This is the first in a bonus content series called "B-Rations" (B for Bonus). The next full episode of POV:WW2 is due out on April 23rd so keep an eye on the feed.

Below you'll find a transcript of General McAuliffe's words from the National Archives:

McAuliffe: The Germans bombed Bastogne at night and strafed it occasionally during the day. On the 22nd, the German commander, ridiculously enough, demanded surrender of the surrounded town. I just replied, "Nuts," for I knew that one word best expressed the feelings of the division. The wounded were wonderful. No words can describe their tearful acceptance of a tough situation.

On Christmas Day, the Germans launched their biggest attack with infantry and tanks, in large numbers from the west of Bastogne and the rear of the position. Prisoners later told us that their officers had told them that Bastogne was to be a Christmas present for the Fuhrer. The Christmas present consisted of the number of folks that lie in the center of the ground back of Bastogne now, destroyed by Americans and the infantry; repulsed at the same time.

On December 26, at 5 p.m., we made contact with friendly troops. Through it all, no one doubted for an instant that we would hold a town under any sort of attack the Germans could put on. The 101st Airborne Division has met and defeated the Germans in Normandy and Holland, and will continue to do so whenever called upon.

Experience Franklin Kneller's incredible World War II story of survival while surrounded in Bastogne during the Battle of the Bulge.

*Episodes of POV:WW2 are dramatizations based on actual oral histories. While dialogue and narrative have been adapted for clarity, they reflect the veterans’ own memories and experiences. Any opinions about the war or its figures represent the perspectives found in the oral histories, not necessarily those of the host. Because these accounts are based on memory, certain details may differ from official records.

Sign up for updates and info at povww2.com

This isn't just another history podcast—this is your chance to experience WW2 through the eyes of the men who lived it.

POV:WW2 puts you in the boots of American combat veterans, facing impossible decisions in humanity's greatest conflict. Using their own words from oral history interviews, each episode places you directly into pivotal moments where split-second choices meant the difference between life and death.

Each episode combines detailed and accurate oral history with immersive storytelling that honors these veterans' extraordinary sacrifice. You'll face their choices, feel their fear, and understand their courage in ways no textbook could ever convey.

This story is shared thanks to a partnership with the Rutgers Oral History Archives. If you've got a story you'd like to share with the ROHA, please visit https://oralhistory.rutgers.edu/

If you'd like to support the podcast, you can leave a tip here: https://povww2.captivate.fm/support

Are you ready to step into history?

Experience Frank N. Clark's incredible World War II journey from the Hürtgen Forest to the Battle of the Bulge. Mixed in Dolby Atmos for binaural headphone listening. Use earbuds or headphones for a uniquely powerful experience.

*Episodes of POV:WW2 are dramatizations based on actual oral histories. While dialogue and narrative have been adapted for clarity, they reflect the veterans’ own memories and experiences. Any opinions about the war or its figures represent the perspectives found in the oral histories, not necessarily those of the host. Because these accounts are based on memory, certain details may differ from official records.

Sign up for updates and info at povww2.com

This isn't just another history podcast—this is your chance to experience WW2 through the eyes of the men who lived it.

POV:WW2 puts you in the boots of American combat veterans, facing impossible decisions in humanity's greatest conflict. Using their own words from oral history interviews, each episode places you directly into pivotal moments where split-second choices meant the difference between life and death.

Each episode combines detailed and accurate oral history with immersive storytelling that honors these veterans' extraordinary sacrifice. You'll face their choices, feel their fear, and understand their courage in ways no textbook could ever convey.

This story is shared thanks to a partnership with the Rutgers Oral History Archives. If you've got a story you'd like to share with the ROHA, please visit https://oralhistory.rutgers.edu/

If you'd like to support the podcast, you can leave a tip here: https://povww2.captivate.fm/support

Are you ready to step into history?