Frank Gubbels Battlefield Guide
Frank Gubbles was motivated by Dr. Stephen Ambrose's acclaimed book and the hit HBO series Band of Brothers, numerous individuals embark on journeys across the globe to trace the path of Easy Company, 506th Parachute Infantry Regiment, in the European Theatre of Operations. Exploring the footsteps of Easy Company in Bastogne offers a one-of-a-kind adventure. Immersing oneself in their foxholes, retracing their maneuvers, and listening to personal testimonies is an unforgettable highlight for any WWII enthusiast.
In 1994, a military parade commemorating the 50th anniversary marched through Frank's hometown, sparking his fascination with WWII history. Noorbeek, liberated by the 30th Infantry Division on September 12, 1944, marked the first Dutch municipality freed during the war. Inspired by the heroics of the 'Old Hickory' Division and driven to honor American soldiers, Frank has become a local authority on the subject.
Through years of research, Frank and his team identified S/Sgt Roy Booher as the first American casualty during the Netherlands' liberation, commemorating him with a dedicated memorial. Living near Margraten (NL) and Henri Chapelle (BEL) American Military Cemeteries, Frank tends to adopted graves, ensuring the fallen are remembered through his Adoption Program presentations.
Motivated by HBO's Band of Brothers, Frank delved into the history of the 101st Airborne Division and other WWII units. He has spent years walking the Bastogne battlefields with veterans and their families, documenting their experiences and preserving their stories. Frank's passion, reliability, and infectious enthusiasm make him an exceptional guide and a trusted colleague. In my absence, I wholeheartedly endorse Frank to lead you through the footsteps of Easy Company in Bastogne.
