Free Republic

Before they were known as the “Lost Battalion,” the 1st Battalion was a part of the 36th Infantry Division fighting in Europe during World War II. After a bungled strategic decision sent them deep into German territory in Southern France, the Battalion was surrounded. For six days, the 275 soldiers remained trapped with dwindling air-dropped supplies as the Germans threatened to wipe them out and repelled repeated rescue attempts on the ground. Germany's leader himself is said to have taken a personal interest in seeing the Battalion completely destroyed. In a last ditch effort, the 442nd Regimental Combat Team was...

The ‘Lost Battalion’ was surrounded by Nazis and near certain death – until the men of the 442nd appeared. Now, they meet again Even 65 years later, Astro Tortolano thinks almost daily of his struggle to survive in the Vosges Mountains of northern France in October 1944. Surrounded by German soldiers after stumbling into a trap, Tortolano and about 280 men in the 1st Battalion of the Texas 141st Infantry Regiment of the 36th Infantry Division rationed food and bullets. They fended off Nazi assaults. They thought all hope of surviving was lost. Six days into the crisis, different soldiers...

Lord, Keep our Troops forever in Your care Give them victory over the enemy... Grant them a safe and swift return... Bless those who mourn the lost. . FReepers from the Foxhole join in prayer for all those serving their country at this time. .................................................................. .................... ........................................... U.S. Military History, Current Events and Veterans Issues Where Duty, Honor and Countryare acknowledged, affirmed and commemorated. Our Mission: The FReeper Foxhole is dedicated to Veterans of our Nation's military forces and to others who are affected in their relationships with Veterans. In the FReeper Foxhole, Veterans or their family members should...