Mons, Belgium goes back in time for historic event

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Candin Muniz | Belgian citizens attend Tanks In Mons, Belgium, Sep. 1, 2019. The annual event commemorates the arrival of the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division and 3rd Armored Division on Sept. 2, 1944, and the 75th anniversary of Belgium’s liberation during World War II. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Candin Muniz)  

MONS, HAINAUT (WAL), BELGIUM

09.01.2019

Story by Senior Airman Candin Muniz  

AFN Benelux

“Tanks in Mons,” rolling through several villages in the Mons area, took place Aug. 30 - Sep. 1,
2019.
The annual event commemorated the arrival of the U.S. Army’s 1st Infantry Division and 3rd
Armored Division on Sept. 2, 1944, and the 75th anniversary of Belgium’s liberation during
World War II.
“It was fantastic,” said U.S. Army Col. Sean H. Kuester, U.S. Army Garrison Benelux
commander. “The connection that we still have as Belgians and Americans, these nations in the
Alliance, is pretty amazing.”
The event brings tanks and light vehicles to Mons and outlying towns, and highlights the
historical importance of the Belgian liberation of World War II.
“I think it is important to remember what’s gone before, and honor the dead on both sides
actually.” Said Julie Douglas-Cooke, a history enthusiast from Nottingham, England. “I think we
have to learn from the past to make sure that the future doesn’t go that way.”
Known as “Tanks in Town” in previous years, “Tanks in Mons” is a long-standing local
tradition. This year’s theme highlights different artillery vehicles from the World War II era.
“Tanks in Mons” featured a historical parade through the Mons countryside, static displays of
World War II-era vehicles, and an official celebration of the liberation of Mons in the city center.
For more information visit www.TanksInMons.be.

• Date Taken: 09.01.2019
• Date Posted: 09.05.2019 10:37
• Story ID: 338291
• Location: MONS, HAINAUT (WAL), BE