In the footsteps of the 82nd Airborne Division 2011

In the footsteps of the 82nd Airborne Division, 2011:

On February 26, me and some friends participated in the “In the footsteps” march. This was the 29th edition of the commemorative march for the 82nd Airborne Division, this year in honor of the 325th Glider Infantry Regiment. The trip started in Manhay and took us through the villages of Houte si Plout, Baneux, Fraiture, Malempré and then back to Manhay, exploring the northern shoulder of the Ardennes.

Along the 24 kilometer track (15 miles), checkpoints were set up in WWII style, with re-enactors showing us what it must have looked like 66 years ago, when the allied forces were battling the German army in the Ardennes. Although the march is named after the 82nd Airborne Division, other divisions and regiments that fought in this part of the Ardennes are honored too. Emile Lacroix, who is the godfather of this commemorative march, invited all participants for a small ceremony at the 325th GIR monument in Manhay, before the march started. Ray Fary, a veteran of the 80th Anti-Aircraft and Anti-Tank battalion of the 82nd Airborne Division, placed a wreath at the monument, in honor of his fallen brothers in arms.

This year’s march has been a great succes and we had a great day!

If you would like to learn more about the commemorative march for the 82nd Airborne Division, or see more pictures from previous editions, please visit their website by clicking here!