23/12/2025
This December, HAC Band trombonist CSgt Matt Quick took part in the 81st anniversary commemorations of the Battle of the Bulge at Bastogne in Belgium, as part of the annual ‘NUTS’ weekend.
'Nuts!" during WW2 refers to Brigadier General Anthony McAuliffe's defiant one-word reply to a German demand for surrender during the Battle of the Bulge in Bastogne, Belgium in December 1944, becoming a legendary symbol of American resolve. This iconic response, given by the acting commander of the surrounded 101st Airborne, boosted troop morale as they held out until relieved by Patton's forces.'
This year’s event included a special 1940s-themed concert by the SHAPE International Band, bringing together musicians from seven nations: the United States, Czech Republic, France, Latvia, Lithuania, the Netherlands and the United Kingdom. WWII veterans were also in attendance, making this a particularly meaningful occasion.
It was a fantastic opportunity to commemorate history, and collaborate with fellow NATO musicians. With thanks to the SHAPE International Band for the invitation and musicianship.