Tuesday marks 70 years since American troops began the fight in the Battle of the Bulge, considered one of the biggest and bloodiest battles of World War II.

A ceremony in Old Bethpage today honored Long Island veterans who participated in the battle, dubbed by Wintson Churchill as "an ever-famous American victory." Veterans shook hands with men and women who are currently serving at the Museum of American Armor.

Among the soldiers who fought in the battle was Irwin Gregor, of Plainview. The battle in Belgium seven decades ago marked his first combat experience in World War II. Gregor recalls his tank being hit, and having to run in the snow.

By the end of the battle, 19,000 U.S. troops were dead, but the lengthy battle was recorded as a decisive victory for the Allied forces.