HANSCOM AIR FORCE BASE, Mass. -- The Chapel will host a free spiritual resiliency event at the American Heritage Museum in Hudson, Massachusetts, Jan. 17 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
The event will highlight methods used by Soldiers to overcome hardship during the Battle of the Bulge in World War II.
“If we are ever in a large-scale conflict, can our Airmen sustain themselves?,” said Maj. Alex Lu, installation chaplain. “What really sustains us is the support we give each other, that wingmanship.”
Support is one of the key messages Lu plans to emphasize for those attending.
“We tend to think that resiliency is an individual thing, but it's not,” he said “It requires support and input from the people around you. If you don't already have that, start developing a community and support structure.”
In December 1944, the German Army launched a surprise offensive against American forces in the Ardennes, breaking through U.S. lines.
Many Soldiers rushed to the front lacked proper winter clothing and other supplies. American defenders of the strategic town of Bastogne were surrounded and forced to improvise, relying heavily on one another for survival.
Lu explained the day’s events will begin indoors with a historical overview of the battle, followed by a discussion on how resiliency played a critical part in its outcome.
Attendees will then move outside, where reenactors portraying both sides will provide a living history of the battle.
The day will conclude with a discussion on the role resiliency played during the conflict.
The event is open to active duty, Guard and Reserve members and their families who are administratively supported by Hanscom AFB.
Registration closes Jan. 11. Those planning to attend are asked to register using the QR code in the attached flyer.