating stories or visual art/graphics to honor this holiday, that's coming up fast (December 21st)! :) Also known as the Winter Solstice, it's a magical day and night, as the day is shortest and the night the longest. And I'm sure you can add some glitter 'n' sparkle! ;)

Yule is one of the holidays mentioned in my 2009 DCU Fic/Art Glitter Winter Holidays Challenge.

I might have a Steve/Diana tale to tell. ;)

Anyway, even if you miss Yule itself, you can post by the end of the year. I'm pretty Grayson-flexible! ;)