[WWII Commemorations] “75th Anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge” in Bastogne area (Belgium)

Authors Benoit Denet & Martin Gillet, reporting from Saint-Hubert.

[Agenda] This Friday, December 13th and this weekend December 14th and 15th, the operation Piper Cub Ardennes is coming back in full swing to support the World War Two Commemorations.

As you might remember, the Piper Cub Ardennes already honoured the Belgian skies in September (Episode 1), supporting the Memories of the 75th Anniversary of the Liberation of Belgium. This motivated team of volunteers flew over the different cities and schools were more than 2000 students were reached.

This December, the temporary airfield of Bizory (EBX3) next to the Mardasson will open with a myriad of activities, part of the 75th Commemoration activities.

Free public access. An airfield with air activities (weather permitting) of Piper L-4 as in 1944 at Bizory – EBX3 (Bastogne), which was already opened last September will be put back into service.

The following activities will be offered:

• On-site entertainment with volunteers of re-enactors dressed in period costume,
• take-offs and landings,
• planes in the parking lot,
• meetings and discussions with the public,
• aircraft overflights (based in Saint-Hubert),
• passage of the March of Remembrance on December 14th.

There will be a plane on the ground even in case of poor weather at Bizory (Bastogne). Stands will be provided to dress the children like in 1944, photos opportunities for the parents will be provided.

Terroir market and food like in 1944 will be available onsite.

Snacks will be provided by the non-profit organisation Animalaine ASBL in Bizory.

In parallel, the planes will fly over (weather permitting) the Bastogne region throughout the weekend in order to take part in the historical reenactments in Manhay, Hardigny, Bastogne Barrack and for the parade in Bastogne.

Throughout this weekend, among the many events related to the Battle of the Bulge, the opening of the Bizory airfield will undoubtedly be one of the highlights of the 75th Anniversary.

Information regarding possible changes to flight plans following the weather will be communicated in real time through their dedicated page www.facebook.com/pipercubardennes