On May 7, 1945, Germany's unconditional surrender to the Allied forces marked a significant milestone in World War II, leading to the celebration of VE Day. Despite the ongoing conflict with Japan, this capitulation signified relief for American troops, including Harry Miller from the 740th Tank Battalion. Now 96, Miller recounted the mixed emotions of his unit in Schwerin, Germany, and shared his military journey from a young recruit to his involvement in the pivotal Battle of the Bulge, illustrating his dedication and the challenges faced by soldiers during the war.
"Some of us lay down and went to sleep. Some of us were patting each other on the back. Some were shaking hands. And some just couldn't believe it."
"I always wanted to be with them, and for some reason I just couldn't get over wanting to be in the service."
Miller's unit played a key role in the biggest and bloodiest battle ever fought by American troops, the Battle of the Bulge, which started in December 1944.
From there, Miller was sent off to France in the fall of 1944, and spent some time moving between assignments in France and Belgium.
Collection
[
|
...
]