Commemorative Cemeteries That Inspire And Teach by Brig. Gen. J.W. Nicholson, U.S. Army (Ret) (NAPSA)—‘Beautiful.” “Educational.” “Inspiring.” That’s how many people describe the commemorative cemeteries and memorials maintained overseas by the American Battle Monuments Commission (ABMC). These places are part of our nation’s history—perpetual reminders of our willingness to help others in need. The Commission traces its roots back to World WarI, when more than one million Americans were deployed to Europe. Manyof its cemeteries are off the beaten path, near famous battlefields of World Wars I andII. Others are near tourist centers that cater routinely to Americans. Places of lasting beauty, these cemeteries can teach history and inspire feelings of gratitude and patriotism in visitors of all ages. ABMC encourages all Americans to include these splendid shrines in their travel plans abroad. While many traveling in Europe know about the American cemetery in Normandy that overlooks Omaha Beach, few realize that the Commission also maintains cemeteries just as beautiful in locations such as Cambridge, England; Paris, France; and Florence, Italy. These lesser-known cemeteries and commemorative sites also provide visitors with insight into the sacrifices Americans have madein theservice of freedom. For example, the Aisne-Marne Cemetery in France holds special significance in U.S. Marine Corps history, while the Meuse-Argonne Cemetery in France is important in Armyhistory, with over 14,000 soldiers buried there who gave their lives in the successful Many Americans make special visits to cemeteries and memorials abroad to honorU.S. heroes. Meuse-Argonne Offensive in 1918. Most of those buried or memorialized in the Cambridge Ameri- can Cemetery outside London died during World WarII in the strategic bombardment of Northwest Europe or in the Battle of the Atlantic. In the Ardennes American Cemetery southwest of Liege, Belgium are many whodied in the Battle of the Bulge. Others, including General George S. Patton, are buried in Luxembourg American Cemetery just three miles east of downtown Luxembourg City. ABMC cemeteries are part of our national heritage. We are proud to maintain them for the American people—to honor and respect the sacrifice of America’s armed forces, and to fulfill the promise of General John J. Pershing that time will not dim the glory of their deeds. You can learn more online at www.abmce.gov. Brig. Gen. Nicholson is the Secretary of the American Battle Monuments Commission.
