According to the US Department of Veterans Affairs, only 66,143 American World War II veterans will be alive in 2024. That is less than one percent of the original 16.4 million Americans who served. (Most are in their 90s or older.) US Army veteran Dennis Boldt, 99, is one of the few continuing to travel the world and share his story and experiences.
In a new emotional video shared by Walk Among Heroes, Boldt is seen visiting General George S. Patton's grave for the first time at Luxembourg American Cemetery. He is accompanied by General Patton's granddaughter, Helen. Boldt is in a wheelchair but is supported by Helen and another friend as he lifts himself from the chair and slowly stands. He takes small steps as he walks towards General Patton's grave, and makes a stunning show of respect: he uses all his strength to fully stand and give a full salute to General Patton's grave. As he does, he breaks down in tears.
"He is my General," an emotional Boldt says.
TikTokers praised the moving gesture in the comment section. One wrote, "Him fully straightening his body to salute General Patton is what got me. Probably took everything he had to do that and it probably hurt like hell but he knew he had to do it." And another added, "I wish I could listen to this man’s inner monologue as he began to breakdown and salute. Not for personal gain, but simply to understand a man of the greatest generation in American history." Another moved viewer wrote, "Oof, as soon as that salute started, that man relived every event that happened again... Knowing this would happen, he still chose to see his general, that's what respect looks like."
Boldt recently joined fellow WWII veterans in Europe (Belgium and Luxembourg) to be honored during festivities marking the 80th anniversary of the Battle of the Bulge, which he fought. On December 11, 2024, he arrived in Belgium for the first time since the battle in a moving homecoming. Upon his arrival, revelers gave him a warm welcome. He lifted his cap and shook hands with supporters, becoming emotional. He then went on to explain what the visit meant to him.
"I'm going to be with a bunch of guys that were real heroes," he says. "I came up with George Patton. I came in and relieved the guys who told them. 'nuts'!"
During the visit, he participated in several ceremonies during 'Nuts Weekend'. The name comes after American Brig. Gen. McAuliffe replied "Nuts" to German emissaries offering surrender during the Battle of the Bulge. During a parade, he was cheered on by the crowds who offered him high fives as he was pushed in his wheelchair on the route.
In another TikTok video, the Royal families of both Belgium and Luxembourg also honored Boldt and his fellow World War II veterans in Bastogne, Belgium.
Boldt truly got a hero's welcome, one that is well-deserved.
