2025 Autum Meeting

German Bohemian Homelands and WWII connections to New Ulm

By Wade Olsen – President of the German Bohemian Heritage Society

In the final days of World War II, allied forces advanced from the west while Soviet troops pressed from the east, trapping German resistance in a tightening vise. General Patton’s 3rd Army had fought across France, Belgium, Luxembourg, and Bavaria, finally reaching the border of Czechoslovakia. By May 1945, American troops had pushed as far as Pilsen.

This presentation explores the gripping experiences of a tank reconnaissance team operating ahead of the front lines—where survival was never guaranteed. Alongside stories from the battlefield are surprising and moving connections to New Ulm, Minnesota, reminding us how global history and local heritage intertwine.

Join us for an evening of history, storytelling, and reflection at Turner Hall for our Autumn Event.

5:00 pm – Social Hour 

6:00 pm – German Smoked Pork Chop Dinner 

6:45 pm – Short Business Meeting followed by the Program