Bastogne

Weʻre prepping for the 75th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge at the embassy. There are a lot of commemoration events coming up both in Luxembourg and in Belgium. The U.S. is very well regarding here and the Luxembourg people still express gratitude and appreciation for Americaʻs role in liberating them from German occupation during World War II.

I traveled to Belgium twice this week - once to meet my consular colleagues at the embassy in Brussels, and once to visit various commemoration sites. By far the most haunting site was the Ardennes forest where the Battle of the Bulge was fought. A fog was present throughout the day - it never dissipated - and that added to the somber, melancholy feeling that I couldnʻt shake.

A foxhole in the foreground.

Veterans Day

The embassy hosts a ceremony thanking veterans at the Luxembourg American Cemetery every year. Although I did not have an official role to play, I attended the event to pay my respects. Over 5000 US war dead are buried in the cemetery, including General Patton.

Ambassador Randy Evans, giving remarks.

The Marine Corps Ball

R isnʻt here, but I decided to go to the Marine Corps Ball any way. The marines at the embassy are a good bunch, and I really love their spirit.

Although I did buy a ball gown, I opted to wear a shalwar kameez that I brought with me from Pakistan. Itʻs beautiful and super comfortable. And Iʻll be able to wear the gown next year when I go with R!