From Texas to Bastogne – Aggies Go To War
J. Wayne Stark Galleries
August 17 – December 16, 2017

From Bastogne to Texas is a non-profit organization that exists to champion the values of leadership, excellence and selfless service. It is grounded in the core values of Texas A&M University. These values not only guide Aggies but also define generations of Americans who have served and protected our country. FBT’s mission is to create and present creative, engaging and educational exhibits that bring to life stories of real people whose actions have embodied these values.

In commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge in 2014, the Bastogne War Museum opened the exhibition Texas Aggies go To War, which tells the story of five former students of Texas A&M University who each had a role in the pivotal battle which led to the Allied victory in Europe. These five—James Hollingsworth ‘40, Turney Leonard ‘42, Willie Peña ‘42, Joe Routt ’37 and Earl Rudder ’32 —are representative not only of all Aggies, but all Americans, who served in World War II. Through them a story is told of dedication, sacrifice, reconciliation, healing, and deep ties, both personal and economic, between people an ocean apart.

Elements designed for the future permanent home of the exhibition will be on display on the Texas A&M campus in the J Wayne Stark Galleries, located on the first floor of the Memorial Student Center.