Battle Of The Bulge - Tank Graveyard: La Gleize Then & Now Part 2

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  • čas přidán 28. 12. 2023
  • The village of La Gleize would become a tank graveyard for the armour left behind by the men of Kampfgruppe Peiper during their retreat on Christmas Eve, 1944 after being surrounded by American Forces during the Battle of the Bulge.
    In this second visit to the village, I will look at more amazing Then and Now locations from the village and the tanks and armour that was left behind.
    If you haven't seen Part 1, you can find it in my Battle of the Bulge Playlist.
    Enjoy!
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Komentáře • 491

  • @georgeallen4495
    @georgeallen4495 Před 6 měsíci +169

    My father was in that area with the 3rd Armored Division then. He was the loader in a M24 Chaffee. His tank was later destroyed by a anti tank gun in Germany and he was the only survivor. The round came in just above the drivers head. My father was protected somewhat by the breach of the gun. His legs from the knees down and his left hand and wrist were full of shrapnel. He was able to get out and down in the muddy tank track just as it was hit again. He had a lot of that shrapnel left in his body his whole life. Every now and then a small piece would fester up and come out. He passed in 1993.

    • @stephenarno2032
      @stephenarno2032 Před 6 měsíci +12

      My dad was in Belgium Luxembourg France and Germany as a combat engineer.his best friend was in the bulge and had shrapnel in his body too just like your dad. He went through the same experience of it working its way out of his body.

    • @georgeallen4495
      @georgeallen4495 Před 6 měsíci +15

      @@stephenarno2032 I know my dad had to have all his teeth pulled because of a gum disease in the late 50s early 60s and there was small slivers of metal in his gums. He would get sore spots under his dentures for many years later and a sliver was the cause. When I was little he could stick a magnet on one spot on his wrist and one spot on his leg and of course it wouldn't stick to mine and he would say "there is something wrong with you"!!

    • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
      @ColinFreeman-kh9us Před 5 měsíci

      Lfmao, great men always make light of terrible times. The innocence of kids is priceless I guess after what they went through and witnessed. @@georgeallen4495

    • @bartgomez4872
      @bartgomez4872 Před 5 měsíci +10

      I bet our fathers knew each other. My dad was in Patton's 3rd and in the Battle of the Bulge.

    • @georgeallen4495
      @georgeallen4495 Před 5 měsíci +3

      @@bartgomez4872 You never know??

  • @MrMrliamo
    @MrMrliamo Před 4 měsíci +19

    Well done lad, only for people like you that takes time off work and pay all your own expenses just to save history and then put it on CZcams for the world to see for free! Thank you SIR! Best wishes, liam from the west of Ireland

  • @hadial-saadoon2114
    @hadial-saadoon2114 Před 3 měsíci +6

    I visited La Gleize and the December 1944 museum in 2016. While the King Tiger was amazing, the collection of salvaged weapons and equipment was chilling. The wastage of warfare.

  • @kathyc8284
    @kathyc8284 Před 5 měsíci +9

    My father in law was there with the 18th Infantry. I want to thank all the men for their Service. ❤

  • @Hmbucker
    @Hmbucker Před 5 měsíci +16

    Nice Then and Now, being Belgian I can only be humble and grateful for all these sacrifices. Keep doing these documentaries, by far the best I've seen so far.

  • @omcbob37
    @omcbob37 Před 2 měsíci +2

    Your then and now documentaries are absolutely fascinating. To look at the beauty of the area today as opposed to the death and destruction that happened back then, you realize you are walking on hallowed ground. Very well done, sir.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 2 měsíci

      Thank you so much! They are my favourite sort of episodes and the ones I enjoy making the most. I have several planned for Normandy which I hope will be enjoyable as some are areas that have never been covered before to the best of my knowledge!

  • @StephenFarrow-gx6qu
    @StephenFarrow-gx6qu Před 6 měsíci +31

    Panther 221 at the end of the video, sorry if I got the number wrong. She was a special tank, did anyone notice the all-steel road wheels. Only a few Panthers G's were such fitted, these wheels were meant for the Panther F under development but not put into service.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci +7

      That’s right! Not many rolled off the production line with them so the images of 221 are amazing to see!
      Thanks for watching.

    • @donhil7223
      @donhil7223 Před 6 měsíci

      Nice job. I enjoyed your work.

    • @Strength-in-Union
      @Strength-in-Union Před 6 měsíci

      Good spot. Thanks for that info.

    • @kevinles6703
      @kevinles6703 Před 5 měsíci

      Doing a Battle of the Bulge Tour in June, which one do you recommend?​@@WW2Wayfinder

  • @slugfest100
    @slugfest100 Před 6 měsíci +23

    I can't tell you enough how much I enjoy watching your Then & Now photos of the war in Europe. I was born on December 24, 1944, and all the changes that have taken place since those days reminds me that I'm getting very old! I spent just short of three years in Germany during the mid-60's with the U.S Army and was able to snoop around areas around Ansbach and Nurnberg. Even then, without the research material you have, I was awed by the enormity of that conflict. Keep up the good work, there are lots of people who follow , and appreciate, your efforts.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Thank you!
      I hope you enjoyed your tour in Germany and some of my videos bring back some good memories! Happy New Year!

  • @suepalin9202
    @suepalin9202 Před 6 měsíci +27

    Thanks, Jon, for another fascinating video. The use of Then and Now" photographs adds an extra level of time and place to these WW2 battle scenes. And the incoming mist was certainly atmospheric and chilling in a number of ways...

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +2

      Thank you! La Gleize is always a special place so it was great to be back there and the fog creeping in was quite something as you could hear a pin drop!

    • @suepalin9202
      @suepalin9202 Před 5 měsíci +2

      Spooky! I think I would be looking over my shoulder for those inexplicable "things" which happen in these places...Old airfields also have particular atmospheres...@@WW2Wayfinder

  • @anyblunder6782
    @anyblunder6782 Před 6 měsíci +12

    I was there with my high school class being showed around by an old Belgium guide who actually was there when the fight was going on. An amazing experience and I’ll never forget it as long as I live. Thank you for showing me around again. I agree, there’s something about the Ardennes that you can’t define. It’s like the place holds the souls of those who perished and they still haunt it today.

    • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
      @ColinFreeman-kh9us Před 5 měsíci +2

      Amazing stuff.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +3

      Oh wow I bet that was an amazing tour!
      I’ve got a few more episodes to come from the Ardennes so I hope you enjoy those too!
      Thanks for watching!

    • @anyblunder6782
      @anyblunder6782 Před 5 měsíci +2

      @@WW2Wayfinder I sure will. Thanks and happy new year 🎆

  • @firstcitytraveler
    @firstcitytraveler Před 5 měsíci +5

    Wow, another amazing Then and Now. La Gleize was pivotal battle to stop Peiper's advance towards the Meuse and force his retreat back to Germany. Keep up the great work.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. La Gleize is a must see village in that part of the Ardennes, and it’s fortunate for us today that so many photos were taken right after the village was cleared!

  • @Blitz9H
    @Blitz9H Před 6 měsíci +12

    Superb. Thank you. I visited there many years ago now. Seeing the now and then of more of the village truly helps me appreciate what happened there.
    The SdKfz-251 looked like it may have been a pionier bridglayer track.
    And the Panther now replaced with tractors at the exact spot reminds me of the “swords to plowshares” parable.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci +3

      It’s a great village isn’t it. The history there is incredible and all in one small
      spot!
      Good point on the 251, with the rails above it it definitely could be!
      Thanks for watching 😃

    • @Blitz9H
      @Blitz9H Před 6 měsíci +3

      @@WW2Wayfinder Yes. Beautiful area, lovely little village. The museum is great as well. Thank you for your time and effort with these subjects. 🙏🏼

  • @chrispig7748
    @chrispig7748 Před 6 měsíci +9

    Wow, really appreciate these photos. Really makes you think about what happened. Living history. Thank you

  • @michaelperkins5746
    @michaelperkins5746 Před 5 měsíci +4

    Been there a few times by motorcycle and would like to thank you for your then and now pictures,BRILLIANT

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +3

      It’s a great place to visit isn’t it?! Glad you enjoyed the Then and Now photos. I’ve still got a load more to do in a Part 3 some time!

  • @sabii416
    @sabii416 Před 6 měsíci +5

    It's said in little over week between the 16th and 23rd Peiper had lost 92 tanks and around 95 halftracks. Amazes me Peiper was able to make it out with close to 800 men. Great work.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci +4

      It’s an incredible story isn’t it! And a very brutal one as well. I plan to cover his escape route next year if everything lines up!

    • @nigeh5326
      @nigeh5326 Před 6 měsíci

      Apparently he and a lot of his men had to walk back to German lines.

    • @sabii416
      @sabii416 Před 6 měsíci

      ​@@WW2Wayfinder Incredible indeed, marching for a day through heavy woods, crossing a river and being wounded in the hand. Look forward to your further stories.

    • @blaircalvin5025
      @blaircalvin5025 Před 6 měsíci

      He was a brilliant soldier despite his allegiance

  • @ruthirace4134
    @ruthirace4134 Před 6 měsíci +14

    Great episode! It is indeed a beautiful area. Thank you for your dedication and hard work. It helps me to understand what occured here. Looking forward to more episodes. I hope to visit the area one day in the near future.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      Thank you and hope you can make it there soon as it’s incredible and the December 44 museum is simply amazing. So that’s a must see!

    • @samiam619
      @samiam619 Před 6 měsíci

      @@WW2WayfinderCouldn’t you have done this during the day and NOT at Sunset?

    • @Strength-in-Union
      @Strength-in-Union Před 6 měsíci

      ​@samiam619 It was fine for me. We realise there's a lot to fit into little time.
      Keep 'em coming Jon!

    • @mx7079
      @mx7079 Před 5 měsíci

      For me the filming at sunset with the oncoming mist gives this episode an atmospheric touch.@@samiam619

  • @brianjbull
    @brianjbull Před 6 měsíci +11

    Jon,another fantastic video.The work and dedication you put into these must be immense,and take up an awful lot of time and expense,:so grateful for all that input and the sense of history revisited that comes through.Please keep up the good work,and the happiest of New Year to you.Well done.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you!
      It’s all part of the fun of doing it!
      Thanks for watching and I hope you have a great start to 2024!

  • @garysimpson8860
    @garysimpson8860 Před 5 měsíci +1

    When I always see that king tiger sat there rotting away , it seems a shame that it’s not restored into a runner if I could be and kept undercover as there isn’t many in the world and yes I know it’s history etc etc but when it’s gone it’s gone and you’ll never be able to replace it 👍 but great video and wow those old photos are fantastic love seeing stuff like that great work 👍

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +3

      The tank is regularly maintained by the village (painted etc) but the insides are completely rusted out sadly from decades of it being exposed to the elements with hatches out from 1945 onwards. It’s condition is actually quite good now apart from the collapse of the torsion bar suspension but that happened decades ago.
      Thanks for watching 😃

  • @troykauffman3963
    @troykauffman3963 Před 6 měsíci +9

    Well done, looking forward to more Battle of the Bulge content.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      Lots to come over the next few weeks! And a couple of places I’ve never visited before so was fun to film there!

  • @NickyB0718
    @NickyB0718 Před 6 měsíci +5

    Outstanding

  • @kevinjudia122
    @kevinjudia122 Před 6 měsíci +6

    Love how you trace the history and the detail you provide! Keep them coming!

  • @michaelderenne9838
    @michaelderenne9838 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Such cool history. Amazing how things dont change that much over so many years

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 2 měsíci +1

      Thank you!
      I'll have lots more Then and Now episodes from Normandy from June onwards which you'll enjoy I hope!

  • @zigman8550
    @zigman8550 Před 6 měsíci +4

    I love these then & now photos. Thanks for these uploads.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Glad you enjoyed it! Thanks for watching and hope you have a very Happy New Year!

  • @lowandslow3939
    @lowandslow3939 Před 5 měsíci +2

    I really did enjoy this video. I’d love to have an in depth tour of the museum there, as those artifacts bring the war to a much more personal level. So much suffering, on both sides.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 4 měsíci +1

      The map board in the museum is my favourite peice and I know a few people that have been lucky enough to handle it. It's incredible that it was found there aftwer the battle and someone had the sense to preeserve it and the other items the museum has on display.

    • @lowandslow3939
      @lowandslow3939 Před 4 měsíci

      @@WW2Wayfinder Will you ever do a video tour of the museum?

  • @mikehawk9626
    @mikehawk9626 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Absolutely AMAZING👍😎👍
    so much has Changed & so much is still the same. This place is TIMELESS

  • @frankvandergoes298
    @frankvandergoes298 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Great video, really enjoyed it. The fog was spectacular. We visited La Gleize December 1986. At that stage Tiger 213 was open and you could still climb inside it. Thanks

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      I bet that was a fantastic experience! I’ve got a couple of friends who did something similar back in the day and their photos of it are amazing!

  • @MGB-learning
    @MGB-learning Před 4 měsíci +2

    Great video and presentation.

  • @conceptalfa
    @conceptalfa Před 6 měsíci +4

    Great work!!!👍👍👍

  • @finncarlbomholtsrensen1188
    @finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 Před 5 měsíci +2

    During many years of Long Distance walking in Belgium (Mostly 100 km/24h walks), I sadly missed the knowledge of this Tiger! It became sold by its crew to a local female owner of an Inn, when running out of fuel, before walking back to the German lines!! But I did visit the Memorial at Malmedy!!.

  • @chrisstorch1337
    @chrisstorch1337 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Many thanks for taking me to a place I’ve Always wanted to see, and probably never will. Thanks again from Delaware USA

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re lost welcome! Thank you for taking the time to watch and I hope you enjoy the rest of my Ardennes episodes that’ll be coming out over the next few weeks! Happy New Year!

  • @TheEagles427
    @TheEagles427 Před 5 měsíci +2

    What an outstanding presentation. I really enjoy the hard work you do. Keeping history alive is extremely valuable for everyone.

  • @ronaldwilkinson4330
    @ronaldwilkinson4330 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Thank You for your series. Please don't stop!!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you! Tomorrows episode will be about Stoumont, the village next along in the Ambleve Valley from La Geize so I hope you enjoy it!

  • @TheHistoryWonderer
    @TheHistoryWonderer Před 6 měsíci +3

    Love this. Cool seeing the then and nows the way you do it. Much better than just flashing a picture up and taking it down. Great explanations of everything and showing the surrounding area. Well done sir!

  • @monicabello3527
    @monicabello3527 Před 5 měsíci +1

    The German half track is an SdKfz 251/7, the engineer version, the bridge ramps are clearly visible on the upper sides.

  • @GreyTowerGames
    @GreyTowerGames Před 5 měsíci +2

    Subbed as well. WW2 in general and the Battle of the Bulge in particular always fascinated me. My mother was born and raised in Germany during the war and I had a great uncle from my dad's side of the family that died as an American GI during the battle at only 18 years old. Keep up the great work.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you and welcome to the channel!
      Like yourself I’ve been fascinated by the Battle of the Bulge for years now as I’m always amazed at how off guard the Germans caught the Allies during those opening days of the attack.
      Todays episode is another Battle of the Bulge story about the attack at Stoumont on the 19th December 1944.

  • @billyskoda6839
    @billyskoda6839 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Thanks for the video. We stopped off here on the way through to the Eifel. The restaurant in the background of the sdkfz251 shot is exceptional, if you've never had the chance to call in.
    It's always great to see the back stories of the German vehicles. All too often places just retain the allied tat on display. The Tiger Ausf B outside the museum has real presence.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      You're most welcome! The resturarnt is wonderful and always make point of stopping off there for lunch or dinner when I'm visiting as the food is too good to pass up!
      Thanks for watching!

    • @billyskoda6839
      @billyskoda6839 Před 5 měsíci +1

      @@WW2Wayfinder no problem, I'm house searching in RLP this year, so I'll be passing through, undoubtedly.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Nice! Hope the house hunting goes well!

  • @dipseavet
    @dipseavet Před 9 dny +1

    Great video. I was there in 1995 and there was a great cap museum there plus a diorama of where all the German vehicles were left behind. Hope it is still there.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 7 dny

      Thank you! The museum still has the diorama (I'm assuming it's the same one) showing the village post the battle with all the wrecked German vehicles.

  • @bluedogreddogstumpy5868
    @bluedogreddogstumpy5868 Před 6 měsíci +3

    I guess this won’t sound rite but so glad you are back at work cobba! Always looking forward to your show- brilliant as always 🙏

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      Haha no worries! Always happy to be talking WW2 stuff!

  • @harley909
    @harley909 Před 6 měsíci +1

    It’s amazing to walk around that area. It’s oozing with reminders…even 80 years on.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +2

      It’s incredible isn’t it. La Gleize is definitely a very special village in the Ardennes

  • @CarreraTrackOntheFloor
    @CarreraTrackOntheFloor Před 6 měsíci +3

    My uncle was assigned to a tank destroyer and was part of the group that attacked La Gleize.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Oh wow!!! Did he ever talk about it? I hope the episode gave you a good idea of the area he was fighting in.

    • @CarreraTrackOntheFloor
      @CarreraTrackOntheFloor Před 5 měsíci

      @@WW2Wayfinder My father and three of my uncles all fought in WWII, and luckily made it out alive. My uncle who fought in the Battle of the Bulge and La Gleize received his Purple Heart medal when his M10 Tank destroyer was hit by German Panther tank in an ambush. I really enjoy your channel. I had know idea of the La Seize area until watching your videos.

  • @bettylaselli2048
    @bettylaselli2048 Před 6 měsíci +7

    I really admire your great work! Thanks for sharing. I love it ❤

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci +2

      Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it. La Gleize is a fascinating place to visit!

  • @geodes4762
    @geodes4762 Před 5 měsíci +3

    I had the opportunity to spend many weekends in both the Ardennes and Huertgen Forest doing exactly the same kinds of things you are doing. This was back in 1981-83 while stationed nearby in Kaiserslautern Germany. I was using a UK periodical called “After the Battle” and my West Point Atlas of American Wars to help guide my visits. This was back before smart phone cameras and photo drones so many if my photos were captured in black and white 400ASA. Most of the trips there were made during the winter when the weather could be dicey and the days relatively short before darkness set in. Greta series you are doing. My last visit to the area was in 2006.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +2

      The After The Battle series is amazing isn’t it. I grew up reading them and still enjoy them now. I bet touring that area in the early 80’s was fun and I bet much remained as it was back in the 40’s during that period.

    • @tartantam3405
      @tartantam3405 Před 5 měsíci

      Thanks again for another brilliant episode. What a difference in weather from the 9th of September this year, when we visited it was absolutely scorching! They have a local beer called “44 La Gleize” which was much appreciated that day. I’d messaged you before our trip and you had kindly replied highly recommending that we visit La Gleize and Stavelot and I’m so glad that we did, it is a special place. I hope one year soon to visit the area during December and get an even better appreciation of its history.

  • @tommytaylor4458
    @tommytaylor4458 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Love what you do!!! Was in that area 15 years ago with some ww2 vets that served with my Grandfather Stokes Taylor. He was kIA at Trios ,12/21/44 with 80th ABN AT/AA.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Oh wow I bet that was an incredible experience and a fitting tribute to your Grandfather. I’ll have an episode about Trois Ponts coming out in the next few weeks which i hope you’ll enjoy.

  • @hobbycopterfly
    @hobbycopterfly Před 5 měsíci +1

    Vielen Dank für diese ausfühliche Dokumentation.

  • @ccencer4438
    @ccencer4438 Před 5 měsíci +1

    my great grandfather served there. he got injured (im not sure how) and had to cover himself in snow to avoid the germans from finding him. he made it through the war but i never got to meet him.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      oh gosh, I can't imagine what he must have gone through during that brutal campaign. Thanks for sharing that and for taking the time to watch!

  • @ub1953
    @ub1953 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you so much; am now elderly but an avid WW2 buff. You make the impossible; possible. Will be thinking of you when visiting the National WW2 Museum in New Orleans.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you! Enjoy the National WW2 Museum! A friend of mine visited last year and said it was excellent!

  • @phillippesmith2924
    @phillippesmith2924 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Another fantastic video many thanks for your time and effort

  • @martinschoech8156
    @martinschoech8156 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Went on two shoulders tour when stationed in garlstedt after the gulf war(DS/DS) visited all these battlefields and learned so much about the heroic men of the American Army, yes I was in the US Army. LaGleize and Bastogne were of particular interest as was Malmedy. That was a fantastic tour that has been burned into my brain and always try to give it the credit it is due. Great men who fought and died there against one tough foe.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Great that you were able to visit those places first hand. The history in that region is incredible and one that should be expericned if possible.

  • @paulrobinson8263
    @paulrobinson8263 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Excellent once again, i was contacted by the civilian owner of a vehicle i crewed back in the early 80’s and was invited to crew it around Kent last May, it’s happening again this coming May and we have made a then and now photo of the occasion, keep up the great work you do, Robbo ex 1RTR 👍

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thanks Robbo! Sounds like a great experience! Whereabouts in Kent? I’d love To visit the Weald Foundation there at some point!

  • @ELMS
    @ELMS Před 6 měsíci +3

    Thanks for this! When I watch your shorts it’s sometimes difficult to see how the building or location matches the photo, but when you talk us through the details it’s quite remarkable that you find these places. Great work! Happy new year.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Glad you enjoyed it! Filming the then and now episodes are my favourite as I love being able to find the places and describe how they appear now!
      Thanks again for watching and Happy New Year!

  • @Captainwilly7673
    @Captainwilly7673 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Jon, I always look forward to seeing your videos when they release. La Gleize is an area that no battleground explorer should miss. Hoping to get back here again soon. Best in 2024!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you!
      Absolutely agree about La Gleize. If you’re in the Ardennes region it’s a must!
      Hope you’re able to make it back there soon!

  • @alansmall3653
    @alansmall3653 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Thanks for taking the research and effort to show us this area of the battlefield. All the best for 2024!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re most welcome! Thanks for watching! Hope you too have a great start to 2024!

  • @kennethbellotte8678
    @kennethbellotte8678 Před 5 měsíci

    Such beautiful place

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      It’s an amazing village to visit and one that’s a must see if you’re touring the Ardennes! Thanks for watching.

  • @RubyMarkLindMilly
    @RubyMarkLindMilly Před 5 měsíci

    Incredible photos of the action the Panther is my favourite ww2 tank looks so modern for the time

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      It’s a stunning looking vehicle isn’t it. Much more aesthetically pleasing than the T-34 and the Tiger 1.

  • @johnrye6752
    @johnrye6752 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Thanks mate really enjoy your channel keep em coming.....😊

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      You’re most welcome! Lots more Ardennes episodes to come over the next few weeks and some (hopefully) great stuff for 2024 that hasn’t been seen before!!!

  • @yikes5790
    @yikes5790 Před měsícem +1

    I like military history of course WWII is my favorite my father was a WWII and Korean veteran. My mother was German she was 23 and working for a civilian company that shipped parts for the Wehrmacht.

  • @johnpirman7680
    @johnpirman7680 Před 2 měsíci +1

    Awesome presentation!! Thank you!!

  • @tomtin2001
    @tomtin2001 Před 6 měsíci +3

    Super episode! So well focused on bringing home what the battlefield looked like at that point in time and so well presented. Absolutely excellent! I've had the luck to visit some of the points of the Battle of the Bulge, but did not make it to La Gleize, so this compensates for my inability to make it there and see it first-hand.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Glad you enjoyed it! I highly recommend it if you’re able to go back to that area as it really is a wonderful and interesting place to visit. The December 44 Museum there is also amazing.

  • @maurotaffijn6147
    @maurotaffijn6147 Před 6 měsíci +8

    I was there a few weeks ago, and about to move near the place. Despite the bloodshed that took place there, it is a beautiful spot of the world. My favorite in fact. But the effects of the war are still felt there today. If you get the chance to visit the Belgian Ardennes, go for it. If you're a fan of nature or interested in war, you won't be disappointed. Also, that tank is massive in person. Amazing video, you earned a new subscription.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +3

      Thank you!
      And I agree completely it’s a fascinating area regardless of the fighting there. One time I want to visit there in the summer and go hiking around there.

  • @bearbait2221
    @bearbait2221 Před 4 měsíci

    Just great history. Thanks so much.

  • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
    @ColinFreeman-kh9us Před 5 měsíci

    La Gleize just got absolutely smashed, pummeled, obliterated. Great work as usual. Thanks Jon. From Australia

  • @Baskerville22
    @Baskerville22 Před 5 měsíci +1

    I think this was one of your best.
    I've always regarded as incomprehensible that Eisenhower and Bradley escaped any real censure at the time for their being caught so utterly unaware by the German offensive in the Ardennes. Even military historians over the past 75 years have been reluctant to closely examine this failure that led to around 80,000 American casualties.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you!
      I certainly think Bradley should have come under closer scrutiny at the time for keeping it so thinly held especially given the Germans use of it 2/3 times previously!

  • @leesherman100
    @leesherman100 Před 6 měsíci +1

    As always another great episode. Your presentations are always excellent. I shall await your next one with impatience. Many thanks.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you!
      The next will be the I&R Platoon at Lanzerath! Should be out on the 12th January! Hope you have a wonderful start to the New Year!

  • @davidk7324
    @davidk7324 Před 4 měsíci

    Well done. Thank you.

  • @markadams7597
    @markadams7597 Před 5 měsíci +2

    Very interesting, thanks for sharing!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      You’re most welcome. Thank you for watching!

  • @geraldgerhardstein2170
    @geraldgerhardstein2170 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Fantastic! Your efforts are endless. Thank you for sharing everything.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re most welcome, glad you enjoyed it!

  • @alekhaordonesa...belgatoy2359
    @alekhaordonesa...belgatoy2359 Před 6 měsíci +2

    hello from Kazakhstan, excellent material, probably this tiger will never be allowed to be restored by the locals, it is complete even like

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      Thank you!! So cool to think my work is being seen in Kazakhstan! Thank you for taking the time to watch!!!

  • @marthydoemar8159
    @marthydoemar8159 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Super! Just been back there again last week for our annual trip to the Ardennes. Just like you said. It is such a special feeling roadtripping there.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      It’s a great area to visit isn’t it! Every time you can see something new and the atmosphere is exceptional

  • @reconn9056
    @reconn9056 Před 3 měsíci +1

    Been there done that [about 10 years ago] - and agree with you that the Ardenne is a special area.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 3 měsíci

      It’s wonderful isn’t it and there is always somewhere new to explore there and so many stories about the fighting that took place there you’d never struggle to learn something new each day!

  • @colinkavanagh7625
    @colinkavanagh7625 Před 5 měsíci +2

    This was absolutely brilliant video, thank you for sharing...

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Glad you enjoyed it, thanks for taking the time to watch!

  • @scottcriswell6154
    @scottcriswell6154 Před 5 měsíci

    Excellent work! Fascinating, well done and thank you.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re most welcome! Thank you for watching!

  • @davidbarnsley8486
    @davidbarnsley8486 Před 5 měsíci +1

    It amazes me when I see these then and now photos and see the buildings are still there and have changed very little
    Great video

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you! La Gleize is a wonderful place to visit and I highly recommend it if you have the opportunity

  • @paulmoore120
    @paulmoore120 Před 6 měsíci +2

    Great video. Thanks.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      You’re most welcome. Thank you for watching!

  • @unclerudy9797
    @unclerudy9797 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Great History and Wonderful to see it Today ! Thanks for Posting !

  • @65peterbilt
    @65peterbilt Před 5 měsíci

    Thanks for all you do ! Keep history alive, great video.

  • @RobJones262
    @RobJones262 Před 6 měsíci

    I can never get enough of then and nows. Thanks once again for a brilliant video ;)

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you! They’re my favourite to make if I’m honest as it’s really something to stand in the same spots knowing what took place!

  • @hambdenbob7616
    @hambdenbob7616 Před 5 měsíci

    Simply A Fantastic Work You've Performed Here..!! Very Grateful..!! "Thanx From A Yank""..!!

  • @bobjohnston8316
    @bobjohnston8316 Před 5 měsíci +1

    There are CZcams channels of individuals who go metal detecting in the Ardennes. The woods and fields are still full of ammunition, spent shells, rusty weapons and other detritus of war.
    I recently viewed a channel that uploaded a video of a metal detecting club, with members from several European countries, who met in Berlin to go magnet fishing in a canal. They soon pulled up a German anti-tank mine which resulted in the explosives squad showing up and ended the days activities rather abruptly.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Definitely a hobby where you need to be on your A Game! Uncovering 80 year old UXO isn’t something id personally he too keen on!

  • @photoman2u
    @photoman2u Před 5 měsíci +1

    Your excellent commentary and imagery and videos are fantastic. Thank you so much for bringing history alive to those of us who are interested. On the spot actual imagery and locations are awesome and really bring the war closer in our minds.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you, I always think there’s something quite special being stood on the same spot where these momentous events occurred and being able to look at the wartime photos really brings it into focus!
      Thanks again for watching.

  • @eshelly4205
    @eshelly4205 Před 5 měsíci +1

    My Opa was in the 8th Panzer Division. He said when they found out the Allies landed in France his CO Capt Amsel said, “Well Georg, it seems Adolf’s folly will end very soon”

  • @rustyford3406
    @rustyford3406 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Great vid, thank you!!

  • @elvisx
    @elvisx Před 6 měsíci

    Outstanding work!! Thank you and Happy New Year!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you and a very happy new year to you too!

  • @greggriffin1
    @greggriffin1 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Always enjoy your vids, and never miss them, thank you

  • @mchrome3366
    @mchrome3366 Před 6 měsíci

    I’ve always wanted to visit France to tour this battles now famous sites. As I studied this battle more and more I found it necessary to look thru google maps and zoom down to street level whenever the photos were available. La Glaise was the farthest Piper got before his spearhead was destroyed by British artillery. It’s amazing there is that many buildings that survived. Thanks for bringing me that much closer to these towns.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re most welcome. Glad you enjoyed it and thanks for watching!

  • @mdotto8707
    @mdotto8707 Před 6 měsíci

    Amazing video!! Thank you so much!!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      You’re most welcome, thanks for watching!

  • @davidrees1279
    @davidrees1279 Před 5 měsíci +1

    And again a most enjoyable video! I really appreciate your work in putting these videos together.
    Panther 221 is something of a favourite of mine as regards this subject.
    My Highest Regards To You.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci +1

      Thank you! 221 is a great example isn’t it, and we’re very lucky so many great photos of it were taken before it was towed away!

    • @davidrees1279
      @davidrees1279 Před 5 měsíci

      @@WW2Wayfinder I have long preferred the Panther Tank to either the Tiger or King Tiger Tanks.
      Watching your Video Clips make me wish I was in the Ardennes again.

  • @carloscabreja8393
    @carloscabreja8393 Před 5 měsíci +2

    I've just discovered your videos and I think they're fantastic! Thank you so much for this unique look at WW history!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 5 měsíci

      Thank you and welcome to the channel! Lots to come in 2024 as well, along with a lot of coverage of D-Day 80!

  • @TheOldGord
    @TheOldGord Před 5 měsíci

    Fantastic video. Love these then and now.

  • @warbirdwf
    @warbirdwf Před 6 měsíci +4

    As a HUGE WW2 history lover, I feel bad for the soldiers of the following wars like Korea and Vietnam. There's so much coverage of WW2 on CZcams, TV and in movies yet so little coverage on Korea in general. Clearly WW2 was a gigantic war vs. the smaller "conflicts' and the war had a firm ending with victories over German and Japan. The other wars were not victories despite the incredibly brave efforts by the troops who served there.
    What's fascinating to me is there is so little film or coverage of the clean up efforts after the battles. In the pacific, the USA had to close so many bases they built on the islands. Lots of videos/film of the CB's building these bases but not much showing closing the bases and moving the equipment back to the USA. The same in Europe. The battlefields were littered with equipment that in most cases was rounded up, scrapped and melted down. It would be cool to see more videos on the post war clean up and rebuilding.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci

      Agreed. I’d love to film in Vietnam and Korea too. Maybe one day if things go the way I’d like!
      Those are incredible stories that need to be told.

    • @nigeh5326
      @nigeh5326 Před 6 měsíci

      There are lots of documentaries on the US period in Vietnam, less so on the French period.
      Korea I agree is less well served, hence why it’s called ‘the forgotten war’.
      A lot of this is down to nations tending to mainly wanting to see their own nation’s involvement in wars, rather than other nations.
      For example the Battle of Britain is of great interest to Brits, and the Battle of the Bulge to Americans.
      Some battles though transcend to a degree this national interest due to how pivotal they were or how large eg Waterloo, Kursk and Stalingrad

    • @warbirdwf
      @warbirdwf Před 6 měsíci +2

      @@nigeh5326 You're totally on point with Korea being the "forgotten" war. It's a shame as those veterans are passing fast due to old age as well. That war is now 70 years old. We lost so many brave kids during it from many countries. I think all the war or conflict veterans deserve our thanks and gratitude. They simply don't get enough including our veterans of recent conflicts the USA has been involved in.

    • @warbirdwf
      @warbirdwf Před 6 měsíci

      For sure!@@WW2Wayfinder

    • @nigeh5326
      @nigeh5326 Před 6 měsíci

      @@warbirdwf I’m a Brit my Dad was called up for his 2 year National service at the time of the Korean War.
      He volunteered to go when he was called up but as he could drive and knew about engines and gearboxes he was sent to the Royal Scots Greys ending up serving in Egypt, Libya and the UK.
      I’m proud of him volunteering but I’m glad he was never sent to Korea.
      A guy I used to work with served there in the Royal Artillery and told me about the human wave attacks, the bugles and how lousy the weather was.

  • @HWCism
    @HWCism Před 5 měsíci +1

    Thanks. Great video

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 4 měsíci

      You're welcome! thanks for taking the time to watch!

  • @davekreitzer4358
    @davekreitzer4358 Před 6 měsíci +1

    Great video and awesome pictures and research , enjoyed it immensely !!! 👏👏👏👍

  • @MrJoeGarner
    @MrJoeGarner Před 4 měsíci

    Excellent video, thanks for the effort!

  • @mx7079
    @mx7079 Před 5 měsíci

    Thank you for your efforts to share your inside knowledge with us. Again a great job.

  • @bulldogstrut1
    @bulldogstrut1 Před 5 měsíci

    I have always enjoyed Then and Now shots, and this was no exception. Excellent.

  • @mustangmanmustangman4596
    @mustangmanmustangman4596 Před 6 měsíci +3

    well done and i love your passion

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 6 měsíci +1

      Thank you! La Gleize is such a special place to visit especially in the winter time. The atmosphere there is incredible.

    • @mustangmanmustangman4596
      @mustangmanmustangman4596 Před 5 měsíci

      You are very welcome! Living across the pond. France is someplace that holds a lot of meaning for me as many regiments I am personally familiar with were there in both ww1 & ww2. I have never had the money($$$$$) or the time. That is why I appreciate those CZcamsrs like you self that bring the world to me. Tks from a vet!

  • @MrSychnant
    @MrSychnant Před 5 měsíci +1

    Great video Thankyou

  • @Exar1337
    @Exar1337 Před 6 měsíci

    Thank you for the wonderful video!

  • @andrewdoddington6939
    @andrewdoddington6939 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Awesome video sir! I look forward to watching more from you.

  • @Baz-King
    @Baz-King Před 5 měsíci +1

    It's amazing to see a world war 1 memorial in a world war 2 photo!!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Před 4 měsíci +1

      It always amazes me when I see them in France and Belgium that they were put up after 1918 then had to endure the fighting of WW2.

  • @davidsutton8667
    @davidsutton8667 Před 5 měsíci +1

    Thank you. I'll never get to see this for myself, but what a great job you did.