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

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  • Опубликовано: 10 янв 2025
  • 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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Комментарии • 517

  • @georgeallen4495
    @georgeallen4495 Год назад +180

    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 Год назад +14

      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 Год назад +16

      @@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 Год назад

      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 Год назад +10

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

    • @georgeallen4495
      @georgeallen4495 Год назад +3

      @@bartgomez4872 You never know??

  • @MrMrliamo
    @MrMrliamo 11 месяцев назад +28

    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 RUclips for the world to see for free! Thank you SIR! Best wishes, liam from the west of Ireland

  • @hadial-saadoon2114
    @hadial-saadoon2114 10 месяцев назад +8

    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.

  • @donaldkroth2579
    @donaldkroth2579 3 месяца назад +4

    You get a better perspective on history when you see the photos from the past and compare what it looks like today in that area. It's even better when some of the structures are still there.
    I've only seen a few docs over the years that have done this. Few realize how much it does to bring history alive and makes it so the younger generations can understand what was really at stake and what happened there. Just how important it is, so this doesn't ever happen again.
    Thank you for the insightful comments and view of this country today. 🇺🇸🇧🇪

  • @Hmbucker
    @Hmbucker 11 месяцев назад +17

    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.

  • @kathyc8284
    @kathyc8284 Год назад +10

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

  • @slugfest100
    @slugfest100 Год назад +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  Год назад +2

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

  • @anyblunder6782
    @anyblunder6782 Год назад +13

    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 Год назад +2

      Amazing stuff.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +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 Год назад +2

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

  • @suepalin9202
    @suepalin9202 Год назад +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  Год назад +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 Год назад +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

  • @karlflavell968
    @karlflavell968 3 дня назад +1

    Panther 221 is actually quite a rare beast. If you look at the original pics you can see that it has steel road wheels very much like those on the King Tiger. A couple of dozen Panthers were fitted with the steel wheels to cut down on rubber usage as Germany was really struggling for everything by this point in the war due to the RAF and USAAF bombing the living daylights out of all factories. As I mentioned only a couple of dozen Panthers were fitted with these wheels so I can only imagine it wasn't a particularly successful experiment. Great video as always.

  • @Blitz9H
    @Blitz9H Год назад +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  Год назад +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 Год назад +3

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

  • @firstcitytraveler
    @firstcitytraveler Год назад +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  Год назад +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!

  • @StephenFarrow-gx6qu
    @StephenFarrow-gx6qu Год назад +30

    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  Год назад +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 Год назад

      Nice job. I enjoyed your work.

    • @Strength-in-Union
      @Strength-in-Union Год назад

      Good spot. Thanks for that info.

    • @kevinles6703
      @kevinles6703 Год назад

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

  • @chrispig7748
    @chrispig7748 Год назад +9

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

  • @omcbob37
    @omcbob37 9 месяцев назад +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  9 месяцев назад

      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!

  • @Padoinky
    @Padoinky 5 месяцев назад +2

    This is a great way to connect the in-depth assessments of the many complex and integrated battles, the strategies and tactics employed w/ the actual physical landscapes

  • @michaelperkins5746
    @michaelperkins5746 Год назад +4

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +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!

  • @malemesjager41
    @malemesjager41 6 месяцев назад +2

    Regiments of 3 Elite American Divisions,3rd Armored,30th Infantry,82nd Airborn and they couldn't finish off Peiper and his Battlegroup which was out of gas and ammo ,such a badass commander and soldiers!!

  • @ruthirace4134
    @ruthirace4134 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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 Год назад

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

    • @Strength-in-Union
      @Strength-in-Union Год назад

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

    • @mx7079
      @mx7079 Год назад

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

  • @Hambone571
    @Hambone571 8 дней назад +1

    Well done sir. I love history and your videos really bring things to life. Your then and now photos and films are fantastic. Thank you very much.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  7 дней назад

      Thank you!
      Glad you like my then and now work. It’s always a thrill to stand in those same spots knowing what unfolded there all those years ago and I’m lucky I can share it on here with so many likeminded people!

  • @lowandslow3939
    @lowandslow3939 11 месяцев назад +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  11 месяцев назад +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 11 месяцев назад

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

  • @MrVintage65
    @MrVintage65 2 дня назад +1

    Again an interesting video. At 10.44 the German Halftrack is an SdKfz. 251/7 Mittlerer Pionierpanzerwagen. Visible are the ramps on top which specifies this type.

  • @sabii416
    @sabii416 Год назад +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  Год назад +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 Год назад

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

    • @sabii416
      @sabii416 Год назад

      ​@@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.

    • @Blair338RUM
      @Blair338RUM Год назад

      He was a brilliant soldier despite his allegiance

  • @brianjbull
    @brianjbull Год назад +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  Год назад +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!

  • @kevinjudia122
    @kevinjudia122 Год назад +6

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

  • @troykauffman3963
    @troykauffman3963 Год назад +9

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

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

  • @billyskoda6839
    @billyskoda6839 11 месяцев назад +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  11 месяцев назад +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 11 месяцев назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  11 месяцев назад +1

      Nice! Hope the house hunting goes well!

  • @garysimpson8860
    @garysimpson8860 Год назад +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  Год назад +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 😃

  • @zigman8550
    @zigman8550 Год назад +4

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +1

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

  • @frankvandergoes298
    @frankvandergoes298 Год назад +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  Год назад +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!

  • @chrisstorch1337
    @chrisstorch1337 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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 Год назад +2

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

  • @NDB469
    @NDB469 Год назад +6

    Outstanding

  • @tommytaylor4458
    @tommytaylor4458 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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.

  • @GreyTowerGames
    @GreyTowerGames 11 месяцев назад +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  11 месяцев назад

      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.

  • @ronaldwilkinson4330
    @ronaldwilkinson4330 Год назад +2

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  11 месяцев назад

      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 Год назад +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!

  • @Captainwilly7673
    @Captainwilly7673 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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!

  • @oldcrow-iw3kc
    @oldcrow-iw3kc 4 месяца назад +1

    Fascinating and very well narrated and presented . Only just discovered your video's and am very impressed . Will catch up on the previous ones l have missed . Well done .

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  4 месяца назад

      Thank you! Welcome to my channel and I hope you enjoy my other work on here!

  • @hobbycopterfly
    @hobbycopterfly Год назад +1

    Vielen Dank für diese ausfühliche Dokumentation.

  • @phillippesmith2924
    @phillippesmith2924 Год назад +2

    Another fantastic video many thanks for your time and effort

  • @alansmall3653
    @alansmall3653 Год назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

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

  • @davidbarnsley8486
    @davidbarnsley8486 Год назад +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  Год назад

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

  • @mikehawk9626
    @mikehawk9626 11 месяцев назад +2

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

  • @harley909
    @harley909 Год назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +2

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

  • @photoman2u
    @photoman2u Год назад +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  Год назад

      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.

  • @ColinFreeman-kh9us
    @ColinFreeman-kh9us Год назад

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

  • @tomtin2001
    @tomtin2001 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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.

  • @michaelderenne9838
    @michaelderenne9838 9 месяцев назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  9 месяцев назад +1

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

  • @geodes4762
    @geodes4762 Год назад +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  Год назад +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 Год назад

      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.

  • @marthydoemar8159
    @marthydoemar8159 Год назад +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  Год назад +1

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

  • @MGB-learning
    @MGB-learning 11 месяцев назад +2

    Great video and presentation.

  • @ricosuave58
    @ricosuave58 Год назад +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  Год назад

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

  • @martinschoech8156
    @martinschoech8156 Год назад +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  Год назад

      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.

  • @ELMS
    @ELMS Год назад +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  Год назад +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!

  • @bluedogreddogstumpy5868
    @bluedogreddogstumpy5868 Год назад +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  Год назад

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

  • @ub1953
    @ub1953 Год назад

    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  Год назад

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

  • @robertreed3209
    @robertreed3209 Год назад +2

    At 5:43, I don't think there was an extension on the left hind side of the building. It looks like the temporary extension of the right hand side is now missing. Look at the shingles in the original picture.

  • @monicabello1962
    @monicabello1962 Год назад +1

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

  • @LesWalker2023
    @LesWalker2023 4 месяца назад

    Amazing work, getting all those angles and locations! I have thoroughly enjoyed this video, and am very much more informed about the battle and subject of La Gleize. Those tanks are amazing! Great stuff!

  • @adrianstannard3821
    @adrianstannard3821 4 месяца назад

    Another excellent video......loved the comment re the atmosphere in the Ardennes, in combo with the fact there is no much military history in the region.....it's hard not to fall in love with the area.......on a side note just finnished the Fatal crossroads book, you mentioned on a previous comment....very good and informative read!!!!!

  • @dipseavet
    @dipseavet 6 месяцев назад +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  6 месяцев назад

      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.

  • @colinkavanagh7625
    @colinkavanagh7625 Год назад +2

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

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

  • @davidsutton8667
    @davidsutton8667 Год назад +1

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

  • @paulrobinson8263
    @paulrobinson8263 Год назад +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  Год назад

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

  • @geraldgerhardstein2170
    @geraldgerhardstein2170 11 месяцев назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  11 месяцев назад

      You’re most welcome, glad you enjoyed it!

  • @richardbarker2928
    @richardbarker2928 Год назад +4

    Excellent, brilliant content. The bulge a nd Kursk43 are my favourite battles. I hope to visit the area on a battlefield tour in 2025...your videos makes me even more excited to go. Just love the then and now photos, brings it all to life. Please more on the bulge and all its history...i hear the museums there are just amazing with all the equipment etc from the Battle...all the best for you and your channel for 2024

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +3

      Thank you and I agree the Bulge and Kursk are fascinating battles to study!
      Lots more Battle of the Bulge content to come over the next few weeks so hope you enjoy!

    • @nigeh5326
      @nigeh5326 Год назад +1

      I recommend the WW1 battle grounds if you enjoy military history.
      Ypres has a great museum in the centre of town in what was the old cloth hall. Also the nightly ceremony at the Menin Gate is very moving and a must see.
      Dunkirk is v close too (although it’s just over the border in France only a few miles really).
      The whole region of N France, Belgium, Holland and Western Germany is full of famous locations, memorials and museums.
      You could spend years there and still not see everything.

    • @Strength-in-Union
      @Strength-in-Union Год назад +1

      ​@@nigeh5326Easy Tiger!

    • @nigeh5326
      @nigeh5326 Год назад

      @@Strength-in-Union lol 👍

    • @richardbarker2928
      @richardbarker2928 Год назад

      ​@nigeh5326 many thanks for your information, I've never been on any tour but really wanted to do the bulge one first. Yes I would certainly go on any ww1 tour as my granddad was wounded severely at passendaele in 1917...he lost a leg and got shot in the back. So going to experience in a little way of what he went through would be helpful in understanding that terrible war ...

  • @davidrees1279
    @davidrees1279 Год назад +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  Год назад +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 Год назад

      @@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.

  • @bettylaselli2048
    @bettylaselli2048 Год назад +7

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +2

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

  • @markadams7597
    @markadams7597 Год назад +2

    Very interesting, thanks for sharing!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +1

      You’re most welcome. Thank you for watching!

  • @65bravo
    @65bravo Год назад +1

    Danke!

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      Thank you so much for your support!!!

    • @65bravo
      @65bravo Год назад

      @@WW2Wayfinder You are most welcome .... I share your sensations triggered by the Ardennes and its battlefields. I visit the whole area a couple of times year over the last 3 decades .... be looking for Panthers 202 & 215 in January ..

  • @mchrome3366
    @mchrome3366 Год назад

    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  Год назад

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

  • @bulldogstrut1
    @bulldogstrut1 Год назад

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

  • @Baskerville22
    @Baskerville22 Год назад +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  Год назад +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!

  • @johnrye6752
    @johnrye6752 Год назад +3

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      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!!!

  • @finncarlbomholtsrensen1188
    @finncarlbomholtsrensen1188 Год назад +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!!.

  • @conceptalfa
    @conceptalfa Год назад +4

    Great work!!!👍👍👍

  • @unclerudy9797
    @unclerudy9797 11 месяцев назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  11 месяцев назад

      Thank you! Glad you enjoyed it!

  • @RubyMarkLindMilly
    @RubyMarkLindMilly Год назад

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +1

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

  • @johnpirman7680
    @johnpirman7680 9 месяцев назад +1

    Awesome presentation!! Thank you!!

  • @royfr8136
    @royfr8136 Год назад +2

    This is the best channel of its type

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      Thank you so much, very kind of you to say so!

  • @maurotaffijn6147
    @maurotaffijn6147 Год назад +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  Год назад +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.

  • @hambdenbob7616
    @hambdenbob7616 Год назад

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

  • @paulmoore120
    @paulmoore120 Год назад +2

    Great video. Thanks.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      You’re most welcome. Thank you for watching!

  • @andrewdoddington6939
    @andrewdoddington6939 11 месяцев назад +1

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

  • @mustangmanmustangman4596
    @mustangmanmustangman4596 Год назад +3

    well done and i love your passion

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +1

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

    • @mustangmanmustangman4596
      @mustangmanmustangman4596 Год назад

      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 RUclipsrs like you self that bring the world to me. Tks from a vet!

  • @giljeep
    @giljeep Год назад +1

    superbe vidéo, toujours aussi passionnant, merci a vous!!

  • @j33pfyn4tik6
    @j33pfyn4tik6 10 месяцев назад +1

    Sir... You're doing big things! Always great content....

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  10 месяцев назад

      Thank you! Glad you enjoyed this one!

  • @leesherman100
    @leesherman100 Год назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +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!

  • @greggriffin1
    @greggriffin1 Год назад +1

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

  • @reconn9056
    @reconn9056 10 месяцев назад +1

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

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  10 месяцев назад

      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!

  • @รุจิราแช่มวงศ์

    ขอบคุณเรื่องราวดีๆที่นำเสนอ ฉันอยู่ประเทศไทย หลงไหลในสงครามโลกครั้งที่สองมากๆ
    และอยากให้ทำเกี่ยวกับ โซเวียต ได้ไหม ❤❤❤

  • @scottcriswell6154
    @scottcriswell6154 Год назад

    Excellent work! Fascinating, well done and thank you.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      You’re most welcome! Thank you for watching!

  • @gabiannagat
    @gabiannagat Год назад

    Ive watched the movie Battle Of The Bulge long time ago, but never seen the real place before where the battle taken place. But now i see it. Thankyou for your video here.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад +1

      Lots more episodes to come too from the Ardennes so you’ll get a good idea of the terrain around the Bastogne area too which is very different to the area La Gleize is in!
      Thanks for watching!

  • @drmarkintexas-400
    @drmarkintexas-400 9 месяцев назад +2

    🏆🎖️✝️💪🙏
    Thank you for sharing this

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  9 месяцев назад +1

      You're most welcome!!! Glad you enjoyed it and thank you for taking the time to watch!

    • @drmarkintexas-400
      @drmarkintexas-400 9 месяцев назад +1

      @@WW2Wayfinder I fully understand there's no way to know. But, I can't help wondering what became of those portrayed? Did they survive the war, have families, or, even sadly 💔, die shortly after the photos or film recorded them. I wish there were some way to share this with teenagers and college students so they know what came before them. And, understand the sacrifices others made so they don't have to. But, if they don't comprehend the responsibilities they have, that they will find themselves in the same situation and the future of the entire free world and humanity will hang in the balance. You cannot run away and hide. Sometime, somewhere, you have to be willing to stand and fight and possibly give up your life for the sake of others who are innocent and unable to do so. 🛐🙏✝️🎖️💪

  • @matthewaves255
    @matthewaves255 Год назад

    Another great video - I’m going back in the spring combining with the Spa Classic. Battle of the bulge and classic motor racing - a great weekend

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      Sounds like a fantastic weekend!!! I stayed near the circuit in February and it always amazes me how close the northern shoulder of the Bulge is to that area so definitely a great place to spend a few days!
      Just hope the weather stays good for it!

  • @nicktozie6685
    @nicktozie6685 9 месяцев назад +1

    Amazing site sir,thank you.

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  9 месяцев назад

      My pleasure! Thank you for watching and I'll have several Then and Now episodes from Normandy out after my trip there next month!

  • @jamesoates6988
    @jamesoates6988 Год назад +2

    Great video!
    It would be cool to see a map with the posittions of the knocked out tanks/vehicles marked

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  Год назад

      Will see if I can post one up on the community page in the next couple of days 😃

  • @morpheus3190
    @morpheus3190 Год назад +1

    Thank you! This is absolutely amazing. I wonder how many people living in Le Gleize today realize the history of the buildings as you have shown?

  • @tormarx
    @tormarx 11 месяцев назад +1

    Awesome. Was myself several times there, in La Gleize. So next time we (my son and I) have some more to discover...
    Greets from Switzerland 🇨🇭

    • @WW2Wayfinder
      @WW2Wayfinder  11 месяцев назад +1

      Fantastic! It's a wonderful village isn't it and the museum remains my favourite of all the museums in the Ardennes. I can also recommend the restaurant Le vert de Pommier on the road to Stoumont next time you're there. They do fantastic burgers and I never miss the chance to have lunch or dinner there!

    • @tormarx
      @tormarx 11 месяцев назад

      @WW2Wayfinder thank you verry much for your recommendation.
      It's also time for us, to visit the museum in Full again, to see the progress of the Kingtiger-restoration.