News

The Christmas Truce of WWII: A Lesson in Compassion

Christmas truce
Via GoDaddy

The Christmas Truce of 1914 was a moment of humanity and compassion in the midst of war and brutality. In World War 1, enemies laid down arms on Christmas night for a moment of peace. The same truce was not repeated in the Second World War, however, something similar happened in a small wooded cabin.

On Christmas Eve, three American Soldiers, one severely wounded, found themselves lost in the snow-covered wilderness. As they tried to find their way back to their people, they found a small hunting cabin. Inside, a German woman and her 12-year-old son were lodging after being bombed out of their home. Seeing the dire situation, the mother, Elisabeth Vincken, welcomed the Americans in and fed them.

The situation could have taken a darker turn when German soldiers, also in need of food and warmth, arrived at the door. Elizabeth insisted that both American and German Troops leave their weapons outside saying “Es ist Heiligabend und hier wird nicht geschossen.” “It is the Holy Night and there will be no shooting here.

The enemy soldiers dined together that night almost as friends. In the morning they parted peacefully returning to their battle lines. However, each of these men took with them a lifelong lesson in compassion. Learn more about this incredible story here.

Follow The Greatest Generation on Facebook and Twitter for more stories like this. We support our veterans and want to give back to those who gave so much. Learn more about what we are doing to help these great Americans and take a moment to sign our petition here.