This Day in World War II History: January 15th – The Allies Advance in Europe

By mid-January 1945, the Allied forces were pushing deep into Nazi-occupied territory. On this day, January 15th, the U.S. First and Third Armies continued their offensive through the Ardennes following the Battle of the Bulge — a turning point that would mark the beginning of the end for Hitler’s Germany.

The fierce winter battles had left towns in ruins, but the morale of the Allied troops was unshaken. American, British, and Canadian divisions pressed forward, recapturing key positions in Belgium and Luxembourg. Meanwhile, in the East, Soviet forces launched their Vistula–Oder Offensive, rapidly advancing toward Berlin.

For soldiers on the front lines, January 15th was another day of exhaustion and perseverance. In the frozen forests and battered villages, troops fought house-to-house, determined to end years of conflict. Their sacrifices paved the way for the liberation of Europe and the final victory that would come just months later.

At Warfront Collectibles, we honour these moments in history through the artefacts that remain — from helmets and medals to field gear and personal letters. Each piece tells a story of courage and survival that deserves to be remembered.